Tell us what you're up to in current campaign (lets get this one going lol)

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Tuesday, 1 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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The "Grado" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, is attached to our Army units in Tunisia. Our 10th Panzer Division launches a counterattack in Tunisia, pushing back the British 11th Brigade. Meanwhile, British 2nd Parachute Brigade crosses Miliane River south of Oudna airfield and continues northwest toward El Fedja.

After supplying U 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 - 653 orders are to occupy the intended reconnaissance lines to cover the America - Gibraltar convoy traffic. U 106 has recently joined Group "Westwall". Boats received orders to patrol in reconnaissance channels from CE 1363 - CE 4966 on 3.12. at 0800, course W., daily reckoning 160 miles in the following order: U 106 - 103 - 130 - 515 - 155 - 91 - 185 - 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 and 653.

The verbal reports of the Captains of U 263 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) and U 613 (Kptlt. Helmut Köppe) completely back up the accuracy of the resolution to move westward from the Gibraltar area. Both Captains' reports are in agreement regarding the very strong and dangerous air patrols which forced boats to remain submerged for excessive lengths of time. The fact that both boats returned to W. France in spite of heavy damage is on the one side, due to the outstanding quality of German U-boats, on the other side, due to the aggressive and unshakeable character of the crews, especially the Captains. As long as such crews (both boats on 1st war cruise) come from the homeland, one need have no misgivings regarding the future of the U-boat war. Also if the war becomes more difficult, these men will meet it with still greater fortitude.
In spite of these difficult circumstances which made the operations of larger numbers of U-boats W. of Gibraltar useless, 2 have closed the Moroccan harbors, through use of U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) and U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze). The possibility to gain something by sending single boats close to the coast must at least be attempted.

(Signed): DÖNITZ.


Italian blockade runner "Cortelazzo" was attacked by an English cruiser in BE 8481 at 1600 and was scuttled by the crew. Returning boats received orders, as far as fuel situation allows, to proceed at high speed to scene of the action and to take the crew on board. The first 5 boats can be in position after about 26 hours - 3 more with course of the 3rd and three more in the morning of the 4th/12. A U-boat coming from the E. goes to meet a life boat sailing to Spain. On assembly the boats are to begin the search according to weather conditions and drift. It is intended to use 3 Condor (rec. planes) on the 2nd.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 2 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U-boat Success in November 1942.

1) U-boat success in November reached a new high and will probably mount to 900,000 T. The time has come to regard these results in a true light and to give propaganda proper guidance in this connection.

2) Merchant ship sinkings, losses and serious damage to U-boats, which will not be changed appreciably amount to: in N. Atlantic: 300,000 T. 5 lost, 1 badly damaged. Remainder of the Atlantic except Gibraltar area: 360,000 T. none lost, one heavily damaged. Gibraltar - Morocco area: 70,000 T., 3 lost, 5 badly damaged. Mediterranean: 100,000 T., 5 lost, 8 badly damaged. Arctic: 35,000 T. none lost or damaged.

3) The evaluation of these figures is as follows:
a) A good three quarters of the sinkings were in the open Atlantic a great preponderance at the beginning of the month, before the beginning of the African operation. Success fell off appreciably after withdrawal of boats for the Gibraltar area. As already reported in the opinion of B.d.U. the initial success in the Atlantic was conditioned by lack of counter measures in connection with the African landings.
Losses in the Atlantic maintained themselves in normal times, namely one boat for each 130,000 tons.
b) The success in operations against the enemy in the approaches to Africa west of Gibraltar-Morocco and in the Mediterranean comprise only one fifth of the total results. It must be pointed out that the firm position of the enemy at the time of the landing resulted in the heaviest losses, namely 1 boat for every 20,000 tons sunk and in addition a much higher percentage of boats heavily damaged. The losses in this area are therefore percentage wise more than six times as high as those in the entire Atlantic, about the North Atlantic. The average operational time of the 19 boats was only 8 days and of these boats none was in action 13 days after the beginning of the operation.
c) Results in the Arctic are of no numerical importance.

4) The outlook for December is unfavorable. According to the record month of November the smallest results are to be expected because:
a) The favorable conditions in the Atlantic cannot be taken advantage of because of withdrawal of boats to the Mediterranean and the Gibraltar-Morocco area.
b) In the Capetown area there are only 2 boats, which will probably have fired all their torpedoes in the course of the month.
c) The counter measures off Gibraltar in spite of aggressive operations, have succeeded and attacks in this area can expect only losses without the corresponding possibilities of success. That prospects in intercepting the enemy in the approaches are smaller, has already been reported.
d) Fewer targets can be expected in the Mediterranean after the first stream of shipping has ceased, the number of boats was raised 50% more during November and the defences remained the same.

5) Conclusions in brief:
a) Success in November have no connection with operations against African shipping. The prospects of these operations are meager. The opposition propaganda in the press will make false reports and will wreck damage in the long run.
b) After the record month of November, December must fall off perceptibly.

6) U-boat command and U-boats are ready and willing to fight under most difficult conditions. B.d.U. however, is of the opinion that the command must make a clear picture so that the relationship between losses and success is factual. The foregoing situation report alone serves this point.
The U-boat arm will also fight in the future under the most difficult conditions wherever they may be committed.

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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 2 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U-boat Success in November 1942.

1) U-boat success in November reached a new high and will probably mount to 900,000 T. The time has come to regard these results in a true light and to give propaganda proper guidance in this connection.

2) Merchant ship sinkings, losses and serious damage to U-boats, which will not be changed appreciably amount to: in N. Atlantic: 300,000 T. 5 lost, 1 badly damaged. Remainder of the Atlantic except Gibraltar area: 360,000 T. none lost, one heavily damaged. Gibraltar - Morocco area: 70,000 T., 3 lost, 5 badly damaged. Mediterranean: 100,000 T., 5 lost, 8 badly damaged. Arctic: 35,000 T. none lost or damaged.

3) The evaluation of these figures is as follows:
a) A good three quarters of the sinkings were in the open Atlantic a great preponderance at the beginning of the month, before the beginning of the African operation. Success fell off appreciably after withdrawal of boats for the Gibraltar area. As already reported in the opinion of B.d.U. the initial success in the Atlantic was conditioned by lack of counter measures in connection with the African landings.
Losses in the Atlantic maintained themselves in normal times, namely one boat for each 130,000 tons.
b) The success in operations against the enemy in the approaches to Africa west of Gibraltar-Morocco and in the Mediterranean comprise only one fifth of the total results. It must be pointed out that the firm position of the enemy at the time of the landing resulted in the heaviest losses, namely 1 boat for every 20,000 tons sunk and in addition a much higher percentage of boats heavily damaged. The losses in this area are therefore percentage wise more than six times as high as those in the entire Atlantic, about the North Atlantic. The average operational time of the 19 boats was only 8 days and of these boats none was in action 13 days after the beginning of the operation.
c) Results in the Arctic are of no numerical importance.

4) The outlook for December is unfavorable. According to the record month of November the smallest results are to be expected because:
a) The favorable conditions in the Atlantic cannot be taken advantage of because of withdrawal of boats to the Mediterranean and the Gibraltar-Morocco area.
b) In the Capetown area there are only 2 boats, which will probably have fired all their torpedoes in the course of the month.
c) The counter measures off Gibraltar in spite of aggressive operations, have succeeded and attacks in this area can expect only losses without the corresponding possibilities of success. That prospects in intercepting the enemy in the approaches are smaller, has already been reported.
d) Fewer targets can be expected in the Mediterranean after the first stream of shipping has ceased, the number of boats was raised 50% more during November and the defences remained the same.

5) Conclusions in brief:
a) Success in November have no connection with operations against African shipping. The prospects of these operations are meager. The opposition propaganda in the press will make false reports and will wreck damage in the long run.
b) After the record month of November, December must fall off perceptibly.

6) U-boat command and U-boats are ready and willing to fight under most difficult conditions. B.d.U. however, is of the opinion that the command must make a clear picture so that the relationship between losses and success is factual. The foregoing situation report alone serves this point.
The U-boat arm will also fight in the future under the most difficult conditions wherever they may be committed.

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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 3 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U-boats early December 1942.


I. In service on 1 November 1942: 368
In service in November: 23
Subtotal1: 391
Lost in November: 15
Temporarily out of order: 1
Subtotal2: 375
Foreign U-boats: 7
Total: 382

Losses in November:
Atlantic 3 (98, 411, 173)
Otherwise in Atlantic 5 (132, 658, 520, 184, 517)
Mediterranean 6 (660, 605, 595, 559, 331, 259)
In Training 1 (272)

Consisting of:
Type VIIC:
U 98 Eichmann. Experienced boat. New Commander. Middle of November W. of Gibraltar. No information.
U 132 Vogelsang. Veteran boat. At the beginning of November in action with a convoy in N. Atlantic.
U 259 Köpke. Second trip. Middle November. Mediterranean.
U 272 Hepp. On 12.11. during training in the Baltic. Rammed and sunk.
U 411 Spindlegger. Second trip. New Commander. In the middle of November W. of Gibraltar.
U 559 Heidtmann. Veteran boat. At the end of October in Eastern Mediterranean. Part of the crew taken prisoner.
U 595 Quaet - Faslem. Second trip. Bombed in the middle of the Mediterranean, later presumably scuttled off the coast of Africa. Part of crew taken prisoner.
U 605 Schutze. Second trip. Middle of November. Mediterranean.
U 658 Senkl. Second trip. Last message 20.11. May have been lost to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 660 Baur. Second trip. Middle of November. In Mediterranean. Crew for the most part taken prisoner.
U 331 von Tiesenhausen. Middle of November. Mediterranean.

Type IXC
U 173 Schweichel. Second Trip. New Commander. Middle of November. West of Gibraltar.
U 184 Dangschat. First trip, experienced Commander. Middle of November to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 517 Hatwig. Second trip. On outward voyage west of Biscay. Air attack.
U 520 Schwarzkopf. First trip. Last message 27.10. E. of Newfoundland.

By far the most sinkings can presumably be attributed to air attacks.

II. Distribution:
In action : 203
On trials: 110
In training: 62
Total: 375

III. In November (without foreign boats):
Total added +7
Number of boats in action deducted -4
Number of trial boats added + 11

IV. Number of boats in action on 1 December 1942:

Atlantic (without foreign boats) 154 plus 2 foreign boats.
Mediterranean (including 4 proceeding from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean 24
the North Sea 23
Black Sea 2

The number of boats in action in the Atlantic has decreased to 6, owing to losses and boats being sent to the Mediterranean.

V. Number of boats in the Atlantic in November:
On an average, at sea during the day 94.9 boats
Of these, in the Op. area 38.2 boats
Of these, outward bound 56.7 boats
Of these, returning to base 24.5 boats

VI. Number of boats which put out in November:
From home bases 11 boats.
From Western France 42 boats.
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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts an 8h A.K. cruise to Saßnitz. At 1700, the U.A.K. representative disembarks.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 3 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U-boats early December 1942.


I. In service on 1 November 1942: 368
In service in November: 23
Subtotal1: 391
Lost in November: 15
Temporarily out of order: 1
Subtotal2: 375
Foreign U-boats: 7
Total: 382

Losses in November:
Atlantic 3 (98, 411, 173)
Otherwise in Atlantic 5 (132, 658, 520, 184, 517)
Mediterranean 6 (660, 605, 595, 559, 331, 259)
In Training 1 (272)

Consisting of:
Type VIIC:
U 98 Eichmann. Experienced boat. New Commander. Middle of November W. of Gibraltar. No information.
U 132 Vogelsang. Veteran boat. At the beginning of November in action with a convoy in N. Atlantic.
U 259 Köpke. Second trip. Middle November. Mediterranean.
U 272 Hepp. On 12.11. during training in the Baltic. Rammed and sunk.
U 411 Spindlegger. Second trip. New Commander. In the middle of November W. of Gibraltar.
U 559 Heidtmann. Veteran boat. At the end of October in Eastern Mediterranean. Part of the crew taken prisoner.
U 595 Quaet - Faslem. Second trip. Bombed in the middle of the Mediterranean, later presumably scuttled off the coast of Africa. Part of crew taken prisoner.
U 605 Schutze. Second trip. Middle of November. Mediterranean.
U 658 Senkl. Second trip. Last message 20.11. May have been lost to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 660 Baur. Second trip. Middle of November. In Mediterranean. Crew for the most part taken prisoner.
U 331 von Tiesenhausen. Middle of November. Mediterranean.

Type IXC
U 173 Schweichel. Second Trip. New Commander. Middle of November. West of Gibraltar.
U 184 Dangschat. First trip, experienced Commander. Middle of November to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 517 Hatwig. Second trip. On outward voyage west of Biscay. Air attack.
U 520 Schwarzkopf. First trip. Last message 27.10. E. of Newfoundland.

By far the most sinkings can presumably be attributed to air attacks.

II. Distribution:
In action : 203
On trials: 110
In training: 62
Total: 375

III. In November (without foreign boats):
Total added +7
Number of boats in action deducted -4
Number of trial boats added + 11

IV. Number of boats in action on 1 December 1942:

Atlantic (without foreign boats) 154 plus 2 foreign boats.
Mediterranean (including 4 proceeding from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean 24
the North Sea 23
Black Sea 2

The number of boats in action in the Atlantic has decreased to 6, owing to losses and boats being sent to the Mediterranean.

V. Number of boats in the Atlantic in November:
On an average, at sea during the day 94.9 boats
Of these, in the Op. area 38.2 boats
Of these, outward bound 56.7 boats
Of these, returning to base 24.5 boats

VI. Number of boats which put out in November:
From home bases 11 boats.
From Western France 42 boats.
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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts an 8h A.K. cruise to Saßnitz. At 1700, the U.A.K. representative disembarks.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 4 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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B-24 bombers of US 12th Air Force bomb Naples, Italy; They are the first American aircraft to operate against Italy. The Church of Santa Chiara is damaged in the attack, damaging much of the interior decorations put in between 1742 and 1762



British 2nd Parachute Battalion link up with US troops near Medjez-el-Bab in northern Tunisia.

U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) has supplied the boats U 124 - 105 and U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) and begins the return voyage.

U 611 (Kptlt. Nikolaus von Jacobs) has taken 70 cubic meters of fuel on board from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) is on the return voyage owing to the illness of the Commander. The boat has been destined for the Mediterranean. U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) has been ordered to take her place.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) reports that the hydrophone gear installed in type IXD2 is very bad in seaway 4 in swell. It is suggested that at least in the newly constructed large boats hydrophone deep steering rudders should be fitted.

US President Franklin D. Roosevelt closes down the Works Progress Administration, because of the high levels of wartime employment in the United States.

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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) cruises to Rönne, Bornholm.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 4 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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B-24 bombers of US 12th Air Force bomb Naples, Italy; They are the first American aircraft to operate against Italy. The Church of Santa Chiara is damaged in the attack, damaging much of the interior decorations put in between 1742 and 1762



British 2nd Parachute Battalion link up with US troops near Medjez-el-Bab in northern Tunisia.

U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) has supplied the boats U 124 - 105 and U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) and begins the return voyage.

U 611 (Kptlt. Nikolaus von Jacobs) has taken 70 cubic meters of fuel on board from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) is on the return voyage owing to the illness of the Commander. The boat has been destined for the Mediterranean. U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) has been ordered to take her place.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) reports that the hydrophone gear installed in type IXD2 is very bad in seaway 4 in swell. It is suggested that at least in the newly constructed large boats hydrophone deep steering rudders should be fitted.

US President Franklin D. Roosevelt closes down the Works Progress Administration, because of the high levels of wartime employment in the United States.

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U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) cruises to Rönne, Bornholm.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 5 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Despite heavy fog, 17 He 111 and about 50 Ju 52/3m aircraft are able to fly 150 tons of supplies into Stalingrad.

Aircraft Carrier Graf Zeppelin is towed to Kiel.

Group "Westwall" remains on patrol from CD 2243 to 5846 from 6 Dec. The point of intersection of the great circle America - Gibraltar and the route for ON convoys lies here.

New position for U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) in ED 99.

U 443 (Oblt. Konstantin von Puttkamer) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and therefore comes under the F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) was bombed in AM 5253 and sustained damage to electrical engine. Boat remains fit for action.

U 154 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schuch) has not encountered traffic in EP since 21 Nov.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) is ready for 3 more weeks operations after refueling.

Executive Order No. 9-27 is issued in the United States, placing all services under the provisions of the Selective Service Act.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 5 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Despite heavy fog, 17 He 111 and about 50 Ju 52/3m aircraft are able to fly 150 tons of supplies into Stalingrad.

Aircraft Carrier Graf Zeppelin is towed to Kiel.

Group "Westwall" remains on patrol from CD 2243 to 5846 from 6 Dec. The point of intersection of the great circle America - Gibraltar and the route for ON convoys lies here.

New position for U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) in ED 99.

U 443 (Oblt. Konstantin von Puttkamer) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and therefore comes under the F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) was bombed in AM 5253 and sustained damage to electrical engine. Boat remains fit for action.

U 154 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schuch) has not encountered traffic in EP since 21 Nov.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) is ready for 3 more weeks operations after refueling.

Executive Order No. 9-27 is issued in the United States, placing all services under the provisions of the Selective Service Act.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 6 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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In Operation BG 5, Italian auxiliary ship Olterra launches three manned torpedoes against Gibraltar; they fail to cause any damage.

U 301 (Kptlt. Willy-Roderich Körner): Single and double miss on destroyer group using hydrophone and radar. Torpedoes were dodged.

Sinkings:

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) sank troop transport "Ceramic" (18,713 GRT) in CD 2927. Course 110°, speed 16 knots.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) sank freighter of 7,000 GRT, course 140° in CD 2858.

U 103 (Oblt. Gustav-Adolf Janssen) sank "Henery Stanley" (5,026 GRT) carrying dynamite from Liverpool to Freetown in CD 2611.

All sinkings therefore in patrol channel of Group "Westwall". It is likely that both freighters belonged to an "ON" convoy and were making the attempt to reach Freetown unescorted. This would be a confirmation of the fact that the traffic of SL convoys has been discontinued.

"Operation Frankton" has Royal Navy submarines drop off commandos to raid our shipping up the River Gironde in Bordeaux Harbor.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 6 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U 301 (Kptlt. Willy-Roderich Körner): Single and double miss on destroyer group using hydrophone and radar. Torpedoes were dodged.

Sinkings:

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) sank troop transport "Ceramic" (18,713 GRT) in CD 2927. Course 110°, speed 16 knots.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) sank freighter of 7,000 GRT, course 140° in CD 2858.

U 103 (Oblt. Gustav-Adolf Janssen) sank "Henery Stanley" (5,026 GRT) carrying dynamite from Liverpool to Freetown in CD 2611.

All sinkings therefore in patrol channel of Group "Westwall". It is likely that both freighters belonged to an "ON" convoy and were making the attempt to reach Freetown unescorted. This would be a confirmation of the fact that the traffic of SL convoys has been discontinued.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 7 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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"Operation Frankton" has Royal Navy submarines drop off commandos to raid our shipping up the River Gironde in Bordeaux Harbor.

In Operation BG 5, Italian auxiliary ship Olterra launches three manned torpedoes against Gibraltar; they fail to cause any damage.

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) reports that the sunk transport "Ceramic" was laden with troops.

According to a Radio Intelligence Report (X) proceeding from America to Capetown. Traffic mainly W. and E. of St. Paul's Rocks. After taking on supplies therefore, the following dispositions are ordered: U 174 - 3437; U 128 - 3453; U 161 - 3275; U 126 - 3237. All grids in FC. U 159 - ER 9949 and U 134 - ER 9932. Depth for all boats id 40 sea miles. U 176 occupies waters off Pernambucco. Boats may use territorial waters, but entrance to harbors and roads is forbidden however. U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) operates in area EH 98 and EJ 55. Spasmodic northwest - southeast and east west traffic is expected here.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) proceeds southwards to operate for several days in the waters of Dakar. Traffic entering or leaving port is counted on here.

U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) begins her homeward voyage from the patrol channel of Group "Westwall". Boats to the N. of this move in to a southerly position. "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) has put out for CD 30 to refuel this group.

Supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor): U 373, 445 and 663.

According to Radio Intelligence Report (X) the appearance of a former German U-boat type VIIc (570) captured by the British is to be expected any time now. Boats are again warned to be especially careful when meeting and passing other boats.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 7 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

"Operation Frankton" has Royal Navy submarines drop off commandos to raid our shipping up the River Gironde in Bordeaux Harbor.

In Operation BG 5, Italian auxiliary ship Olterra launches three manned torpedoes against Gibraltar; they fail to cause any damage.

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) reports that the sunk transport "Ceramic" was laden with troops.

According to a Radio Intelligence Report (X) proceeding from America to Capetown. Traffic mainly W. and E. of St. Paul's Rocks. After taking on supplies therefore, the following dispositions are ordered: U 174 - 3437; U 128 - 3453; U 161 - 3275; U 126 - 3237. All grids in FC. U 159 - ER 9949 and U 134 - ER 9932. Depth for all boats id 40 sea miles. U 176 occupies waters off Pernambucco. Boats may use territorial waters, but entrance to harbors and roads is forbidden however. U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) operates in area EH 98 and EJ 55. Spasmodic northwest - southeast and east west traffic is expected here.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) proceeds southwards to operate for several days in the waters of Dakar. Traffic entering or leaving port is counted on here.

U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) begins her homeward voyage from the patrol channel of Group "Westwall". Boats to the N. of this move in to a southerly position. "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) has put out for CD 30 to refuel this group.

Supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor): U 373, 445 and 663.

According to Radio Intelligence Report (X) the appearance of a former German U-boat type VIIc (570) captured by the British is to be expected any time now. Boats are again warned to be especially careful when meeting and passing other boats.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 8 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++


After refueling U 373, 445 and 663 steered a course for AJ 90 at economical cruising speed. There, with other boats they plan a patrol to intercept an HX convoy expected on the 12th.

According to a Radio Intelligence report (X), an English unit or convoy is proceeding with an advancing speed of 7.3 to 10 knots via ES 3690, ER 1510, EO 1320 to Trinidad and should arrive there in the afternoon of 19.12. U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) and U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) received orders to operate on the line of route. U D 3 intends to await the reported unit in ER 16.

U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) had a circle runner and a miss on a freighter of 5,000 GRT, course 60° in CQ 5129 on 4.12.

In connection with the hydrophone gear U 178 had the same experience as U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth). The boat reports the following as the possible causes:
a) Greater length of boat - therefore less favorable reaction to length of seaway;
b) Very sensitive balance results in less transverse stability;
c) Difficulty, above all in banking with and against the sea. An effective solution by an adjustment of the hydroplanes can only be expected, if there is a great enlargement and higher hydroplane speed. Better conditions have been confirmed as a result of increasing attack depth to one meter.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) sighted (prematurely) a silhouette in BF 6779 which did not reply to request for recognition signal. U 224 presumed it to be a German low speed U-boat type. According to wireless bearing an English unit - probably a U-boat was in BF 9440 at 1849.

Convoy No.68:
Several boats reported air activity on the convoy on the afternoon of the 8th. Altogether 11 Radio Intelligence reports were received during the night from which it appears that the boats were sighted by aircraft and variously attacked with depth charges and aircraft armament. In addition, 5 boats reported being beaten off by the convoy protection. There were no reports of successes. U 221 (Oblt. Hans-Hartwig Trojer) reported ramming U 254 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) at 2225 in AK 2551 and having taken survivors on board (4). It continued the search and intended to begin the return voyage after daylight. No more survivors were found. U 221 began her homeward voyage after dawn.

For the first time during a convoy operation a ramming has taken place between two U-boats, and thereby caused the loss of one of them. As far as can be seen here, this accident took place on a dark night and in a rough sea, so that the ramming boat cannot be blamed. The presence of so many U-boats on convoy operations has for a long time made this kind of damage a possibility. Reflection on this matter shows that generally speaking, it is not practicable to have more than 13 to 15 boats on to one convoy. Any tactical limitations in connection with the number of attacking boats, the time of the attack, the disposition for attack, by which such collisions could be avoided will be refused, as it is wrong with the difficulties of convoy warfare to apply even the smallest conditions. With the difficulties of convoy warfare every chance of attack must be exploited to the utmost and the maxim impressed again and again on the boats, "on to the target as quickly as possible, attack as often as possible, utilize every chance of attack at once", may not be repudiated on the grounds of security.

The planned Allied invasion of Burma was called off due to lack of supplies; British and Chinese troops fell back from their forward position



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 8 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++


After refueling U 373, 445 and 663 steered a course for AJ 90 at economical cruising speed. There, with other boats they plan a patrol to intercept an HX convoy expected on the 12th.

According to a Radio Intelligence report (X), an English unit or convoy is proceeding with an advancing speed of 7.3 to 10 knots via ES 3690, ER 1510, EO 1320 to Trinidad and should arrive there in the afternoon of 19.12. U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) and U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) received orders to operate on the line of route. U D 3 intends to await the reported unit in ER 16.

U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) had a circle runner and a miss on a freighter of 5,000 GRT, course 60° in CQ 5129 on 4.12.

In connection with the hydrophone gear U 178 had the same experience as U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth). The boat reports the following as the possible causes:
a) Greater length of boat - therefore less favorable reaction to length of seaway;
b) Very sensitive balance results in less transverse stability;
c) Difficulty, above all in banking with and against the sea. An effective solution by an adjustment of the hydroplanes can only be expected, if there is a great enlargement and higher hydroplane speed. Better conditions have been confirmed as a result of increasing attack depth to one meter.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) sighted (prematurely) a silhouette in BF 6779 which did not reply to request for recognition signal. U 224 presumed it to be a German low speed U-boat type. According to wireless bearing an English unit - probably a U-boat was in BF 9440 at 1849.

Convoy No.68:
Several boats reported air activity on the convoy on the afternoon of the 8th. Altogether 11 Radio Intelligence reports were received during the night from which it appears that the boats were sighted by aircraft and variously attacked with depth charges and aircraft armament. In addition, 5 boats reported being beaten off by the convoy protection. There were no reports of successes. U 221 (Oblt. Hans-Hartwig Trojer) reported ramming U 254 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) at 2225 in AK 2551 and having taken survivors on board (4). It continued the search and intended to begin the return voyage after daylight. No more survivors were found. U 221 began her homeward voyage after dawn.

For the first time during a convoy operation a ramming has taken place between two U-boats, and thereby caused the loss of one of them. As far as can be seen here, this accident took place on a dark night and in a rough sea, so that the ramming boat cannot be blamed. The presence of so many U-boats on convoy operations has for a long time made this kind of damage a possibility. Reflection on this matter shows that generally speaking, it is not practicable to have more than 13 to 15 boats on to one convoy. Any tactical limitations in connection with the number of attacking boats, the time of the attack, the disposition for attack, by which such collisions could be avoided will be refused, as it is wrong with the difficulties of convoy warfare to apply even the smallest conditions. With the difficulties of convoy warfare every chance of attack must be exploited to the utmost and the maxim impressed again and again on the boats, "on to the target as quickly as possible, attack as often as possible, utilize every chance of attack at once", may not be repudiated on the grounds of security.

The planned Allied invasion of Burma was called off due to lack of supplies; British and Chinese troops fell back from their forward position



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 9 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Germany agrees to cede to Italy the French warships captured at Bizerte, Tunisia in the previous month. They include sloop La Batailleuse, sloop Commandant Rivière, torpedo boat Bombarde, torpedo boat La Pomone, torpedo boat L'Iphigénie, submarine Phoque, submarine Saphir, submarine Requin, submarine Espadon, submarine Dauphin, submarine Turquoise, submarine Circé, submarine Calypso, and submarine Nautilus.

U 602 (Kptlt. Philipp Schüler) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and therefore comes under F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

The following have taken on supplies from U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler): U 172 for return voyage, and U 161 and U 159 for continuation of operations.

As side protection for the German tanker "Germania" which is putting out on 11.12., the following waiting areas are ordered:
U 563, in BE 6899 from dawn on 13.12.; U 706 in BE 9596; U 409 in BE 5766 and U 513 in BE 3574 from dawn on the 14th. Depth 40 sea miles.
U 125 and U 514 both of which put out today are to be in BE 9580 and BE 6880 on the morning of 13.12. and to remain there until it is dark.
U 460, 67, 183 and U 91 are returning to support the tanker on 44° 30' N.

Attacks on isolated traffic in the "Route Anton" area from the S. is forbidden as follows:
S. of 0° from 12.12; S. of 10° N. from 14.12; S. of 20° N. from 16.12; S. of 30° N. from 19.12, closed completely from 22.12. In effect from 0000.
Closing of the northerly section of "Route Anton" owing to the putting out of our own tankers is to be expected sooner.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 9 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Germany agrees to cede to Italy the French warships captured at Bizerte, Tunisia in the previous month. They include sloop La Batailleuse, sloop Commandant Rivière, torpedo boat Bombarde, torpedo boat La Pomone, torpedo boat L'Iphigénie, submarine Phoque, submarine Saphir, submarine Requin, submarine Espadon, submarine Dauphin, submarine Turquoise, submarine Circé, submarine Calypso, and submarine Nautilus.

U 602 (Kptlt. Philipp Schüler) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and therefore comes under F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

The following have taken on supplies from U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler): U 172 for return voyage, and U 161 and U 159 for continuation of operations.

As side protection for the German tanker "Germania" which is putting out on 11.12., the following waiting areas are ordered:
U 563, in BE 6899 from dawn on 13.12.; U 706 in BE 9596; U 409 in BE 5766 and U 513 in BE 3574 from dawn on the 14th. Depth 40 sea miles.
U 125 and U 514 both of which put out today are to be in BE 9580 and BE 6880 on the morning of 13.12. and to remain there until it is dark.
U 460, 67, 183 and U 91 are returning to support the tanker on 44° 30' N.

Attacks on isolated traffic in the "Route Anton" area from the S. is forbidden as follows:
S. of 0° from 12.12; S. of 10° N. from 14.12; S. of 20° N. from 16.12; S. of 30° N. from 19.12, closed completely from 22.12. In effect from 0000.
Closing of the northerly section of "Route Anton" owing to the putting out of our own tankers is to be expected sooner.



U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) lies in Rönne, Bornholm, due to bad weather and enemy mines in the silent running testing area.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 10 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Italian Submarine Ambra launched three manned torpedoes and ten frogmen against Algiers, French Algeria in Operation NA 1, sinking one cargo ship and damaging two other cargo ships; all Italian torpedo crew members and frogmen are captured at the end of the operation.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) situation report: Very heavy air activity in DH 30. Auxiliary cruisers (Bewacher) and patrol groups off Casablanca - no traffic. Mehdia Roads empty. Continual air activity during the day by Catalina, ineffective vertical Radar at night. In view of its presence being known and the defence situation operations did not promise much success. U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) was asked for report on situation. This boat has the same assignments as U 618.

U 301 (Kptlt. Willy-Roderich Körner) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and is therefore under F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

New position for "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) is CD 90.

B.d.U. stated the following in his report at the Naval High Command on 8.12. in Berlin:
From 1.1 to 30.11.1942, the boats in action in the North Sea have sunk altogether 262,614 GRT. These boats could certainly have sunk about 910,000 GRT in the Atlantic in the same period. The grounds for the assumption are: The number of boats assigned to the North Sea the degree of effectiveness in the individual months for the boats in the Atlantic, a proportion of 50:50 time in port to time at sea which is in fact more favorable to time at sea. Use of the North Sea boats in the Atlantic then could have brought an increase in tonnage sunk to 650,000 GRT, an amount that would have weighed heavily against the enemy.

B.d.U. again expressed the view that the tonnage war must be considered the main task of the U-boats, but that this tonnage war suffers heavy losses with the deployment of boats in the Mediterranean, the North Sea and attacks on the Gibraltar supply route (Group "Westwall") as the North Sea example shows. The Naval High Command has already ordered the examination of the question of the North Sea boats and states that he will order a detachment of the North Sea boats for the prosecution of the war in the Atlantic.

In an order issued by the Naval War Staff Iu 2636/42 of 9.12.:
1) Concerning: U-boats for the North Sea. As the time of year makes expectations of successes slight, further, ice conditions caused the increased narrowing of the navigatable area Spitzbergen - North Cape and reports indicate the possible curtailment of enemy supplies to Russia as a result of the Africa operations, easing up of the deployment of U-boats in the North Sea is permissible. Conditions for convoy warfare in the North Atlantic are at the moment particularly favorable, as convoy protection is weaker following withdrawal of forces for the African undertaking. There are not enough U-boats available, however, to exploit this position. On the other hand, dislocation of enemy supplies to Russia can be achieved directly by attacking convoys in the North Atlantic.
2) The following orders are therefore given:
As previously, Group "Nord" will be designated 23 boats. Of these boats, until further notice, 11 will be released for use by B.d.U. in the North Atlantic with these measures, that
2.A) Of the remaining 12 boats, 6 are to be ready for action and available (in the operational area) at any given time for Group "Nord".
2.B) That the control in the North Atlantic is carried out in such a way as to assure deployment in the Norway Area if necessary, as the task of U-boats in this area also consists of coastal protection against enemy operations. Interchange of boats, in some cases substitution by boats from home is left to B.d.U.
3) The Naval War Staff (message also to Group "Nord") are to be continually notified in detail according to 2.) b) of the permanent numbers and alterations of the 11 U-boats held in readiness.

Naval War Staff Operations. Iu 2636/42 Most Secret. S.O. Only.


Suggested by Group "Nord" for operations in the North Atlantic:
U 209, 334, 355, 376, 377, 403, 405, 456, 586, 601 which will be ready for deployment on 25.12. B.d.U. is in agreement but proposes 592 instead of 355, as this boat has been deployed in the North Sea considerably longer than U 355.

Naval War Staff Communications concurs.


U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Silent Running Tests off Rönne, Bornholm; Departs at 1400h for Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 10 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Italian Submarine Ambra launched three manned torpedoes and ten frogmen against Algiers, French Algeria in Operation NA 1, sinking one cargo ship and damaging two other cargo ships; all Italian torpedo crew members and frogmen are captured at the end of the operation.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) situation report: Very heavy air activity in DH 30. Auxiliary cruisers (Bewacher) and patrol groups off Casablanca - no traffic. Mehdia Roads empty. Continual air activity during the day by Catalina, ineffective vertical Radar at night. In view of its presence being known and the defence situation operations did not promise much success. U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) was asked for report on situation. This boat has the same assignments as U 618.

U 301 (Kptlt. Willy-Roderich Körner) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar and is therefore under F.O. U-boats, Mediterranean.

New position for "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) is CD 90.

B.d.U. stated the following in his report at the Naval High Command on 8.12. in Berlin:
From 1.1 to 30.11.1942, the boats in action in the North Sea have sunk altogether 262,614 GRT. These boats could certainly have sunk about 910,000 GRT in the Atlantic in the same period. The grounds for the assumption are: The number of boats assigned to the North Sea the degree of effectiveness in the individual months for the boats in the Atlantic, a proportion of 50:50 time in port to time at sea which is in fact more favorable to time at sea. Use of the North Sea boats in the Atlantic then could have brought an increase in tonnage sunk to 650,000 GRT, an amount that would have weighed heavily against the enemy.

B.d.U. again expressed the view that the tonnage war must be considered the main task of the U-boats, but that this tonnage war suffers heavy losses with the deployment of boats in the Mediterranean, the North Sea and attacks on the Gibraltar supply route (Group "Westwall") as the North Sea example shows. The Naval High Command has already ordered the examination of the question of the North Sea boats and states that he will order a detachment of the North Sea boats for the prosecution of the war in the Atlantic.

In an order issued by the Naval War Staff Iu 2636/42 of 9.12.:
1) Concerning: U-boats for the North Sea. As the time of year makes expectations of successes slight, further, ice conditions caused the increased narrowing of the navigatable area Spitzbergen - North Cape and reports indicate the possible curtailment of enemy supplies to Russia as a result of the Africa operations, easing up of the deployment of U-boats in the North Sea is permissible. Conditions for convoy warfare in the North Atlantic are at the moment particularly favorable, as convoy protection is weaker following withdrawal of forces for the African undertaking. There are not enough U-boats available, however, to exploit this position. On the other hand, dislocation of enemy supplies to Russia can be achieved directly by attacking convoys in the North Atlantic.
2) The following orders are therefore given:
As previously, Group "Nord" will be designated 23 boats. Of these boats, until further notice, 11 will be released for use by B.d.U. in the North Atlantic with these measures, that
2.A) Of the remaining 12 boats, 6 are to be ready for action and available (in the operational area) at any given time for Group "Nord".
2.B) That the control in the North Atlantic is carried out in such a way as to assure deployment in the Norway Area if necessary, as the task of U-boats in this area also consists of coastal protection against enemy operations. Interchange of boats, in some cases substitution by boats from home is left to B.d.U.
3) The Naval War Staff (message also to Group "Nord") are to be continually notified in detail according to 2.) b) of the permanent numbers and alterations of the 11 U-boats held in readiness.

Naval War Staff Operations. Iu 2636/42 Most Secret. S.O. Only.


Suggested by Group "Nord" for operations in the North Atlantic:
U 209, 334, 355, 376, 377, 403, 405, 456, 586, 601 which will be ready for deployment on 25.12. B.d.U. is in agreement but proposes 592 instead of 355, as this boat has been deployed in the North Sea considerably longer than U 355.

Naval War Staff Communications concurs.


U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Silent Running Tests off Rönne, Bornholm; Departs at 1400h for Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 11 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The Cockleshell Heroes Raid: Ten British Commandos in five two-man canoes are launched from a submarine to attack our shipping in the port of Bordeaux. Three canoes are lost but two paddle 70 miles up-river to plant limpet mines on ships in the harbour. Six vessels are disabled. Two Commandos are drowned en route, six are captured and executed and two will make it back to England.

The Allies launch a new offensive toward Marsa Brega and El Agheila in Libya.

As, apart from the three ships previously sunk in the patrol channel of Group "Westwall", no further contact with enemy has taken place, and the boats are so low on fuel that they must begin the return voyage in the next few days, the Group has received orders to proceed in lines of reconnaissance on an easterly course, days reckoning 140 miles at 2400 from 11.12. A later deployment of the boats still fit for action in the north half of CF and for operations on the England - Gibraltar traffic is intended. Further refueling is not possible owing to the shortage of tankers.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has delivered the last of her fuel to U 67 and U 183 and begins her return voyage.
Supplied from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler): U 126 - 174 - 128 - 134 and U 176. Tanker homeward bound.

The following waiting positions are to be occupied with a depth of 4 sea miles for protection and area reconnaissance for the tanker "Germania" putting out on 12.12.: U 514 - BE 9326; U 125 - BE 9629; U 563 - BF 7116; U 706 - BF 7442.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) reports strong spray formation and difficulty in depth maintenance as a result of the construction of the new 2 cm Flak Crew Protection "Wanne". The boat was seen continually during an attack on a convoy and thereby deprived of success. U 553 has been ordered to return at maximum speed and the adaptation of further boats discontinued in all shipyards.

The deployment of the Group "Westwall" has not led to satisfactory results, as the sinking of 4 ships cannot be regarded as such. As warfare directly west of Gibraltar was no longer promising, there were no possibilities of intercepting English - American supplies to Gibraltar and morocco.
a) Deployment W. of Portugal: Successful convoy warfare could not be expected here, as the entire area in question lies within range of enemy air activity. Isolated successes remained possible but depend a great deal on luck and opportunity.
b) Operations moved to area free of air activity against American supplies, which is presumed to be on the Great Circle America - Gibraltar. B.d.U. is in favor of the second possibility. This deployment could be quite successful even if only one convoy was intercepted. That did not in fact happen. Radio Intelligence reports show rather that the enemy has used a route far more to the S., whereby it is difficult to see whether he uses it principally or exploits it in order to spread out as much as possible. The former is possible. The available "Westwall" boats cannot, however be used anymore on the southerly route, owing to insufficient fuel supply, and they are numerically too weak to be used for a search in other areas. It therefore only remains to test the possibilities given under a) and to use the "Westwall" boats for this. They are unequipped for cold areas which cuts out the possibility of sending these boats to the Newfoundland area and putting boats from Western France in the area W. of Portugal.


U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 11 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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The Cockleshell Heroes Raid: Ten British Commandos in five two-man canoes are launched from a submarine to attack our shipping in the port of Bordeaux. Three canoes are lost but two paddle 70 miles up-river to plant limpet mines on ships in the harbour. Six vessels are disabled. Two Commandos are drowned en route, six are captured and executed and two will make it back to England.

The Allies launch a new offensive toward Marsa Brega and El Agheila in Libya.

As, apart from the three ships previously sunk in the patrol channel of Group "Westwall", no further contact with enemy has taken place, and the boats are so low on fuel that they must begin the return voyage in the next few days, the Group has received orders to proceed in lines of reconnaissance on an easterly course, days reckoning 140 miles at 2400 from 11.12. A later deployment of the boats still fit for action in the north half of CF and for operations on the England - Gibraltar traffic is intended. Further refueling is not possible owing to the shortage of tankers.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has delivered the last of her fuel to U 67 and U 183 and begins her return voyage.
Supplied from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler): U 126 - 174 - 128 - 134 and U 176. Tanker homeward bound.

The following waiting positions are to be occupied with a depth of 4 sea miles for protection and area reconnaissance for the tanker "Germania" putting out on 12.12.: U 514 - BE 9326; U 125 - BE 9629; U 563 - BF 7116; U 706 - BF 7442.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) reports strong spray formation and difficulty in depth maintenance as a result of the construction of the new 2 cm Flak Crew Protection "Wanne". The boat was seen continually during an attack on a convoy and thereby deprived of success. U 553 has been ordered to return at maximum speed and the adaptation of further boats discontinued in all shipyards.

The deployment of the Group "Westwall" has not led to satisfactory results, as the sinking of 4 ships cannot be regarded as such. As warfare directly west of Gibraltar was no longer promising, there were no possibilities of intercepting English - American supplies to Gibraltar and morocco.
a) Deployment W. of Portugal: Successful convoy warfare could not be expected here, as the entire area in question lies within range of enemy air activity. Isolated successes remained possible but depend a great deal on luck and opportunity.
b) Operations moved to area free of air activity against American supplies, which is presumed to be on the Great Circle America - Gibraltar. B.d.U. is in favor of the second possibility. This deployment could be quite successful even if only one convoy was intercepted. That did not in fact happen. Radio Intelligence reports show rather that the enemy has used a route far more to the S., whereby it is difficult to see whether he uses it principally or exploits it in order to spread out as much as possible. The former is possible. The available "Westwall" boats cannot, however be used anymore on the southerly route, owing to insufficient fuel supply, and they are numerically too weak to be used for a search in other areas. It therefore only remains to test the possibilities given under a) and to use the "Westwall" boats for this. They are unequipped for cold areas which cuts out the possibility of sending these boats to the Newfoundland area and putting boats from Western France in the area W. of Portugal.


U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Saturday, 12 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Operation Winter Tempest is launched towards Stalingrad, with 3 Panzer Divisions and 10 other divisions.

Axis rear guards engage the Allied forces near Marsa Brega and El Agheila in Libya as the main Axis force evacuate to the west.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) like U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) sighted nothing off Mehdia. She has moved off and is exploring new areas for reconnaissance off Casablanca.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) requests freedom of movement in DG owing to adequate fuel supply and the breakdown of the "Q" tank. She has received orders to remain in the reconnaissance channels of Group "Westwall" as 1) As nothing has been experienced in this area and 2) The operations of an isolated boat does not promise success.

The following protection is ordered for the outward bound tanker "Germania": U 514 and U 125 are to take up a position at dawn on the 14th, 30 seamiles ahead to port and starboard of the position of the tanker by dead reckoning in DF 71. U 563 and U 706 close up at dawn and proceed ahead during the day, at night astern at the limit of certain visual signaling contact. Task for U-boats on passing 30 W. cancelled. Finally, U 125 and U 514 are to proceed to DG 80, U 563 and U 706 to BD 20.

Owing to the imminent closing of "Route Anton" in order to pass the area as soon as possible, U 507 and U 164 are making for grid FC 70 via ES 50. U 175 received further orders for operations in the waters off Dakar. As until now, no U-boats have approached this area and the boat has permission to attack French merchant and warships, there is possibility of initial success.

U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) has entered on the return voyage owing to the illness of the Engineer Officer (Ob.Ltnt.-Ing. Reimer Höhne) and the leakage of the stuffing box. The boat was destined for the Mediterranean area. Deployment and breakthrough by a substitute boat is not possible until the next new moon period.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Schizo]

well.. certainly some well written after action reports here. i'm just going to give it to you straight and simple.

just got done transporting an american spy into japan proper. now im assigned to patrol ewintok in the marianas for five days and recon the waves there. i'll report any enemy vessels damaged/sunk or the lack thereof in my follow up post.

[Kapitän]

well.. certainly some well written after action reports here.


Just trying to stay up to date with the B.d.U. Briefings and current events in the war :03:

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Saturday, 12 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Operation Winter Tempest is launched towards Stalingrad, with 3 Panzer Divisions and 10 other divisions.

Axis rear guards engage the Allied forces near Marsa Brega and El Agheila in Libya as the main Axis force evacuate to the west.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) like U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) sighted nothing off Mehdia. She has moved off and is exploring new areas for reconnaissance off Casablanca.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) requests freedom of movement in DG owing to adequate fuel supply and the breakdown of the "Q" tank. She has received orders to remain in the reconnaissance channels of Group "Westwall" as 1) As nothing has been experienced in this area and 2) The operations of an isolated boat does not promise success.

The following protection is ordered for the outward bound tanker "Germania": U 514 and U 125 are to take up a position at dawn on the 14th, 30 seamiles ahead to port and starboard of the position of the tanker by dead reckoning in DF 71. U 563 and U 706 close up at dawn and proceed ahead during the day, at night astern at the limit of certain visual signaling contact. Task for U-boats on passing 30 W. cancelled. Finally, U 125 and U 514 are to proceed to DG 80, U 563 and U 706 to BD 20.

Owing to the imminent closing of "Route Anton" in order to pass the area as soon as possible, U 507 and U 164 are making for grid FC 70 via ES 50. U 175 received further orders for operations in the waters off Dakar. As until now, no U-boats have approached this area and the boat has permission to attack French merchant and warships, there is possibility of initial success.

U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) has entered on the return voyage owing to the illness of the Engineer Officer (Ob.Ltnt.-Ing. Reimer Höhne) and the leakage of the stuffing box. The boat was destined for the Mediterranean area. Deployment and breakthrough by a substitute boat is not possible until the next new moon period.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 13 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Italian troops fight off an attack by British troops north of El Agheila, Libya in a rear guard action.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) requests permission to attack large tanker with navigation light but without neutral identification in CG 8871. Course 75°. As according to report the Spanish tanker "Campoamor" is in this area, U 432 was forbidden to attack. The Naval War Staff is requested to be circumspect owing to visible identity of Spanish ships.

Owing to the continually bad weather conditions (wind strength 9 to 10) the ordered supplying of U 91, 183 and U 758 is momentarily impracticable. The boats have received instructions to remain stationary using the smallest possible amount of fuel in its present position. The supplying of several boats in the Trinidad area and on the return voyage in ED 90 is therefore delayed for several days.

Attacks on isolated vessels in the northern section of "Route Anton" will not be permitted in the following sections at 0000: from 14.12. E of 30° W.; from 17.12. N. of 35° N.; from 19.12. complete closing of "Route Anton".

The Enigma codebooks captured by HMS Petard from the sinking German submarine U-559 (Kptlt. Hans Heidtmann) arrive at Bletchley Park's Hut 8 and within one hour intercepts of German submarine signals allow the British Admiralty to instantly pinpoint the location of fifteen U-Boats.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 13 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Italian troops fight off an attack by British troops north of El Agheila, Libya in a rear guard action.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) requests permission to attack large tanker with navigation light but without neutral identification in CG 8871. Course 75°. As according to report the Spanish tanker "Campoamor" is in this area, U 432 was forbidden to attack. The Naval War Staff is requested to be circumspect owing to visible identity of Spanish ships.

Owing to the continually bad weather conditions (wind strength 9 to 10) the ordered supplying of U 91, 183 and U 758 is momentarily impracticable. The boats have received instructions to remain stationary using the smallest possible amount of fuel in its present position. The supplying of several boats in the Trinidad area and on the return voyage in ED 90 is therefore delayed for several days.

Attacks on isolated vessels in the northern section of "Route Anton" will not be permitted in the following sections at 0000: from 14.12. E of 30° W.; from 17.12. N. of 35° N.; from 19.12. complete closing of "Route Anton".

The Enigma codebooks captured by HMS Petard from the sinking German submarine U-559 (Kptlt. Hans Heidtmann) arrive at Bletchley Park's Hut 8 and within one hour intercepts of German submarine signals allow the British Admiralty to instantly pinpoint the location of fifteen U-Boats.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 14 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) is stationed in CF 2167 and owing to damage incurred earlier and the momentary bad weather conditions and is greatly endangered when submerging. She is making for CE 63 for repairs and refueling from U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening).

Of the first of 4 U-boats of type IXc intended for renewed activity in the Cape Town area, U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) has put out, under Operational Order "Seehund".

The adaptation of the first 10 boats for the use of the "F.A.T." torpedo also equipped with combined Radar/Radar detector has been proceeding since the middle of November. For the most part there have been numerous unsupportable postponements in fitting the boats for action resulting from inadequate supply of constructional parts, so that the final completion of all 10 boats is not yet in sight.


With reference to this question B.d.U. Most Secret 5552 to OKM Head of K and OKM.

Head of MND reports:
1) The fitting out of 10 U-boats with Radar/Radar detector was requested in writing after a previous discussion with the Head of MND on 19.10.
2) Although the time limit for construction was fixed for 14 days during the verbal discussion and the shipyard limit at the time of the constructional agreement lay between the 11th and 20th of November, the shipyard limit was fixed for up to 14 days later owing to the installation of the Radar/Radar detector apparatus. At the time B.d.U. concurred with this delay.
3) Owing to the delay in the supply of structural parts, above all and the knock out blow, the electrical parts, the completion of the boats was delayed for a further 10 - 20 days. The delay lasted then for only a few days and B.d.U. was only informed at short notice through the shipyard and flotilla reports. These postponements are operationally insupportable and the disposition of the command impossible. Difficulties in the disposal of the crew and completion of other boats are other accompanying results.
4) Inquiries into this matter can only lead to partial and unsatisfactory revelations, as there is no actual department absolutely responsible for the execution of these measures. The results of the telephone and written inquires were for this reason worthless to the practical administration.
5) B.d.U. requests a single department and a single person to be responsible for the execution of this fitting out, concerned with all isolated details including ship construction, Radar and the supplying of individual ports and the name of the person concerned is to be made known to them.
6) As a result of these arrangements not being kept, U-boats ready for action have been frozen and our Naval Command thereby caused painful losses in the sinking of enemy tonnage. This is, from this stand point, irresponsible and insufferable.

C-in-C U-boats Most Secret 5552.


U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 14 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) is stationed in CF 2167 and owing to damage incurred earlier and the momentary bad weather conditions and is greatly endangered when submerging. She is making for CE 63 for repairs and refueling from U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening).

Of the first of 4 U-boats of type IXc intended for renewed activity in the Cape Town area, U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) has put out, under Operational Order "Seehund".

The adaptation of the first 10 boats for the use of the "F.A.T." torpedo also equipped with combined Radar/Radar detector has been proceeding since the middle of November. For the most part there have been numerous unsupportable postponements in fitting the boats for action resulting from inadequate supply of constructional parts, so that the final completion of all 10 boats is not yet in sight.


With reference to this question B.d.U. Most Secret 5552 to OKM Head of K and OKM.

Head of MND reports:
1) The fitting out of 10 U-boats with Radar/Radar detector was requested in writing after a previous discussion with the Head of MND on 19.10.
2) Although the time limit for construction was fixed for 14 days during the verbal discussion and the shipyard limit at the time of the constructional agreement lay between the 11th and 20th of November, the shipyard limit was fixed for up to 14 days later owing to the installation of the Radar/Radar detector apparatus. At the time B.d.U. concurred with this delay.
3) Owing to the delay in the supply of structural parts, above all and the knock out blow, the electrical parts, the completion of the boats was delayed for a further 10 - 20 days. The delay lasted then for only a few days and B.d.U. was only informed at short notice through the shipyard and flotilla reports. These postponements are operationally insupportable and the disposition of the command impossible. Difficulties in the disposal of the crew and completion of other boats are other accompanying results.
4) Inquiries into this matter can only lead to partial and unsatisfactory revelations, as there is no actual department absolutely responsible for the execution of these measures. The results of the telephone and written inquires were for this reason worthless to the practical administration.
5) B.d.U. requests a single department and a single person to be responsible for the execution of this fitting out, concerned with all isolated details including ship construction, Radar and the supplying of individual ports and the name of the person concerned is to be made known to them.
6) As a result of these arrangements not being kept, U-boats ready for action have been frozen and our Naval Command thereby caused painful losses in the sinking of enemy tonnage. This is, from this stand point, irresponsible and insufferable.

C-in-C U-boats Most Secret 5552.


U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Tuesday, 15 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) hunted strongly zig-zagging tanker on a general course of 140° speed 12 knots, from EH 9984 to EH 3681. Contact lost after triple miss.

U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) sank "Star of Suez" of 4,999 GRT course 120° in FC 3725. Carrying motorcars and aircraft parts from New York to Alexandria. This confirms the supposition that the traffic at the moment runs, greatly spread out over the area between St. Paul's Rocks and the Brazilian coast.

As there is no possibility of our own traffic being encountered in the northern section of "Route Anton" permission for attacks on isolated vessels N. of 30° N. is given, until 0000 on 19.12.

The supply situation is at the moment very tense, owing to the scarcity of tankers and the bad weather conditions. Boats are warned that supplies can only be expected on the express orders of the Command.

The outward bound steamer "Germania" escorted by 4 U-boats ran into a northward bound convoy towards 1400 in about BE 9166. As escape was not possible, the ship was scuttled by the crew of the escorting boats. U 706 was in contact last. Measures for the rescue of the crew are ordered. Success, however, is questionable, owing to the weather predominating at the moment. 5 boats are searching the place of sinking for survivors.

Of the boats detailed for the protection of the "Germania" one was near the ship. The sinking though, as anticipated, could not be prevented. How the other 3 ships were placed in relation to the ship is not known. In any case they were useless. A real support for a blockade runner could only be formed by an all round screen at a distance of 50 - 60 sea miles from the ship. With a range of visibility of 10 sea miles - a favorable supposition - 15 boats would be needed during the day, a number by no means available. But even this protection is theoretical, as, owing to the necessity of submerging in the event of aircraft, differences in fixes, deterioration of visibility, the possibility of not being able to report the sighted enemy before submerging, and other incidents, the position could be changed entirely.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Tuesday, 15 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) hunted strongly zig-zagging tanker on a general course of 140° speed 12 knots, from EH 9984 to EH 3681. Contact lost after triple miss.

U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) sank "Star of Suez" of 4,999 GRT course 120° in FC 3725. Carrying motorcars and aircraft parts from New York to Alexandria. This confirms the supposition that the traffic at the moment runs, greatly spread out over the area between St. Paul's Rocks and the Brazilian coast.

As there is no possibility of our own traffic being encountered in the northern section of "Route Anton" permission for attacks on isolated vessels N. of 30° N. is given, until 0000 on 19.12.

The supply situation is at the moment very tense, owing to the scarcity of tankers and the bad weather conditions. Boats are warned that supplies can only be expected on the express orders of the Command.

The outward bound steamer "Germania" escorted by 4 U-boats ran into a northward bound convoy towards 1400 in about BE 9166. As escape was not possible, the ship was scuttled by the crew of the escorting boats. U 706 was in contact last. Measures for the rescue of the crew are ordered. Success, however, is questionable, owing to the weather predominating at the moment. 5 boats are searching the place of sinking for survivors.

Of the boats detailed for the protection of the "Germania" one was near the ship. The sinking though, as anticipated, could not be prevented. How the other 3 ships were placed in relation to the ship is not known. In any case they were useless. A real support for a blockade runner could only be formed by an all round screen at a distance of 50 - 60 sea miles from the ship. With a range of visibility of 10 sea miles - a favorable supposition - 15 boats would be needed during the day, a number by no means available. But even this protection is theoretical, as, owing to the necessity of submerging in the event of aircraft, differences in fixes, deterioration of visibility, the possibility of not being able to report the sighted enemy before submerging, and other incidents, the position could be changed entirely.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 16 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Soviet troops launch an offensive towards Rostov-on-Don, defeating Italian units on the Don River, with the aim to cut off our troops in the Caucasus.

Overnight and into the next morning, the US 1st Infantry Division raids Maknassy, Tunisia, taking 21 of our troops prisoners.

Following order was given to Group "Westwall", which is calculated to be E. of the Azores:
U 103 - 653 - 91 - 92 - 130 to proceed to CE 6355 to take over radar interception gear or fuel from U 463. U 155 and U 91 were to meet in CF 2711 to transfer fuel.
The other boats of the group were ordered to new attack areas:
U 106 to CF 35 and 36; U 183 to CF 37 and 38; U 155 to CF 53 and 61; U 519 to CF 62 and 63; U 564 to CG 14 and 15; U 515 to CF 39 and CG 17; U 86 to CF 66 and CG 44.

Luftwaffe sighted a convoy with aircraft carrier at 1415 in BE 8368, course 210°, high speed, while searching for survivors of the tanker "Germania". Search for "Germania" was immediately broken off, as there was no prospect of success. The boats that had been told off for this task - U 514 - 125 - 563 - 706 were instructed to attack the convoy. U 563 reported that weather prevented his carrying out the order. No further message was received by the morning. Operation was continued.

Operations against convoys No. 69-70 were badly affected by bad weather. The weather alone made very heavy demands on the boats. As successes were scored despite this weather, the crews are to be highly commended. The strength of the defenses cannot be judged in the prevailing conditions.

Boats in the area of Route "Anton" have again been informed that it is restricted, as the blockade runner "Rhakotis" was expected to pass the Equator about 16.12., on its way to the North.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 16 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

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Soviet troops launch an offensive towards Rostov-on-Don, defeating Italian units on the Don River, with the aim to cut off our troops in the Caucasus.

Overnight and into the next morning, the US 1st Infantry Division raids Maknassy, Tunisia, taking 21 of our troops prisoners.

Following order was given to Group "Westwall", which is calculated to be E. of the Azores:
U 103 - 653 - 91 - 92 - 130 to proceed to CE 6355 to take over radar interception gear or fuel from U 463. U 155 and U 91 were to meet in CF 2711 to transfer fuel.
The other boats of the group were ordered to new attack areas:
U 106 to CF 35 and 36; U 183 to CF 37 and 38; U 155 to CF 53 and 61; U 519 to CF 62 and 63; U 564 to CG 14 and 15; U 515 to CF 39 and CG 17; U 86 to CF 66 and CG 44.

Luftwaffe sighted a convoy with aircraft carrier at 1415 in BE 8368, course 210°, high speed, while searching for survivors of the tanker "Germania". Search for "Germania" was immediately broken off, as there was no prospect of success. The boats that had been told off for this task - U 514 - 125 - 563 - 706 were instructed to attack the convoy. U 563 reported that weather prevented his carrying out the order. No further message was received by the morning. Operation was continued.

Operations against convoys No. 69-70 were badly affected by bad weather. The weather alone made very heavy demands on the boats. As successes were scored despite this weather, the crews are to be highly commended. The strength of the defenses cannot be judged in the prevailing conditions.

Boats in the area of Route "Anton" have again been informed that it is restricted, as the blockade runner "Rhakotis" was expected to pass the Equator about 16.12., on its way to the North.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.G. in Danzig.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 17 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Axis forces largely completed their evacuation from the Marsa Brega and El Agheila region in Libya.

After U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) returns to base, its position on the patrol strip N.E. Natal, which was fixed on 14.12., is to be taken by U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht). To date U 128 (Kptlt. Ullrich Heyse) has seen nothing in that part of the patrol strip. U 164 (KrvKpt. Otto Fechner) is to extend the strip to the coast on the S.W.
So far the attack positions in this area have been very profitable, thus, it seems right to use new boats there. A group of 6 medium-sized boats with one tanker are shortly to leave port for this purpose.

Boats have been informed that the enemy uses his location gear very cautiously and when he picks up a target he gradually reduces his signal strength to mask his approach.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 17 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Axis forces largely completed their evacuation from the Marsa Brega and El Agheila region in Libya.

After U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) returns to base, its position on the patrol strip N.E. Natal, which was fixed on 14.12., is to be taken by U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht). To date U 128 (Kptlt. Ullrich Heyse) has seen nothing in that part of the patrol strip. U 164 (KrvKpt. Otto Fechner) is to extend the strip to the coast on the S.W.
So far the attack positions in this area have been very profitable, thus, it seems right to use new boats there. A group of 6 medium-sized boats with one tanker are shortly to leave port for this purpose.

Boats have been informed that the enemy uses his location gear very cautiously and when he picks up a target he gradually reduces his signal strength to mask his approach.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 18 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

Conducting Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.*

+++++++

Axis and Allied forces engage in brief but fierce combat at Nofilia, Libya.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) situation report: No shipping in DJ 20 Roadstead and harbor of Casablanca, Mehdia and Fedala empty. No signs of landing of troops or material. Busy neutral traffic between CG 9591 and DJ 1630. Sunk: steam trawler (500 GRT). Boat requested a freehand to the W.

Convoy No. 71:
At 1326 U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann), which was on its outward journey, reported a convoy of 6 - 10 steamers in BE 5613, southerly course. Boats in CF, CG and BE were ordered to stalk it. But as no further shadower reports were received by 2000, the boats of Group "Westwall" which were in CF and U 514 - 125 - 563 - 766, were told to continue to operate, but the boats that are en route for AL to form a patrol strip there, continued to that area. The operation was continued with 10 boats. At 2200 U 441 reported that he had been forced to submerge from 1400 until dark. No contact existed. U 432 was directed to follow up from DJ 20, and therefore set course for CG 47.

U 563 (Kptlt. Götz von Hartmann) sank a single ship "Cape St. Andrew" class (5,094 GRT) in BE 8691, course 20°. Subsequently submerged because of destroyer. Several unaccountable misses at different depths. Probably "Pi 39" pistol duds.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) was bombed by a Consolidated when it surfaced in FJ 3632. Boat was temporarily unable to dive because of empty batteries, and moved away from land at full speed. Boat would soon be ready again for operations outside coastal waters. Moderate seas in area and land-based plane reconnaissance to 150 miles from the mainland.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) took over fuel from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and continued homeward journey. U 463 proceeded to CF 5121 to hand over radar intercept cable.

Italian's minister of press and propaganda, Galeazzo Ciano, arrives at the Wolfschanze in East Prussia.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.*


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 18 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

Conducting Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.*

+++++++

Axis and Allied forces engage in brief but fierce combat at Nofilia, Libya.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) situation report: No shipping in DJ 20 Roadstead and harbor of Casablanca, Mehdia and Fedala empty. No signs of landing of troops or material. Busy neutral traffic between CG 9591 and DJ 1630. Sunk: steam trawler (500 GRT). Boat requested a freehand to the W.

Convoy No. 71:
At 1326 U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann), which was on its outward journey, reported a convoy of 6 - 10 steamers in BE 5613, southerly course. Boats in CF, CG and BE were ordered to stalk it. But as no further shadower reports were received by 2000, the boats of Group "Westwall" which were in CF and U 514 - 125 - 563 - 766, were told to continue to operate, but the boats that are en route for AL to form a patrol strip there, continued to that area. The operation was continued with 10 boats. At 2200 U 441 reported that he had been forced to submerge from 1400 until dark. No contact existed. U 432 was directed to follow up from DJ 20, and therefore set course for CG 47.

U 563 (Kptlt. Götz von Hartmann) sank a single ship "Cape St. Andrew" class (5,094 GRT) in BE 8691, course 20°. Subsequently submerged because of destroyer. Several unaccountable misses at different depths. Probably "Pi 39" pistol duds.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) was bombed by a Consolidated when it surfaced in FJ 3632. Boat was temporarily unable to dive because of empty batteries, and moved away from land at full speed. Boat would soon be ready again for operations outside coastal waters. Moderate seas in area and land-based plane reconnaissance to 150 miles from the mainland.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) took over fuel from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and continued homeward journey. U 463 proceeded to CF 5121 to hand over radar intercept cable.

Italian's minister of press and propaganda, Galeazzo Ciano, arrives at the Wolfschanze in East Prussia.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.*


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 19 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Erich von Manstein's units aiming to relieve the 6th Army, reached a point 30 miles south of Stalingrad, which will turn out to be the extent of their advance.

Captured French sloops La Batailleuse and Commandant Rivière depart Bizerte, Tunisia with an Italian crew for La Spezia.

Flower Corvette HMS Snapdragon (K 10) is bombed and sunk by our Luftwaffe northwest of Benghazi, Libya.

Convoy No. 71:
About 2000 U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) heard rapid screw noises in CF 3619, in a direction of 340°. Boat followed up, but did not establish contact. If convoy was traveling at 10.5 knots, it might be the one that was reported on 19.12. by U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann). But as this speed was unlikely in bad weather, the position could not be used as a basis for a directed operation. The boats continued to search.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Nicolai Clausen) was proceeding to the S. outside the enemy air patrol area via CF 40, EJ 40, FM 20. Operations in Capetown area were intended.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) reported when asked that he had encountered no shipping since 16.12. in squares EJ 6560, 6950, 9670, 9690, 6990 and 6530. He intended to operate closer to the coast when the moon is waning. As the squares named were some 200 miles W. of Dakar, the boat was instructed to search nearer in-shore at once. Boat had not operated as ordered.

Of the Natal boats, U 126 (Kptlt. Ernst Bauer) and U 174 (Fregkpt. Ulrich Thilo) had to turn back because of lack of fuel. 5 boats remained in the area, but 2 had little fuel and another had been damaged.

U 221 (Oblt. Hans-Hartwig Trojer) refueled U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck). Both boats continued on homeward journey.

POWs Chief Petty Officers Wally Hammond and Don Lister, having previously escaped from the Oflag IV-C at Colditz Castle, Germany, successfully cross the border into Switzerland.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) breaks off Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, due to high congestion of boats.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 19 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Erich von Manstein's units aiming to relieve the 6th Army, reached a point 30 miles south of Stalingrad, which will turn out to be the extent of their advance.

Captured French sloops La Batailleuse and Commandant Rivière depart Bizerte, Tunisia with an Italian crew for La Spezia.

Flower Corvette HMS Snapdragon (K 10) is bombed and sunk by our Luftwaffe northwest of Benghazi, Libya.

Convoy No. 71:
About 2000 U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) heard rapid screw noises in CF 3619, in a direction of 340°. Boat followed up, but did not establish contact. If convoy was traveling at 10.5 knots, it might be the one that was reported on 19.12. by U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann). But as this speed was unlikely in bad weather, the position could not be used as a basis for a directed operation. The boats continued to search.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Nicolai Clausen) was proceeding to the S. outside the enemy air patrol area via CF 40, EJ 40, FM 20. Operations in Capetown area were intended.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) reported when asked that he had encountered no shipping since 16.12. in squares EJ 6560, 6950, 9670, 9690, 6990 and 6530. He intended to operate closer to the coast when the moon is waning. As the squares named were some 200 miles W. of Dakar, the boat was instructed to search nearer in-shore at once. Boat had not operated as ordered.

Of the Natal boats, U 126 (Kptlt. Ernst Bauer) and U 174 (Fregkpt. Ulrich Thilo) had to turn back because of lack of fuel. 5 boats remained in the area, but 2 had little fuel and another had been damaged.

U 221 (Oblt. Hans-Hartwig Trojer) refueled U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck). Both boats continued on homeward journey.

POWs Chief Petty Officers Wally Hammond and Don Lister, having previously escaped from the Oflag IV-C at Colditz Castle, Germany, successfully cross the border into Switzerland.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) breaks off Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, due to high congestion of boats.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 20 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The RAF uses "Oboe", an aid to the bombing radar, operationally for the first time.

All of the USAAF 59th Fighter Squadron's P-40F fighters are transferred to a French squadron in North Africa.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) had again made a sortie to Casablanca. No shipping, situation unaltered. Boat was allotted CG 47 as new area. It was intended that he should work with Group "Westwall".

U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) took over fuel from U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) and radar interception cable from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and is now continuing his homeward journey.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 20 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The RAF uses "Oboe", an aid to the bombing radar, operationally for the first time.

All of the USAAF 59th Fighter Squadron's P-40F fighters are transferred to a French squadron in North Africa.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) had again made a sortie to Casablanca. No shipping, situation unaltered. Boat was allotted CG 47 as new area. It was intended that he should work with Group "Westwall".

U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) took over fuel from U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) and radar interception cable from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and is now continuing his homeward journey.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 21 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Chief of the OKH General Staff, Kurt Zeitzler, asks The Führer for permission for Friedrich Paulus' 6.Armee, encircled within Stalingrad, to break out to meet Erich von Manstein's relief efforts from the outside. The Führer rejects this, noting that our troops are to hold Stalingrad.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) sighted a single destroyer in FK 3146 on 19.12., mean course 2400, speed 12 knots. Boat had repaired the damage caused by bombs and was again serviceable. He was given a free hand in FK as requested.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) reported heavily armed freighter on course of 900, speed 12 knots, in DF 2556. Boat had fired all torpedoes and was on its homeward voyage. U 506, U 125 and U 514 which were in CF and making for the southwest, were ordered to stalk the ship that had been reported. They were to proceed at cruising speed without consuming large quantities of fuel.

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) was ordered to proceed at high cruising speed to CE 5186 and attack a large steamer that had been damaged. According to a radio intercept it was anchored half a mile off Flores. It may be the single ship that was torpedoed by U 103 (Oblt. Gustav-Adolf Janssen) on 13.12. in CE 1521. U 86 is to try to send a dinghy alongside the ship in the dark without being observed, break the anchor chain and sink the ship after it has drifted outside the territorial waters.

It is intended that U 436 - 575 - 381 - 620 and U 442 shall operate N.E. Natal. For the time being they are to make for CF 78. They will be refueled by "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) in the vicinity of ER.

The boats U 164 - 128 - 134 and U 507 at present in patrol area, have a free hand outside Route "Anton" up to the coast of Brazil.

U 626 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Hans-Botho Bade) - a boat on its first operational trip, last reported on 14.12. from AL 26. The boat was then directed to attack a N.E. bound convoy, which, according to calculations it could hardly have reached. The request for a position report on 16.12. remained unanswered, as have all subsequent requests. The possibility of loss through sea damage exists. No details are yet known.

Convoy No. 70 (ON.153):
At 2200 on 21.12. the operation was broken off as there was little chance of picking up the convoy with only 4 submarines. Also these boats were urgently required for operations against the next ON convoy, for which only 8 boats were so far available.
Summing-up:
In all, 13 boats were stalking the convoy. Convoy was contacted according to plan in the center of the patrol strip at the expected time on 15.12. The operation was hampered by the bad weather. The boats had no fixes and finding and directing other boats was therefore considerably more difficult. Contact with the convoy was maintained without a break only during the first two days. After that, the convoy or single ships were reported only for short periods, mainly because of bad visibility.
No new information was gained about the convoy's defences. The naval escort was not able to attack the boats effectively because of the weather. Unfortunately, the submarines could not profit as the seaway was too heavy to permit firing torpedoes.
On 16.12. Consolidated and Catalina flying boats provided a strong air escort for the convoy. The planes could not attack the submarines either, but their presence made shadowing more difficult. 6 of the 14 submarines attacked the convoy and all were able to fire. One boat had no success. 6 ships totaling 35,836 GRT and 1 twin-funneled destroyer were sunk of the convoy which had been reported as consisting of 16 - 20 steamers.
No losses, no damage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 21 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Chief of the OKH General Staff, Kurt Zeitzler, asks The Führer for permission for Friedrich Paulus' 6.Armee, encircled within Stalingrad, to break out to meet Erich von Manstein's relief efforts from the outside. The Führer rejects this, noting that our troops are to hold Stalingrad.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) sighted a single destroyer in FK 3146 on 19.12., mean course 2400, speed 12 knots. Boat had repaired the damage caused by bombs and was again serviceable. He was given a free hand in FK as requested.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) reported heavily armed freighter on course of 900, speed 12 knots, in DF 2556. Boat had fired all torpedoes and was on its homeward voyage. U 506, U 125 and U 514 which were in CF and making for the southwest, were ordered to stalk the ship that had been reported. They were to proceed at cruising speed without consuming large quantities of fuel.

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) was ordered to proceed at high cruising speed to CE 5186 and attack a large steamer that had been damaged. According to a radio intercept it was anchored half a mile off Flores. It may be the single ship that was torpedoed by U 103 (Oblt. Gustav-Adolf Janssen) on 13.12. in CE 1521. U 86 is to try to send a dinghy alongside the ship in the dark without being observed, break the anchor chain and sink the ship after it has drifted outside the territorial waters.

It is intended that U 436 - 575 - 381 - 620 and U 442 shall operate N.E. Natal. For the time being they are to make for CF 78. They will be refueled by "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) in the vicinity of ER.

The boats U 164 - 128 - 134 and U 507 at present in patrol area, have a free hand outside Route "Anton" up to the coast of Brazil.

U 626 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Hans-Botho Bade) - a boat on its first operational trip, last reported on 14.12. from AL 26. The boat was then directed to attack a N.E. bound convoy, which, according to calculations it could hardly have reached. The request for a position report on 16.12. remained unanswered, as have all subsequent requests. The possibility of loss through sea damage exists. No details are yet known.

Convoy No. 70 (ON.153):
At 2200 on 21.12. the operation was broken off as there was little chance of picking up the convoy with only 4 submarines. Also these boats were urgently required for operations against the next ON convoy, for which only 8 boats were so far available.
Summing-up:
In all, 13 boats were stalking the convoy. Convoy was contacted according to plan in the center of the patrol strip at the expected time on 15.12. The operation was hampered by the bad weather. The boats had no fixes and finding and directing other boats was therefore considerably more difficult. Contact with the convoy was maintained without a break only during the first two days. After that, the convoy or single ships were reported only for short periods, mainly because of bad visibility.
No new information was gained about the convoy's defences. The naval escort was not able to attack the boats effectively because of the weather. Unfortunately, the submarines could not profit as the seaway was too heavy to permit firing torpedoes.
On 16.12. Consolidated and Catalina flying boats provided a strong air escort for the convoy. The planes could not attack the submarines either, but their presence made shadowing more difficult. 6 of the 14 submarines attacked the convoy and all were able to fire. One boat had no success. 6 ships totaling 35,836 GRT and 1 twin-funneled destroyer were sunk of the convoy which had been reported as consisting of 16 - 20 steamers.
No losses, no damage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 22 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Our troops in the Caucasus region begin to fall back northwestward.

Chief of the OKH General Staff, Kurt Zeitzler, once again asks The Führer to allow the 6.Armee to break out from Stalingrad, to avoid the remnants of the army from being totally wiped out. The Führer again refuses.

Elements of US 1st Infantry Division and British 78th Division launch an offensive in Tunisia.

Captured French torpedo boats Bombarde, La Pomone, and L'Iphigénie depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with Italian crews for Palermo, Sicily.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) was operating against enemy traffic in sea area off Lisbon. Boat is being kept informed of the present situation and attention drawn to neutral shipping.

Because of possible diplomatic repercussions Naval War Staff has forbidden U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) to penetrate the territorial waters of the Portuguese Island of "Flores". If the ship is observed and shows signs of preparing to leave port, the boat is to wait outside the 3 -mile limit and close with the ship after she has left the restricted area.

U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles) - homeward bound, in EH 9654 - reported at 1344 convoy with westerly course. Because of considerable damage from bombs, the boat was ordered to attack according to capability and if possible to ascertain the rate of progress of the convoy as a guide in directing the boats of the Trinidad area.
U 161 attacked at dusk and fired a single miss at a destroyer. Convoy consisted of about 6 steamers and 2 escorts. After dark, course N.W., speed 8 - 5 knots. Submarine was continuing on its homeward voyage.
As the convoy reported by U 161 is the second westbound one in this area, it must be investigated whether the single ships coming from the S. assemble in Freetown and continue in convoy to Trinidad. This arrangement would have a bad effect on future successes in comparison with former high sinkings in the Trinidad area.
Further details must however be awaited.

U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) has taken over radar interception parts from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and has commenced homeward voyage.

The Führer signes the decree drafted by Albert Speer for the mass production of the A-4 rocket once the final design is completed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 22 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Our troops in the Caucasus region begin to fall back northwestward.

Chief of the OKH General Staff, Kurt Zeitzler, once again asks The Führer to allow the 6.Armee to break out from Stalingrad, to avoid the remnants of the army from being totally wiped out. The Führer again refuses.

Elements of US 1st Infantry Division and British 78th Division launch an offensive in Tunisia.

Captured French torpedo boats Bombarde, La Pomone, and L'Iphigénie depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with Italian crews for Palermo, Sicily.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) was operating against enemy traffic in sea area off Lisbon. Boat is being kept informed of the present situation and attention drawn to neutral shipping.

Because of possible diplomatic repercussions Naval War Staff has forbidden U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) to penetrate the territorial waters of the Portuguese Island of "Flores". If the ship is observed and shows signs of preparing to leave port, the boat is to wait outside the 3 -mile limit and close with the ship after she has left the restricted area.

U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles) - homeward bound, in EH 9654 - reported at 1344 convoy with westerly course. Because of considerable damage from bombs, the boat was ordered to attack according to capability and if possible to ascertain the rate of progress of the convoy as a guide in directing the boats of the Trinidad area.
U 161 attacked at dusk and fired a single miss at a destroyer. Convoy consisted of about 6 steamers and 2 escorts. After dark, course N.W., speed 8 - 5 knots. Submarine was continuing on its homeward voyage.
As the convoy reported by U 161 is the second westbound one in this area, it must be investigated whether the single ships coming from the S. assemble in Freetown and continue in convoy to Trinidad. This arrangement would have a bad effect on future successes in comparison with former high sinkings in the Trinidad area.
Further details must however be awaited.

U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) has taken over radar interception parts from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and has commenced homeward voyage.

The Führer signes the decree drafted by Albert Speer for the mass production of the A-4 rocket once the final design is completed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front, Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 23 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++


Hubert Lanz, commanding officer of the 1. Gebirgs-Division, is awarded with the Oak Leaves to his Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross.

Erich von Manstein's troops begin to withdraw to Kotelnikovo, Russia, where they started their offensive.

Our 10th Panzer Division takes back American and British territorial gains in Tunisia made on the previous day.

Now that the order for permanent operations by 12 boats against reinforcements for North Africa has been cancelled by Naval War Staff, the two boats with the most fuel are to be sent N. They are to approach AL 88 at economical cruising speed. U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) is to operate off Huelva. All other boats of Group "Westwall" will remain in the previous area until fuel is exhausted.

Trinidad boats have been ordered to push closer inshore as soon as possible when the moon begins to wane. No details available about shipping in the area.

U 130 - 103 and U 653 have taken over fuel or radar parts.

As the rendezvous with the homeward bound blockade runner "Rhakotis" has been moved 200 miles farther E., the boats detailed to form the convoy escort - U 410, 621 and 409 - have been ordered to be at the new position - CE 1388 - by 0800 on 26.12.

U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) and U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) will take part in the Christmas greeting program of the German Radio. Positions: BD 20 and FN. If situation permits, boats will send short non-confidential text.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues the Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 23 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++


Hubert Lanz, commanding officer of the 1. Gebirgs-Division, is awarded with the Oak Leaves to his Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross.

Erich von Manstein's troops begin to withdraw to Kotelnikovo, Russia, where they started their offensive.

Our 10th Panzer Division takes back American and British territorial gains in Tunisia made on the previous day.

Now that the order for permanent operations by 12 boats against reinforcements for North Africa has been cancelled by Naval War Staff, the two boats with the most fuel are to be sent N. They are to approach AL 88 at economical cruising speed. U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) is to operate off Huelva. All other boats of Group "Westwall" will remain in the previous area until fuel is exhausted.

Trinidad boats have been ordered to push closer inshore as soon as possible when the moon begins to wane. No details available about shipping in the area.

U 130 - 103 and U 653 have taken over fuel or radar parts.

As the rendezvous with the homeward bound blockade runner "Rhakotis" has been moved 200 miles farther E., the boats detailed to form the convoy escort - U 410, 621 and 409 - have been ordered to be at the new position - CE 1388 - by 0800 on 26.12.

U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) and U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) will take part in the Christmas greeting program of the German Radio. Positions: BD 20 and FN. If situation permits, boats will send short non-confidential text.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues the Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 24 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

Conducting Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, together with U 648*.

In the evening, celebrating Christmas Eve and listening to the Christmas greeting program on German Radio, together with the crew of U 648.

+++++++

French Admiral François Darlan is assassinated in Algiers, French Algeria, by 20- year old monarchist Fernand Bonnier de La Chapelle. He dies from gunshot wounds several hours after the assassination attempt. The assassin will be executed two days later. Admiral François Darlan will be succeeded by General Henri Giraud.

Soviet troops launch an offensive against the Armeegruppe Don near Stalingrad, piercing Romanian 4th Army's lines. Soviet tanks also brake our defensive lines at Tatsinskaya Airfield in Rostov Oblast, in southern Russia, an important airfield flying supplies into Stalingrad; 124 Ju 52/3m aircraft are able to take into the air to escape, but 46 other aircraft are either damaged, destroyed, or abandoned as the Soviets capture Tatsinskaya. Elsewhere in Rostov Oblast, a similar attack is conducted on Morozovsk Airfield, but our troops are able to repulse that attack.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) and U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) will move closer to the Brazilian coast when the moon wanes, and will search for shipping. At present no details are known of the shipping in the area between Natal and Freetown. Hence, order for all ships still in the area about unrestricted hunting in the new areas.

"Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) reported convoy of about 10 steamers on S.E. course in DG 3677 at 2340. U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) and U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) were in the vicinity and were ordered to attack it. U 461 continued to U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) to hand over engine parts. No further reports were received.


U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) took over radar interception cable from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer). Afterwards, U 86 is to operate off Ponta Delgada. Although earlier commitment of boats was unsuccessful, another attempt is being made because it is suspected that there is some enemy traffic and that the harbor is being used as base for escort vessels.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) was on its way to Huelva and was to attack ore steamer traffic using that port.

U 410 - 621 and U 409 have been issued with more precise instructions for the convoying lane of the blockade runner "Rhakotis".

Now that Route "Anton" is unrestricted, the boats U 128 - 176 and U 134, who have little fuel, have been given a free hand in ER 50 - 80 - 60 - 90 and EC 40 and 70.

Sydney Robey Leibbrandt, a former South African heavyweight boxing champion, who had spent three years in Germany and joined the Wehrmacht, where he had trained as a paratrooper and saboteur by the Brandenburg Regiment, returned home secretly in June 1941. Equipped with a wireless and intending to start a revolt, he is arrested while driving between Johannesburg and Pretoria. His sentence to death on a charge of high treason, will later be commuted by Prime Minister Jan Smuts, because of his fame as a national sporting hero.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, together with U 115*.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 24 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

Conducting Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, together with U 648*.

In the evening, celebrating Christmas Eve and listening to the Christmas greeting program on German Radio, together with the crew of U 648.

+++++++

French Admiral François Darlan is assassinated in Algiers, French Algeria, by 20- year old monarchist Fernand Bonnier de La Chapelle. He dies from gunshot wounds several hours after the assassination attempt. The assassin will be executed two days later. Admiral François Darlan will be succeeded by General Henri Giraud.

Soviet troops launch an offensive against the Armeegruppe Don near Stalingrad, piercing Romanian 4th Army's lines. Soviet tanks also brake our defensive lines at Tatsinskaya Airfield in Rostov Oblast, in southern Russia, an important airfield flying supplies into Stalingrad; 124 Ju 52/3m aircraft are able to take into the air to escape, but 46 other aircraft are either damaged, destroyed, or abandoned as the Soviets capture Tatsinskaya. Elsewhere in Rostov Oblast, a similar attack is conducted on Morozovsk Airfield, but our troops are able to repulse that attack.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) and U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) will move closer to the Brazilian coast when the moon wanes, and will search for shipping. At present no details are known of the shipping in the area between Natal and Freetown. Hence, order for all ships still in the area about unrestricted hunting in the new areas.

"Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) reported convoy of about 10 steamers on S.E. course in DG 3677 at 2340. U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) and U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) were in the vicinity and were ordered to attack it. U 461 continued to U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) to hand over engine parts. No further reports were received.


U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) took over radar interception cable from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer). Afterwards, U 86 is to operate off Ponta Delgada. Although earlier commitment of boats was unsuccessful, another attempt is being made because it is suspected that there is some enemy traffic and that the harbor is being used as base for escort vessels.

U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) was on its way to Huelva and was to attack ore steamer traffic using that port.

U 410 - 621 and U 409 have been issued with more precise instructions for the convoying lane of the blockade runner "Rhakotis".

Now that Route "Anton" is unrestricted, the boats U 128 - 176 and U 134, who have little fuel, have been given a free hand in ER 50 - 80 - 60 - 90 and EC 40 and 70.

Sydney Robey Leibbrandt, a former South African heavyweight boxing champion, who had spent three years in Germany and joined the Wehrmacht, where he had trained as a paratrooper and saboteur by the Brandenburg Regiment, returned home secretly in June 1941. Equipped with a wireless and intending to start a revolt, he is arrested while driving between Johannesburg and Pretoria. His sentence to death on a charge of high treason, will later be commuted by Prime Minister Jan Smuts, because of his fame as a national sporting hero.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen, together with U 115*.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 25 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

With the slaughter of over 12,000 horses, the 6. Armee in Stalingrad, receives their last meat rations.

U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) and U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann), who were set onto a convoy reported by "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler), found nothing despite careful search on different courses. They continued to the approach points as ordered.

U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) transferred supernumerary Engineer Officer to "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) sighted a destroyer and steamer on southerly course at high speed in BE 9738. Boat was homeward bound.

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) requested a free hand in area CG 88 to DH 34. As commitment further afield was not possible because of lack of fuel, boat was given a free hand for the area requested. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) was given the same permission.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) found no shipping off Dakar, moderate air patrolling, location observed once at night.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) completes Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 25 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

With the slaughter of over 12,000 horses, the 6. Armee in Stalingrad, receives their last meat rations.

U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) and U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann), who were set onto a convoy reported by "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler), found nothing despite careful search on different courses. They continued to the approach points as ordered.

U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) transferred supernumerary Engineer Officer to "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) sighted a destroyer and steamer on southerly course at high speed in BE 9738. Boat was homeward bound.

U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) requested a free hand in area CG 88 to DH 34. As commitment further afield was not possible because of lack of fuel, boat was given a free hand for the area requested. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) was given the same permission.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) found no shipping off Dakar, moderate air patrolling, location observed once at night.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) completes Torpedo Trials at the T.E.K. Gotenhafen.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 26 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The Soviet law punishing those who are late to work for more than 20 minutes is made even harsher: Those who violate this law, are now subject to prison terms between two to five years.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt): Between 1930 on 25.12. until 1000 on 26.12. U 109 fired double miss, single miss and triple miss in EP 2476 and EP 1559 at an armed independent ship (4 - 5,000 GRT). About 10 minutes after each torpedo attack vessel dropped 1 to 3 depth charges. Boat suspected "Q" ship. Commander requested permission to return home because of his own nervous state. Was ordered to carry out operation whatever happened.

"Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) sighted convoy of about 5 steamers in CE 7154, course 45°. As no attack-boats were in the vicinity, boat was ordered to proceed to ordered supply point.

U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner) outward bound from home, reported poorly defended convoy on easterly course in AL 3874. U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) and U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz), who were near, were stalking the convoy off their own bat. All boats were given a free hand.

As U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) had sighted nothing off Dakar, he was ordered to proceed S. and search the sea area off Freetown for shipping.

The submarines U 381 - 571 - 442 - 620 - 575 - 436, en route to the S. to undertake operations close inshore along the coast of Brazil, have been given the title Group "Delphin" and ordered to remain in square DH 10. They have been ordered to be in the patrol strip from CF 7958 to DH 1755 by 1200 on 29.12., course 280°, speed 7 knots. They are being committed in this area because traffic on the Great Circle between New York and the Canaries is suspected, this supposition is also supported by high-grade radio intercept intelligence.

U 564 (Oblt. Hans Fiedler; ex Suhren) took over radar interception spare parts from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).

Naval War Staff agreed in the main with the opinion of B.d.U. on the subject of convoys for blockade runners (see War Diary of 12.12.). Naval War Staff has therefore ordered that in future escort shall be carried out merely by having two boats available on each side of Route "Anton". This will avoid the scattering of submarines which would have occurred if the far more extensive wishes of Group West had been complied with.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 26 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The Soviet law punishing those who are late to work for more than 20 minutes is made even harsher: Those who violate this law, are now subject to prison terms between two to five years.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt): Between 1930 on 25.12. until 1000 on 26.12. U 109 fired double miss, single miss and triple miss in EP 2476 and EP 1559 at an armed independent ship (4 - 5,000 GRT). About 10 minutes after each torpedo attack vessel dropped 1 to 3 depth charges. Boat suspected "Q" ship. Commander requested permission to return home because of his own nervous state. Was ordered to carry out operation whatever happened.

"Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) sighted convoy of about 5 steamers in CE 7154, course 45°. As no attack-boats were in the vicinity, boat was ordered to proceed to ordered supply point.

U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner) outward bound from home, reported poorly defended convoy on easterly course in AL 3874. U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) and U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz), who were near, were stalking the convoy off their own bat. All boats were given a free hand.

As U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) had sighted nothing off Dakar, he was ordered to proceed S. and search the sea area off Freetown for shipping.

The submarines U 381 - 571 - 442 - 620 - 575 - 436, en route to the S. to undertake operations close inshore along the coast of Brazil, have been given the title Group "Delphin" and ordered to remain in square DH 10. They have been ordered to be in the patrol strip from CF 7958 to DH 1755 by 1200 on 29.12., course 280°, speed 7 knots. They are being committed in this area because traffic on the Great Circle between New York and the Canaries is suspected, this supposition is also supported by high-grade radio intercept intelligence.

U 564 (Oblt. Hans Fiedler; ex Suhren) took over radar interception spare parts from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).

Naval War Staff agreed in the main with the opinion of B.d.U. on the subject of convoys for blockade runners (see War Diary of 12.12.). Naval War Staff has therefore ordered that in future escort shall be carried out merely by having two boats available on each side of Route "Anton". This will avoid the scattering of submarines which would have occurred if the far more extensive wishes of Group West had been complied with.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 27 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The Führer is authorizing Armeegruppe A and Armeegruppe Don to withdraw 150 miles to a new defensive line in southern Russia.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) observed a leak in the pressure hull under battery I, probably caused by corrosion. Battery bilge made 1 1/2 tons water in 24 hours. It was not possible to repair the damage with materials available on board, boat was no longer capable of deep diving. Boat was ordered to operate in remote areas, if capable of so doing, U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) was given the same orders.

U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) and U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz), which had been stalking the convoy reported by U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner) did not sight it and proceeded to the approach point ordered. So far, no further reports have been received from U 357.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) handed over radar interception spare parts to U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus).

U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) and U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) carried out their rendezvous to take over oil filter parts.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 27 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The Führer is authorizing Armeegruppe A and Armeegruppe Don to withdraw 150 miles to a new defensive line in southern Russia.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) observed a leak in the pressure hull under battery I, probably caused by corrosion. Battery bilge made 1 1/2 tons water in 24 hours. It was not possible to repair the damage with materials available on board, boat was no longer capable of deep diving. Boat was ordered to operate in remote areas, if capable of so doing, U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) was given the same orders.

U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) and U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz), which had been stalking the convoy reported by U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner) did not sight it and proceeded to the approach point ordered. So far, no further reports have been received from U 357.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) handed over radar interception spare parts to U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus).

U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) and U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) carried out their rendezvous to take over oil filter parts.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 28 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) situation report: 23.12. north, east and south coast of Flores thoroughly searched for torpedoed steamer. Apart from the gunboat "Velho" nothing was sighted. From 25 -28.12. submarine was on the boundary of the territorial waters Ponta Delgada. Sighted: 1 steamer on course of 1700, 2 coastal freighters entering port and 4
Swedish Red Cross ships. Boat requested permission for protracted return voyage. He was ordered to start back via BD 98 and search the area for torpedoed vessels that have had to fall out of convoy. Continue voyage according to fuel position.

The boats which had been waiting some 10 days in CD 90 for supplies, i.e. U 508 - 154 - 163 - 129 refueled from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and are continuing their homeward voyage.

The homeward bound "Rhakotis" (Trans: Blockade runner) was picked up at 0900 in CE 1388 by the submarines U 410 - 409 - 621, who were waiting there. Because of the nearby convoy the ship took a northerly course until 0400, then steered for point "Raummass". For some inexplicable reason U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) reported about 1900 that he had given up the convoy duty because of complete breakdown of radar interception gear and was operating against Convoy No. 72. The commander will have to account for this arbitrary behavior on his return. U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) was ordered to act as substitute, but could not reach the homeward bound vessel during the night.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 28 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) situation report: 23.12. north, east and south coast of Flores thoroughly searched for torpedoed steamer. Apart from the gunboat "Velho" nothing was sighted. From 25 -28.12. submarine was on the boundary of the territorial waters Ponta Delgada. Sighted: 1 steamer on course of 1700, 2 coastal freighters entering port and 4
Swedish Red Cross ships. Boat requested permission for protracted return voyage. He was ordered to start back via BD 98 and search the area for torpedoed vessels that have had to fall out of convoy. Continue voyage according to fuel position.

The boats which had been waiting some 10 days in CD 90 for supplies, i.e. U 508 - 154 - 163 - 129 refueled from "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and are continuing their homeward voyage.

The homeward bound "Rhakotis" (Trans: Blockade runner) was picked up at 0900 in CE 1388 by the submarines U 410 - 409 - 621, who were waiting there. Because of the nearby convoy the ship took a northerly course until 0400, then steered for point "Raummass". For some inexplicable reason U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) reported about 1900 that he had given up the convoy duty because of complete breakdown of radar interception gear and was operating against Convoy No. 72. The commander will have to account for this arbitrary behavior on his return. U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) was ordered to act as substitute, but could not reach the homeward bound vessel during the night.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 29 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) tanker convoy last position ED 9694 at 0800 29.12., course 70°, 11 knots. Misses fired, contact lost when forced by plane to submerge. No air or sea patrol in Tabaca (Tobago). Freighter entering port sunk in ED 9964 (4,000 GRT).

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
Contact was maintained by Group "Spitz". Convoy was reported as 10 steamers in double line abreast. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) was detected during a day attack. U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) fired a double miss. U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) was forced to move away. Last report at 1830. Contact was lost through bad visibility.
During the night flares were reported several times. Probably the flares were dropped by escort planes at some distance in order to mislead the submarines. U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) reported miss fire at "Q-ship" with plane on board. U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) fired 5 single shots at the same ship with no effect, torpedo nets presumed. Ship employed plane and worked at night with a shallow M.T.B.

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) was ordered to make a protracted return via BD 98 (Position of sinkings by Group "Spitz").

The loss of U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner; last attacking homeward bound convoy in AM) and of U 356 (Oblt. Günther Ruppelt; last attacking Convoy No. 72, Group "Spitz") must be assumed. Boats have not replied to repeated call-ups.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 29 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) tanker convoy last position ED 9694 at 0800 29.12., course 70°, 11 knots. Misses fired, contact lost when forced by plane to submerge. No air or sea patrol in Tabaca (Tobago). Freighter entering port sunk in ED 9964 (4,000 GRT).

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
Contact was maintained by Group "Spitz". Convoy was reported as 10 steamers in double line abreast. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) was detected during a day attack. U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) fired a double miss. U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) was forced to move away. Last report at 1830. Contact was lost through bad visibility.
During the night flares were reported several times. Probably the flares were dropped by escort planes at some distance in order to mislead the submarines. U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) reported miss fire at "Q-ship" with plane on board. U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) fired 5 single shots at the same ship with no effect, torpedo nets presumed. Ship employed plane and worked at night with a shallow M.T.B.

U 86 (Kptlt. Walter Schug) was ordered to make a protracted return via BD 98 (Position of sinkings by Group "Spitz").

The loss of U 357 (Kptlt. Adolf Kellner; last attacking homeward bound convoy in AM) and of U 356 (Oblt. Günther Ruppelt; last attacking Convoy No. 72, Group "Spitz") must be assumed. Boats have not replied to repeated call-ups.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 30 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Allied convoy RA-51 departs Kola Inlet near Murmansk, Russia. To the west, U-354 (Kptlt. Karl-Heinz Herbschleb) detects Allied convoy JW-51B; Admiral Erich Raeder orders Lützow, Admiral Hipper, and six destroyers to sortie from Altafjord, Norway to intercept.

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
At 1229 U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) sighted the convoy in CE 1211. At 1850 boat reported it in BD 7956 and finally at 2100 in BD 7943. Contact was then lost for good. The other boats did not pick it up, as they were operating on the more southerly course of the convoy. At 0510 U 455 reported from BD 7878 a wide range hydrophone bearing in 230°. Follow up had no results. The hunt continued.
U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) sank the "Q" ship in CE 3178. It had already been unsuccessfully attacked by U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) and was probably the "rescue ship" of the convoy. It was somewhat of the "Waldemar Kophamel" class, carrying a seaplane, strong armament and depth charge throwers.
Some 300 to 400 survivors (probably from steamers in the convoy that had been sunk) were drifting on overloaded rafts and in the water. On account of the worsening weather conditions it must be assumed that a great many were lost.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) Radar interception gear faulty, boat received the requested operational area EO 30 - 90.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt) Commander no longer fully fit for duty. Was ordered to continue operation. If necessary to hand over the command to the 1st Watch Keeping Officer (Oblt. Joachim Schramm).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 30 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Allied convoy RA-51 departs Kola Inlet near Murmansk, Russia. To the west, U-354 (Kptlt. Karl-Heinz Herbschleb) detects Allied convoy JW-51B; Admiral Erich Raeder orders Lützow, Admiral Hipper, and six destroyers to sortie from Altafjord, Norway to intercept.

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
At 1229 U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) sighted the convoy in CE 1211. At 1850 boat reported it in BD 7956 and finally at 2100 in BD 7943. Contact was then lost for good. The other boats did not pick it up, as they were operating on the more southerly course of the convoy. At 0510 U 455 reported from BD 7878 a wide range hydrophone bearing in 230°. Follow up had no results. The hunt continued.
U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) sank the "Q" ship in CE 3178. It had already been unsuccessfully attacked by U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) and was probably the "rescue ship" of the convoy. It was somewhat of the "Waldemar Kophamel" class, carrying a seaplane, strong armament and depth charge throwers.
Some 300 to 400 survivors (probably from steamers in the convoy that had been sunk) were drifting on overloaded rafts and in the water. On account of the worsening weather conditions it must be assumed that a great many were lost.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) Radar interception gear faulty, boat received the requested operational area EO 30 - 90.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt) Commander no longer fully fit for duty. Was ordered to continue operation. If necessary to hand over the command to the 1st Watch Keeping Officer (Oblt. Joachim Schramm).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 31 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Battle of the Barents Sea takes place between the British Royal Navy and the KM. Royal Navy destroyers drive off Lützow, Admiral Hipper and six destroyers from attacking convoy JW-51B, loosing destroyer HMS Achates and minesweeper HMS Bramble, while we loose destroyer Z16 Friedrich Eckoldt. The Führer is furious, ordering the scrapping of the KM battle fleet, saying his battleships are useless "as much as scrap iron". Großadmiral Admiral Raeder resignes.

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
Contact was not reestablished during the day. As only 5 boats still had sufficient fuel to continue operating the convoy hunt was broken off at dusk. Intended schedule: U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) is to refuel the 5 boats with the most fuel in the sea area reached. Later they are to operate in AJ with 3 boats en route to the area from Western France in order to pick up an "SC" convoy.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) reported situation in ET 3710 - 40. Single ship sighted in 3715, 90°. When attack was made on a single destroyer boat was followed for 7 hours with hydrophones and Asdic. No depth charges dropped.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) has been allocated operational area EO 10 - 60 as requested, because of Radar interception gear breakdown. U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) has taken over "Reichenbach's" task, i.e. a sortie to Aruba.

Air reconnaissance for homeward bound blockade runner "Rhakotis".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 31 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Battle of the Barents Sea takes place between the British Royal Navy and the KM. Royal Navy destroyers drive off Lützow, Admiral Hipper and six destroyers from attacking convoy JW-51B, loosing destroyer HMS Achates and minesweeper HMS Bramble, while we loose destroyer Z16 Friedrich Eckoldt. The Führer is furious, ordering the scrapping of the KM battle fleet, saying his battleships are useless "as much as scrap iron". Großadmiral Admiral Raeder resignes.

Convoy No. 72 (ONS.154):
Contact was not reestablished during the day. As only 5 boats still had sufficient fuel to continue operating the convoy hunt was broken off at dusk. Intended schedule: U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) is to refuel the 5 boats with the most fuel in the sea area reached. Later they are to operate in AJ with 3 boats en route to the area from Western France in order to pick up an "SC" convoy.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) reported situation in ET 3710 - 40. Single ship sighted in 3715, 90°. When attack was made on a single destroyer boat was followed for 7 hours with hydrophones and Asdic. No depth charges dropped.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) has been allocated operational area EO 10 - 60 as requested, because of Radar interception gear breakdown. U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) has taken over "Reichenbach's" task, i.e. a sortie to Aruba.

Air reconnaissance for homeward bound blockade runner "Rhakotis".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 1 January 1943 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The 1st Panzer Division withdraws from the Terek area in southern Russia, to prevent encirclement by the Soviet Salsk-Rostov and Mozdok-Stavropol Offensive Operations.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) reported: Sank Swedish vessel "Brageland" (2,608 tons) in conformity with prize regulations course 320° (in FB 3815).

U 438 (Kptlt. Rudolf Franzius) is returning after intake of water in air supply trunk when making a trial dive at A plus 40.According to their fuel reserves homeward bound boats were instructed to stalk the convoy sighted by FW 200 at 1500 in BE 5942, course 240°, speed 8 knots. If these boats made contact, it was intended that battle-worthy boats lying farther off should be guided in. Correction of position showed that the enemy was in BE 9218 at 1625.
Thus it was very probably a Gibraltar convoy, and so the presence of cruisers was to be expected. As no operationally ready submarines were available for this area, the operation was broken off.

U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) in BD 9489. U 117 will supply U 524, 591, 435, 336, 225, 615 according to plan."Rhakotis" (Blockade-runner from Japan to Europe) was in action with an English destroyer in BF 7157 and scuttled herself at 1700, her escort submarines were then detailed to search for survivors.
The case of "Rhakotis" has again showed that submarines are unable to protect blockade runners or carry out reconnaissance for them. Attention is again drawn to repeated situation reports on this subject. The misleading character of remote reconnaissance is shown by the fact that U 410 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) thought she was 40 miles off the vessel she was protecting and when she unintentionally came up with "Rhakotis", reported her as an enemy merchant ship.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 1 January 1943 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The 1st Panzer Division withdraws from the Terek area in southern Russia, to prevent encirclement by the Soviet Salsk-Rostov and Mozdok-Stavropol Offensive Operations.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) reported: Sank Swedish vessel "Brageland" (2,608 tons) in conformity with prize regulations course 320° (in FB 3815).

U 438 (Kptlt. Rudolf Franzius) is returning after intake of water in air supply trunk when making a trial dive at A plus 40.According to their fuel reserves homeward bound boats were instructed to stalk the convoy sighted by FW 200 at 1500 in BE 5942, course 240°, speed 8 knots. If these boats made contact, it was intended that battle-worthy boats lying farther off should be guided in. Correction of position showed that the enemy was in BE 9218 at 1625.
Thus it was very probably a Gibraltar convoy, and so the presence of cruisers was to be expected. As no operationally ready submarines were available for this area, the operation was broken off.

U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) in BD 9489. U 117 will supply U 524, 591, 435, 336, 225, 615 according to plan."Rhakotis" (Blockade-runner from Japan to Europe) was in action with an English destroyer in BF 7157 and scuttled herself at 1700, her escort submarines were then detailed to search for survivors.
The case of "Rhakotis" has again showed that submarines are unable to protect blockade runners or carry out reconnaissance for them. Attention is again drawn to repeated situation reports on this subject. The misleading character of remote reconnaissance is shown by the fact that U 410 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) thought she was 40 miles off the vessel she was protecting and when she unintentionally came up with "Rhakotis", reported her as an enemy merchant ship.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 2 January 1943 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Concluded Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius).

Transferred to the 4th Training Flotilla, Stettin (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER) and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

He 111 aircraft stationed at Morozovskaya Airfield, Rostov Oblast, Russia, are evacuated. Since the aircraft can not take all the equipment and supplies with them, commanding officer of KG 55 Oberstleutnant Ernst Kühl remains behind with a small staff in the hopes that the ground troops will be able to blunt the Soviet offensive, so that the aircraft can return.

The Romanian "Conducător of the Nation", Prime Minister Ion Antonescu, meets with The Führer to discuss the ensuing disaster in Stalingrad.

U 620 (Oblt. Heinz Stein) 27.12 definitely established "Q" ship working with patrol vessels in CF 8325. Double miss fired.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr): No shipping on any steamer routes. Regular day reconnaissance up to 400 miles from Trinidad, no location. Bombs.

Former reconnaissance tasking by Group "DELPHIN" of the supposed east-west shipping route south of the Azores in CD 90, has been broken off, as no success was scored.
Group including "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) has been instructed to cruise to the south at the same distance apart between longitude 35° West and 42° West. After being refueled later, the Group is to operate off Natal.

As U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt) is returning, U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen) is going to occupy her sector. (N.N.E. of Trinidad).

Air reconnaissance for survivors of "RHAKOTIS".

Attack is sanctioned for the whole of route "Anton" north of 5° South.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 2 January 1943 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Concluded Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius).

Transferred to the 4th Training Flotilla, Stettin (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER) and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

He 111 aircraft stationed at Morozovskaya Airfield, Rostov Oblast, Russia, are evacuated. Since the aircraft can not take all the equipment and supplies with them, commanding officer of KG 55 Oberstleutnant Ernst Kühl remains behind with a small staff in the hopes that the ground troops will be able to blunt the Soviet offensive, so that the aircraft can return.

The Romanian "Conducător of the Nation", Prime Minister Ion Antonescu, meets with The Führer to discuss the ensuing disaster in Stalingrad.

U 620 (Oblt. Heinz Stein) 27.12 definitely established "Q" ship working with patrol vessels in CF 8325. Double miss fired.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr): No shipping on any steamer routes. Regular day reconnaissance up to 400 miles from Trinidad, no location. Bombs.

Former reconnaissance tasking by Group "DELPHIN" of the supposed east-west shipping route south of the Azores in CD 90, has been broken off, as no success was scored.
Group including "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) has been instructed to cruise to the south at the same distance apart between longitude 35° West and 42° West. After being refueled later, the Group is to operate off Natal.

As U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt) is returning, U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen) is going to occupy her sector. (N.N.E. of Trinidad).

Air reconnaissance for survivors of "RHAKOTIS".

Attack is sanctioned for the whole of route "Anton" north of 5° South.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 3 January 1943 - Stettin

Arrived at the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Mozdok, in the northern Caucasus region.

Lieutenant R. T. G. Greenland RNVR and Leading Signalman A. Ferrier, penetrate Palermo harbour in Sicily, on a Chariot human torpedo and sink the Italian light cruiser Ulpio Traiano.

USAAF heavy bombers attack the docks and U-Boat pens at Saint-Nazaire, starting several fires.

U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported that she had sunk "Baron Dechmont" (3,675 GRT) in FB 9141 course 1200, speed 9 knots. Captain taken on board.

U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen) in sector ordered since 28.12. Nothing seen except patrols in ED 9836 and destroyer in 9658, 550, moderate air patrolling by day, nothing seen at night, no location.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) from FK 23 to 49 and ER 97 to 63 and ES 40 nothing seen excepting land-based plane once in FK 54 and 23.12. 13 of 20 cells in the after-battery compartment faulty, operationally ready.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) found dogged air patrolling off Freetown. Bombs, searchlights. Kept under water 32 hours by location. Systematic air operation tried to starve boat out. Operations close inshore brought little success. Moved away because of high battery temperature and faulty Junkers compressor.

Group "FALKE":
U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) chased independent on course 230° speed 13 knots for 5 hours. Despite highest possible speed boat lost contact. Returned to station.
U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; "Ali" Cremer in hospital) reported 1427 chasing passenger steamer SW speed 13 knots. 1945 recognized as English hospital ship. Boat returned to station (Probably the same vessel as one sighted by U 706).

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported lighted freighter without any neutrality markings proceeding from CG 5839 to 5559 going north. Boat was ordered to leave ship alone.

U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) carried out replenishment, on return voyage.

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) took over a sick man from U 123 (Oblt. Horst von Schroeter; ex Hardegen) and gave fuel to U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe), on return voyage.

U 163 (Korvkpt. Kurt-Eduard Engelmann) took over a sick man from U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) and radar interceptor escort from U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann).

U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) and U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) broke off search for "Rhakotis".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 3 January 1943 - Stettin

Arrived at the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Mozdok, in the northern Caucasus region.

Lieutenant R. T. G. Greenland RNVR and Leading Signalman A. Ferrier, penetrate Palermo harbour in Sicily, on a Chariot human torpedo and sink the Italian light cruiser Ulpio Traiano.

USAAF heavy bombers attack the docks and U-Boat pens at Saint-Nazaire, starting several fires.

U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported that she had sunk "Baron Dechmont" (3,675 GRT) in FB 9141 course 1200, speed 9 knots. Captain taken on board.

U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen) in sector ordered since 28.12. Nothing seen except patrols in ED 9836 and destroyer in 9658, 550, moderate air patrolling by day, nothing seen at night, no location.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) from FK 23 to 49 and ER 97 to 63 and ES 40 nothing seen excepting land-based plane once in FK 54 and 23.12. 13 of 20 cells in the after-battery compartment faulty, operationally ready.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) found dogged air patrolling off Freetown. Bombs, searchlights. Kept under water 32 hours by location. Systematic air operation tried to starve boat out. Operations close inshore brought little success. Moved away because of high battery temperature and faulty Junkers compressor.

Group "FALKE":
U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) chased independent on course 230° speed 13 knots for 5 hours. Despite highest possible speed boat lost contact. Returned to station.
U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; "Ali" Cremer in hospital) reported 1427 chasing passenger steamer SW speed 13 knots. 1945 recognized as English hospital ship. Boat returned to station (Probably the same vessel as one sighted by U 706).

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported lighted freighter without any neutrality markings proceeding from CG 5839 to 5559 going north. Boat was ordered to leave ship alone.

U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) carried out replenishment, on return voyage.

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) took over a sick man from U 123 (Oblt. Horst von Schroeter; ex Hardegen) and gave fuel to U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe), on return voyage.

U 163 (Korvkpt. Kurt-Eduard Engelmann) took over a sick man from U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) and radar interceptor escort from U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann).

U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) and U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) broke off search for "Rhakotis".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 4 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture the Morozovskaya Airfield, Rostov Oblast, Russia. Commanding officer of KG 55 Oberstleutnant Ernst Kühl and his small staff destroy various equipment and supply dumps before evacuating.

U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) BE 4132 surprised by single destroyer, course N.E. depth charged.

Group "Falke" has ceased to man its patrol strip as the convoy can no longer be expected. Fresh boats U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) and U 584 (Kptlt. Joachim Deecke; Kptlt. Kurt Nölke in deputize -- acting) have joined the group. Order has been given to the Group to man a patrol strip from AK 3832 to AK 6995 by 1600 on 7.1. Their order is as follows: U 632 - 441 - 631 - 444 - 167 - 384 - 525 - 563 - 404 - 333 - 584 - 257 - 71 - 572. They are to operate against a west-bound "ONS" England-America convoy that is expected according to dead reckoning. Because of lack of fuel U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has been withdrawn and detailed for another operation and has been instructed to make for BD 77. After she has replenished, she is to operate with the remaining boats of former group "Spitz" N.E. of Newfoundland.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) was given a radio message about the probable departure of the enemy ships "Shetland" and "Castilian" from Lisbon.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 4 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture the Morozovskaya Airfield, Rostov Oblast, Russia. Commanding officer of KG 55 Oberstleutnant Ernst Kühl and his small staff destroy various equipment and supply dumps before evacuating.

U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) BE 4132 surprised by single destroyer, course N.E. depth charged.

Group "Falke" has ceased to man its patrol strip as the convoy can no longer be expected. Fresh boats U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) and U 584 (Kptlt. Joachim Deecke; Kptlt. Kurt Nölke in deputize -- acting) have joined the group. Order has been given to the Group to man a patrol strip from AK 3832 to AK 6995 by 1600 on 7.1. Their order is as follows: U 632 - 441 - 631 - 444 - 167 - 384 - 525 - 563 - 404 - 333 - 584 - 257 - 71 - 572. They are to operate against a west-bound "ONS" England-America convoy that is expected according to dead reckoning. Because of lack of fuel U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has been withdrawn and detailed for another operation and has been instructed to make for BD 77. After she has replenished, she is to operate with the remaining boats of former group "Spitz" N.E. of Newfoundland.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) was given a radio message about the probable departure of the enemy ships "Shetland" and "Castilian" from Lisbon.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 5 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The Italian Navy Forza Navale Speciale (FNS) is disbanded.

U 563 (Kptlt. Götz von Hartmann) has been told to drop out of Group "Falke" because of lack of fuel and has been given attack area BD 30 until her fuel is exhausted. The gap thus caused in the patrol strip has been closed by the boats stationed to the south moving up.

U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann). U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) refueled for return voyage from U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann).

In order to carry out some degree of flank reconnaissance for the vessel "Spichern" that is be escorted back to Brest from El Ferrol homeward bound boats have been ordered to proceed via BF 74 - 76 or 77 - 75 - 76.

On instructions from Naval War Staff boats have been given the following order:
"French Antilles and French Guyana are loyal to Vichy. Ships "Angaulema", "Guadaloupe", "Due Daumal", "San Domingo" and the tanker "Bourgogne" are thus again to be permitted to carry supplies to these possessions from the American area. Today or tomorrow the first vessels will leave the Antilles. Do not molest them".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 5 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The Italian Navy Forza Navale Speciale (FNS) is disbanded.

U 563 (Kptlt. Götz von Hartmann) has been told to drop out of Group "Falke" because of lack of fuel and has been given attack area BD 30 until her fuel is exhausted. The gap thus caused in the patrol strip has been closed by the boats stationed to the south moving up.

U 591 (Kptlt. Hans-Jürgen Zetzsche) refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann). U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) refueled for return voyage from U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann).

In order to carry out some degree of flank reconnaissance for the vessel "Spichern" that is be escorted back to Brest from El Ferrol homeward bound boats have been ordered to proceed via BF 74 - 76 or 77 - 75 - 76.

On instructions from Naval War Staff boats have been given the following order:
"French Antilles and French Guyana are loyal to Vichy. Ships "Angaulema", "Guadaloupe", "Due Daumal", "San Domingo" and the tanker "Bourgogne" are thus again to be permitted to carry supplies to these possessions from the American area. Today or tomorrow the first vessels will leave the Antilles. Do not molest them".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 6 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Captured French submarines "Phoque" and "Saphir" depart Bizerte, Tunisia with an Italian crew.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) sighted 3 tankers, 3 patrol boats, in ED (square garbled) course S.W. Forced away from convoy by strong land-based air patrols. Bombs and flares, submarine submerged during the day. No shipping in EC 90. Very strong land-based air activity. Moved away to the north because of breakdown of gyro.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) sighted a corvette in DS 6670 at 1400 on northerly course.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) reported that Warrant Quartermaster was sick. After conversation with doctor she was ordered to carry out her special task (break through at Gibraltar).

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported: Brightly illuminated steamer, similar to the English steamer announced to be leaving Lisbon. She proceeded south within territorial waters south of Lisbon. This strengthened the assumption that enemy shipping between Lisbon and Gibraltar sailed within territorial waters camouflaged as neutral.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) has been given FD 2555 as rendezvous to supply the Italian submarine "CAGNI" as planned.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 6 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Captured French submarines "Phoque" and "Saphir" depart Bizerte, Tunisia with an Italian crew.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) sighted 3 tankers, 3 patrol boats, in ED (square garbled) course S.W. Forced away from convoy by strong land-based air patrols. Bombs and flares, submarine submerged during the day. No shipping in EC 90. Very strong land-based air activity. Moved away to the north because of breakdown of gyro.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) sighted a corvette in DS 6670 at 1400 on northerly course.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) reported that Warrant Quartermaster was sick. After conversation with doctor she was ordered to carry out her special task (break through at Gibraltar).

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported: Brightly illuminated steamer, similar to the English steamer announced to be leaving Lisbon. She proceeded south within territorial waters south of Lisbon. This strengthened the assumption that enemy shipping between Lisbon and Gibraltar sailed within territorial waters camouflaged as neutral.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) has been given FD 2555 as rendezvous to supply the Italian submarine "CAGNI" as planned.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 7 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) reported fast independent in BF 7375, 30°. Pursuit was broken off after 5 hours.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) No shipping off Port of Spain between 5th and 8th January.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
At 0209 U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) fired triple and single miss in DG 8144, at 0400 fired another triple miss at a fast freighter in DG 4995. Boat suspected "Q" ship. 0430 U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) sighted a destroyer in DG 8111. As U 436, U 381 and U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) had been delayed, Group "DELPHIN" was ordered not to move off the patrol strip until 1400. The patrol which was running out to encounter the convoy on its supposed mean course, would cover the convoy's degree of speed 10 or 9 knots during daylight. At 2030 the patrol would proceed at a speed of 9 knots, mean course 65°, covering the night delay.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) had been ordered to operate off Freetown on the convoy routes to Trinidad, as established by Radio reconnaissance. Convoy's run at intervals of about 10 or 11 days.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 7 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) reported fast independent in BF 7375, 30°. Pursuit was broken off after 5 hours.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) No shipping off Port of Spain between 5th and 8th January.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
At 0209 U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) fired triple and single miss in DG 8144, at 0400 fired another triple miss at a fast freighter in DG 4995. Boat suspected "Q" ship. 0430 U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) sighted a destroyer in DG 8111. As U 436, U 381 and U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) had been delayed, Group "DELPHIN" was ordered not to move off the patrol strip until 1400. The patrol which was running out to encounter the convoy on its supposed mean course, would cover the convoy's degree of speed 10 or 9 knots during daylight. At 2030 the patrol would proceed at a speed of 9 knots, mean course 65°, covering the night delay.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) had been ordered to operate off Freetown on the convoy routes to Trinidad, as established by Radio reconnaissance. Convoy's run at intervals of about 10 or 11 days.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 8 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

General Rokossovsky issues a surrender ultimatum to the 6th Army, which guaranteed their lives and safety until their return to Germany after the war. Paulus refuses the ultimatum.

Axis convoys between Italy and Tripoli, Libya are suspended after a British force of two cruisers and four destroyers sank 14 ships trying to reinforce and supply Erwin Rommel's troops.

With a load of 72 USAAF P-40F fighters, USS Ranger departs Norfolk, Virginia bound for North Africa.

On 8.1. U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported that she had sunk "YORKWOOD" (5,401 tons) course 270°, speed 10 knots in FC 7416. In ballast from Durban to Trinidad. Captain taken on board (Frank Herbert Fenn). Moderate air activity during the day, location at night.

U 167 (Kptlt. Kurt Neubert) of Group "FALKE" reported Warrant Quartermaster overboard (Obersteuermann Walter Schliephake) and Commander badly injured during heavy storms while saving the I WO (Ltnt. Günter Zahnow). Boat has been instructed to return under command of the I WO.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
Group "DELPHIN" moved up towards the convoy at 1000. At 1600 U 381 sighted the convoy in DG 8495. U 511 and U 522, who were outward bound, and U 181 and U 134, who were homeward bound were also put onto the convoy along with Group "DELPHIN". During the night U 571, 575, 442, 436, 522 contacted the convoy. At 2237 U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) torpedoed 3 large tankers in DG 8565, very heavy explosion; no further observation possible because of anti-submarine measures. At 0003 U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) scored 3 hits in line abreast. 0636 one hit, 0638 3 hits on 3 tankers. No sinkings observed. U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) was forced to submerge when she attacked, she was depth-charged. Operation continues.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) and U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) have been ordered to return to their former attack ares (U 214 Curacao, U 105 Trinidad) after they have met and transferred gyro-sphere. They are to operate off these harbors according to the moon. They have been informed of convoy traffic and favorable possibilities of night attacks because of inexperienced patrolling.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) is to meet U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) on 11.1 in EJ 2225. U 177 is homeward bound and will inform U 182 of conditions in the Capetown operational area and hand over "Eisbär" order.

The escort of "Spichern" from El Ferrol to Brest is being prepared for 9.1.43 as ordered by key-word.

Walter Dornberger and Wernher von Braun meet with Albert Speer. During the meeting, Speer informs the rocket research leaders that construction of a rocket launching site along the English Channel coast will soon commence.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 8 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

General Rokossovsky issues a surrender ultimatum to the 6th Army, which guaranteed their lives and safety until their return to Germany after the war. Paulus refuses the ultimatum.

Axis convoys between Italy and Tripoli, Libya are suspended after a British force of two cruisers and four destroyers sank 14 ships trying to reinforce and supply Erwin Rommel's troops.

With a load of 72 USAAF P-40F fighters, USS Ranger departs Norfolk, Virginia bound for North Africa.

On 8.1. U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported that she had sunk "YORKWOOD" (5,401 tons) course 270°, speed 10 knots in FC 7416. In ballast from Durban to Trinidad. Captain taken on board (Frank Herbert Fenn). Moderate air activity during the day, location at night.

U 167 (Kptlt. Kurt Neubert) of Group "FALKE" reported Warrant Quartermaster overboard (Obersteuermann Walter Schliephake) and Commander badly injured during heavy storms while saving the I WO (Ltnt. Günter Zahnow). Boat has been instructed to return under command of the I WO.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
Group "DELPHIN" moved up towards the convoy at 1000. At 1600 U 381 sighted the convoy in DG 8495. U 511 and U 522, who were outward bound, and U 181 and U 134, who were homeward bound were also put onto the convoy along with Group "DELPHIN". During the night U 571, 575, 442, 436, 522 contacted the convoy. At 2237 U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) torpedoed 3 large tankers in DG 8565, very heavy explosion; no further observation possible because of anti-submarine measures. At 0003 U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) scored 3 hits in line abreast. 0636 one hit, 0638 3 hits on 3 tankers. No sinkings observed. U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) was forced to submerge when she attacked, she was depth-charged. Operation continues.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) and U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) have been ordered to return to their former attack ares (U 214 Curacao, U 105 Trinidad) after they have met and transferred gyro-sphere. They are to operate off these harbors according to the moon. They have been informed of convoy traffic and favorable possibilities of night attacks because of inexperienced patrolling.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) is to meet U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) on 11.1 in EJ 2225. U 177 is homeward bound and will inform U 182 of conditions in the Capetown operational area and hand over "Eisbär" order.

The escort of "Spichern" from El Ferrol to Brest is being prepared for 9.1.43 as ordered by key-word.

Walter Dornberger and Wernher von Braun meet with Albert Speer. During the meeting, Speer informs the rocket research leaders that construction of a rocket launching site along the English Channel coast will soon commence.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 9 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) reported that she had contact with the convoy (TB.1) from 0300 to 0600, 9 ships, 4 destroyers from EO 5235 to 5269, 160°, 8 knots. She sank 1 tanker and 4 freighters, totaling 28,000 GRT.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
After temporary loss of contact U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sighted convoy of 3 tankers in DG 9517 at 1320. Last report from U 134 at 1530 from DG 9278.
Following reports of success have been received:
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider): sank 2 tankers 16,000 GRT; probably sank 1 tanker 8,000 GRT.
U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke): torpedoed tankers on 8.1, 3 were sunk 31,000 GRT.
U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind): sank "William Wilberforce" in DG 9116 (ship was not part of convoy) 5,004 GRT.
U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse): sank 1 large tanker (heard to sink); sank 1 large fleet tanker and sank 1 abandoned tanker - both tankers probably torpedoed by U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) 28,000 GRT; saw 1 tanker sink.
U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel): sank 1 tanker with 3 hits at 1533. Tanker was in convoy. 8,000 GRT.
The last convoy formation is still being stalked (it probably consists of 2 convoy formations of 3 tankers each).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 9 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) reported that she had contact with the convoy (TB.1) from 0300 to 0600, 9 ships, 4 destroyers from EO 5235 to 5269, 160°, 8 knots. She sank 1 tanker and 4 freighters, totaling 28,000 GRT.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
After temporary loss of contact U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sighted convoy of 3 tankers in DG 9517 at 1320. Last report from U 134 at 1530 from DG 9278.
Following reports of success have been received:
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider): sank 2 tankers 16,000 GRT; probably sank 1 tanker 8,000 GRT.
U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke): torpedoed tankers on 8.1, 3 were sunk 31,000 GRT.
U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind): sank "William Wilberforce" in DG 9116 (ship was not part of convoy) 5,004 GRT.
U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse): sank 1 large tanker (heard to sink); sank 1 large fleet tanker and sank 1 abandoned tanker - both tankers probably torpedoed by U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) 28,000 GRT; saw 1 tanker sink.
U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel): sank 1 tanker with 3 hits at 1533. Tanker was in convoy. 8,000 GRT.
The last convoy formation is still being stalked (it probably consists of 2 convoy formations of 3 tankers each).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 10 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Another Soviet offensive, Operation Ring, begins at Stalingrad.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
At 1254 U 620 (Oblt. Heinz Stein) picked up a convoy formation. During the day U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) also contacted the convoy. At 2015 U 620 scored 2 hits on 2 tankers in staggered formation during an underwater attack at dusk. The same boat scored one hit in DH 5119 on a damaged tanker, she then shot the boat to pieces with gunfire. U 571 fired a miss from stern tube at a patrol vessel and probably scored 2 hits on a tanker (9,000 GRT). U 522 sank a tanker (9,000 GRT) and torpedoed a large tanker. Although 2 tankers had definitely been sunk, probably even 3, U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) reported in the morning that the remaining convoy formation consisted of 2 tankers, 2 submarines also agree with supposition that 2 convoy formations had been attacked. Two submarines continued the operation. The remaining boats had lagged behind after being depth-charged or after making attacks and they are proceeding to the supply rendezvous in DG 50.

The Russian BI-2 rocket-powered prototype aircraft takes its first flight at Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia (the second flight of the design), reaching an altitude of 1,100 meters and reaching the speed of 400 kilometers per hour.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 10 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Another Soviet offensive, Operation Ring, begins at Stalingrad.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1):
At 1254 U 620 (Oblt. Heinz Stein) picked up a convoy formation. During the day U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) also contacted the convoy. At 2015 U 620 scored 2 hits on 2 tankers in staggered formation during an underwater attack at dusk. The same boat scored one hit in DH 5119 on a damaged tanker, she then shot the boat to pieces with gunfire. U 571 fired a miss from stern tube at a patrol vessel and probably scored 2 hits on a tanker (9,000 GRT). U 522 sank a tanker (9,000 GRT) and torpedoed a large tanker. Although 2 tankers had definitely been sunk, probably even 3, U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) reported in the morning that the remaining convoy formation consisted of 2 tankers, 2 submarines also agree with supposition that 2 convoy formations had been attacked. Two submarines continued the operation. The remaining boats had lagged behind after being depth-charged or after making attacks and they are proceeding to the supply rendezvous in DG 50.

The Russian BI-2 rocket-powered prototype aircraft takes its first flight at Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia (the second flight of the design), reaching an altitude of 1,100 meters and reaching the speed of 400 kilometers per hour.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 11 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Chinese Ambassador Wei Daoming and US Secretary of State Cordell Hull sign the Treaty for Relinquishment of Extraterritorial Rights in China, in Washington DC. Through this treaty, the Americans give up territorial claims in China and give up the American portion of the Boxer Protocol.

Soviet troops launch the Novorossiysk-Maikop Offensive Operation in the Caucasus region of southern Russia.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) 11.1. stalked freighter "Angle Indian" in EO 6616, course 300°, 10 knots. Double miss, torpedoes set too deep, observed before boat was forced to submerge by air patrol.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1): U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) was forced by a Sunderland to submerge during the morning, and at 1609 by 2 Corvettes, so that she lagged behind. As the 2 remaining tankers proceeded at a speed of about 12 to 13 knots and the submarines would have caught up with them until the next day at the earliest, when they would have reached the area of regular air patrols, the attack on the convoy was broken off.

U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) passed on her experiences to U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) and handed over "Eisbär" order.

So far, because of bad weather, only U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann) has refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann). This rules out the possibility of detailing the remaining boats of former Group "Spitz" (U 123, 260, 440, 706, 662) and Group "Jaguar" to attack the expected northeast convoy (HX or SC) N.E. of Newfoundland.

General:
The setting-up of Group "Falke" was not successful, the "ONS" convoy was not contacted. The two unsuccessful operations prove the crying need for more submarines. The longer the patrol strip and the closer the boats, the greater the chance of contacting a convoy. Present lack of submarines prevents the setting-up of several patrols with sufficient boats. As long as reinforcements from home remain as weak as during the last few months, conditions will not improve. This once again emphasizes the great draw back of our naval warfare: the lack of all air reconnaissance. The effect of our submarine warfare would be very different if the submarines did not have to seek and find the enemy for themselves; they are totally unfitted for this task, for it requires large numbers of boats, it also causes long, wasteful, fruitless waiting.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 11 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Chinese Ambassador Wei Daoming and US Secretary of State Cordell Hull sign the Treaty for Relinquishment of Extraterritorial Rights in China, in Washington DC. Through this treaty, the Americans give up territorial claims in China and give up the American portion of the Boxer Protocol.

Soviet troops launch the Novorossiysk-Maikop Offensive Operation in the Caucasus region of southern Russia.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) 11.1. stalked freighter "Angle Indian" in EO 6616, course 300°, 10 knots. Double miss, torpedoes set too deep, observed before boat was forced to submerge by air patrol.

Convoy No. 2 (TM.1): U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) was forced by a Sunderland to submerge during the morning, and at 1609 by 2 Corvettes, so that she lagged behind. As the 2 remaining tankers proceeded at a speed of about 12 to 13 knots and the submarines would have caught up with them until the next day at the earliest, when they would have reached the area of regular air patrols, the attack on the convoy was broken off.

U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) passed on her experiences to U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) and handed over "Eisbär" order.

So far, because of bad weather, only U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann) has refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann). This rules out the possibility of detailing the remaining boats of former Group "Spitz" (U 123, 260, 440, 706, 662) and Group "Jaguar" to attack the expected northeast convoy (HX or SC) N.E. of Newfoundland.

General:
The setting-up of Group "Falke" was not successful, the "ONS" convoy was not contacted. The two unsuccessful operations prove the crying need for more submarines. The longer the patrol strip and the closer the boats, the greater the chance of contacting a convoy. Present lack of submarines prevents the setting-up of several patrols with sufficient boats. As long as reinforcements from home remain as weak as during the last few months, conditions will not improve. This once again emphasizes the great draw back of our naval warfare: the lack of all air reconnaissance. The effect of our submarine warfare would be very different if the submarines did not have to seek and find the enemy for themselves; they are totally unfitted for this task, for it requires large numbers of boats, it also causes long, wasteful, fruitless waiting.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 12 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The Russian BI-2 rocket-powered prototype aircraft takes its second flight at Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia, reaching an altitude of 2,190 meters and reaching the speed of 675 kilometers per hour.

Our troops withdraw from the Caucasus region to the Kuban bridgehead, while the Soviets launch Operation Spark, an offensive to restore communication and over-land supply route to Leningrad.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) has replaced U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) in Group "SEEHUND" and has been ordered to make for GG 10 (Capetown).

U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) reported that 2 destroyers were waiting in the rendezvous square FD 25 where she was to meet the Italian submarine J 28. Rendezvous was moved to FD 34.

Final Remarks on convoy TM.1:
The operation begun at 1600 on 3.1.1943 took the desired course. The Group "DELPHIN" patrol picked up the convoy on 8.1. 0116 hours after U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) sent her last shadower report. The convoy continues somewhat south of the Great Circle, without altering its mean course. The convoy escort, which consisted mainly of fairly old gun boats and Corvettes, was inexperienced and not very dogged. Despite excellent hydrophone and Asdic conditions with very calm weather and sea, it did not succeed in badly damaging a single boat, let alone sinking one. Surface location was not observed. On the whole the results can be described as very good and particularly satisfactory for Operational Control, who with great good fortune were justified in making their hard decisions on 4.1. to desert the fast convoy proceeding to America which had been contacted once in favor of a convoy which could not be picked up for over 100 hours. 15 tankers totaling about 141,000 GRT were sunk. No submarines were damaged.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 12 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The Russian BI-2 rocket-powered prototype aircraft takes its second flight at Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia, reaching an altitude of 2,190 meters and reaching the speed of 675 kilometers per hour.

Our troops withdraw from the Caucasus region to the Kuban bridgehead, while the Soviets launch Operation Spark, an offensive to restore communication and over-land supply route to Leningrad.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) has replaced U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) in Group "SEEHUND" and has been ordered to make for GG 10 (Capetown).

U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) reported that 2 destroyers were waiting in the rendezvous square FD 25 where she was to meet the Italian submarine J 28. Rendezvous was moved to FD 34.

Final Remarks on convoy TM.1:
The operation begun at 1600 on 3.1.1943 took the desired course. The Group "DELPHIN" patrol picked up the convoy on 8.1. 0116 hours after U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) sent her last shadower report. The convoy continues somewhat south of the Great Circle, without altering its mean course. The convoy escort, which consisted mainly of fairly old gun boats and Corvettes, was inexperienced and not very dogged. Despite excellent hydrophone and Asdic conditions with very calm weather and sea, it did not succeed in badly damaging a single boat, let alone sinking one. Surface location was not observed. On the whole the results can be described as very good and particularly satisfactory for Operational Control, who with great good fortune were justified in making their hard decisions on 4.1. to desert the fast convoy proceeding to America which had been contacted once in favor of a convoy which could not be picked up for over 100 hours. 15 tankers totaling about 141,000 GRT were sunk. No submarines were damaged.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 13 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The call-up age for unmarried British women is lowered to 19.

According to a radio broadcast, an American bomber has sunk a German submarine in the Bay of Biscay. There is no evidence that it was one of our boats.

U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643, course 115°, speed 8 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) reported patrol formation, 4 steam trawlers making a great deal of smoke, hove to in AE 38.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) reported regular naval air patrols from EO 66 to EP 47 observed from 11.1.

After U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has carried out her special task (landing an agent in Morocco), she is to operate in DT 40 if situation permits.
Note: Casablanca Conference between Roosevelt and Churchill begins today.

U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) and Italian submarine J 28 carried out refueling.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) interrupts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela and commences Fast Charging Excercises in Gotenhafen-Oxhöft.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 13 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The call-up age for unmarried British women is lowered to 19.

According to a radio broadcast, an American bomber has sunk a German submarine in the Bay of Biscay. There is no evidence that it was one of our boats.

U 507 (KrvKpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643, course 115°, speed 8 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) reported patrol formation, 4 steam trawlers making a great deal of smoke, hove to in AE 38.

U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) reported regular naval air patrols from EO 66 to EP 47 observed from 11.1.

After U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has carried out her special task (landing an agent in Morocco), she is to operate in DT 40 if situation permits.
Note: Casablanca Conference between Roosevelt and Churchill begins today.

U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) and Italian submarine J 28 carried out refueling.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) interrupts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela and commences Fast Charging Excercises in Gotenhafen-Oxhöft.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 14 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Soviet troops capture Velikiye Luki 200 miles west of Moscow.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) reported: No shipping yet met with in EO.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported: On 11.1. depth charged by destroyer in CG 5831. Otherwise only neutral shipping.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) sighted a convoy at 2300 in CF 3545 on a southerly course, no contact established. As the boats proceeding south were far behind the convoy, it was useless to try to launch an attack.

U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) sighted a seaplane in AK 6114.

U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann) reported moderate air patrolling in AK 37 - 38.

U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; 'Ali' Cremer in hospital) reported land-based plane in AK 6.

Boats of Group "Delphin" (U 442, 436, 575, 571, 620) have refueled and replenished torpedoes from 'Milkcow' U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 109 (IXB; Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt); they are now proceeding according to instructions to the new patrol strip.

Enemy reported attack by Submarine in CA 50 (none of our boats there).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Fast Charging Excercises in Gotenhafen-Oxhöft.

Yesterday, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became engaged to Maria von Wedemeyer.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 14 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Velikiye Luki 200 miles west of Moscow.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) reported: No shipping yet met with in EO.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) reported: On 11.1. depth charged by destroyer in CG 5831. Otherwise only neutral shipping.

U 134 (Kptlt. Rudolf Schendel) sighted a convoy at 2300 in CF 3545 on a southerly course, no contact established. As the boats proceeding south were far behind the convoy, it was useless to try to launch an attack.

U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) sighted a seaplane in AK 6114.

U 441 (Kptlt. Klaus Hartmann) reported moderate air patrolling in AK 37 - 38.

U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; 'Ali' Cremer in hospital) reported land-based plane in AK 6.

Boats of Group "Delphin" (U 442, 436, 575, 571, 620) have refueled and replenished torpedoes from 'Milkcow' U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 109 (IXB; Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt); they are now proceeding according to instructions to the new patrol strip.

Enemy reported attack by Submarine in CA 50 (none of our boats there).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Fast Charging Excercises in Gotenhafen-Oxhöft.

Yesterday, Dietrich Bonhoeffer became engaged to Maria von Wedemeyer.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 15 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Two companies of "Loreto" combat engineers battalion of the Italian Air Force are transferred by ship from Sicily, to Tunis; the remaining two companies of the 1st Air Force Assault Regiment "Amedeo d'Aosta" will remain in Sicily to repair airfields.

Our Luftwaffe raids Telepte Airfield in Tunisia three times and Youks-les-Bains Airfield in Algeria once. The enemy claims that a total of 15 of our aircraft are shot down during these attacks.

General:
Neither the "SC" nor the "HX" convoy (Group "Jaguar") were contacted. Unfortunately delays in refueling reduced Group "Jaguar" to 6 boats. Probably "SC" and "HX" passed to the north of the submarine disposition.
These two convoys bring the total up to four that have been missed since 31.12. It must be assumed that the enemy has left the convoy routes that he has been sailing for nearly 5 months and is again scattering his convoy routes. This development is a great drawback to attacks by our boat, but was only to be expected. As has already been emphasized, it was quite inexplicable why the English stuck so stubbornly to almost the same convoy routes for six months, which greatly simplified finding the convoys.
Probably the convoy routes to the north have been moved into the patrol areas of the Greenland and Iceland units. The next step for us to take is to make long dispositions with numerous boats so as to find out exactly what detours the enemy is making. Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" have been given a disposition for 16.1 against the "ONS" convoy with this end in view. If this operation is again unsuccessful, it will be necessary to patrol farther to the north, preferably in the area S.E. of Greenland.

The Pentagon, the new building in Virginia, United States, and the future home of the US Department of War, are dedicated.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) installs Ice Protection Gear at in Danzig.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 15 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Two companies of "Loreto" combat engineers battalion of the Italian Air Force are transferred by ship from Sicily, to Tunis; the remaining two companies of the 1st Air Force Assault Regiment "Amedeo d'Aosta" will remain in Sicily to repair airfields.

Our Luftwaffe raids Telepte Airfield in Tunisia three times and Youks-les-Bains Airfield in Algeria once. The enemy claims that a total of 15 of our aircraft are shot down during these attacks.

General:
Neither the "SC" nor the "HX" convoy (Group "Jaguar") were contacted. Unfortunately delays in refueling reduced Group "Jaguar" to 6 boats. Probably "SC" and "HX" passed to the north of the submarine disposition.
These two convoys bring the total up to four that have been missed since 31.12. It must be assumed that the enemy has left the convoy routes that he has been sailing for nearly 5 months and is again scattering his convoy routes. This development is a great drawback to attacks by our boat, but was only to be expected. As has already been emphasized, it was quite inexplicable why the English stuck so stubbornly to almost the same convoy routes for six months, which greatly simplified finding the convoys.
Probably the convoy routes to the north have been moved into the patrol areas of the Greenland and Iceland units. The next step for us to take is to make long dispositions with numerous boats so as to find out exactly what detours the enemy is making. Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" have been given a disposition for 16.1 against the "ONS" convoy with this end in view. If this operation is again unsuccessful, it will be necessary to patrol farther to the north, preferably in the area S.E. of Greenland.

The Pentagon, the new building in Virginia, United States, and the future home of the US Department of War, are dedicated.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) installs Ice Protection Gear in Danzig.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 16 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Iraq declares war on the Axis powers.

British bombers attack Berlin.

Soviet troops capture Pitomnik Airfield west of Stalingrad, denying the 6.Armee the ability to fly in supplies and fly out wounded men.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) sighted 8 tankers putting out in EC 92 easterly course, speed 12 knots. Betrayed by splash of torpedo discharge during daylight attack. No contact.

Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" received orders to steer on a course of 330° at a speed of 6 knots on 1100, and to occupy the position lines "Falke" from AD 8835 to AK 6362; "Habicht" from AL 4171 to 7229 at 0430 on 17.1 as patrol channels. U 414 and U 268 exchange positions owing to reversed times of arrival. This move to the N.W. follows a Radio Intelligence report, according to which the last ONS convoy apparently deviated far to the N. as far as the new patrolled area.

As, according to Radio Intelligence report (special) the convoy New York/Gibraltar has been delayed for 6 days. Group "Delphin" received orders to proceed on a course of 285° at a speed of 6 knots by day and to remain in patrol channels at night. Intention: Perfect patrol of occupied channels and area gain for actions.

As it may be presumed with certainty that the expected HX and SC (convoy) passed unperceived, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are allocated the following operation areas until planned arrival of next convoys: In AJ: U 337 = 7655, U 413 = 7963, U 598 = 8491, U 594 = 8792, U 96 = 8887, U 123 = 8982, - In BC: U 266 = 2126, U 662 = 2257. This should ensure a further if not infallible patrol of this area used by the enemy for Greenland and Iceland convoys.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 16 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Iraq declares war on the Axis powers.

British bombers attack Berlin.

Soviet troops capture Pitomnik Airfield west of Stalingrad, denying the 6.Armee the ability to fly in supplies and fly out wounded men.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) sighted 8 tankers putting out in EC 92 easterly course, speed 12 knots. Betrayed by splash of torpedo discharge during daylight attack. No contact.

Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" received orders to steer on a course of 330° at a speed of 6 knots on 1100, and to occupy the position lines "Falke" from AD 8835 to AK 6362; "Habicht" from AL 4171 to 7229 at 0430 on 17.1 as patrol channels. U 414 and U 268 exchange positions owing to reversed times of arrival. This move to the N.W. follows a Radio Intelligence report, according to which the last ONS convoy apparently deviated far to the N. as far as the new patrolled area.

As, according to Radio Intelligence report (special) the convoy New York/Gibraltar has been delayed for 6 days. Group "Delphin" received orders to proceed on a course of 285° at a speed of 6 knots by day and to remain in patrol channels at night. Intention: Perfect patrol of occupied channels and area gain for actions.

As it may be presumed with certainty that the expected HX and SC (convoy) passed unperceived, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are allocated the following operation areas until planned arrival of next convoys: In AJ: U 337 = 7655, U 413 = 7963, U 598 = 8491, U 594 = 8792, U 96 = 8887, U 123 = 8982, - In BC: U 266 = 2126, U 662 = 2257. This should ensure a further if not infallible patrol of this area used by the enemy for Greenland and Iceland convoys.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 17 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 4 destroyers on a course of 65° in DH 7297, speed 20 knots. Contact lost short time afterwards.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) Situation: Nothing sighted for 8 days, apart from a destroyer, in area of Tobago Passage. Regular traffic to Port of Spain is therefore unlikely through this way. Boat sank a freighter in ED 5956. Night aerial activity experienced once without radar in ED 8653. Otherwise nothing confirmed. Return passage owing to fuel situation.

Current Operations:
As it is presumed that the boats belonging to Group "Falke" and "Habicht" are W. of the expected convoys, both groups proceeded on an easterly course with a speed of 6 knots at 1300.
U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) and U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) were attacked several times in the course of the afternoon by enemy wheeled aircraft and search groups. As up to dusk the convoy had not been found, both groups turned on a course of 270° with speed of 6 knots at 1900. In this way the convoy was to be prevented from passing through unperceived by night.
At 2136 U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) reported (T.O.O. 1600) a large convoy on a northwesterly course in AD 8947. Boat attacked and sank large tanker. Subsequently forced to submerge for 6 hours by aircraft and destroyers. According to boats estimate this was connected with a HX convoy. As U 268 was about 55 miles astern and contact was lost - also as Group "Falke" could not have reached the convoy until the next day in an area of heavy enemy air protection it was not detailed for action. Instead the boats U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) coming from the east and in approximately AE 70 were assigned for this task. "Falke" and "Habicht" also U 268 proceeded further to the W. and on 18.1 at dawn return back from reached AD 8735 to AK 1262 also AK 1371 to AL 2129 to 90° at a speed of 6 knots.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) fired 2 misses at an escort vessel in AD 8974. U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) sighted unidentified craft on westerly course in AK 3267. No further contact with the enemy. Whether this refers to an escort craft has not been ascertained.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has taken on supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and occupies BC 2318, depth 40 seamiles as action area. Further supplying from U 117 was not possible up to now owing to bad weather conditions. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) and U 440 (Kptlt. Hans Geissler) still expect replenishment of supplies. Latter received ordered to return owing to the small amount on the tanker.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 17 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 4 destroyers on a course of 65° in DH 7297, speed 20 knots. Contact lost short time afterwards.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) Situation: Nothing sighted for 8 days, apart from a destroyer, in area of Tobago Passage. Regular traffic to Port of Spain is therefore unlikely through this way. Boat sank a freighter in ED 5956. Night aerial activity experienced once without radar in ED 8653. Otherwise nothing confirmed. Return passage owing to fuel situation.

Current Operations:
As it is presumed that the boats belonging to Group "Falke" and "Habicht" are W. of the expected convoys, both groups proceeded on an easterly course with a speed of 6 knots at 1300.
U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) and U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) were attacked several times in the course of the afternoon by enemy wheeled aircraft and search groups. As up to dusk the convoy had not been found, both groups turned on a course of 270° with speed of 6 knots at 1900. In this way the convoy was to be prevented from passing through unperceived by night.
At 2136 U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) reported (T.O.O. 1600) a large convoy on a northwesterly course in AD 8947. Boat attacked and sank large tanker. Subsequently forced to submerge for 6 hours by aircraft and destroyers. According to boats estimate this was connected with a HX convoy. As U 268 was about 55 miles astern and contact was lost - also as Group "Falke" could not have reached the convoy until the next day in an area of heavy enemy air protection it was not detailed for action. Instead the boats U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) coming from the east and in approximately AE 70 were assigned for this task. "Falke" and "Habicht" also U 268 proceeded further to the W. and on 18.1 at dawn return back from reached AD 8735 to AK 1262 also AK 1371 to AL 2129 to 90° at a speed of 6 knots.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) fired 2 misses at an escort vessel in AD 8974. U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) sighted unidentified craft on westerly course in AK 3267. No further contact with the enemy. Whether this refers to an escort craft has not been ascertained.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has taken on supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and occupies BC 2318, depth 40 seamiles as action area. Further supplying from U 117 was not possible up to now owing to bad weather conditions. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) and U 440 (Kptlt. Hans Geissler) still expect replenishment of supplies. Latter received ordered to return owing to the small amount on the tanker.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 18 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Operation Spark, which commenced 6 days earlier, successfully openes a corridor into Leningrad. The Soviet government announces the end of the siege, although that state will still continue until 27 Jan 1943.

The Soviets capture Cherkessk in the Caucasus region.

Late in the day, three He 111 transport aircraft of unit III./KG 55 attempt to land at the small Gumrak Airfield at Stalingrad. The first lands but will not be able to takeoff again, the second makes ten failed attempts at lining up with the wreck-strewn short runway but ultimately pushes its cargo of 20 sacks of bread out of the bomb bay doors without landing, and the third follows suit.

British submarine Thunderbolt departed Malta for Tripoli, Libya, with two Chariot manned torpedoes. The two Chariot teams discover the harbor to be empty of ships and become stuck far behind enemy lines. One team is captured and the other escapes and eventually finds the advancing British 8th Army.

From 1030 groups "Falke" and Habicht" approached the convoy at 1030 at a speed of 4 knots in bad weather conditions and remained in position line reached at 1400 as patrol lines. U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 226 (Kptlt. Rolf Borchers) were attacked in the afternoon by "Consolidated" and wheeled aircraft.
At sunset both groups again proceeded at a speed of 6 knots to the W. and slow up at 1130 in patrol lines from AD 7926 to AK 6142 also AK 6181 to AK 9317. If the convoy has not yet passed the lines, a one to one and a half days postponement must have taken place. It is intended to remain in patrol lines during the day and if the convoy is then not intercepted to be redisposed in another area.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) who were both detailed to operate on the HX convoy broke off operations at dawn and steered a course for AL 94 at economical cruising speed.

Group "Delphin" proceeded on a course of 285°, with a speed of 6 knots at 1100 and remained as patrol from CE 7162 to DF 3669 at 2030. Passage further to the W. is not intended. The passing of the convoy can still be expected.

In order to intercept another convoy expected on 20.1 and yet another on 21.1., Group "Jaguar" is to take up the following patrol lines from AJ 7915 to BC 2135. Order: U 337 - 413 - 598 - 594 - 96 - 266 - 123 - 706 and 622.

US government bannes the sale of sliced bread by commercial bakers; they must sell their bread in entire loaves in order to save wrapping material. The ban will be lifted on 8 Mar 1943 after officials realized the ban was ineffective.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 18 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Operation Spark, which commenced 6 days earlier, successfully openes a corridor into Leningrad. The Soviet government announces the end of the siege, although that state will still continue until 27 Jan 1943.

The Soviets capture Cherkessk in the Caucasus region.

Late in the day, three He 111 transport aircraft of unit III./KG 55 attempt to land at the small Gumrak Airfield at Stalingrad. The first lands but will not be able to takeoff again, the second makes ten failed attempts at lining up with the wreck-strewn short runway but ultimately pushes its cargo of 20 sacks of bread out of the bomb bay doors without landing, and the third follows suit.

British submarine Thunderbolt departed Malta for Tripoli, Libya, with two Chariot manned torpedoes. The two Chariot teams discover the harbor to be empty of ships and become stuck far behind enemy lines. One team is captured and the other escapes and eventually finds the advancing British 8th Army.

From 1030 groups "Falke" and Habicht" approached the convoy at 1030 at a speed of 4 knots in bad weather conditions and remained in position line reached at 1400 as patrol lines. U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 226 (Kptlt. Rolf Borchers) were attacked in the afternoon by "Consolidated" and wheeled aircraft.
At sunset both groups again proceeded at a speed of 6 knots to the W. and slow up at 1130 in patrol lines from AD 7926 to AK 6142 also AK 6181 to AK 9317. If the convoy has not yet passed the lines, a one to one and a half days postponement must have taken place. It is intended to remain in patrol lines during the day and if the convoy is then not intercepted to be redisposed in another area.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) who were both detailed to operate on the HX convoy broke off operations at dawn and steered a course for AL 94 at economical cruising speed.

Group "Delphin" proceeded on a course of 285°, with a speed of 6 knots at 1100 and remained as patrol from CE 7162 to DF 3669 at 2030. Passage further to the W. is not intended. The passing of the convoy can still be expected.

In order to intercept another convoy expected on 20.1 and yet another on 21.1., Group "Jaguar" is to take up the following patrol lines from AJ 7915 to BC 2135. Order: U 337 - 413 - 598 - 594 - 96 - 266 - 123 - 706 and 622.

US government bannes the sale of sliced bread by commercial bakers; they must sell their bread in entire loaves in order to save wrapping material. The ban will be lifted on 8 Mar 1943 after officials realized the ban was ineffective.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 19 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launched 72 USAAF P-40F fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger began withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

As the expected convoy was not found during the day, its appearance must no longer be anticipated. The groups "Falke" and Habicht" will be relieved of their duties and each redistributed according to their fuel supply. The boats form the group "Haudegen". Boats with less fuel will be disposed in reconnaissance lines from AL 4447 to BE 2136.
Southwestward bound convoy is expected on 24.1. Boats arriving early in position are to submerge during the day in order to avoid interception by English air reconnaissance.

According to a Radio Intelligence report received a north bound convoy close to the Newfoundland coast is expected sooner than was first presumed. Group "Jaguar", therefore received orders to take up position in new reconnaissance lines from AJ 7561 to AJ 8827 at 0000 on 20.1. From 1200 on 20.1. to proceed at a speed of 4 knots on a reconnaissance line, course 200°. The strip from AJ 7565 to AJ 8818 is to be narrowed owing to the temporary breakdown of U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) .

U 43, 521, 218 and 518 proceed at economical cruising speed to DU 72. U 66 is to occupy grid DU 72 and 73 as temporary operations area after execution of the special duties. According to agents reports there is strong north-south traffic in this area. For this reason the boats are not taking up the intended reconnaissance channels to the S.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich 'Ajax' Bleichrodt) has taken the Warrant Quartermaster from U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) on board and continues the return passage.

U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643 on 13.1. It received orders to attack. In spite of repeated requests boat has not reported since then. It must be presumed to have been sunk by the convoy escort, and considered lost (along with Master Donald MacCallum of the Baron Dechmont, sunk on 3 Jan., and taken prisoner).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 19 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launched 72 USAAF P-40F fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger began withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

As the expected convoy was not found during the day, its appearance must no longer be anticipated. The groups "Falke" and Habicht" will be relieved of their duties and each redistributed according to their fuel supply. The boats form the group "Haudegen". Boats with less fuel will be disposed in reconnaissance lines from AL 4447 to BE 2136.
Southwestward bound convoy is expected on 24.1. Boats arriving early in position are to submerge during the day in order to avoid interception by English air reconnaissance.

According to a Radio Intelligence report received a north bound convoy close to the Newfoundland coast is expected sooner than was first presumed. Group "Jaguar", therefore received orders to take up position in new reconnaissance lines from AJ 7561 to AJ 8827 at 0000 on 20.1. From 1200 on 20.1. to proceed at a speed of 4 knots on a reconnaissance line, course 200°. The strip from AJ 7565 to AJ 8818 is to be narrowed owing to the temporary breakdown of U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) .

U 43, 521, 218 and 518 proceed at economical cruising speed to DU 72. U 66 is to occupy grid DU 72 and 73 as temporary operations area after execution of the special duties. According to agents reports there is strong north-south traffic in this area. For this reason the boats are not taking up the intended reconnaissance channels to the S.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich 'Ajax' Bleichrodt) has taken the Warrant Quartermaster from U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) on board and continues the return passage.

U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643 on 13.1. It received orders to attack. In spite of repeated requests boat has not reported since then. It must be presumed to have been sunk by the convoy escort, and considered lost (along with Master Donald MacCallum of the Baron Dechmont, sunk on 3 Jan., and taken prisoner).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 20 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Luftwaffe fighter-bombers launch surprise daylight attacks on London. The British claim that the Luftwaffe has to abandon the attacks, after five Fw 190 aircraft are lost within half an hour, to the RAF Manston based Typhoon fighters of the No. 609 Squadron.

Captured French submarines "Requin" and "Espadon" depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with an Italian crew.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) searched from 9 - 12.1 in the lower half of ER 80 with long legs on the Equator to the E. and also on the way to FD 25.

U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) sighted unidentified U-boat in BF 7692. According to dead reckoning not one of ours.

Group "Jaguar" remains in the position reached at 2100 from AJ 7822 to AJ 8796 (Patrol channel).

U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) and U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) are to join Group "Delphin" to extend their patrol channels, and occupy the positions DF 3933 and DF 3969.

U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) joins Group "Landsknecht" and occupies position BE 2244, which must be reached by 0800 on 24.1.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) handed over a Nautical Year Book to U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf).

General:

1. The following operations in the North Atlantic have not been successful:

31.12.1942 - Convoy ON - Group "Falke" - 13 boats
8.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group "Falke" - 14 boats
12/13.1.1943 - Convoy HX, SC - Group "Jaguar" - 6 boats
16.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group Falke-Habicht" - 27 boats

Altogether only one convoy (HX) was intercepted for a short period on 17.1.1943 and an operation was not possible.

2. The non-interception of the last ONS is a further confirmation of the conjecture that the English have begun to spread out their convoys and possibly deflected their routes considerably to the N. This evasive movement can at the most only be out-maneuvered by a long disposition in the area S.E. of Cape Farewell. It is possible here to fight to the S.W. and N.E. with some chance of success and to bring pressure to bear on ON, ONS, HX and SC convoys.

3. The next operations possible are on HX, SC (convoys) on 20/21.1 and ON (convoy) on 24.1. It is possible to operate on all these convoys with the number of boats now available. It is not, however, possible to reinforce the group "Jaguar" (North of Newfoundland Bank) within the time limit. The group will be entirely disposed to the W., according to the information obtained by the decyphering section on the positions of the lost HX convoy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 20 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Luftwaffe fighter-bombers launch surprise daylight attacks on London. The British claim that the Luftwaffe has to abandon the attacks, after five Fw 190 aircraft are lost within half an hour, to the RAF Manston based Typhoon fighters of the No. 609 Squadron.

Captured French submarines "Requin" and "Espadon" depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with an Italian crew.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) searched from 9 - 12.1 in the lower half of ER 80 with long legs on the Equator to the E. and also on the way to FD 25.

U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) sighted unidentified U-boat in BF 7692. According to dead reckoning not one of ours.

Group "Jaguar" remains in the position reached at 2100 from AJ 7822 to AJ 8796 (Patrol channel).

U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) and U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) are to join Group "Delphin" to extend their patrol channels, and occupy the positions DF 3933 and DF 3969.

U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) joins Group "Landsknecht" and occupies position BE 2244, which must be reached by 0800 on 24.1.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) handed over a Nautical Year Book to U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf).

General:

1. The following operations in the North Atlantic have not been successful:

31.12.1942 - Convoy ON - Group "Falke" - 13 boats
8.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group "Falke" - 14 boats
12/13.1.1943 - Convoy HX, SC - Group "Jaguar" - 6 boats
16.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group Falke-Habicht" - 27 boats

Altogether only one convoy (HX) was intercepted for a short period on 17.1.1943 and an operation was not possible.

2. The non-interception of the last ONS is a further confirmation of the conjecture that the English have begun to spread out their convoys and possibly deflected their routes considerably to the N. This evasive movement can at the most only be out-maneuvered by a long disposition in the area S.E. of Cape Farewell. It is possible here to fight to the S.W. and N.E. with some chance of success and to bring pressure to bear on ON, ONS, HX and SC convoys.

3. The next operations possible are on HX, SC (convoys) on 20/21.1 and ON (convoy) on 24.1. It is possible to operate on all these convoys with the number of boats now available. It is not, however, possible to reinforce the group "Jaguar" (North of Newfoundland Bank) within the time limit. The group will be entirely disposed to the W., according to the information obtained by the decyphering section on the positions of the lost HX convoy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 21 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Allied leadership issues the directive to RAF and USAAF commanders "your primary objective will be the progressive destruction and dislocation of the German military, industrial and economic system, and the undermining of the morale of the German people to a point where their capacity for armed resistance is fatally wounded."

Soviet troops capture Voroshilovsky and Stavropol in the Caucasus region, claiming 500,000 of our troops dead and 200,000 captured in the last two months of fighting.

The Führer tells the Ambassador Hiroshi Oshima, that he would welcome Japanese assistance in defeating Russia.

In order to intercept the north-south bound convoys and isolated traffic, 5 boats are to be disposed in a 30 sea mile wide strip as far as 120 sea miles W. of Cape Blanco in N/S strips of equal width. Order from the west: U 518, 43, 218, 521, 66. Warfare against the traffic is considered of utmost importance to the African Front.

Replenishment of supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) is to take place early on 29.1 in CG 5455. U 506 will take on 140 cubic meters, U 509 and U 516, 100 cubic meters each. Fuel replenishment of U 160 (still behind) follows later.
Meeting of "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) for the handing over of an Fu.M.B. Cable has taken place.
In a S.W. wind, strength 10 and heavy sea the supplying of U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) - intended for the last 10 days - is still impossible.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) is not fully ready for action owing to breakdown of forward hydroplane. The boat is ordered to return to Bergen owing to inability to submerge entirely. Further use as training ship is proposed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 21 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Allied leadership issues the directive to RAF and USAAF commanders "your primary objective will be the progressive destruction and dislocation of the German military, industrial and economic system, and the undermining of the morale of the German people to a point where their capacity for armed resistance is fatally wounded."

Soviet troops capture Voroshilovsky and Stavropol in the Caucasus region, claiming 500,000 of our troops dead and 200,000 captured in the last two months of fighting.

The Führer tells the Ambassador Hiroshi Oshima, that he would welcome Japanese assistance in defeating Russia.

In order to intercept the north-south bound convoys and isolated traffic, 5 boats are to be disposed in a 30 sea mile wide strip as far as 120 sea miles W. of Cape Blanco in N/S strips of equal width. Order from the west: U 518, 43, 218, 521, 66. Warfare against the traffic is considered of utmost importance to the African Front.

Replenishment of supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) is to take place early on 29.1 in CG 5455. U 506 will take on 140 cubic meters, U 509 and U 516, 100 cubic meters each. Fuel replenishment of U 160 (still behind) follows later.
Meeting of "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) for the handing over of an Fu.M.B. Cable has taken place.
In a S.W. wind, strength 10 and heavy sea the supplying of U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) - intended for the last 10 days - is still impossible.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) is not fully ready for action owing to breakdown of forward hydroplane. The boat is ordered to return to Bergen owing to inability to submerge entirely. Further use as training ship is proposed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 22 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The RAF conducts its first combat operation using the new Mitchell Mk.II bombers. Six aircraft from No. 98 and No. 180 Squadrons are sent out to attack oil installations at Ghent in Belgium. One aircraft is shot down by flak over the target and two others are lost when attacked by Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighters. Following this disaster the RAF's Mitchell squadrons are stood down to concentrate on developing new tactics to fend off enemy fighters.

6th Army engineers report that the small Stalingradskaya Airfield close to the center of Stalingrad, is ready to receive transport aircraft. Several He 111 aircraft arrive later on the same day with supplies, some of which will be fatally damaged when their landing gears become caught in bomb craters on the runway.

The "Bafile" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, captures Djebel Bou Dabouss massif in Tunisia, capturing 200 prisoners of war, while loosing 24 killed and 65 wounded.

U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf) a boat belonging to Group "Haudegen" heard several beacon locator noises with north-easterly deviations since 0600 on 22.1. According to fix at 0800 last bearing lay in AJ 3449. The boat is following this up in the direction of 20° in good visibility. The boats U 525, U 201, north and south of U 69 have also received instructions to steer on searching course, as the presence of an HX convoy must be presumed. This must have passed the patrol lines of Group "Jaguar" unobserved and proceeded at a very high speed.

U 69, 525 and 201 pursued until darkness fell without establishing contact. They are now proceeding on a course of 210°, cruising speed to the S. to reinforce Group "Jaguar". According to a Radio Intelligence report (special) received, the course of the awaited convoy leads through the middle of the channels occupied by Group "Delphin". As its arrival can take place from today, Group "Delphin" is to proceed on a course of 90°, speed 8 knots at 2030, as reconnaissance line. On 23.1 at 1000 to turn back on a course of 280°, speed 4 knots. The boats U 264, 258 and 558 coming up, are making for approximately the center of the line.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) on the return passage, reported a convoy in AK 7422 at 1315 and after several hours confirmed an isolated search group on a southerly course. As such an isolated group is unlikely in this area, the possible presence of a convoy must be presumed. Whether it is an HX or an SC convoy remains to be seen. In any case on receipt of U 96's message Group "Haudegen" (not U 69, 525 and 201) were ordered to proceed to the S.W. at a speed of 10 knots and ordered to take up position in reconnaissance lines from AK 4313 to 8394 for 1200 on 23.1. Course 235°, speed 6 knots. U 96 continues return passage.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has only encountered Spanish coastal sailing vessels within the 40 sea mile line of DU 57 since 20.1. The boat has carried out a special task (landing Jean Lallart on the coast of Mauritania near Cape Blanc). Two sailors did not return to the boat after the successful landing. After waiting in vain for over 13 hours for his men (Bootsmaat Wagner and Matrosenobergefreiter Helmut Daschkey) to return, Kptlt. Markworth was forced to abandon them to whatever fate they had suffered. Heavy surf since then.
10 days later we will learn, that Lallart and the two men who rowed him ashore were immediately captured by the French.

Colonel-General Ludwig Beck and other anti-Hitler conspirators meet at the home of Peter Yorck von Wartenburg.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 22 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The RAF conducts its first combat operation using the new Mitchell Mk.II bombers. Six aircraft from No. 98 and No. 180 Squadrons are sent out to attack oil installations at Ghent in Belgium. One aircraft is shot down by flak over the target and two others are lost when attacked by Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighters. Following this disaster the RAF's Mitchell squadrons are stood down to concentrate on developing new tactics to fend off enemy fighters.

6th Army engineers report that the small Stalingradskaya Airfield close to the center of Stalingrad, is ready to receive transport aircraft. Several He 111 aircraft arrive later on the same day with supplies, some of which will be fatally damaged when their landing gears become caught in bomb craters on the runway.

The "Bafile" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, captures Djebel Bou Dabouss massif in Tunisia, capturing 200 prisoners of war, while loosing 24 killed and 65 wounded.

U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf) a boat belonging to Group "Haudegen" heard several beacon locator noises with north-easterly deviations since 0600 on 22.1. According to fix at 0800 last bearing lay in AJ 3449. The boat is following this up in the direction of 20° in good visibility. The boats U 525, U 201, north and south of U 69 have also received instructions to steer on searching course, as the presence of an HX convoy must be presumed. This must have passed the patrol lines of Group "Jaguar" unobserved and proceeded at a very high speed.

U 69, 525 and 201 pursued until darkness fell without establishing contact. They are now proceeding on a course of 210°, cruising speed to the S. to reinforce Group "Jaguar". According to a Radio Intelligence report (special) received, the course of the awaited convoy leads through the middle of the channels occupied by Group "Delphin". As its arrival can take place from today, Group "Delphin" is to proceed on a course of 90°, speed 8 knots at 2030, as reconnaissance line. On 23.1 at 1000 to turn back on a course of 280°, speed 4 knots. The boats U 264, 258 and 558 coming up, are making for approximately the center of the line.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) on the return passage, reported a convoy in AK 7422 at 1315 and after several hours confirmed an isolated search group on a southerly course. As such an isolated group is unlikely in this area, the possible presence of a convoy must be presumed. Whether it is an HX or an SC convoy remains to be seen. In any case on receipt of U 96's message Group "Haudegen" (not U 69, 525 and 201) were ordered to proceed to the S.W. at a speed of 10 knots and ordered to take up position in reconnaissance lines from AK 4313 to 8394 for 1200 on 23.1. Course 235°, speed 6 knots. U 96 continues return passage.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has only encountered Spanish coastal sailing vessels within the 40 sea mile line of DU 57 since 20.1. The boat has carried out a special task (landing Jean Lallart on the coast of Mauritania near Cape Blanc). Two sailors did not return to the boat after the successful landing. After waiting in vain for over 13 hours for his men (Bootsmaat Wagner and Matrosenobergefreiter Helmut Daschkey) to return, Kptlt. Markworth was forced to abandon them to whatever fate they had suffered. Heavy surf since then.
10 days later we will learn, that Lallart and the two men who rowed him ashore were immediately captured by the French.

Colonel-General Ludwig Beck and other anti-Hitler conspirators meet at the home of Peter Yorck von Wartenburg.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 23 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The British Eighth Army capture Tripoli, Libya.

Soviet troops capture Armavir, Caucasus.

The Gumrak Airfield on the western side of Stalingrad, is taken by Soviet troops.

Air Reconnaissance: 3 aircraft in AL 90 and 60 to intercept an expected ON convoy.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117): The following W/T with T.O.O. 0850 was received from U 413 (Oblt. Gustav Poel) at 1142: Contact with escort in AJ 7267. As according to the text of this message other message must have been already sent, and also U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) had not reported contact at 1500 from AJ 4971, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are requested to send a short situation summary. It can be seen from the messages received that U 413 sighted a convoy on a course of 20° at 1714 on 22.1. in AJ 7855, and that it reported the same at 2240 in AJ 7592 and at 0545 in AJ 7291. Also the boat sank a straggler of 5,000 GRT in AJ 7592. Unfortunately these W/T messages were not picked up by the control station owing to interference presumably caused by the northern lights, and this had a particularly adverse effect on the operations decided for Groups "Jaguar" and Haudegen". As it is likely that at the moment there is no contact, the group "Haudegen" will be at once disposed on receipt of the first situation report, on a course of 300°, speed 9 knots. Disposition of a patrol line is planned for the forenoon of 24.1, if no contact has been established by then. Group "Jaguar" received ordered to continue the search, U 525, 69 and 201 are to operate at cruising speed on the information contained in U 413's report. U 268 reporting from N.W. of the Group "Haudegen" and 358 on the outward passage in A 30 are to be diverted to AJ 25. A W/T received from U 413 at 0117 reports that the boat lost contact at 0900 in AJ 7267. Last course doubtful, NE, speed 9 knots. Convoy drawn out, about 20 ships. Weather: variable visibility, wind N.N.W., freshening to 10-11. It does not appear from the number of ships involved to be the expected SC convoy. The operation continues.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) situation: 19 days in the Caribbean, submerged by day. No traffic in EC 90 at night, tanker escorts from Aruba only at dawn. It is only possible to stay there a short time owing to the strong current. U-boat chaser activity at night in EC 60 large craft radar small craft then attacked. Continue to search for traffic from DP 75 via EO 52 to EE 60.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) received instructions to return via DU 70. It is to search for further traffic there, and not leave the position to replenish supplies until there is only 20 cu. mtrs. of fuel left.

Owing to the return of "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) and U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) received orders to remain in DF 50 using as little fuel as possible until the arrival of the next tanker (about 9.2).

General Dwight D. Eisenhower is tasked with planning the invasion of Sicily, with the target date set as the period of the favourable Jul 1943 moon. General Harold Alexander, Eisenhower's deputy, will be in overall command of all Allied land forces during the operation.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 23 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The British Eighth Army capture Tripoli, Libya.

Soviet troops capture Armavir, Caucasus.

The Gumrak Airfield on the western side of Stalingrad, is taken by Soviet troops.

Air Reconnaissance: 3 aircraft in AL 90 and 60 to intercept an expected ON convoy.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117): The following W/T with T.O.O. 0850 was received from U 413 (Oblt. Gustav Poel) at 1142: Contact with escort in AJ 7267. As according to the text of this message other message must have been already sent, and also U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) had not reported contact at 1500 from AJ 4971, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are requested to send a short situation summary. It can be seen from the messages received that U 413 sighted a convoy on a course of 20° at 1714 on 22.1. in AJ 7855, and that it reported the same at 2240 in AJ 7592 and at 0545 in AJ 7291. Also the boat sank a straggler of 5,000 GRT in AJ 7592. Unfortunately these W/T messages were not picked up by the control station owing to interference presumably caused by the northern lights, and this had a particularly adverse effect on the operations decided for Groups "Jaguar" and Haudegen". As it is likely that at the moment there is no contact, the group "Haudegen" will be at once disposed on receipt of the first situation report, on a course of 300°, speed 9 knots. Disposition of a patrol line is planned for the forenoon of 24.1, if no contact has been established by then. Group "Jaguar" received ordered to continue the search, U 525, 69 and 201 are to operate at cruising speed on the information contained in U 413's report. U 268 reporting from N.W. of the Group "Haudegen" and 358 on the outward passage in A 30 are to be diverted to AJ 25. A W/T received from U 413 at 0117 reports that the boat lost contact at 0900 in AJ 7267. Last course doubtful, NE, speed 9 knots. Convoy drawn out, about 20 ships. Weather: variable visibility, wind N.N.W., freshening to 10-11. It does not appear from the number of ships involved to be the expected SC convoy. The operation continues.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) situation: 19 days in the Caribbean, submerged by day. No traffic in EC 90 at night, tanker escorts from Aruba only at dawn. It is only possible to stay there a short time owing to the strong current. U-boat chaser activity at night in EC 60 large craft radar small craft then attacked. Continue to search for traffic from DP 75 via EO 52 to EE 60.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) received instructions to return via DU 70. It is to search for further traffic there, and not leave the position to replenish supplies until there is only 20 cu. mtrs. of fuel left.

Owing to the return of "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) and U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) received orders to remain in DF 50 using as little fuel as possible until the arrival of the next tanker (about 9.2).

General Dwight D. Eisenhower is tasked with planning the invasion of Sicily, with the target date set as the period of the favourable Jul 1943 moon. General Harold Alexander, Eisenhower's deputy, will be in overall command of all Allied land forces during the operation.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 24 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Tirpitz completed its refitting at Fættenfjord/Lofjord near Trondheim, Norway.

12 aircraft are launched to attack Allied convoy JW-52; three of them find and attack the convoy, but all three are shot down.

Soviet troops capture Starobelskiy, Ukraine, while the Soviet Trans-Caucasian Front's offensive toward the Kuban bridgehead is halted near Krasnodar and Novorossiysk. A new offensive drive, named the Tikhoretsk-Eisk Offensive Operation, is therfore launched today.

The Soviets once again demand surrender from the encircled 6th Army in Stalingrad. Responding to Friedrich Paulus' message requesting permission to surrender as his men were now nearly out of ammunition and medical supplies, The Führer tells Paulus to fight to the last man even if defeat is imminent. By the end of this day, the 6. Armee in Stalingrad will be divided in two pockets and will have lost the use of the last airstrip available to them, Stalingradsaya Airfield.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
Wireless conditions are still bad and make escort duties impossible for Group "Jaguar". According to U 594 (Kptlt. Dietrich Hoffmann) report U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) fired a quadruple miss at a destroyer on 23.1. and U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) sighted a suspicious looking isolated vessel in AJ 7972 and smoke trails in AJ 7974. U 706 and U 123 searched in the direction of 20°, also 60° and began their return passage in the course of 24.1. owing to fuel shortage. Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in patrol lines with 15 boats at 1100 on 24.1 from AD(?) 3989 to AK 4178. With a cruising speed of 8 knots the convoy should reach the lines at about 1130. Owing to heavy north-westerly storms the boats could only cover a distance of 4 sea miles and were unable to occupy the lines at the time decided upon. As, however, U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) confirmed with certainty a broad hydrophone bearing in 80° at 0130 from AJ 2745 and a strong noise band of 210° - 265° from AJ 2746, it may be presumed that the convoy is further astern than previously supposed and the boats must have occupied the lines before it passed through. Group "Jaguar" and U 525 and 201 are operating on the hydrophone bearing obtained by U 266. No further messages were received up till morning. The operation continues.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT which was lying for no apparent reason with engines stopped about 60 sea miles S. of the isolated traffic route confirmed by Radio Intelligence report (special) in DQ 2347. It was carrying Benzene - Note: "The British Viligence" which had been hit by U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) on January 3rd and abandoned. A flying boat was sighted at 2115 circling over the sinking area.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) situation: From 26 - 29.12. and 10. - 23.1. only passenger steamer on a course of 330° encountered from EO 52 to EP 48 on the 200 meter line and a hydrophone bearing in EO 5252 with southerly deflection. Systematic aerial activity by "Consolidated" type flying boat as far as 200 sea miles from the Guiana Coast.

U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) replenished supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and began return passage.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) operated off the Brazilian Coast and sank a steamer after examination of the cargo on 2.1. in FB 3815 (Note: Swedish Brazaland). In spite of repeated requests the boat has not since reported. According to an earlier W/T message, U 164 had a leak in the pressure tanks, that was effectively mended. It is likely that the leak sprang up again on a deep dive and caused the destruction of the boat. (Note: U 164 was sunk on Jan. 6th).

British war expenditure is estimated to be running at £14 million a day.

The Casablanca Conference ends with the announcement of a requirement for unconditional surrender from Germany to end the war.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 24 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Tirpitz completed its refitting at Fættenfjord/Lofjord near Trondheim, Norway.

12 aircraft are launched to attack Allied convoy JW-52; three of them find and attack the convoy, but all three are shot down.

Soviet troops capture Starobelskiy, Ukraine, while the Soviet Trans-Caucasian Front's offensive toward the Kuban bridgehead is halted near Krasnodar and Novorossiysk. A new offensive drive, named the Tikhoretsk-Eisk Offensive Operation, is therfore launched today.

The Soviets once again demand surrender from the encircled 6th Army in Stalingrad. Responding to Friedrich Paulus' message requesting permission to surrender as his men were now nearly out of ammunition and medical supplies, The Führer tells Paulus to fight to the last man even if defeat is imminent. By the end of this day, the 6. Armee in Stalingrad will be divided in two pockets and will have lost the use of the last airstrip available to them, Stalingradsaya Airfield.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
Wireless conditions are still bad and make escort duties impossible for Group "Jaguar". According to U 594 (Kptlt. Dietrich Hoffmann) report U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) fired a quadruple miss at a destroyer on 23.1. and U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) sighted a suspicious looking isolated vessel in AJ 7972 and smoke trails in AJ 7974. U 706 and U 123 searched in the direction of 20°, also 60° and began their return passage in the course of 24.1. owing to fuel shortage. Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in patrol lines with 15 boats at 1100 on 24.1 from AD(?) 3989 to AK 4178. With a cruising speed of 8 knots the convoy should reach the lines at about 1130. Owing to heavy north-westerly storms the boats could only cover a distance of 4 sea miles and were unable to occupy the lines at the time decided upon. As, however, U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) confirmed with certainty a broad hydrophone bearing in 80° at 0130 from AJ 2745 and a strong noise band of 210° - 265° from AJ 2746, it may be presumed that the convoy is further astern than previously supposed and the boats must have occupied the lines before it passed through. Group "Jaguar" and U 525 and 201 are operating on the hydrophone bearing obtained by U 266. No further messages were received up till morning. The operation continues.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT which was lying for no apparent reason with engines stopped about 60 sea miles S. of the isolated traffic route confirmed by Radio Intelligence report (special) in DQ 2347. It was carrying Benzene - Note: "The British Viligence" which had been hit by U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) on January 3rd and abandoned. A flying boat was sighted at 2115 circling over the sinking area.

U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) situation: From 26 - 29.12. and 10. - 23.1. only passenger steamer on a course of 330° encountered from EO 52 to EP 48 on the 200 meter line and a hydrophone bearing in EO 5252 with southerly deflection. Systematic aerial activity by "Consolidated" type flying boat as far as 200 sea miles from the Guiana Coast.

U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) replenished supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and began return passage.

U 164 (Korvkpt. Otto Fechner) operated off the Brazilian Coast and sank a steamer after examination of the cargo on 2.1. in FB 3815 (Note: Swedish Brazaland). In spite of repeated requests the boat has not since reported. According to an earlier W/T message, U 164 had a leak in the pressure tanks, that was effectively mended. It is likely that the leak sprang up again on a deep dive and caused the destruction of the boat. (Note: U 164 was sunk on Jan. 6th).

British war expenditure is estimated to be running at £14 million a day.

The Casablanca Conference ends with the announcement of a requirement for unconditional surrender from Germany to end the war.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 25 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Our troops evacuate Voronezh and Armavir in southern Russia, and the remnants of the 6.Armee are split in two pockets, north and south, in Stalingrad.

In his Order of the Day, Stalin claimes that Soviet troops have routed 102 enemy divisions in two months of fighting.

U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) - in patrol line of group "Delphin" - sank a large 10,000 ton vessel on a course of 1200, speed 12 knots in DG 1326. According to P.O.W. (Chief Cook Robert Daigle) reports the ship belonged to the expected convoy which put out of New York for Casablanca on 13.1 and which dispersed owing to bad weather on 22.1. (UGS.4). It can, therefore, be presumed that still further isolated vessels will pass the patrol lines. "Delphin" boats have received directions to report every ship sighted isolated.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
Boat of the "Haudegen" group reported on request, that owing to persistent N.W. storms their passage speed still only amounts to 4 knots. This means that the lines previously ordered cannot be occupied before 0800 on 26.1. In order to intercept the convoy with certainty, Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in new patrol lines from AD 9533 to AK 4183. Further, boats are directed to operate at their own discretion and without orders from Command on receipt of convoy contact messages. U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) presumes convoy to be in AJ 2755 as two perfect hydrophone observations were obtained at 0300 on 25.1. in this area. No further messages received. Group "Jaguar" maintains an independent search from NE to E. Several boats are so low in fuel that they will have to start the return passage within 24 hours. Lack of sufficient tankers is now uncomfortably noticeable. The operation continues.

Owing to U 384's (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) necessary return, the line occupied by Group "Landsknecht" will be narrowed by one position on 1200 on 26.1 and will then extend from AL 4447 to BE 2138. According to present reckoning the arrival of the expected convoy cannot be expected until after today as the leaving times of the ON convoys has probably been postponed for 2 or 3 days.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) which was originally to have searched for traffic in DP 70, has received orders to proceed with small steps via DQ 70 to DR 55 and to operate there according to fuel supply. The grid mentioned is approximately the intersection point of the Trinidad/North Africa tanker convoy route and according to Radio Intelligence Report (special) a confirmed straggler route.

Owing to the temporary breakdown of "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) the replenishment of supplies by U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) and U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen), in DF 50, must be carried out by a type IXc boat. U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) received orders to proceed to DP 3755 and carry out replenishment of supplies. Later replenishment of this boat by U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) is intended.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 25 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Our troops evacuate Voronezh and Armavir in southern Russia, and the remnants of the 6.Armee are split in two pockets, north and south, in Stalingrad.

In his Order of the Day, Stalin claimes that Soviet troops have routed 102 enemy divisions in two months of fighting.

U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) - in patrol line of group "Delphin" - sank a large 10,000 ton vessel on a course of 1200, speed 12 knots in DG 1326. According to P.O.W. (Chief Cook Robert Daigle) reports the ship belonged to the expected convoy which put out of New York for Casablanca on 13.1 and which dispersed owing to bad weather on 22.1. (UGS.4). It can, therefore, be presumed that still further isolated vessels will pass the patrol lines. "Delphin" boats have received directions to report every ship sighted isolated.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
Boat of the "Haudegen" group reported on request, that owing to persistent N.W. storms their passage speed still only amounts to 4 knots. This means that the lines previously ordered cannot be occupied before 0800 on 26.1. In order to intercept the convoy with certainty, Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in new patrol lines from AD 9533 to AK 4183. Further, boats are directed to operate at their own discretion and without orders from Command on receipt of convoy contact messages. U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) presumes convoy to be in AJ 2755 as two perfect hydrophone observations were obtained at 0300 on 25.1. in this area. No further messages received. Group "Jaguar" maintains an independent search from NE to E. Several boats are so low in fuel that they will have to start the return passage within 24 hours. Lack of sufficient tankers is now uncomfortably noticeable. The operation continues.

Owing to U 384's (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) necessary return, the line occupied by Group "Landsknecht" will be narrowed by one position on 1200 on 26.1 and will then extend from AL 4447 to BE 2138. According to present reckoning the arrival of the expected convoy cannot be expected until after today as the leaving times of the ON convoys has probably been postponed for 2 or 3 days.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) which was originally to have searched for traffic in DP 70, has received orders to proceed with small steps via DQ 70 to DR 55 and to operate there according to fuel supply. The grid mentioned is approximately the intersection point of the Trinidad/North Africa tanker convoy route and according to Radio Intelligence Report (special) a confirmed straggler route.

Owing to the temporary breakdown of "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) the replenishment of supplies by U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) and U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen), in DF 50, must be carried out by a type IXc boat. U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) received orders to proceed to DP 3755 and carry out replenishment of supplies. Later replenishment of this boat by U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) is intended.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 26 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Voronezh, southern Russia.

Enemy reports a sunk ship still sticking out of the water in FB 9119.

U 358 (Kptlt. Rolf Manke) sank a fully loaded tanker of type "Nordatlantic" of 10,000 GRT, on a course of 90°, speed 11 knots in AK 2550.

U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) encountered wreck of tanker "Kollbjoerg-Oslo" in AJ 3284 while operating on Convoy No. 3 (SC.117), and sank it.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
As no contact messages were received up to nightfall, the convoy must according to dead reckoning, have passed the lines. U 384, 525, 707, 223 and 466 were to allocate to the Group "Haudegen" and if there was not contact, ordered to proceed to the S.W. at 0800 on 27th. If however, the convoy was still W. of the group it would have been intercepted during the night. Disposition in about AK 50 and 80 was intended for Group "Jaguar" until the low fuel supply was exhausted.
None of these orders were put into effect, as the group had been operating on destroyer sightings and hydrophone bearings of several boats, since 1900. The relevant W/T messages could not be picked up by the control station until 2400.
Subsequently, U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 383 (Oblt. Horst Kremser) sighted a destroyer on an eastward course in AJ 3450 at 1800. U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter) reported a broad listening band from 260 to 290 from AJ 35 at 2120 and at 0237 destroyer and steamer noises were confirmed with certainty.
According to further hydrophone bearings, the boats must be on either side of the convoy. Both groups are operating at high speed. Direct sighting reports were, however, not received up to morning. The large number of boats coming up from all sides ensures the interception of the convoy at dawn.

U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) has begun the return passage owing to fuel shortage. Patrol lines occupied by Group "Landsknecht" are therefore shortened by one position to the southeast.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 26 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Voronezh, southern Russia.

Enemy reports a sunk ship still sticking out of the water in FB 9119.

U 358 (Kptlt. Rolf Manke) sank a fully loaded tanker of type "Nordatlantic" of 10,000 GRT, on a course of 90°, speed 11 knots in AK 2550.

U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) encountered wreck of tanker "Kollbjoerg-Oslo" in AJ 3284 while operating on Convoy No. 3 (SC.117), and sank it.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117):
As no contact messages were received up to nightfall, the convoy must according to dead reckoning, have passed the lines. U 384, 525, 707, 223 and 466 were to allocate to the Group "Haudegen" and if there was not contact, ordered to proceed to the S.W. at 0800 on 27th. If however, the convoy was still W. of the group it would have been intercepted during the night. Disposition in about AK 50 and 80 was intended for Group "Jaguar" until the low fuel supply was exhausted.
None of these orders were put into effect, as the group had been operating on destroyer sightings and hydrophone bearings of several boats, since 1900. The relevant W/T messages could not be picked up by the control station until 2400.
Subsequently, U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 383 (Oblt. Horst Kremser) sighted a destroyer on an eastward course in AJ 3450 at 1800. U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter) reported a broad listening band from 260 to 290 from AJ 35 at 2120 and at 0237 destroyer and steamer noises were confirmed with certainty.
According to further hydrophone bearings, the boats must be on either side of the convoy. Both groups are operating at high speed. Direct sighting reports were, however, not received up to morning. The large number of boats coming up from all sides ensures the interception of the convoy at dawn.

U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) has begun the return passage owing to fuel shortage. Patrol lines occupied by Group "Landsknecht" are therefore shortened by one position to the southeast.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 27 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The USAAF strickes Germany for the first time as B-17 and B-24 bombers attack Emden and Wilhelmshaven.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) sank new American motor ship "Cape Indecision" of 8,000 GRT carrying aircraft parts and casked benzene from Charleston to Africa. General course 125°, speed 15 knots. Position of the sinking lies about 40 miles north of the straggler route confirmed by Radio Intelligence reports.

U 607 (Oblt. Wolf Jeschonnek) sank a tanker wreck in AJ 30 with 2 finishing shots.New positions for U 608, 89 and U 135 = AJ 89. A new disposition of another patrol line with the boats of Group "Landsknecht" still having adequate fuel supplies, is planned for the 5.2 in this area.

U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) and U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) each sighted a steamer on an easterly course in CE 8487 and CE 8157, in the patrol lines of Group "Delphin". The latter was left sinking by U 514 in CE 8198 (American ship "Charles C. Pinkney" of 6,800 GRT). Speed 14 knots, zig-zagging strongly. Ship was heavily armed.

As a result of the sightings reported by U 514 and U 442 the Group "Delphin" is to be split up to the N. and S. and will then be in patrol lines from CE 5774 to DG 4342. The boats received orders to cover as much sea as possible to the E. from 0600 to dawn in order to reach the anticipated isolated traffic.

According to recently acquired information from Special Radio Intelligence reports, the Trinidad-Gibraltar convoy, coming from the Caribbean steers a course first, north of Cape Blanco along the African coast.
The boats operating in DU 70 are therefore too far to the S. and have received orders (in order to intercept regular traffic on this route) to proceed to the N. of the present operations area with a daily reckoning of 150 sea miles, via the first position of DU 4351 to 5185 and further via the second position from DU 2231 to 2365. Subsequently, the following operations areas are to be occupied at a depth of 15 sea miles: U 518 = DH 9595, U 43 = 9912, U 218 = 9566, U 521 = 9672, U 66 = 9687. Convoy traffic may be expected in a NE/SW direction.
The boats form the Group "Rochen".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) interrupts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela and commences Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 27 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

The USAAF strickes Germany for the first time as B-17 and B-24 bombers attack Emden and Wilhelmshaven.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) sank new American motor ship "Cape Indecision" of 8,000 GRT carrying aircraft parts and casked benzene from Charleston to Africa. General course 125°, speed 15 knots. Position of the sinking lies about 40 miles north of the straggler route confirmed by Radio Intelligence reports.

U 607 (Oblt. Wolf Jeschonnek) sank a tanker wreck in AJ 30 with 2 finishing shots.New positions for U 608, 89 and U 135 = AJ 89. A new disposition of another patrol line with the boats of Group "Landsknecht" still having adequate fuel supplies, is planned for the 5.2 in this area.

U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) and U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) each sighted a steamer on an easterly course in CE 8487 and CE 8157, in the patrol lines of Group "Delphin". The latter was left sinking by U 514 in CE 8198 (American ship "Charles C. Pinkney" of 6,800 GRT). Speed 14 knots, zig-zagging strongly. Ship was heavily armed.

As a result of the sightings reported by U 514 and U 442 the Group "Delphin" is to be split up to the N. and S. and will then be in patrol lines from CE 5774 to DG 4342. The boats received orders to cover as much sea as possible to the E. from 0600 to dawn in order to reach the anticipated isolated traffic.

According to recently acquired information from Special Radio Intelligence reports, the Trinidad-Gibraltar convoy, coming from the Caribbean steers a course first, north of Cape Blanco along the African coast.
The boats operating in DU 70 are therefore too far to the S. and have received orders (in order to intercept regular traffic on this route) to proceed to the N. of the present operations area with a daily reckoning of 150 sea miles, via the first position of DU 4351 to 5185 and further via the second position from DU 2231 to 2365. Subsequently, the following operations areas are to be occupied at a depth of 15 sea miles: U 518 = DH 9595, U 43 = 9912, U 218 = 9566, U 521 = 9672, U 66 = 9687. Convoy traffic may be expected in a NE/SW direction.
The boats form the Group "Rochen".

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) interrupts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela and commences Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 28 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

As our forces in Stalingrad are now divided into three pockets, Hermann Göring messages Friedrich Paulus, noting that Paulus' stubborn defense, even if it leads to self sacrifice, will go down in German history as one of the most heroic tales.

U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sank the ship reported on 27.1 in CE 8763. Confirmed as American ship "J. W. Gaves" carrying 36 tanks, 6 railway tank cars and 15 lorries.

As the expected ON convoy was also not intercepted this time, Command has decided to dispose the boats with a plentiful supply of fuel and several boats recently arrived, E. of Newfoundland. Group "Landsknecht" is disbanded. U 187, 267, 456, 553, 609, 262, 614, 402, 465 and 454 are to proceed at economical cruising speed to BC 21.
The boats with less fuel are to be disposed in the present area and receive the following grids as operations area. U 632 = AL 47, U 257 = AL 71, U 71 = AL 75, U 572 = AL 87.
U 631 and U 333 are to return.

U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) and U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) are to undertake special duties. They are to make a surprise appearance off the coast near the Scilly Islands - U 404 in BF 7510 and 584 in BF 2190. There, they are to carry out short, sudden attacks on the convoy traffic (every two days) (see operations order Lands End*).

The impression is gained from U-boat situation reports received, that the enemy is aware of the disposition of the Group "Delphin". It appears from a Special Radio Intelligence Report that the anticipated convoy went around the lines to the N. and a new disposition is therefore necessary. The group is to occupy a patrol line from CF 7397 to DH 5879 at economical cruising speed in the following order: U 125 - 522 - 511 - 442 - 436 - 575 - 381 - 571 - 620 - 87 - 202 - 264 - 558 and 258.
In conjunction with Group "Rochen" therefore, the entire area between the Azores, the Canaries and the African Mainland will be to some extent patrolled. Normally, apart from North American supplies, also those from Trinidad and West Africa to Gibraltar are expected in this area.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) continue the uninterrupted southward passage to EJ 70. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) joins Group "Rochen" and occupies U 518's (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) position. The latter (having more fuel than U 108) is also proceeding southwards to position EJ 70).

We finally mobilized our work force for total war, requiring registration of men aged 16 to 65 and women aged 17 to 50.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.

+++++++


26. January 1943.

F.O. U-boats

Most Secret !


(*) Additional Order "Lands End" for U 404 and U 584

1) The traffic between the Bristol Channel and the Channel is to be attacked in the area round Lands End during the new moon period. There have been no U-boat operations here since June 1941, so that a surprise appearance should have good results; for this reason, the boat must at all costs remain unobserved until the initial attack. Withdrawal to open sea in between each attack according to existing circumstances.

2) Passage report to be sent after putting out and after execution of deep diving trial. A situation report should be sent as soon as observed (by the enemy).

3) Mining situation:
a) There is a mine-field between Lands End (via the Scillys) and the Bishop's Rock, according to old reports. If mines are actually in this position there is a gap on the line 50 47' W. through which enemy traffic sails.
b) For information on the declared area St. Georges Channel and barrier gaps see Standing Operational Orders No. 481 C II.
c) Our own mines in the waters round Cornwall are only on the south coast, east of Lizard Head (see Standing Operational Order No. 461 B 5).

4) There is no information of a shipping route free of mines or marked by buoys in the waters round Lands End.

5) Traffic: Convoys proceeding from Milford Haven to Portsmouth and from Portsmouth to Milford Haven may be expected to sail in a two day cycle. The convoys putting out of Milford Haven on even days will be in the area Hartland Point at 2000 on the same day and pass Lands End towards 0600 on the following day. Convoys sailing from Portsmouth on uneven days are near St. Albans Head at 2000 on the same day, and pass the Lands End area at 2000 on the following day. According to this, there is an east-bound convoy at 0600 on every uneven day and a west-bound convoy at 2000 on every even day, in the Lands End area.

For F.O. U-boats


- Head of Ops. Section -

GODT


Distribution:
Copy No.:
1. U 404 and U 584
2. 1st and 6th U-Flotilla
3-6. F.O. U-boats
7-8. Reserve copies.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 28 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

As our forces in Stalingrad are now divided into three pockets, Hermann Göring messages Friedrich Paulus, noting that Paulus' stubborn defense, even if it leads to self sacrifice, will go down in German history as one of the most heroic tales.

U 442 (Korvkpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sank the ship reported on 27.1 in CE 8763. Confirmed as American ship "J. W. Gaves" carrying 36 tanks, 6 railway tank cars and 15 lorries.

As the expected ON convoy was also not intercepted this time, Command has decided to dispose the boats with a plentiful supply of fuel and several boats recently arrived, E. of Newfoundland. Group "Landsknecht" is disbanded. U 187, 267, 456, 553, 609, 262, 614, 402, 465 and 454 are to proceed at economical cruising speed to BC 21.
The boats with less fuel are to be disposed in the present area and receive the following grids as operations area. U 632 = AL 47, U 257 = AL 71, U 71 = AL 75, U 572 = AL 87.
U 631 and U 333 are to return.

U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) and U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) are to undertake special duties. They are to make a surprise appearance off the coast near the Scilly Islands - U 404 in BF 7510 and 584 in BF 2190. There, they are to carry out short, sudden attacks on the convoy traffic (every two days) (see operations order Lands End*).

The impression is gained from U-boat situation reports received, that the enemy is aware of the disposition of the Group "Delphin". It appears from a Special Radio Intelligence Report that the anticipated convoy went around the lines to the N. and a new disposition is therefore necessary. The group is to occupy a patrol line from CF 7397 to DH 5879 at economical cruising speed in the following order: U 125 - 522 - 511 - 442 - 436 - 575 - 381 - 571 - 620 - 87 - 202 - 264 - 558 and 258.
In conjunction with Group "Rochen" therefore, the entire area between the Azores, the Canaries and the African Mainland will be to some extent patrolled. Normally, apart from North American supplies, also those from Trinidad and West Africa to Gibraltar are expected in this area.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) continue the uninterrupted southward passage to EJ 70. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) joins Group "Rochen" and occupies U 518's (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) position. The latter (having more fuel than U 108) is also proceeding southwards to position EJ 70).

We finally mobilized our work force for total war, requiring registration of men aged 16 to 65 and women aged 17 to 50.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.

+++++++


26. January 1943.

F.O. U-boats

Most Secret !


(*) Additional Order "Lands End" for U 404 and U 584

1) The traffic between the Bristol Channel and the Channel is to be attacked in the area round Lands End during the new moon period. There have been no U-boat operations here since June 1941, so that a surprise appearance should have good results; for this reason, the boat must at all costs remain unobserved until the initial attack. Withdrawal to open sea in between each attack according to existing circumstances.

2) Passage report to be sent after putting out and after execution of deep diving trial. A situation report should be sent as soon as observed (by the enemy).

3) Mining situation:
a) There is a mine-field between Lands End (via the Scillys) and the Bishop's Rock, according to old reports. If mines are actually in this position there is a gap on the line 50 47' W. through which enemy traffic sails.
b) For information on the declared area St. Georges Channel and barrier gaps see Standing Operational Orders No. 481 C II.
c) Our own mines in the waters round Cornwall are only on the south coast, east of Lizard Head (see Standing Operational Order No. 461 B 5).

4) There is no information of a shipping route free of mines or marked by buoys in the waters round Lands End.

5) Traffic: Convoys proceeding from Milford Haven to Portsmouth and from Portsmouth to Milford Haven may be expected to sail in a two day cycle. The convoys putting out of Milford Haven on even days will be in the area Hartland Point at 2000 on the same day and pass Lands End towards 0600 on the following day. Convoys sailing from Portsmouth on uneven days are near St. Albans Head at 2000 on the same day, and pass the Lands End area at 2000 on the following day. According to this, there is an east-bound convoy at 0600 on every uneven day and a west-bound convoy at 2000 on every even day, in the Lands End area.

For F.O. U-boats


- Head of Ops. Section -

GODT


Distribution:
Copy No.:
1. U 404 and U 584
2. 1st and 6th U-Flotilla
3-6. F.O. U-boats
7-8. Reserve copies.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 29 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Six RAF Mosquito aircraft attack Berlin, during the Party's 10th Anniversary celebration.

Soviet troops capture Maikop, Caucasus.

Benito Mussolini meets with the Commando Supremo. Among the items discussed is the plan to salvage, repair, and recommission French battleships Strasbourg and Dunkerque into the Italian Navy by the end of 1946.

U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) sighted sea plane in CE 9748 while en route to new "Delphin" patrol lines.

With the return of U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter), 20 boats of Group "Haudegen" are now distributed in the patrol lines ordered earlier, from AJ 2442 to AK 7132. To occupy as temporary operations areas: U 594 = AK 49, U 413 = AK 81. Both boats reported their fuel situation and should be able to remain in the ordered areas for 5 - 7 days. In this way the area S.E. of the "Haudegen" lines will be simultaneously patrolled.

Position for U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) is DH 21 after execution of the special duties. The supplying of the "Delphin" boats is intended here.

Owing to the necessary return passage of U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) of the second needed tanker - the supply situation is at the moment very unfavorable. Fuel delivery to U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) could not be carried out in the bad weather conditions. U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter) on return passage with about 70 cubic meters of fuel is to be used as a tanker and has arrived in AK 86 with U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen). Further, U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) and U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) received orders to carry out return passage if possible without fuel replenishment. The supplying of U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) awash in BD 67 is to take place from the outward bound U 439 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sporn). All boats are again reminded to proceed at economical cruising speed during bad weather and in the operations area.

Owing to the return of a blockade runner, Route Anton is to be closed as follows: From 1.2 to 13.2 inclusive between 5° S., 15° N. From 8.2 to 17.2 between 15° N. and 30° N. From 14.2 entire northern section N. of 30° N. Apart from this the eastern boundary of route Anton is transferred 200 sea miles to the E. between 3° S. and 13° N. This is only in connection with the present closing of the route.

U 337 (Oblt. Kurt Ruwiedel) on first patrol, has up to now operated in the Group "Jaguar". It last reported a short weather report from AE 83 on 3.1. (Iceland Passage). Subsequently, the boat was again requested to report on 24.1., but no reply was received. Information of the loss - place and time is not available. As in spite of repeated requests, no position report has been received, the loss of this boat must be presumed.

The U.S.A. captures a Japanese 5-digit naval code book.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 29 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Six RAF Mosquito aircraft attack Berlin, during the Party's 10th Anniversary celebration.

Soviet troops capture Maikop, Caucasus.

Benito Mussolini meets with the Commando Supremo. Among the items discussed is the plan to salvage, repair, and recommission French battleships Strasbourg and Dunkerque into the Italian Navy by the end of 1946.

U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) sighted sea plane in CE 9748 while en route to new "Delphin" patrol lines.

With the return of U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter), 20 boats of Group "Haudegen" are now distributed in the patrol lines ordered earlier, from AJ 2442 to AK 7132. To occupy as temporary operations areas: U 594 = AK 49, U 413 = AK 81. Both boats reported their fuel situation and should be able to remain in the ordered areas for 5 - 7 days. In this way the area S.E. of the "Haudegen" lines will be simultaneously patrolled.

Position for U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) is DH 21 after execution of the special duties. The supplying of the "Delphin" boats is intended here.

Owing to the necessary return passage of U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) of the second needed tanker - the supply situation is at the moment very unfavorable. Fuel delivery to U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) could not be carried out in the bad weather conditions. U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter) on return passage with about 70 cubic meters of fuel is to be used as a tanker and has arrived in AK 86 with U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen). Further, U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) and U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) received orders to carry out return passage if possible without fuel replenishment. The supplying of U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) awash in BD 67 is to take place from the outward bound U 439 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sporn). All boats are again reminded to proceed at economical cruising speed during bad weather and in the operations area.

Owing to the return of a blockade runner, Route Anton is to be closed as follows: From 1.2 to 13.2 inclusive between 5° S., 15° N. From 8.2 to 17.2 between 15° N. and 30° N. From 14.2 entire northern section N. of 30° N. Apart from this the eastern boundary of route Anton is transferred 200 sea miles to the E. between 3° S. and 13° N. This is only in connection with the present closing of the route.

U 337 (Oblt. Kurt Ruwiedel) on first patrol, has up to now operated in the Group "Jaguar". It last reported a short weather report from AE 83 on 3.1. (Iceland Passage). Subsequently, the boat was again requested to report on 24.1., but no reply was received. Information of the loss - place and time is not available. As in spite of repeated requests, no position report has been received, the loss of this boat must be presumed.

The U.S.A. captures a Japanese 5-digit naval code book.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 30 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Erich Raeder is officially relieved of his duty as the head of the German Navy.

B.d.U. Admiral Karl Dönitz is promoted to Grand Admiral.

Soviet troops reach the Red Square in central Stalingrad. Hermann Göring publicly notes that the defense and sacrifice at Stalingrad, will go down in history as a heroic tale.

Our DAK defeats French troops and captures Faïd Pass, Tunisia.

The following area are to be occupied after replenishing supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf):
U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) and U 509 (Oblt. Werner Witte) are to operate in grid GR with directions to proceed near to Cape Town for the time being, to intercept traffic routes. U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is to operate with Port Elizabeth as center point. If the boats do not find traffic in the areas indicated, U 506 and 509 have freedom of movement to both sides. U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) on its first operational trip, and also making for the southern tip of Africa, is to occupy the area Mozambique Channel between 20° and 31°S. Boats are reminded of circumspect, sparing use of torpedoes.
U 459 has filled up the boats detailed for operations in Africa U 506, 509 and 516 in GG 54. Assembly point for U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) also detailed for this area is FU 44 on 4.2.
U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) has supplied U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann), U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; "Ali" Cremer in hospital) has handed over "Bolde" (decoy) to U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 30 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Erich Raeder is officially relieved of his duty as the head of the German Navy.

B.d.U. Admiral Karl Dönitz is promoted to Grand Admiral.

Soviet troops reach the Red Square in central Stalingrad. Hermann Göring publicly notes that the defense and sacrifice at Stalingrad, will go down in history as a heroic tale.

Our DAK defeats French troops and captures Faïd Pass, Tunisia.

The following area are to be occupied after replenishing supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf):
U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) and U 509 (Oblt. Werner Witte) are to operate in grid GR with directions to proceed near to Cape Town for the time being, to intercept traffic routes. U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is to operate with Port Elizabeth as center point. If the boats do not find traffic in the areas indicated, U 506 and 509 have freedom of movement to both sides. U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) on its first operational trip, and also making for the southern tip of Africa, is to occupy the area Mozambique Channel between 20° and 31°S. Boats are reminded of circumspect, sparing use of torpedoes.
U 459 has filled up the boats detailed for operations in Africa U 506, 509 and 516 in GG 54. Assembly point for U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) also detailed for this area is FU 44 on 4.2.
U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) has supplied U 662 (KrvKpt. Wolfgang Hermann), U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; "Ali" Cremer in hospital) has handed over "Bolde" (decoy) to U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 31 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

B.d.U. Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz, is appointed as Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine (ObdM) - (Commander in Chief of the German Navy)!

Out of food and ammunition, the southern half of the German 6.Armee in Stalingrad surrenders; The final radio message coming out of this pocket is made at 1945 hours, which closed with the Morse abbreviation "CL", short for "Clear (I am closing my station)". Shortly after, 110 German transport aircraft take off for the northern pocket with supplies; more than 90 of the aircraft find the illuminated triangular drop zone and released their loads.

The British RAF Bomber Command uses the H2S radar system for the first time operationally.

U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich) reported suspicious looking isolated vessels on a course of 50 in AK 8922. No contact. The boat is reminded in this connection that the presence of "Q-boats" in the open sea is unlikely.

New position for U 439, 653 and 332 = BD 24, for U 265 = AK 02. Operations on convoys are intended with these boats.

U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) has broken off the ordered special duty (attack on convoy traffic in BF 2190; "Op. Lands End") owing to own strong noise interference. Instead, U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) with a relatively large amount of fuel - 44 cubic meters - is detailed for this task.

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) lost the Warrant Quartermaster/3.W.O. (OStrm. Heinz Richter) overboard. After relief procured in Hellisoc (Bergen) passage continued.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann!) has been requested repeatedly since 28.1 to send position report without, however, an answer being received. The last W/T message dated 20.1 was from BE 6113.
U-553 was last seen by U-465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) south-west of Ireland in position 48.15N, 15.35W in the evening on 20 January 1943, and had reported troubles with its periscope the day before.
Subsequently, the boat was ordered to join "Landsknecht" and disposed in a patrol line. When and how U 553 was lost is not known.
Its loss must be presumed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 31 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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B.d.U. Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz, is appointed as Oberbefehlshaber der Kriegsmarine (ObdM) - (Commander in Chief of the German Navy)!

Out of food and ammunition, the southern half of the German 6.Armee in Stalingrad surrenders; The final radio message coming out of this pocket is made at 1945 hours, which closed with the Morse abbreviation "CL", short for "Clear (I am closing my station)". Shortly after, 110 German transport aircraft take off for the northern pocket with supplies; more than 90 of the aircraft find the illuminated triangular drop zone and released their loads.

The British RAF Bomber Command uses the H2S radar system for the first time operationally.

U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich) reported suspicious looking isolated vessels on a course of 50 in AK 8922. No contact. The boat is reminded in this connection that the presence of "Q-boats" in the open sea is unlikely.

New position for U 439, 653 and 332 = BD 24, for U 265 = AK 02. Operations on convoys are intended with these boats.

U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) has broken off the ordered special duty (attack on convoy traffic in BF 2190; "Op. Lands End") owing to own strong noise interference. Instead, U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) with a relatively large amount of fuel - 44 cubic meters - is detailed for this task.

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) lost the Warrant Quartermaster/3.W.O. (OStrm. Heinz Richter) overboard. After relief procured in Hellisoc (Bergen) passage continued.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann!) has been requested repeatedly since 28.1 to send position report without, however, an answer being received. The last W/T message dated 20.1 was from BE 6113.
U-553 was last seen by U-465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) south-west of Ireland in position 48.15N, 15.35W in the evening on 20 January 1943, and had reported troubles with its periscope the day before.
Subsequently, the boat was ordered to join "Landsknecht" and disposed in a patrol line. When and how U 553 was lost is not known.
Its loss must be presumed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 1 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Japanese troops begin to be evacuated from Guadalcanal by destroyers.

Trapped in the ruins of a department store in Stalingrad, Field Marshal Friedrich Paulus surrenders the southern pocket along with 14 of his generals; Paulus becomes the first German field marshal to surrender to an enemy force. Fighting continues in the northern pocket, however, and 85 of the 108 transport aircraft dispatched to airdrop supplies to the northern pocket are able to do so. Meanwhile, our troops fall back from Demyansk, Russia.

The Führer's special train "Amerika" is renamed "Brandenburg".

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) heavily depth-charged by aircraft in EJ 9677 on 30.1. Heavy loss of fuel, ability to dive restricted. Early refuelling from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) planned.

U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) is on her way to Peterhead and reports constant unmistakable radar location transmission from shore (AN 1616). She is moving away to the East. Boat has been informed that she is unlikely to be picked up by shore radar at such long range.

U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) reported that she was still fit for operations and was allocated square AL 84 as temporary attack area.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
At 1231/1/2 U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) reported a convoy on a N. course in AK 9117. The former "Landsknecht" boats proceeding W. should already have been a long way astern of the convoy and all "Landsknecht" boats were therefore ordered to report by short signal if they were operating against convoy Teichert. 3 boats reported and of these only U 614 was detailed. The 2 others were hopelessly far astern and will join Group "Pfeil", which is being disposed along the course of this convoy, as it is believed that this is the HX and that the SC convoy may be astern of the HX on the same route. Besides U 615, U 632 and U 257 were also detailed against the convoy.
U 456 shadowed constantly until morning. The convoy was steering a main course of 10 to 15° and was making about 8 knots. At 0344 U 456 reported that she has sunk an 8,000 GRT freighter. The convoy was in AK 6271 at 0200/2 and the operation continues.

According to agent's and Radio Intelligence reports, a convoy passed Group "Rochen" on 31.1 and another one on 1.2 on N. and S. courses respectively. Boats have once more been reminded to keep a sharp lookout.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) is to be detailed against the Brazilian coastal traffic. New approach point is FJ 30.

Cruiser Köln departs Germany for the Baltic Sea.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 1 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Japanese troops begin to be evacuated from Guadalcanal by destroyers.

Trapped in the ruins of a department store in Stalingrad, Field Marshal Friedrich Paulus surrenders the southern pocket along with 14 of his generals; Paulus becomes the first German field marshal to surrender to an enemy force. Fighting continues in the northern pocket, however, and 85 of the 108 transport aircraft dispatched to airdrop supplies to the northern pocket are able to do so. Meanwhile, our troops fall back from Demyansk, Russia.

The Führer's special train "Amerika" is renamed "Brandenburg".

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) heavily depth-charged by aircraft in EJ 9677 on 30.1. Heavy loss of fuel, ability to dive restricted. Early refuelling from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) planned.

U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) is on her way to Peterhead and reports constant unmistakable radar location transmission from shore (AN 1616). She is moving away to the East. Boat has been informed that she is unlikely to be picked up by shore radar at such long range.

U 584 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) reported that she was still fit for operations and was allocated square AL 84 as temporary attack area.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
At 1231/1/2 U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) reported a convoy on a N. course in AK 9117. The former "Landsknecht" boats proceeding W. should already have been a long way astern of the convoy and all "Landsknecht" boats were therefore ordered to report by short signal if they were operating against convoy Teichert. 3 boats reported and of these only U 614 was detailed. The 2 others were hopelessly far astern and will join Group "Pfeil", which is being disposed along the course of this convoy, as it is believed that this is the HX and that the SC convoy may be astern of the HX on the same route. Besides U 615, U 632 and U 257 were also detailed against the convoy.
U 456 shadowed constantly until morning. The convoy was steering a main course of 10 to 15° and was making about 8 knots. At 0344 U 456 reported that she has sunk an 8,000 GRT freighter. The convoy was in AK 6271 at 0200/2 and the operation continues.

According to agent's and Radio Intelligence reports, a convoy passed Group "Rochen" on 31.1 and another one on 1.2 on N. and S. courses respectively. Boats have once more been reminded to keep a sharp lookout.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) is to be detailed against the Brazilian coastal traffic. New approach point is FJ 30.

Cruiser Köln departs Germany for the Baltic Sea.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Tuesday, 2 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER). - The construction of Graf Zeppelin is stopped in Stettin. -


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The last of the Sixth Army surrender in Stalingrad. A reconnaissance aircraft is dispatched to fly over Stalingrad, confirming that all fighting has ceased.

U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) was off Ponte Delgada and sighted a tanker with destroyers in territorial waters, outward bound on an E. course. She could not give chase owing to damage to a flange which was causing a leak.

U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) situation: 1 steamer, 2 small craft on a S.E. course heard in hydrophones P.M. 2.1 in BF 2432. Did not manage to attack. No convoy seen. After simultaneous location by 8 shore stations, 3 aircraft searched with searchlights. Radar range as far as BF 2425. Return passage, as forward hydroplane out of action due to striking a rock.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
In heavy weather. W 8, sea 7 and variable visibility the boats continued to operate against the convoy which was in AK 6271 at 0800/2/2. The convoy was making nearly 9 knots, which confirms that it is the HX. It maintained its NNE course on the 2nd, and then changed to an E. course during the night and made for the direction of the North Channel. The convoy was shadowed continuously by U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert), except for short intervals. A.M. on the 2nd U 632 made contact and remained in the vicinity of the convoy until A.M. on the 3rd. She then had to break off owing to lack of fuel. U 257 also reported that she was starting on her return passage. She was informed of the possibility of refueling. U 265, coming from home, was detailed against the convoy. 4 boats are therefore still operating: U 456, 265, 614 and 257.
U 456 reported sinking a 7,000 GRT tanker. The convoy was in AL 0189 at 0700/3/2.

Convoy No. 5 (SG.19):
At 1408/2/2 U 223( Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter), the most northerly boat of Group "Haudegen", sighted a convoy, course 10°. A further 9 boats, the northern half of Group "Haudegen", were detailed to operate against it and U 223 was ordered to report strength of the convoy, as it may be a Greenland convoy. She reported 5 steamers, which fact made it clear that it was the suspected Greenland convoy. Only 5 boats were therefore operated against it: U 223, 358, 707, 268 and 186.
U 223 shadowed until AM 3/2 and was then driven off by escort vessels. U 358 was also shadowing. At 0600/3 U 223 reported that she had fired 5 single shots at 0452, scored 3 hits and sunk a 6-7,000 GRT ship for certain. The convoy was in AA 3852 at 0500/3 and the operation continues.

The German Consul has reported that a convoy on a N. course was sighted in the area of Group "Rochen" off Santa Cruz and the following new attack areas have therefore been ordered: U 218 : DH 9445, U 66 : DH 9548, depth 30 miles. U 43 : DH 9684, U 521 : DH 9672, U 108 : DH 9644, depth 15 miles.

The special operation (off Peterhead) ordered for U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) has been transferred to U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks). The boat has been informed by radio. U 377 is proceeding to the Atlantic.

The following have refueled: U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis), U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) from U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter).

U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) reported the Straits of Gibraltar fouled as ordered on 2.2.

Ettore Bastico stepped down as the Governor-General of Italian Libya, succeeded by Giovanni Messe.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Tuesday, 2 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER). - The construction of Graf Zeppelin is stopped in Stettin. -


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The last of the Sixth Army surrender in Stalingrad. A reconnaissance aircraft is dispatched to fly over Stalingrad, confirming that all fighting has ceased.

U 514 (Kptlt. Hans Jürgen Auffermann) was off Ponte Delgada and sighted a tanker with destroyers in territorial waters, outward bound on an E. course. She could not give chase owing to damage to a flange which was causing a leak.

U 404 (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) situation: 1 steamer, 2 small craft on a S.E. course heard in hydrophones P.M. 2.1 in BF 2432. Did not manage to attack. No convoy seen. After simultaneous location by 8 shore stations, 3 aircraft searched with searchlights. Radar range as far as BF 2425. Return passage, as forward hydroplane out of action due to striking a rock.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
In heavy weather. W 8, sea 7 and variable visibility the boats continued to operate against the convoy which was in AK 6271 at 0800/2/2. The convoy was making nearly 9 knots, which confirms that it is the HX. It maintained its NNE course on the 2nd, and then changed to an E. course during the night and made for the direction of the North Channel. The convoy was shadowed continuously by U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert), except for short intervals. A.M. on the 2nd U 632 made contact and remained in the vicinity of the convoy until A.M. on the 3rd. She then had to break off owing to lack of fuel. U 257 also reported that she was starting on her return passage. She was informed of the possibility of refueling. U 265, coming from home, was detailed against the convoy. 4 boats are therefore still operating: U 456, 265, 614 and 257.
U 456 reported sinking a 7,000 GRT tanker. The convoy was in AL 0189 at 0700/3/2.

Convoy No. 5 (SG.19):
At 1408/2/2 U 223( Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter), the most northerly boat of Group "Haudegen", sighted a convoy, course 10°. A further 9 boats, the northern half of Group "Haudegen", were detailed to operate against it and U 223 was ordered to report strength of the convoy, as it may be a Greenland convoy. She reported 5 steamers, which fact made it clear that it was the suspected Greenland convoy. Only 5 boats were therefore operated against it: U 223, 358, 707, 268 and 186.
U 223 shadowed until AM 3/2 and was then driven off by escort vessels. U 358 was also shadowing. At 0600/3 U 223 reported that she had fired 5 single shots at 0452, scored 3 hits and sunk a 6-7,000 GRT ship for certain. The convoy was in AA 3852 at 0500/3 and the operation continues.

The German Consul has reported that a convoy on a N. course was sighted in the area of Group "Rochen" off Santa Cruz and the following new attack areas have therefore been ordered: U 218 : DH 9445, U 66 : DH 9548, depth 30 miles. U 43 : DH 9684, U 521 : DH 9672, U 108 : DH 9644, depth 15 miles.

The special operation (off Peterhead) ordered for U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) has been transferred to U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks). The boat has been informed by radio. U 377 is proceeding to the Atlantic.

The following have refueled: U 125 (Kptlt. Ulrich Folkers) from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis), U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) from U 466 (Oblt. Gerhard Thäter).

U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) reported the Straits of Gibraltar fouled as ordered on 2.2.

Ettore Bastico stepped down as the Governor-General of Italian Libya, succeeded by Giovanni Messe.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 3 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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During the day, the German OKW issues an announcement to inform the German public of the defeat at Stalingrad. The message, read over the radio, is preceded by a solemn drum roll and is followed by the 2nd movement of Ludwig van Beethoven's 5th symphony.
12 He 111 aircraft, with supplies on board, fly over the northern pocket of Stalingrad, before dawn. Of the 11 aircraft that reach the intended drop zone, only 3 drop some of their cargo, as they find no friendly activity.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
The remaining 4 boats continued the operation in favorable, calm S.W. weather. The convoy was clearly making for the North Channel at 9 knots. U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) and U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) continued to shadow. Towards midnight contact was lost, after U 456 had last reported the convoy in AL 6133 at 2030. Contact was not regained.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) reported at 1400 that she was chasing an independent tanker on an E. course, 12 knots, in AL 59. At 2200 she reported the tanker Cordelia, 8,190 GRT, sunk.
U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) reported that she was returning owing to lack of fuel. A.M. on the 4th operations against the convoy were broken off.
There was no boat shadowing and U 456 reported that she was 30 miles astern. The remaining 3 boats were therefore directed against a NE-bound convoy picked up A.M. on 4/2 in BD 10. In conclusion: It is thanks to U 456's excellent shadowing from midday on the 1st until the 3rd that such a small group of boats were able to operate against the convoy over this long stretch. Of 5 boats, 3 made contact. Unfortunately only U 456 was able to fire. Altogether 2 tankers and a freighter, totaling 23,190 GRT were sunk.
U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer) was probably lost in this operation. There is a report of an attack by an English aircraft with bombs on a U-boat N. of the convoy in position 56.35N, 22.49W, by depth charges from a British Fortress aircraft of 220 Sqn RAF/N (46 dead, all hands lost). Otherwise no losses or damage.

Convoy No. 5 (SG.19):
No further reports were received of the convoy, and it can be assumed that the boats have not been able to get their radio messages through owing to the well-known difficulties arising off Greenland. According to dead reckoning the convoy should reach a port on the SW coast of Greenland on the 3rd. Boats were therefore ordered to press on to the coast and, if conditions were favorable, to penetrate into the fjord. Operations control does not know if boats are even in contact. The convoy cannot be discussed further until reports have been received from Group "Nordsturm".

Following U 404's (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) report of 3.2, the special operation "Lands End" ordered for U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) has been broken off. U 71 will join Group "Hartherz" and will occupy U 107's position in the patrol line (BE 5933), making a day's run of 180 miles. U 107 will extend the patrol line to the E. as far as BE 6832.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) are proceeding to ED 90 via EG 30. Operation here must be attempted at all costs, as there has been no boat there for a fortnight and the area was always a good hunting ground so far.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) has supplied from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis).

Boats have again been reminded of the closing of Route A in stages. The homeward bound ship is the tanker "Hohenfriedber" ex-"Herburg".

Over lunch, Dwight Eisenhower informs George Patton, that Patton has been chosen to help plan the invasion of Sicily, Italy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 3 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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During the day, the German OKW issues an announcement to inform the German public of the defeat at Stalingrad. The message, read over the radio, is preceded by a solemn drum roll and is followed by the 2nd movement of Ludwig van Beethoven's 5th symphony.
12 He 111 aircraft, with supplies on board, fly over the northern pocket of Stalingrad, before dawn. Of the 11 aircraft that reach the intended drop zone, only 3 drop some of their cargo, as they find no friendly activity.

Convoy No. 4 (HX.224):
The remaining 4 boats continued the operation in favorable, calm S.W. weather. The convoy was clearly making for the North Channel at 9 knots. U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) and U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) continued to shadow. Towards midnight contact was lost, after U 456 had last reported the convoy in AL 6133 at 2030. Contact was not regained.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) reported at 1400 that she was chasing an independent tanker on an E. course, 12 knots, in AL 59. At 2200 she reported the tanker Cordelia, 8,190 GRT, sunk.
U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) reported that she was returning owing to lack of fuel. A.M. on the 4th operations against the convoy were broken off.
There was no boat shadowing and U 456 reported that she was 30 miles astern. The remaining 3 boats were therefore directed against a NE-bound convoy picked up A.M. on 4/2 in BD 10. In conclusion: It is thanks to U 456's excellent shadowing from midday on the 1st until the 3rd that such a small group of boats were able to operate against the convoy over this long stretch. Of 5 boats, 3 made contact. Unfortunately only U 456 was able to fire. Altogether 2 tankers and a freighter, totaling 23,190 GRT were sunk.
U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer) was probably lost in this operation. There is a report of an attack by an English aircraft with bombs on a U-boat N. of the convoy in position 56.35N, 22.49W, by depth charges from a British Fortress aircraft of 220 Sqn RAF/N (46 dead, all hands lost). Otherwise no losses or damage.

Convoy No. 5 (SG.19):
No further reports were received of the convoy, and it can be assumed that the boats have not been able to get their radio messages through owing to the well-known difficulties arising off Greenland. According to dead reckoning the convoy should reach a port on the SW coast of Greenland on the 3rd. Boats were therefore ordered to press on to the coast and, if conditions were favorable, to penetrate into the fjord. Operations control does not know if boats are even in contact. The convoy cannot be discussed further until reports have been received from Group "Nordsturm".

Following U 404's (Kptlt. Otto von Bülow) report of 3.2, the special operation "Lands End" ordered for U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) has been broken off. U 71 will join Group "Hartherz" and will occupy U 107's position in the patrol line (BE 5933), making a day's run of 180 miles. U 107 will extend the patrol line to the E. as far as BE 6832.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) are proceeding to ED 90 via EG 30. Operation here must be attempted at all costs, as there has been no boat there for a fortnight and the area was always a good hunting ground so far.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) has supplied from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis).

Boats have again been reminded of the closing of Route A in stages. The homeward bound ship is the tanker "Hohenfriedber" ex-"Herburg".

Over lunch, Dwight Eisenhower informs George Patton, that Patton has been chosen to help plan the invasion of Sicily, Italy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 4 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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In Germany, three days of national mourning begin over the disaster at Stalingrad. All theatres, cinemas and night clubs are closed.

Soviet naval infantry repels our attempt to land at Malaya Zemlya. Nearby, later today, Soviet troops land near Novorossiysk, in southern Russia.

As elements of the British 8th Army enters Tunisia, Winston Churchill visits Tripoli, Libya, and inspected troops of the same.

U 217 (Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) sank the British "Rhexenor", 7,957 GRT, from Freetown to St. Johns, on 3.2 in DR 14. One officer taken on board (4th Mate C.W.G. Allen).

U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) was attacked by seaplanes and slightly damaged on her way to Group "Haudegen" 's patrol line.

From Group "Haudegen" 's patrol line U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported a corvette and an aircraft in BE 5915, on a S. course and U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) a single corvette in BE 5825 at 1630, course SW. Air reconnaissance reported a steamer in BE 6432 and another in BE 2955, both also on a S. course. Boats operated against these sightings without intercepting the expected convoy or scoring successes against the independently-routed ships.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) reports, that according to statements by a prisoner (Chief Engineer I.C. Bingham; sole survivor of British Motor Tanker 'Cordelia'), that Convoy No. 4 is to be followed by another large convoy from Halifax, making 6 knots, on the same route. Destination North Channel. Traffic from Curacao via New York to Halifax is to follow the shortest route.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
At 1108/4/2 U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich), of Group "Pfeil", sighted a large convoy on a NE course in broad formation in BD 1199. Operations Control was therefore right in disposing a group on the route of the HX convoy on the assumption that the SC convoy would follow the same course. As U 187 reported that the convoy was very large (61 ships), it was assumed that it was the one reported by Radio Intelligence Service which left New York on 24.1. U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf), which sank a tanker from the preceding HX convoy, reported that an officer of this tanker had said that a large convoy was to follow. It is an important convoy, part of which, according to Radio Intelligence, is destined for Murmansk. As many boats as possible were therefore detailed against it. First of all, all boats of Group "Pfeil" and other boats in the vicinity. These were the following 13: U 187, 402, 262, 609, 454, 135, 413, 266, 594, 608, 267, 465, 98. Then also 5 boats from group "Haudegen", U 438, 624, 704, 613 and 752. Operations against the "Teichers" convoy (Convoy No. 4; HX.224) were broken off and the boats U 614 and U 456 were also sent to meet the convoy. Altogether 20 boats were therefore operating against this convoy.
In the course of the afternoon U 402, U 608 and U 267 made contact, and U 609 during the night. U 608 and U 609 both reported flares over the convoy. From the beginning individual boats only shadowed for short periods at a time, as they were constantly driven off and depth-charged by escort forces. At 0736/5 U 262 reported the convoy in 8442.
According to shadowers' reports the convoy was making about 7 knots. At first it steered 40 degrees along the route followed by its predecessor and in the course of the afternoon altered to 10° probably by way of evasive action.
The fact that the boats were constantly driven off can only be explained by unfavorable weather. The escort forces probably had good Asdic results in the calm west weather conditions and therefore had the advantage over the U-boats (British Escort Group B2; Lt Cdr Proudfoot) consisting of the 3 destroyers Vimy, Vanesa and Beverly and the 3 British corvettes Campanula, Mignonette and Abelia, the Free French corvette Lobelia and the American Coast Guard Cutter Bibb. In the convoy is the rescue vessel Toward equipped with HF/DF. The group is later enforced by three American escorts, the destroyers Babbitt and Schenk and the cutter Ingham, coming from Iceland).

After the boats best off for fuel have been detailed against Convoy No. 6, the remaining 10 boats of Group "Haudegen" have been ordered to occupy the following attack areas a economical cruising speed: U 69 : 1189, U 414 : 1444, U 403 : 1737, U 201 : 1548, U 525 : 1883, U 606 : 1598, U 607 : 4347, U 226 : 1982, U 383 : 4682, U 303 : 4399. All BC.

As Group "Delphin" has found nothing in its present patrol line, the boats are being disposed in an angular formation to intercept traffic approaching from the N. and W. The large distances apart of about 35 miles, which are necessary for this, will have to be accepted. The new line runs in the same order from CG 4655 via CF 9264 to DH 2556.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 4 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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In Germany, three days of national mourning begin over the disaster at Stalingrad. All theatres, cinemas and night clubs are closed.

Soviet naval infantry repels our attempt to land at Malaya Zemlya. Nearby, later today, Soviet troops land near Novorossiysk, in southern Russia.

As elements of the British 8th Army enters Tunisia, Winston Churchill visits Tripoli, Libya, and inspected troops of the same.

U 217 (Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) sank the British "Rhexenor", 7,957 GRT, from Freetown to St. Johns, on 3.2 in DR 14. One officer taken on board (4th Mate C.W.G. Allen).

U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) was attacked by seaplanes and slightly damaged on her way to Group "Haudegen" 's patrol line.

From Group "Haudegen" 's patrol line U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported a corvette and an aircraft in BE 5915, on a S. course and U 575 (Kptlt. Günther Heydemann) a single corvette in BE 5825 at 1630, course SW. Air reconnaissance reported a steamer in BE 6432 and another in BE 2955, both also on a S. course. Boats operated against these sightings without intercepting the expected convoy or scoring successes against the independently-routed ships.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) reports, that according to statements by a prisoner (Chief Engineer I.C. Bingham; sole survivor of British Motor Tanker 'Cordelia'), that Convoy No. 4 is to be followed by another large convoy from Halifax, making 6 knots, on the same route. Destination North Channel. Traffic from Curacao via New York to Halifax is to follow the shortest route.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
At 1108/4/2 U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich), of Group "Pfeil", sighted a large convoy on a NE course in broad formation in BD 1199. Operations Control was therefore right in disposing a group on the route of the HX convoy on the assumption that the SC convoy would follow the same course. As U 187 reported that the convoy was very large (61 ships), it was assumed that it was the one reported by Radio Intelligence Service which left New York on 24.1. U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf), which sank a tanker from the preceding HX convoy, reported that an officer of this tanker had said that a large convoy was to follow. It is an important convoy, part of which, according to Radio Intelligence, is destined for Murmansk. As many boats as possible were therefore detailed against it. First of all, all boats of Group "Pfeil" and other boats in the vicinity. These were the following 13: U 187, 402, 262, 609, 454, 135, 413, 266, 594, 608, 267, 465, 98. Then also 5 boats from group "Haudegen", U 438, 624, 704, 613 and 752. Operations against the "Teichers" convoy (Convoy No. 4; HX.224) were broken off and the boats U 614 and U 456 were also sent to meet the convoy. Altogether 20 boats were therefore operating against this convoy.
In the course of the afternoon U 402, U 608 and U 267 made contact, and U 609 during the night. U 608 and U 609 both reported flares over the convoy. From the beginning individual boats only shadowed for short periods at a time, as they were constantly driven off and depth-charged by escort forces. At 0736/5 U 262 reported the convoy in 8442.
According to shadowers' reports the convoy was making about 7 knots. At first it steered 40 degrees along the route followed by its predecessor and in the course of the afternoon altered to 10° probably by way of evasive action.
The fact that the boats were constantly driven off can only be explained by unfavorable weather. The escort forces probably had good Asdic results in the calm west weather conditions and therefore had the advantage over the U-boats (British Escort Group B2; Lt Cdr Proudfoot) consisting of the 3 destroyers Vimy, Vanesa and Beverly and the 3 British corvettes Campanula, Mignonette and Abelia, the Free French corvette Lobelia and the American Coast Guard Cutter Bibb. In the convoy is the rescue vessel Toward equipped with HF/DF. The group is later enforced by three American escorts, the destroyers Babbitt and Schenk and the cutter Ingham, coming from Iceland).

After the boats best off for fuel have been detailed against Convoy No. 6, the remaining 10 boats of Group "Haudegen" have been ordered to occupy the following attack areas a economical cruising speed: U 69 : 1189, U 414 : 1444, U 403 : 1737, U 201 : 1548, U 525 : 1883, U 606 : 1598, U 607 : 4347, U 226 : 1982, U 383 : 4682, U 303 : 4399. All BC.

As Group "Delphin" has found nothing in its present patrol line, the boats are being disposed in an angular formation to intercept traffic approaching from the N. and W. The large distances apart of about 35 miles, which are necessary for this, will have to be accepted. The new line runs in the same order from CG 4655 via CF 9264 to DH 2556.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 5 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Benito Mussolini personally took over the Italian Foreign Ministry after firing his son-in-law Galeazzo Ciano.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sank a coastal steamer of 500 GRT by gunfire on 1.2 in DH 9665. So far only neutral shipping sighted. Medium enemy and neutral air activity. Machine gun C/38 proved satisfactory.

U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards) has been ordered to return, as both her Diesels were out of action owing to corrosion of 4 fuel pumps. After repairs 1 Diesel with 5 cylinders was serviceable again. The cause of corrosion cannot be discovered until tests have been made on the test bench.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather conditions A.M. on the 5th were reported as west 2-3, sea 2, visibility good. Wind freshened to W. 8. in the afternoon, heavy seas, snow and hail. Weather in the afternoon made it very difficult to find the convoy, and weather conditions were also largely responsible for the fact that the convoy was not attacked during the night 5/6.
At 1025 U 609 (Kptlt. Klaus Rudloff) reported a steamer and a corvette in AK 8425. The same boat then found the convoy again at 1245 in 8193. She reported later that it consisted of 8 steamers, in wide formation. At 1423 she reported contact lost. As, according to 3 reports from this boat, the convoy was making 12 knots. Operations Control assumed that a small group of a few ships had succeeded in attracting the boats to itself while the large, slow section turned E.S. of this. U 609 reported only 8 ships and it was known from Radio Intelligence that the convoy was to proceed at 7.5 knots. At 2018 U 609 found the larger, slow section of the convoy in AK 8261, which had, as suspected, apparently turned E and was now going back to the convoy route proper. The boat reported 28 ships. She was seen while making an unsuccessful submerged attack. She shadowed until 0400. During the night she had contact only by hydrophone bearing. According to reports the convoy was making nearly 8 knots and steering 30 - 40°. Operations Control failed to understand why no other boats reached the convoy. It is true that various boats reported that they had been driven off by destroyers and depth-charged, but of the 16 boats which should have been in the vicinity, others should at least have sighted the convoy, especially as there was no air escort as yet.
U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) reported that she had sunk a 12,000 - GRT tanker with 3 hits at 0655/5. U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel) reported that she had sunk a straggling 5000 GRT steamer at 1707/5. The convoy was in AK 6488 at 1100/6 and the operation continues.

After all boats of Group "Nordsturm" had reported their fuel a new disposition was ordered for Group "Haudegen". The following squares are to be occupied as attack areas:
U 358 : AJ 58, U 186 : AJ 59, U 223 : AJ 83, U 707 : AJ 81, U 268 : AJ 95. From here the boats can operate as an attacking group against convoys which may be reported by "Haudegen" or against SW-bound convoys for another 2 days.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) has been give freedom of action from Cape St. Roque south along the Brazilian coast to Bahia. She is free to enter territorial waters, but forbidden to penetrate into harbors or bombard them.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has made her passage report and it is intended to supply U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) and U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf), from 7.2 in BD 6325. Subsequently boats of Group "Pfeil" which are short of fuel are to replenish in AK 89.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) has supplied U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen), the last boat intended for the Africa operation, and is starting her return passage.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) entered Kiel and will now be used as a training boat.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 5 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Benito Mussolini personally took over the Italian Foreign Ministry after firing his son-in-law Galeazzo Ciano.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sank a coastal steamer of 500 GRT by gunfire on 1.2 in DH 9665. So far only neutral shipping sighted. Medium enemy and neutral air activity. Machine gun C/38 proved satisfactory.

U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards) has been ordered to return, as both her Diesels were out of action owing to corrosion of 4 fuel pumps. After repairs 1 Diesel with 5 cylinders was serviceable again. The cause of corrosion cannot be discovered until tests have been made on the test bench.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather conditions A.M. on the 5th were reported as west 2-3, sea 2, visibility good. Wind freshened to W. 8. in the afternoon, heavy seas, snow and hail. Weather in the afternoon made it very difficult to find the convoy, and weather conditions were also largely responsible for the fact that the convoy was not attacked during the night 5/6.
At 1025 U 609 (Kptlt. Klaus Rudloff) reported a steamer and a corvette in AK 8425. The same boat then found the convoy again at 1245 in 8193. She reported later that it consisted of 8 steamers, in wide formation. At 1423 she reported contact lost. As, according to 3 reports from this boat, the convoy was making 12 knots. Operations Control assumed that a small group of a few ships had succeeded in attracting the boats to itself while the large, slow section turned E.S. of this. U 609 reported only 8 ships and it was known from Radio Intelligence that the convoy was to proceed at 7.5 knots. At 2018 U 609 found the larger, slow section of the convoy in AK 8261, which had, as suspected, apparently turned E and was now going back to the convoy route proper. The boat reported 28 ships. She was seen while making an unsuccessful submerged attack. She shadowed until 0400. During the night she had contact only by hydrophone bearing. According to reports the convoy was making nearly 8 knots and steering 30 - 40°. Operations Control failed to understand why no other boats reached the convoy. It is true that various boats reported that they had been driven off by destroyers and depth-charged, but of the 16 boats which should have been in the vicinity, others should at least have sighted the convoy, especially as there was no air escort as yet.
U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) reported that she had sunk a 12,000 - GRT tanker with 3 hits at 0655/5. U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel) reported that she had sunk a straggling 5000 GRT steamer at 1707/5. The convoy was in AK 6488 at 1100/6 and the operation continues.

After all boats of Group "Nordsturm" had reported their fuel a new disposition was ordered for Group "Haudegen". The following squares are to be occupied as attack areas:
U 358 : AJ 58, U 186 : AJ 59, U 223 : AJ 83, U 707 : AJ 81, U 268 : AJ 95. From here the boats can operate as an attacking group against convoys which may be reported by "Haudegen" or against SW-bound convoys for another 2 days.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) has been give freedom of action from Cape St. Roque south along the Brazilian coast to Bahia. She is free to enter territorial waters, but forbidden to penetrate into harbors or bombard them.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has made her passage report and it is intended to supply U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) and U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf), from 7.2 in BD 6325. Subsequently boats of Group "Pfeil" which are short of fuel are to replenish in AK 89.

"Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) has supplied U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen), the last boat intended for the Africa operation, and is starting her return passage.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) entered Kiel and will now be used as a training boat.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Saturday, 6 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Brazil, already at war with Germany and Italy, now declares war upon Japan.

The Führer meets with Erich von Manstein at Rastenberg, East Prussia, Germany. The Field Marshal had been flown 900 miles from Donetsk, Ukraine to the Führer's Wolfsschanze headquarters in Hitler's personal Focke-Wulf Fw200 V3 "Immelmann III". At the four hour conference, only five days after the surrender at Stalingrad, the Army Group South commander persuades The Führer to allow him to retreat to the River Mius.

U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) fired a triple fan at an independent corvette, course 180 degrees in BE 5963. Corvette evaded the fan, contact lost. Expected convoy not found.

There is strong air activity with Radar at present in Group "Haudegen" 's area. U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) is returning owing to considerable bomb damage. U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) was also bombed and pursued by a searching group.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather conditions were calm, visibility, good again on the 6th. At 1146 U 609 (Kptlt. Klaus Rudloff) reported the convoy in AK 6488. The boat shadowed until 1445, lost contact for a time and found the convoy again towards 1900. Three other boats then came up to the convoy before dark, U 438, U 262 and U 456. U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) acted as shadower for the night. At 0230 U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) also made contact.
The convoy was steering a main course of 70 and making a bare 8 knots. Conditions were easy again for the anti-submarine forces. Several boats were driven off by destroyers. U 262 and U 267 were damaged by depth charges and had to move off for repairs. But the particularly strong air escort was far more unpleasant for the boats. 11 boats reported aircraft. 4 were bombed and U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) had to move off owing to considerable damage.
U 454, U 438 and U 135 were driven off when starting to attack and afterwards did not manage to fire again.

The following successes were reported:
U 266( Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen): straggler Polyktor, 4,077 GRT sunk
U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner): 2 large tankers and 4 freighters totaling: 45,000 GRT sunk
U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke): 1 large tanker of 9,000 GRT sunk and a freighter of 6,000 GRT sunk
U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter): 1 large tanker, estimated 8,000 GRT sunk

Operation against the convoy is continuing. It was in AL 4416 at 0700/7.
Of the boats detailed only 11 are left fit to operate against the convoy, U 454, 613, 402, 135, 614, 438, 608, 624, 456, 609 and 89. Several of these have only few torpedoes left.
6 boats have started their return passage or are proceeding to supply: U 262, 266, 752, 413, 594 and 704. 2 boats, U 465 and 267 have moved away because of damage. U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich) has not reported since she made her first report of the convoy. U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer), which was previously operating against the "Teichert" convoy, has also not reported again and did not reach this convoy.

U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer), on her first patrol, last made a short weather report on 2.2 from AL 26. As she was in a favorable position she was ordered to operate against Convoy No. 4. On her way there she was attacked by an aircraft, probably in AL 29. She has not replied to several orders to report her position. Her loss must be presumed.

Changes in closing of Route A. Attack on independently-routed ships is forbidden: between 5° S and 10° N up to 10.2. From 10° N to 35° N from 7 - 23.2. From 35° N, up to the north and east from 19.2 until further notice. Present conditions do not justify allowing all independent ships in Route A to pass unhindered and boas have therefore been ordered to stick to any ships which from its type and course is probably enemy, to report and to wait for permission to attack.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 6 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Brazil, already at war with Germany and Italy, now declares war upon Japan.

The Führer meets with Erich von Manstein at Rastenberg, East Prussia, Germany. The Field Marshal had been flown 900 miles from Donetsk, Ukraine to the Führer's Wolfsschanze headquarters in Hitler's personal Focke-Wulf Fw200 V3 "Immelmann III". At the four hour conference, only five days after the surrender at Stalingrad, the Army Group South commander persuades The Führer to allow him to retreat to the River Mius.

U 71 (Oblt. Hardo Rodler von Roithberg) fired a triple fan at an independent corvette, course 180 degrees in BE 5963. Corvette evaded the fan, contact lost. Expected convoy not found.

There is strong air activity with Radar at present in Group "Haudegen" 's area. U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) is returning owing to considerable bomb damage. U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) was also bombed and pursued by a searching group.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather conditions were calm, visibility, good again on the 6th. At 1146 U 609 (Kptlt. Klaus Rudloff) reported the convoy in AK 6488. The boat shadowed until 1445, lost contact for a time and found the convoy again towards 1900. Three other boats then came up to the convoy before dark, U 438, U 262 and U 456. U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) acted as shadower for the night. At 0230 U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) also made contact.
The convoy was steering a main course of 70 and making a bare 8 knots. Conditions were easy again for the anti-submarine forces. Several boats were driven off by destroyers. U 262 and U 267 were damaged by depth charges and had to move off for repairs. But the particularly strong air escort was far more unpleasant for the boats. 11 boats reported aircraft. 4 were bombed and U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) had to move off owing to considerable damage.
U 454, U 438 and U 135 were driven off when starting to attack and afterwards did not manage to fire again.

The following successes were reported:
U 266( Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen): straggler Polyktor, 4,077 GRT sunk
U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner): 2 large tankers and 4 freighters totaling: 45,000 GRT sunk
U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke): 1 large tanker of 9,000 GRT sunk and a freighter of 6,000 GRT sunk
U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter): 1 large tanker, estimated 8,000 GRT sunk

Operation against the convoy is continuing. It was in AL 4416 at 0700/7.
Of the boats detailed only 11 are left fit to operate against the convoy, U 454, 613, 402, 135, 614, 438, 608, 624, 456, 609 and 89. Several of these have only few torpedoes left.
6 boats have started their return passage or are proceeding to supply: U 262, 266, 752, 413, 594 and 704. 2 boats, U 465 and 267 have moved away because of damage. U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich) has not reported since she made her first report of the convoy. U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer), which was previously operating against the "Teichert" convoy, has also not reported again and did not reach this convoy.

U 265 (Oblt. Leonhard Auffhammer), on her first patrol, last made a short weather report on 2.2 from AL 26. As she was in a favorable position she was ordered to operate against Convoy No. 4. On her way there she was attacked by an aircraft, probably in AL 29. She has not replied to several orders to report her position. Her loss must be presumed.

Changes in closing of Route A. Attack on independently-routed ships is forbidden: between 5° S and 10° N up to 10.2. From 10° N to 35° N from 7 - 23.2. From 35° N, up to the north and east from 19.2 until further notice. Present conditions do not justify allowing all independent ships in Route A to pass unhindered and boas have therefore been ordered to stick to any ships which from its type and course is probably enemy, to report and to wait for permission to attack.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 7 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The Japanese Army completes Operation Ke, the evacuation of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, as the final 1,796 soldiers are evacuated by 18 ships.

U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) sighted the hospital ship "New Foundland" in BE 6588, course S., 13 knots. Boat continued on her outward passage.

U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported 2 escort vessels on a main course of 1200 in CG 4826. U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) also sighted a corvette, 95°, in DH 3146.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) heard weak sounds bearing 60° from BE 6712. Noise at first approached, then hydrophone bearing lost. Constant air patrol.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather in the convoy area on the 7th was reported as WSW 4 - 5, good visibility deteriorating at times owing to showers. According to boats' reports the convoy was making 7.5 knots, and changing course more and more to the E. in the direction of the North Channel. Contact with the convoy was not regained until 1544 in AL 4273 by U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert). She lost contact an hour later and U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) found the convoy again at 1730. She too lost contact at 1900 shortly before dark. U 456 and U 402 both regained contact at 2310 and 0215 respectively. The convoy was held until 0700, when it was reported in AL 5221. Besides these 2 boats only U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) came up to the convoy. U 456 was picked up by the escort twice before attacking and did not manage to fire.
U 402 reported an 8,000 GRT freighter sunk with her last electric torpedo.
U 605 (Kptlt. Herbert-Viktor Schütze) reported a 12,000 GRT tanker sunk.
The enemy's air escort did not appear until towards evening on the 7th, whereas on the previous day there had been far more aircraft with the convoy. Although the boats must be exhausted after 4 days, the operation is being continued as 8 boats still have torpedoes left and U 402 can still give valuable service as shadower. U 456 has broken off owing to lack of fuel, and U 438 owing to damage, apparently not due to enemy action. U 454, 613, 402, 135, 614, 608, 624, 609, and 89 are still operating.
U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) and U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) had to break off pursuit of the convoy owing to damage and return. As both have fuel to spare they have been ordered to rendezvous with U 413, U 266 and U 594 in AK 9442.
Several SSS and torpedo reports from an unidentified position. Probably from this convoy.

Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2):
U 218 (VIID; Oblt. Richard Becker) sighted a small convoy in DH 9473 at 0820, consisting of about 3 steamers and 3 escort vessels, course N, speed 10 knots. The first report of this was not received by control until 1230. The convoy was then on a NE course.
Group "Rochen" and 5 boats of Group "Delphin", which are well off for fuel (U 87 - 202 - 264 - 558 - 258) were ordered to operate against the reported enemy. The 5 "Delphin" boats could arrive by 8.2. Owing to strong air patrol U 218 was constantly forced to dive and lost contact at 1523 in DH 9188 main course 45°, speed 8 knots. The following were identified 2 freighters, 1 tanker, 1 destroyer and 2 corvettes. The boats then continued to search independently along an enemy course of 45 - 55°. At 2130 U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) located the convoy in DH 9244. Towards 0200 U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) took over a shadower and shadowed until morning. Convoy's last position at 0643 was DH 6885. No successes were scored. The operation is continuing.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 7 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The Japanese Army completes Operation Ke, the evacuation of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, as the final 1,796 soldiers are evacuated by 18 ships.

U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) sighted the hospital ship "New Foundland" in BE 6588, course S., 13 knots. Boat continued on her outward passage.

U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported 2 escort vessels on a main course of 1200 in CG 4826. U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) also sighted a corvette, 95°, in DH 3146.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) heard weak sounds bearing 60° from BE 6712. Noise at first approached, then hydrophone bearing lost. Constant air patrol.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
Weather in the convoy area on the 7th was reported as WSW 4 - 5, good visibility deteriorating at times owing to showers. According to boats' reports the convoy was making 7.5 knots, and changing course more and more to the E. in the direction of the North Channel. Contact with the convoy was not regained until 1544 in AL 4273 by U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert). She lost contact an hour later and U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) found the convoy again at 1730. She too lost contact at 1900 shortly before dark. U 456 and U 402 both regained contact at 2310 and 0215 respectively. The convoy was held until 0700, when it was reported in AL 5221. Besides these 2 boats only U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) came up to the convoy. U 456 was picked up by the escort twice before attacking and did not manage to fire.
U 402 reported an 8,000 GRT freighter sunk with her last electric torpedo.
U 605 (Kptlt. Herbert-Viktor Schütze) reported a 12,000 GRT tanker sunk.
The enemy's air escort did not appear until towards evening on the 7th, whereas on the previous day there had been far more aircraft with the convoy. Although the boats must be exhausted after 4 days, the operation is being continued as 8 boats still have torpedoes left and U 402 can still give valuable service as shadower. U 456 has broken off owing to lack of fuel, and U 438 owing to damage, apparently not due to enemy action. U 454, 613, 402, 135, 614, 608, 624, 609, and 89 are still operating.
U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) and U 262 (Oblt. Rudolf Heinz Franke) had to break off pursuit of the convoy owing to damage and return. As both have fuel to spare they have been ordered to rendezvous with U 413, U 266 and U 594 in AK 9442.
Several SSS and torpedo reports from an unidentified position. Probably from this convoy.

Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2):
U 218 (VIID; Oblt. Richard Becker) sighted a small convoy in DH 9473 at 0820, consisting of about 3 steamers and 3 escort vessels, course N, speed 10 knots. The first report of this was not received by control until 1230. The convoy was then on a NE course.
Group "Rochen" and 5 boats of Group "Delphin", which are well off for fuel (U 87 - 202 - 264 - 558 - 258) were ordered to operate against the reported enemy. The 5 "Delphin" boats could arrive by 8.2. Owing to strong air patrol U 218 was constantly forced to dive and lost contact at 1523 in DH 9188 main course 45°, speed 8 knots. The following were identified 2 freighters, 1 tanker, 1 destroyer and 2 corvettes. The boats then continued to search independently along an enemy course of 45 - 55°. At 2130 U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) located the convoy in DH 9244. Towards 0200 U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) took over a shadower and shadowed until morning. Convoy's last position at 0643 was DH 6885. No successes were scored. The operation is continuing.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 8 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Kursk.

Gefreiter Werner Wrangel of the Panzerjager Battalion 183, becomes the only person to be awarded the Iron Cross 2nd Class, Iron Cross 1st Class, and the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross at the same time.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
The last report of this convoy was from U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) at 1100/8 in AL 5236. After that it was not sighted again. Boats were constantly forced to dive by strong air activity by land-based planes, and could not get ahead. The operation was nevertheless continued during the night 8/9, as there was a chance that the boats might come upon the convoy in the dark. But as it was not sighted again and no boat appeared to be in the vicinity, the boats were ordered to move away from the convoy by first light on the 9th, as air activity by land-based planes was likely to be very strong off the North Channel.
U 135 (Lt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) reported that she had been surprised by an aircraft that had 22 bombs. She reported further damage and broke off on the evening of the 8th. U 402 also had to break off prematurely owing to lack of fuel.
U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich), on her first enemy patrol, sighted the convoy (No. 6) at 1108/4/2 in BD 1199 and reported it again at 1144. Since then the boat has not replied to several signals. She may have been sunk by escort forces.

Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2):
Strong air activity continued. Ar 0800 U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) believed the convoy to be in DH 6864 according to hydrophone bearing. Contact was then lost and reestablished by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) at 1745 in DH 6667. Convoy was zig-zagging around 50°. Close escort of 2 aircraft.
Boats were ordered to haul as far ahead as possible during the day so as to be able to attack at night. Boats which could not reach the convoy before first light were to break off then and move away to the W. At 1902 the convoy was in DH 6666. Visibility deteriorated badly and contact was lost, and was only regained for a short time by U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) in DJ 4446 and at 0625 by U 264 (Oblt. Hartwig Looks) in DJ 4194. U 264 fired 3 single misses at a corvette and was then driven off. According to reports received later U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) fired a double miss at 800 meters with good data. U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) attacked before first light on the 8th and sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT and a corvette in DH 6863 also torpedoed a freighter of 8,000 GRT, probably sunk. The operation was broken off at dawn as intended.
By then all boats had reported and moved away to the W. No boat was lost, damage was slight, so that all boats are still fit for operations.
2 ships totaling 18,000 GRT and a corvette were sunk. The operation has shown that extensive action in the area N. of the Canary Islands is no longer possible owing to strong air patrol by land-based aircraft (altogether 44 planes, according to radio interception).

According to observations from Ceuta and Tangier a convoy started to put to sea during the night as there are about 20 loaded ships with the convoy, this section may be destined for Casablanca. But there are also ships coming from Spain assembling there, which are presumably destined for England. On the assumption that at least a large section is going to England, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to form a new patrol line from CG 4652 to CF 9665. Order: U 125, 522, 511, 436, 442, 575, 381, 571, 620. The convoy is expected to arrive in the course of February 10th. Owing to low fuel stocks, this will probably be the Group's last operation, which they could only carry out on a homeward course.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is starting her return passage.

U 217's (Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) supply from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) has so far been interrupted twice owing to bad weather. Both boats are now in DF 6456 with course 65°.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) has been ordered to take over 2 Metox sets from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) and deliver them to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) on her return passage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 8 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Kursk.

Gefreiter Werner Wrangel of the Panzerjager Battalion 183, becomes the only person to be awarded the Iron Cross 2nd Class, Iron Cross 1st Class, and the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross at the same time.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
The last report of this convoy was from U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) at 1100/8 in AL 5236. After that it was not sighted again. Boats were constantly forced to dive by strong air activity by land-based planes, and could not get ahead. The operation was nevertheless continued during the night 8/9, as there was a chance that the boats might come upon the convoy in the dark. But as it was not sighted again and no boat appeared to be in the vicinity, the boats were ordered to move away from the convoy by first light on the 9th, as air activity by land-based planes was likely to be very strong off the North Channel.
U 135 (Lt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) reported that she had been surprised by an aircraft that had 22 bombs. She reported further damage and broke off on the evening of the 8th. U 402 also had to break off prematurely owing to lack of fuel.
U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich), on her first enemy patrol, sighted the convoy (No. 6) at 1108/4/2 in BD 1199 and reported it again at 1144. Since then the boat has not replied to several signals. She may have been sunk by escort forces.

Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2):
Strong air activity continued. Ar 0800 U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) believed the convoy to be in DH 6864 according to hydrophone bearing. Contact was then lost and reestablished by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) at 1745 in DH 6667. Convoy was zig-zagging around 50°. Close escort of 2 aircraft.
Boats were ordered to haul as far ahead as possible during the day so as to be able to attack at night. Boats which could not reach the convoy before first light were to break off then and move away to the W. At 1902 the convoy was in DH 6666. Visibility deteriorated badly and contact was lost, and was only regained for a short time by U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) in DJ 4446 and at 0625 by U 264 (Oblt. Hartwig Looks) in DJ 4194. U 264 fired 3 single misses at a corvette and was then driven off. According to reports received later U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) fired a double miss at 800 meters with good data. U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) attacked before first light on the 8th and sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT and a corvette in DH 6863 also torpedoed a freighter of 8,000 GRT, probably sunk. The operation was broken off at dawn as intended.
By then all boats had reported and moved away to the W. No boat was lost, damage was slight, so that all boats are still fit for operations.
2 ships totaling 18,000 GRT and a corvette were sunk. The operation has shown that extensive action in the area N. of the Canary Islands is no longer possible owing to strong air patrol by land-based aircraft (altogether 44 planes, according to radio interception).

According to observations from Ceuta and Tangier a convoy started to put to sea during the night as there are about 20 loaded ships with the convoy, this section may be destined for Casablanca. But there are also ships coming from Spain assembling there, which are presumably destined for England. On the assumption that at least a large section is going to England, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to form a new patrol line from CG 4652 to CF 9665. Order: U 125, 522, 511, 436, 442, 575, 381, 571, 620. The convoy is expected to arrive in the course of February 10th. Owing to low fuel stocks, this will probably be the Group's last operation, which they could only carry out on a homeward course.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is starting her return passage.

U 217's (Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) supply from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) has so far been interrupted twice owing to bad weather. Both boats are now in DF 6456 with course 65°.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) has been ordered to take over 2 Metox sets from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) and deliver them to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) on her return passage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 9 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops recapture Belgorod.

The first of seven Axis convoys left Italy with reinforcements bound for Tunisia. British aircraft from Malta, submarines, and minefields caused some losses.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) was attacked by aircraft in AL 5293 when surfacing and received 4 well-placed bombs. Considerable damage, ability to dive restricted. Return necessary after refueling from U-tanker.

U 752 (Kptlt. Karl-Ernst Schroeter) reported a large independently-routed ship in BE 1685, course 45°, speed 12 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sighted a solitary destroyer in CG 4861. No further contact was made with the enemy. According to our reckoning no convoy is expected at the moment.

Group "Nordsturm" is being dissolved. These boats will reinforce Group "Haudegen" and occupy the following positions, depth 40 miles: U 358 : AJ 78, U 186 : AJ 7972, U 223 : BC 1255, U 707 : BC 1384. U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) is returning owing to lack of fuel. According to a report from U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) there has been fog in this sea area for 3 days. As a depression is passing and visibility may be expected to improve, the boats have been left in their positions. A convoy can be expected to pass any time after today.

After operations against Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2) had been broken off, Group "Rochen" received orders to be in patrol line from DH 2333 to DH 5639, course 270, speed of advance 6 knots at 1200/11/2. Order: U 66 - 521 - 108 - 218 - 43 - 264 - 258 - 558 - 202 and 87.
The latter 5 boats are to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in about DH 45. Subsequently all boats will operate against America - North Africa convoy traffic.

A Chief Engineer has transshipped from U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) to U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen). U 183 and U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis) are to operate in the Windward Passage sea area. There have been no boats there for some time. They are to make for DN 60.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is returning.

U 609 and U 624 both operated against Convoy No. 6 (SC.118) and made contact. They last reported on 6.2. from AK 65 and on 7.2. from AK 66 respectively. It can therefore be assumed for certain that they were lost due to convoy escort or aircraft.

Shoe rationing are going into effect in the United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 9 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Soviet troops recapture Belgorod.

The first of seven Axis convoys left Italy with reinforcements bound for Tunisia. British aircraft from Malta, submarines, and minefields caused some losses.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) was attacked by aircraft in AL 5293 when surfacing and received 4 well-placed bombs. Considerable damage, ability to dive restricted. Return necessary after refueling from U-tanker.

U 752 (Kptlt. Karl-Ernst Schroeter) reported a large independently-routed ship in BE 1685, course 45°, speed 12 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sighted a solitary destroyer in CG 4861. No further contact was made with the enemy. According to our reckoning no convoy is expected at the moment.

Group "Nordsturm" is being dissolved. These boats will reinforce Group "Haudegen" and occupy the following positions, depth 40 miles: U 358 : AJ 78, U 186 : AJ 7972, U 223 : BC 1255, U 707 : BC 1384. U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) is returning owing to lack of fuel. According to a report from U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) there has been fog in this sea area for 3 days. As a depression is passing and visibility may be expected to improve, the boats have been left in their positions. A convoy can be expected to pass any time after today.

After operations against Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2) had been broken off, Group "Rochen" received orders to be in patrol line from DH 2333 to DH 5639, course 270, speed of advance 6 knots at 1200/11/2. Order: U 66 - 521 - 108 - 218 - 43 - 264 - 258 - 558 - 202 and 87.
The latter 5 boats are to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in about DH 45. Subsequently all boats will operate against America - North Africa convoy traffic.

A Chief Engineer has transshipped from U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) to U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen). U 183 and U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis) are to operate in the Windward Passage sea area. There have been no boats there for some time. They are to make for DN 60.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is returning.

U 609 and U 624 both operated against Convoy No. 6 (SC.118) and made contact. They last reported on 6.2. from AK 65 and on 7.2. from AK 66 respectively. It can therefore be assumed for certain that they were lost due to convoy escort or aircraft.

Shoe rationing are going into effect in the United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 10 February 1943 - Stettin

Concluding tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Enemy reports depth charge attack by aircraft in DJ 3748 and torpedo report from an unidentified steamer from an area 10 miles S. of Cape Francis (Capetown).

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) tried several times to reach Peterhead in bad weather. There were constant location transmissions from AN 1633 onwards. Doubtful whether she was picked up. From 7.2. heard several explosions in the area by day.

So that there will be U-boats in the vicinity in case of an American and English invasion of Portugal, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to take up a new disposition W. of Lisbon. Attack areas, depth 60 miles: U 575 : CF 6626, U 571 : CF 6862, U 620 : CF 9345, U 436 : CG 4515, U 125 : CG 4624, U 5522 : CG 4718, U 511 : CG 4829, U 381 : CG 7165, U 422 : CG 7354. Several of these boats are already so short of fuel that they will have to return very soon and U 107, 103, 445, 569, 382 and 410 are intended to replace them and have been directed to CG 44.

"Milkcow" U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) has refueled U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 10 February 1943 - Stettin

Concluding tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

+++++++

Enemy reports depth charge attack by aircraft in DJ 3748 and torpedo report from an unidentified steamer from an area 10 miles S. of Cape Francis (Capetown).

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) tried several times to reach Peterhead in bad weather. There were constant location transmissions from AN 1633 onwards. Doubtful whether she was picked up. From 7.2. heard several explosions in the area by day.

So that there will be U-boats in the vicinity in case of an American and English invasion of Portugal, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to take up a new disposition W. of Lisbon. Attack areas, depth 60 miles: U 575 : CF 6626, U 571 : CF 6862, U 620 : CF 9345, U 436 : CG 4515, U 125 : CG 4624, U 5522 : CG 4718, U 511 : CG 4829, U 381 : CG 7165, U 422 : CG 7354. Several of these boats are already so short of fuel that they will have to return very soon and U 107, 103, 445, 569, 382 and 410 are intended to replace them and have been directed to CG 44.

"Milkcow" U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) has refueled U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 11 February 1943 - Danzig

Transferred to Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++

General Dwight Eisenhower is selected to command the Allied forces in Europe.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening), on her way out, sighted several destroyers and small vessels in BE 9945. According to our reckoning, they probably belonged to a N-bound Gibraltar convoy and boats in favorable positions were ordered to make use of opportunities to attack. For reasons unknown, U 155 continued on her outward passage as soon as she had made her report. There is therefore no contact. As visibility is poor and there is strong air reconnaissance in this area a controlled operation of several boats does not seem promising, especially as there is at most one night left for attack.

U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) was observed in AJ 8489 by an independent destroyer, course 220°, high speed. She lost contact after surfacing.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) has requested squares EO and EP as attack area, because of an oil trace.

As no further reports were received from Group "Rochen", the operation was broken off at 1200. U 87, 202, 264, 558 and 258 are proceeding to DH 4755 to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan). The remaining boats will occupy the following attack areas for the time being: U 521 squares CF 76 and 84, U 108 : CF 79 and 87, U 66 : DH 11 and 12, U 218 : DH 14 and 15, U 43 : DH 17 and 18.

U 103 will occupy position CG 4624, U 107 CG 4515, depth 60 miles, as reliefs for U 125 and U 436 which are short of fuel. These boats will join Group "Delphin".

In order to intercept convoy traffic to and from England on the southern route a patrol line has been ordered which will leave AK 3784 for AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, speed 5 knots. Order U 529 - 468 - 377 - 225 - 653 - 628 - 623 - 621 - 753 - 332 and 92. These boats will form Group "Ritter"

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will start to supply in AK 8985 from today. 5 boats will refuel for return passage at economical speed, 4 boats for further operation on the northerly convoy route.

U 519 (Kptlt. Günther Eppen) has not reported since she sailed on 30.1. There have been several attack reports in BF and BE during the last few days and she may have been sunk by English aircraft. Her loss must be presumed.

Ryan Aeronautical receives a US Navy contract to build three piston-jet mix-powered prototype fighters.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 11 February 1943 - Danzig

Transferred to Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++

General Dwight Eisenhower is selected to command the Allied forces in Europe.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening), on her way out, sighted several destroyers and small vessels in BE 9945. According to our reckoning, they probably belonged to a N-bound Gibraltar convoy and boats in favorable positions were ordered to make use of opportunities to attack. For reasons unknown, U 155 continued on her outward passage as soon as she had made her report. There is therefore no contact. As visibility is poor and there is strong air reconnaissance in this area a controlled operation of several boats does not seem promising, especially as there is at most one night left for attack.

U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) was observed in AJ 8489 by an independent destroyer, course 220°, high speed. She lost contact after surfacing.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) has requested squares EO and EP as attack area, because of an oil trace.

As no further reports were received from Group "Rochen", the operation was broken off at 1200. U 87, 202, 264, 558 and 258 are proceeding to DH 4755 to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan). The remaining boats will occupy the following attack areas for the time being: U 521 squares CF 76 and 84, U 108 : CF 79 and 87, U 66 : DH 11 and 12, U 218 : DH 14 and 15, U 43 : DH 17 and 18.

U 103 will occupy position CG 4624, U 107 CG 4515, depth 60 miles, as reliefs for U 125 and U 436 which are short of fuel. These boats will join Group "Delphin".

In order to intercept convoy traffic to and from England on the southern route a patrol line has been ordered which will leave AK 3784 for AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, speed 5 knots. Order U 529 - 468 - 377 - 225 - 653 - 628 - 623 - 621 - 753 - 332 and 92. These boats will form Group "Ritter"

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will start to supply in AK 8985 from today. 5 boats will refuel for return passage at economical speed, 4 boats for further operation on the northerly convoy route.

U 519 (Kptlt. Günther Eppen) has not reported since she sailed on 30.1. There have been several attack reports in BF and BE during the last few days and she may have been sunk by English aircraft. Her loss must be presumed.

Ryan Aeronautical receives a US Navy contract to build three piston-jet mix-powered prototype fighters.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 12 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++

Soviet troops capture Rostov, while our troops fall back from Krasnodar to the Kuban defensive positions.

Upon promotion to Generalfeldmarschall, Maximilian von Weichs steps down as the commanding officer of German Armeegruppe B, which has been transferred to the new Army Group Don.

U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) has broken off her search for the convoy reported yesterday by U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening). This operation is thus ended.

U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) reported strong air activity in CG 45, bombs; no damage, returning because of fuel.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) sighted 2 destroyers, course 225°, in CF 9266. No further contact with the enemy.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) was bombed on 10.2 at great depth. Bow tubes probably out of action. She is testing her operational fitness.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) sighted several smoke clouds at 1323 in BE 9815 disappearing S. According to our reckoning there should be a Gibraltar-bound convoy in this area. Group "Delphin", including U 107 and U 103 and U 410, 382, 445, 155 and 185, on outward passage, were ordered to operate on U 569's report. At 1600 the enemy was in BE 9873. Towards 2000, U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) reported that she had sighted 5 steamers, 3 of them passenger ships, on a main course of 160°, speed 16 knots, in CG 1559 and had fired a miss at an "Arundel Castle" type. She was then driven off by aircraft and destroyers. It appeared therefore that there was a fast and slow section of the convoy. This was quite possible, as radio intelligence (X) and agent's reports had stated that material and personnel were often convoyed to Gibraltar in separate groups. The boats were ordered to operate against one of these 2 convoys on a main course of 160 - 180°, according to the situation. Meanwhile, U 569 had also been forced to dive and contact was lost. Convoy's last position at 1730 was in CG 9892. The boat sighted several single destroyers during the night, but was constantly driven off in varying visibility, as was U 185, which also sighted destroyers several times in CG 1537. Contact had not been regained by morning. The fast group must have got through and can probably no longer be reached. Operation continues against the slow section.

Attack areas: U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel): EO 60, evading N and E. U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein): EO 50 and 20 westwards to Georgetown. Both boats are to operate as close to the coast as possible. Freedom of action as far as the sea area off Trinidad during the next new moon period.

U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) have supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

Boats in the Capetown area have been informed that Saldanhab Bay is probably an assembly point for convoys and is mainly approached by independent ships from Capetown.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 12 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Soviet troops capture Rostov, while our troops fall back from Krasnodar to the Kuban defensive positions.

Upon promotion to Generalfeldmarschall, Maximilian von Weichs steps down as the commanding officer of German Armeegruppe B, which has been transferred to the new Army Group Don.

U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) has broken off her search for the convoy reported yesterday by U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening). This operation is thus ended.

U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) reported strong air activity in CG 45, bombs; no damage, returning because of fuel.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) sighted 2 destroyers, course 225°, in CF 9266. No further contact with the enemy.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) was bombed on 10.2 at great depth. Bow tubes probably out of action. She is testing her operational fitness.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) sighted several smoke clouds at 1323 in BE 9815 disappearing S. According to our reckoning there should be a Gibraltar-bound convoy in this area. Group "Delphin", including U 107 and U 103 and U 410, 382, 445, 155 and 185, on outward passage, were ordered to operate on U 569's report. At 1600 the enemy was in BE 9873. Towards 2000, U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) reported that she had sighted 5 steamers, 3 of them passenger ships, on a main course of 160°, speed 16 knots, in CG 1559 and had fired a miss at an "Arundel Castle" type. She was then driven off by aircraft and destroyers. It appeared therefore that there was a fast and slow section of the convoy. This was quite possible, as radio intelligence (X) and agent's reports had stated that material and personnel were often convoyed to Gibraltar in separate groups. The boats were ordered to operate against one of these 2 convoys on a main course of 160 - 180°, according to the situation. Meanwhile, U 569 had also been forced to dive and contact was lost. Convoy's last position at 1730 was in CG 9892. The boat sighted several single destroyers during the night, but was constantly driven off in varying visibility, as was U 185, which also sighted destroyers several times in CG 1537. Contact had not been regained by morning. The fast group must have got through and can probably no longer be reached. Operation continues against the slow section.

Attack areas: U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel): EO 60, evading N and E. U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein): EO 50 and 20 westwards to Georgetown. Both boats are to operate as close to the coast as possible. Freedom of action as far as the sea area off Trinidad during the next new moon period.

U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) have supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

Boats in the Capetown area have been informed that Saldanhab Bay is probably an assembly point for convoys and is mainly approached by independent ships from Capetown.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 13 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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With a load of 75 USAAF P-40L fighters, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) departs Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.A., bound for North Africa.

U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) discovered another large crack in the flange when trying to repair her exhaust conduit. Repairs cannot be carried out. Further operation only possible in a less endangered area.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted a destroyer with high speed, zig-zagging around a course of 225° in BC 2433. No contact.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is the first of the African boats to score a success. She sank a ship of 6,000 GRT, course 265°, speed 10 knots in KY 6267. No zig-zags. Much air activity day and night, with lights, in KY 6310. Probably training.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) sighted smoke clouds at 1005 in CG 1911 and shortly afterwards made contact with a steamer and a destroyer. The enemy was only in sight intermittently owing to bad visibility. U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported the same forces at 1615 in CG 1968, was soon forced to dive by an escort vessel and depth charged. Aircraft were located constantly and no further direct contact was made. Boats were ordered to continue provided positions for attack could be reached by first light. During the night U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) and U 511 broke off and proceeded W. U 511 had some depth charge damage. U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) started on her return passage because of lack of fuel and bomb damage.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) is starting on her return passage. All her bow tubes are unserviceable. It is intended for her to deliver fuel to U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind).

A convoy coming from America may be expected in the Azores area on about 17.2 and Group "Rochen" has therefore been ordered to proceed W. immediately, making a day's run of 140 miles. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) has been ordered to return. "Rochen" boats now supplying will join the most southerly boat of the N. group at economical cruising speed in the order in which they leave. It is intended to form a patrol line with all boats from CE 8380 to DG 2820.

According to recent reckoning, a NE-bound convoy is expected in Group "Haudegen" 's area from 15.2. The group's disposition has therefore been narrowed. Boats are now in the following position, depth 30 miles: U 358 : AJ 7574, U 186 : AJ 7595, U 223 : AJ 7685, U 69 : AJ 8715, U 201 : AJ 8764, U 403 : AJ 8887, U 707 : BC 2156, U 606 : BC 2199, U 226 : BC 2549, U 525 : BC 2813, U 303 : BC 2848, U 607 : BC 5218, U 383 : BC 5514.

The following have supplied: U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U 175 has delivered a METOX set each to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein).

Boat's attention has again been called to the closing of Route A.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 13 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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With a load of 75 USAAF P-40L fighters, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) departs Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.A., bound for North Africa.

U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) discovered another large crack in the flange when trying to repair her exhaust conduit. Repairs cannot be carried out. Further operation only possible in a less endangered area.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted a destroyer with high speed, zig-zagging around a course of 225° in BC 2433. No contact.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is the first of the African boats to score a success. She sank a ship of 6,000 GRT, course 265°, speed 10 knots in KY 6267. No zig-zags. Much air activity day and night, with lights, in KY 6310. Probably training.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) sighted smoke clouds at 1005 in CG 1911 and shortly afterwards made contact with a steamer and a destroyer. The enemy was only in sight intermittently owing to bad visibility. U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported the same forces at 1615 in CG 1968, was soon forced to dive by an escort vessel and depth charged. Aircraft were located constantly and no further direct contact was made. Boats were ordered to continue provided positions for attack could be reached by first light. During the night U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) and U 511 broke off and proceeded W. U 511 had some depth charge damage. U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) started on her return passage because of lack of fuel and bomb damage.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) is starting on her return passage. All her bow tubes are unserviceable. It is intended for her to deliver fuel to U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind).

A convoy coming from America may be expected in the Azores area on about 17.2 and Group "Rochen" has therefore been ordered to proceed W. immediately, making a day's run of 140 miles. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) has been ordered to return. "Rochen" boats now supplying will join the most southerly boat of the N. group at economical cruising speed in the order in which they leave. It is intended to form a patrol line with all boats from CE 8380 to DG 2820.

According to recent reckoning, a NE-bound convoy is expected in Group "Haudegen" 's area from 15.2. The group's disposition has therefore been narrowed. Boats are now in the following position, depth 30 miles: U 358 : AJ 7574, U 186 : AJ 7595, U 223 : AJ 7685, U 69 : AJ 8715, U 201 : AJ 8764, U 403 : AJ 8887, U 707 : BC 2156, U 606 : BC 2199, U 226 : BC 2549, U 525 : BC 2813, U 303 : BC 2848, U 607 : BC 5218, U 383 : BC 5514.

The following have supplied: U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U 175 has delivered a METOX set each to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein).

Boat's attention has again been called to the closing of Route A.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 14 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Our troops launch an offensive against American forces near Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
Operation was broken off. U 620, 571, 125 and 442, which are short of fuel, are returning, U 103, 107, 185, 382, 410 and 445 are moving away to the west. U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) is waiting in CF 50 to supply from U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles). The last hydrophone bearing of the convoy was from CG 5473 bearing 210° at 0800.

After the "Rochen" boats had supplied from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), the group will receive orders to be in patrol line from CE 8285 to DG 2785 at 1200/16/2. Course 285, day's run 150 miles. Order: U 521 - 66 - 218 - 43 - 218 - 43 - 558 - 258 - 202 - 87 - 267 and 504. A convoy from America is expected on 17.2. As there is no information on the convoy's probable course, it is intended to form an extended line N. of the Azores. U 410, 445, 382, 569, 107 and 103 are to make for CE 39, U 437 for CE 32.
The following have supplied from U 118: U 214 on 12.2, U 558, 258, 202 on 13.2, U 82, 264 and 514 on 14.2. The tanker is now sold out and returning.

Because of bad weather (west 9) a day's run of 60 miles has been ordered for Group "Ritter".

It is intended to operate one boat in the Hatteras sea area and one in the Florida Straits area, as there have been no U-boats there for some time. Heavy traffic may be expected and success is likely if the U-boats appear suddenly and the Commanding Officers make intelligent use of their opportunities. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) is making for DN 30. She is free to proceed via Windward Passage. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) will go to CA 87 and have freedom of action to the N. and S.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 14 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Our troops launch an offensive against American forces near Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
Operation was broken off. U 620, 571, 125 and 442, which are short of fuel, are returning, U 103, 107, 185, 382, 410 and 445 are moving away to the west. U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) is waiting in CF 50 to supply from U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles). The last hydrophone bearing of the convoy was from CG 5473 bearing 210° at 0800.

After the "Rochen" boats had supplied from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), the group will receive orders to be in patrol line from CE 8285 to DG 2785 at 1200/16/2. Course 285, day's run 150 miles. Order: U 521 - 66 - 218 - 43 - 218 - 43 - 558 - 258 - 202 - 87 - 267 and 504. A convoy from America is expected on 17.2. As there is no information on the convoy's probable course, it is intended to form an extended line N. of the Azores. U 410, 445, 382, 569, 107 and 103 are to make for CE 39, U 437 for CE 32.
The following have supplied from U 118: U 214 on 12.2, U 558, 258, 202 on 13.2, U 82, 264 and 514 on 14.2. The tanker is now sold out and returning.

Because of bad weather (west 9) a day's run of 60 miles has been ordered for Group "Ritter".

It is intended to operate one boat in the Hatteras sea area and one in the Florida Straits area, as there have been no U-boats there for some time. Heavy traffic may be expected and success is likely if the U-boats appear suddenly and the Commanding Officers make intelligent use of their opportunities. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) is making for DN 30. She is free to proceed via Windward Passage. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) will go to CA 87 and have freedom of action to the N. and S.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 15 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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American forces in Tunisia launch a counterattack at Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. Though achieving some results, the Americans suffer heavy casualties and loose 46 medium tanks.

U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) sank "Atlantic Sun", 11,355 GRT in BC 5163, course 220°, 16 knots. According to statements made by prisoner (Ordinary Seaman William Golobich) the ship belonged to a convoy which it lost a few nights earlier in the fog. Presumably this was an extra-scheduled fast convoy.

U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte) encountered spasmodic traffic off Capetown, partly strongly escorted, leaving and entering the harbor on the 100 meter line. No night air activity. Good cooperation between land-based radar and sea patrol. Boat sank a 5,000 GRT ship on 10.2 in GR 6844.
According to an agent's report an American convoy of 27 steamers is said to be leaving Capetown for Australia on 15.2.

Following the new disposition of Group "Rochen": U 437, 410, 445, 382, 511, 569, 107 and 103 are being formed into Group "Robbe". They have been ordered to be in reconnaissance line at 1200/17/2 from CF 1671 to CF 4575, course 290°, day's run 140 miles.

Except for 5, all the Group "Haudegen" boats must now have less than 30 cbm fuel. This means that they could not operate even if a convoy is intercepted. Group "Haudegen" is therefore being dissolved. U 606, 69, 201, 226, 525, 303, 383 and 607 have been ordered to return. If these boats require to refuel this can be done in BD 51 from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). The remaining boats will stay in the sea area around Newfoundland and occupy the following attack areas: U 358 : AJ 87, U 186 : AJ 88, U 223 : BC 21, U 403 : BC 22, U 707 : BC 25. The Group will be called "Taifun".

At present there is no information as to what convoy routes are being used and several radio intelligence (X) reports show that the enemy is dispersed over the whole N. Atlantic and several patrol lines are being formed to pick up the convoys.

In addition to Group "Ritter", which proceeded as reconnaissance line from AK 3784 to AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, day's run 60 miles, U 759, 405, 448, 638, 359, 135, 608, 376, 566 and 659 have been ordered to form a new reconnaissance line from AD 3718 to AK 3497 at 2000/18/2, course 235°, day's run 100 miles. These boats will form Group "Neptun". U 659 will not take up her position until 19 or 20/2, as she is too far away. These 2 lines overlap and should rake an area of about 450 miles. The disposition has the further advantage that it is unlikely to be detected by enemy aircraft.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) has delivered a METOX set to U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke).

The rendezvous of U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) and U 108 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in CF 5275 will have to be transferred to CF 5171 owing to strong air activity in the former area.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 15 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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American forces in Tunisia launch a counterattack at Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. Though achieving some results, the Americans suffer heavy casualties and loose 46 medium tanks.

U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) sank "Atlantic Sun", 11,355 GRT in BC 5163, course 220°, 16 knots. According to statements made by prisoner (Ordinary Seaman William Golobich) the ship belonged to a convoy which it lost a few nights earlier in the fog. Presumably this was an extra-scheduled fast convoy.

U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte) encountered spasmodic traffic off Capetown, partly strongly escorted, leaving and entering the harbor on the 100 meter line. No night air activity. Good cooperation between land-based radar and sea patrol. Boat sank a 5,000 GRT ship on 10.2 in GR 6844.
According to an agent's report an American convoy of 27 steamers is said to be leaving Capetown for Australia on 15.2.

Following the new disposition of Group "Rochen": U 437, 410, 445, 382, 511, 569, 107 and 103 are being formed into Group "Robbe". They have been ordered to be in reconnaissance line at 1200/17/2 from CF 1671 to CF 4575, course 290°, day's run 140 miles.

Except for 5, all the Group "Haudegen" boats must now have less than 30 cbm fuel. This means that they could not operate even if a convoy is intercepted. Group "Haudegen" is therefore being dissolved. U 606, 69, 201, 226, 525, 303, 383 and 607 have been ordered to return. If these boats require to refuel this can be done in BD 51 from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). The remaining boats will stay in the sea area around Newfoundland and occupy the following attack areas: U 358 : AJ 87, U 186 : AJ 88, U 223 : BC 21, U 403 : BC 22, U 707 : BC 25. The Group will be called "Taifun".

At present there is no information as to what convoy routes are being used and several radio intelligence (X) reports show that the enemy is dispersed over the whole N. Atlantic and several patrol lines are being formed to pick up the convoys.

In addition to Group "Ritter", which proceeded as reconnaissance line from AK 3784 to AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, day's run 60 miles, U 759, 405, 448, 638, 359, 135, 608, 376, 566 and 659 have been ordered to form a new reconnaissance line from AD 3718 to AK 3497 at 2000/18/2, course 235°, day's run 100 miles. These boats will form Group "Neptun". U 659 will not take up her position until 19 or 20/2, as she is too far away. These 2 lines overlap and should rake an area of about 450 miles. The disposition has the further advantage that it is unlikely to be detected by enemy aircraft.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) has delivered a METOX set to U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke).

The rendezvous of U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) and U 108 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in CF 5275 will have to be transferred to CF 5171 owing to strong air activity in the former area.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 16 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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USAAF heavy bombers attack the U-Boat pens at Saint-Nazaire.

Norwegian commandos parachute into Norway, meeting up with the reconnaissance party near Telemark.

Soviet forces recapture Kharkov, Ukraine.

Our forces capture Sidi Bouzid and Sbeitla, Tunisia. The British 8th Army enter Tunisia, spearheaded by the 7th Armoured Division.

According to special intercept message HX No. 226 was in BC 1176 at 2000 on the 14th February. In view of this special intercept message, Group "Ritter" has orders to proceed to the N.W. and at 2200 on the 17th February to take up patrol line, with U 454, from AK 1677 to AK 5646. According to dead reckoning, the convoy could pass the patrol line at the earliest during the course of the night. If no contact is established by 1100 on the 18th February, the boats are to proceed, as reconnaissance patrol, with course 235° and daily run 80 miles. The extent of the patrol line corresponds approximately to the courses of HX convoys previously intercepted.

In order to ensure a better watch by hydrophone etc. during the night, Group "Rochen" is to remain stationary at 2100 in a patrol line already reached from CE 8156 to DG 1959, proceeding as from 0930 on the 17th February with course 285°, daily run 150 miles.

After refueling U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) and U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) on the 15th February, "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) is to proceed to BD 52 as the next supply rendezvous.

After return of U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) the reports of the Commanding Officer will be communicated to boats U 156 (Korvkpt. Werner Hartenstein and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) now operating in the Trinidad area.

Dr. Mildred Harnack-Fish, a member of German resistance, is beheaded at Plötzensee Prison near Charlottenburg, Berlin.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 16 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++


USAAF heavy bombers attack the U-Boat pens at Saint-Nazaire.

Norwegian commandos parachute into Norway, meeting up with the reconnaissance party near Telemark.

Soviet forces recapture Kharkov, Ukraine.

Our forces capture Sidi Bouzid and Sbeitla, Tunisia. The British 8th Army enter Tunisia, spearheaded by the 7th Armoured Division.

According to special intercept message HX No. 226 was in BC 1176 at 2000 on the 14th February. In view of this special intercept message, Group "Ritter" has orders to proceed to the N.W. and at 2200 on the 17th February to take up patrol line, with U 454, from AK 1677 to AK 5646. According to dead reckoning, the convoy could pass the patrol line at the earliest during the course of the night. If no contact is established by 1100 on the 18th February, the boats are to proceed, as reconnaissance patrol, with course 235° and daily run 80 miles. The extent of the patrol line corresponds approximately to the courses of HX convoys previously intercepted.

In order to ensure a better watch by hydrophone etc. during the night, Group "Rochen" is to remain stationary at 2100 in a patrol line already reached from CE 8156 to DG 1959, proceeding as from 0930 on the 17th February with course 285°, daily run 150 miles.

After refueling U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) and U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) on the 15th February, "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) is to proceed to BD 52 as the next supply rendezvous.

After return of U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) the reports of the Commanding Officer will be communicated to boats U 156 (Korvkpt. Werner Hartenstein and U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) now operating in the Trinidad area.

Dr. Mildred Harnack-Fish, a member of German resistance, is beheaded at Plötzensee Prison near Charlottenburg, Berlin.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 17 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Führer arrives at the headquarters of Army Group South in Russia.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder becomes AOC-in-C Mediterranean Air Command with responsibility for all air operations.

American forces east of Kasserine Pass, Tunisia, retreat into the pass.

U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) reported a steamer sighted by two destroyers in BD 4112, course 200°. Contact lost owing to poor visibility (2 miles).

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted for a short time in BC 3899 vessel with course 215°, speed 15 knots, fog.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
On the return passage U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. Jost Metzler, "The Laughing Cow") sighted a convoy with course 225° in AJ 9982. Since the convoy was about 500 miles from the coast so that there was sufficient area for operations, Group "Taifun" as well as the returning "Haudegen" boats received orders to attack the convoy as far as fuel supplies permitted. Since all the boats were comparatively low (in fuel) refueling facilities were provided in BD 42 (by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). The convoy consisted of 20 steamers proceeding in open formation without remote escort. Position at 1701 was AJ 9988, course 215°, speed 9 knots. U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex Adalbert Schnee) made contact also at 2000 and reported last at 2207 from BC 3136 then both boats lost contact. U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) must have been quite near as she requested D/F signal but she also did not sight the convoy. In order to reestablish the convoy by conducted action (search sectors etc.) all boats were instructed to give their positions. The reports of positions were so irregular that the plan could not be carried out. U 201 - U 69 and U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) have not reported up to now. The operation is being continued.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) is to proceed to BD 42 to supply the "Haudegen" boats, contrary to previous order.

Convoy Report U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider):
The above boat sighted at 0836 in CF 5872 a small convoy of 5 steamers and 3 escorts, course 1500, speed 12 knots. Action by Group "ROBBE" was impossible because of insufficient speed superiority. The boats would only have reached the convoy in an area where air cover was strong and continuous. U 522 herself had only 17 cbm of fuel left.
She was ordered to continue pursuit as long as possible with this. With visibility variable contact was lost towards 1600. U 522 suspected zig on to course 90° and proceeded in this direction, however, without finding the convoy again. The last hydrophone fix was at 2000 from CF 9177 in direction 110°. Towards 0500 the operation was broken off in CF 9567, fuel being at 7 cbm. No sinkings.

All groups were ordered, so as to avoid location of the patrol line by enemy aircraft, to man their radar interception service as far as possible and in case enemy aircraft were sighted, to dive at once and remain submerged for about 30 minutes.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 17 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Führer arrives at the headquarters of Army Group South in Russia.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder becomes AOC-in-C Mediterranean Air Command with responsibility for all air operations.

American forces east of Kasserine Pass, Tunisia, retreat into the pass.

U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) reported a steamer sighted by two destroyers in BD 4112, course 200°. Contact lost owing to poor visibility (2 miles).

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted for a short time in BC 3899 vessel with course 215°, speed 15 knots, fog.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
On the return passage U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. Jost Metzler, "The Laughing Cow") sighted a convoy with course 225° in AJ 9982. Since the convoy was about 500 miles from the coast so that there was sufficient area for operations, Group "Taifun" as well as the returning "Haudegen" boats received orders to attack the convoy as far as fuel supplies permitted. Since all the boats were comparatively low (in fuel) refueling facilities were provided in BD 42 (by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). The convoy consisted of 20 steamers proceeding in open formation without remote escort. Position at 1701 was AJ 9988, course 215°, speed 9 knots. U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex Adalbert Schnee) made contact also at 2000 and reported last at 2207 from BC 3136 then both boats lost contact. U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) must have been quite near as she requested D/F signal but she also did not sight the convoy. In order to reestablish the convoy by conducted action (search sectors etc.) all boats were instructed to give their positions. The reports of positions were so irregular that the plan could not be carried out. U 201 - U 69 and U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) have not reported up to now. The operation is being continued.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) is to proceed to BD 42 to supply the "Haudegen" boats, contrary to previous order.

Convoy Report U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider):
The above boat sighted at 0836 in CF 5872 a small convoy of 5 steamers and 3 escorts, course 1500, speed 12 knots. Action by Group "ROBBE" was impossible because of insufficient speed superiority. The boats would only have reached the convoy in an area where air cover was strong and continuous. U 522 herself had only 17 cbm of fuel left.
She was ordered to continue pursuit as long as possible with this. With visibility variable contact was lost towards 1600. U 522 suspected zig on to course 90° and proceeded in this direction, however, without finding the convoy again. The last hydrophone fix was at 2000 from CF 9177 in direction 110°. Towards 0500 the operation was broken off in CF 9567, fuel being at 7 cbm. No sinkings.

All groups were ordered, so as to avoid location of the patrol line by enemy aircraft, to man their radar interception service as far as possible and in case enemy aircraft were sighted, to dive at once and remain submerged for about 30 minutes.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 18 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The construction for a large electromagnetic separation plant for enriching uranium, codenamed Y-12, begin construction at Manhattan Project's Oak Ridge site in Tennessee.

During a test flight from Renton near Seattle, a serious engine fire develops in the second XB-29 prototype aircraft. Test pilot Eddie Allen tries desperately to get back to the airfield but the huge bomber crashes into a packing plant killing the entire crew and a number of civilian workers in the building.

Down to only 13 flyable P-40 fighters, USAAF 33rd Fighter Group is withdrawn from Telepte Airfield in Tunisia.

Erwin Rommel submits a plan to Albert Kesselring and the Italian High Command for attacking the Americans guarding the Tunisian-Algerian border.

The Light Cruiser 'Jean de Vienne' is raised at Toulon, France and pressed into Italian Navy service under the new name FR.11.

U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) situation: Up to 13th nothing found in vicinity of Capetown. Likewise in southern sector of operational area no traffic.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) will have freedom of action in the whole Capetown area up to and including KP.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
The weather situation was particularly unfavorable for operations in the area of the convoy on 18th February. At midday southwest wind 9 with slight visibility, after passing storm depression. At 1716 U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) again contacted the convoy in BC 3473. The boats reported continuous contact until the next morning. According to dead reckoning, the enemy was proceeding at less than 5 knots with westerly course. In addition to this boat U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) reported at 0257 on the morning of 19th February contacting the convoy in BC 3794. Since this report differed by 70 miles from the reports of U 403, it is assumed that the boats have very great deviations in fix, which is possible in view of the unfavorable current conditions in this area owing to the meeting of the Gulf Stream and Labrador Current. No further boats encountered the convoy. U 403 reported in BC 2676 an 8,000 ton steamer sunk. U 383, 226, 303, 403 and 607 had to break off operations owing to shortage of fuel. Operations against the convoy were continued with boats U 525, 186, 223, 358 and 707. Position of the convoy at 0953 on the 19th February was BC 2674.

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) will rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) in CF 8155 for refueling, thereafter making for: U 461 - DG 23, U 522 CE 92.

U 108 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) supplied U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) with fuel.

Refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor): U 89 (Kptlt. Dietrich Lohmann) on the 16th February, U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) on the 17th February. Tanker capacity 364 cbm provisions for 93 days.

At the Berlin Sport Palace, Goebbels announces the implementation of total war in Germany, bringing women into the industrial war effort.

The Gestapo arrest Hans Scholl and his sister Sophie, members of the "White Rose", for opposing the Nazi German regime. They will be tried for treason by Judge Roland Freisler, found guilty, and executed in Stadelheim Prison in Munich as traitors on 22 Feb 1943.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 18 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The construction for a large electromagnetic separation plant for enriching uranium, codenamed Y-12, begin construction at Manhattan Project's Oak Ridge site in Tennessee.

During a test flight from Renton near Seattle, a serious engine fire develops in the second XB-29 prototype aircraft. Test pilot Eddie Allen tries desperately to get back to the airfield but the huge bomber crashes into a packing plant killing the entire crew and a number of civilian workers in the building.

Down to only 13 flyable P-40 fighters, USAAF 33rd Fighter Group is withdrawn from Telepte Airfield in Tunisia.

Erwin Rommel submits a plan to Albert Kesselring and the Italian High Command for attacking the Americans guarding the Tunisian-Algerian border.

The Light Cruiser 'Jean de Vienne' is raised at Toulon, France and pressed into Italian Navy service under the new name FR.11.

U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) situation: Up to 13th nothing found in vicinity of Capetown. Likewise in southern sector of operational area no traffic.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) will have freedom of action in the whole Capetown area up to and including KP.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
The weather situation was particularly unfavorable for operations in the area of the convoy on 18th February. At midday southwest wind 9 with slight visibility, after passing storm depression. At 1716 U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) again contacted the convoy in BC 3473. The boats reported continuous contact until the next morning. According to dead reckoning, the enemy was proceeding at less than 5 knots with westerly course. In addition to this boat U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) reported at 0257 on the morning of 19th February contacting the convoy in BC 3794. Since this report differed by 70 miles from the reports of U 403, it is assumed that the boats have very great deviations in fix, which is possible in view of the unfavorable current conditions in this area owing to the meeting of the Gulf Stream and Labrador Current. No further boats encountered the convoy. U 403 reported in BC 2676 an 8,000 ton steamer sunk. U 383, 226, 303, 403 and 607 had to break off operations owing to shortage of fuel. Operations against the convoy were continued with boats U 525, 186, 223, 358 and 707. Position of the convoy at 0953 on the 19th February was BC 2674.

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) will rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) in CF 8155 for refueling, thereafter making for: U 461 - DG 23, U 522 CE 92.

U 108 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) supplied U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) with fuel.

Refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor): U 89 (Kptlt. Dietrich Lohmann) on the 16th February, U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) on the 17th February. Tanker capacity 364 cbm provisions for 93 days.

At the Berlin Sport Palace, Goebbels announces the implementation of total war in Germany, bringing women into the industrial war effort.

The Gestapo arrest Hans Scholl and his sister Sophie, members of the "White Rose", for opposing the Nazi German regime. They will be tried for treason by Judge Roland Freisler, found guilty, and executed in Stadelheim Prison in Munich as traitors on 22 Feb 1943.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 19 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Führer departs the headquarters of Army Group South, which begins a counteroffensive toward Kharkov, Ukraine and Belgorod, Russia.

Rommel launches a surprise counter-attack at Kasserine Pass, Tunisia, overwhelming the fresh but inexperienced Americans.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) has been in the Cape Town area for 14 days. She sank the English steamer "Blanashe" 4,836 GRT, on the 17th February in KZ 42, course 285°. No other traffic observed the whole time.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
On the 19th also the weather situation was extremely unfavorable in the convoy area. Wind was S.E. 7 at midday, with low visibility from 2 - 3 miles. In the afternoon at 1554 U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) again contacted the convoy. The boat reported up to 5 steamers in BC 2939. According to two later reports of contact it was not 2938 but 2638. U 525 reported at 1950 for the last time the enemy in BC 2652 course 240 speed 4 knots. At the same time the boat fired a three-fan torpedo which missed.
U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) reported two destroyers at 1730 in BC 2595 with course N.E. convoy suspected there. Further reports on the convoy have not been received. Owing to fuel shortage of the boats the operation against the convoy was broken off at dawn on the morning of the 20th.
U 525 reported having sunk a single vessel of 6,000 GRT at 0508. This was probably a steamer separated from the convoy, since it was assumed that the convoy could not keep together owing to the continuously bad weather situation.
For this reason the boats were to patrol the area astern the convoy again in daylight, on the way to the supply rendezvous, in order to search out further solitary vessels.
Final Survey of Convoy No. 9:
The operation on the convoy was begun with 12 boats of which half were very low in fuel from the start and not able to carry out a long operation. The area was also unfavorable, in which the convoy was detected. The boats only had a small area for operations.
The bad conditions of weather and current in this area did not permit a successful operation. In spite of the fact that there was continuous contact with the convoy by U 525 from the afternoon of the 18th up to the morning of the 19th at 1000, it was not possible to bring up more boats. The reasons were the facilities lacking for fixes by the boats on account of low visibility and a continual heavy sea in an area where unfavorable current conditions must result in great deviation in fixes of the boats. The operation was being carried on in that area in which the Gulf Stream and Labrador Stream meet and, therefore, result in inestimable current conditions. The only possible means of counteracting these differences in fixes, i.e. by sending out beacon signals, was not successful although U 525 continually sent out signals from the convoy location. The signals were probably either not heard or only faintly heard by the other boats on account of the rough weather.
Sunk: 2 ships from this convoy, together 14,000 GRT.
Out of the 12 boats of this Group, 5 boats were up to the convoy. Two boats attacked the convoy, one boat hit a single vessel separated from the convoy.
U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex U-Schnee) and U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. U-Metzler, "The Laughing Cow") which were both up to the convoy at the beginning of the operation, have not reported any more since then. They may be assumed lost. No damage by enemy action was reported by the boats.

U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). Tanker will be ready for supplying Group "Taifun" in BC 42 on 21st February at 1100.

U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) was due to come into Brest on the morning of the 19th February. Boat has not yet arrived; orders to report on position not yet answered. In view of report on sighting by British aircraft from BF 5462 an attack is presumed, sub-chasers sent out to search, air force intends to send out 2 airplanes. No result yet.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Friday, 19 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Führer departs the headquarters of Army Group South, which begins a counteroffensive toward Kharkov, Ukraine and Belgorod, Russia.

Rommel launches a surprise counter-attack at Kasserine Pass, Tunisia, overwhelming the fresh but inexperienced Americans.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) has been in the Cape Town area for 14 days. She sank the English steamer "Blanashe" 4,836 GRT, on the 17th February in KZ 42, course 285°. No other traffic observed the whole time.

Convoy No. 9 (ON.165):
On the 19th also the weather situation was extremely unfavorable in the convoy area. Wind was S.E. 7 at midday, with low visibility from 2 - 3 miles. In the afternoon at 1554 U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) again contacted the convoy. The boat reported up to 5 steamers in BC 2939. According to two later reports of contact it was not 2938 but 2638. U 525 reported at 1950 for the last time the enemy in BC 2652 course 240 speed 4 knots. At the same time the boat fired a three-fan torpedo which missed.
U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) reported two destroyers at 1730 in BC 2595 with course N.E. convoy suspected there. Further reports on the convoy have not been received. Owing to fuel shortage of the boats the operation against the convoy was broken off at dawn on the morning of the 20th.
U 525 reported having sunk a single vessel of 6,000 GRT at 0508. This was probably a steamer separated from the convoy, since it was assumed that the convoy could not keep together owing to the continuously bad weather situation.
For this reason the boats were to patrol the area astern the convoy again in daylight, on the way to the supply rendezvous, in order to search out further solitary vessels.
Final Survey of Convoy No. 9:
The operation on the convoy was begun with 12 boats of which half were very low in fuel from the start and not able to carry out a long operation. The area was also unfavorable, in which the convoy was detected. The boats only had a small area for operations.
The bad conditions of weather and current in this area did not permit a successful operation. In spite of the fact that there was continuous contact with the convoy by U 525 from the afternoon of the 18th up to the morning of the 19th at 1000, it was not possible to bring up more boats. The reasons were the facilities lacking for fixes by the boats on account of low visibility and a continual heavy sea in an area where unfavorable current conditions must result in great deviation in fixes of the boats. The operation was being carried on in that area in which the Gulf Stream and Labrador Stream meet and, therefore, result in inestimable current conditions. The only possible means of counteracting these differences in fixes, i.e. by sending out beacon signals, was not successful although U 525 continually sent out signals from the convoy location. The signals were probably either not heard or only faintly heard by the other boats on account of the rough weather.
Sunk: 2 ships from this convoy, together 14,000 GRT.
Out of the 12 boats of this Group, 5 boats were up to the convoy. Two boats attacked the convoy, one boat hit a single vessel separated from the convoy.
U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex U-Schnee) and U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. U-Metzler, "The Laughing Cow") which were both up to the convoy at the beginning of the operation, have not reported any more since then. They may be assumed lost. No damage by enemy action was reported by the boats.

U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). Tanker will be ready for supplying Group "Taifun" in BC 42 on 21st February at 1100.

U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) was due to come into Brest on the morning of the 19th February. Boat has not yet arrived; orders to report on position not yet answered. In view of report on sighting by British aircraft from BF 5462 an attack is presumed, sub-chasers sent out to search, air force intends to send out 2 airplanes. No result yet.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Saturday, 20 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Admiral Kurt Fricke steps down as the Chief of the Department of Naval Operations at the Navy High Command. On 21 March, he will be made the commanding officer of Naval Group Command South.

German and Italian troops defeat American troops at Kasserine Pass in Tunisia, making the first use of their new 15 cm Nebelwerfer 41 rocket launcher; the force attacking Sbiba Pass, is met with stronger resistance.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) sank the American tanker "Deer Lodge" 6,187 GRT course 60°, on the 17th February in KZ 4113. The boat had been patrolling from the 10 - 17 February in KY 6263 - 6566 and KZ 4110 and sighted 3 ships in all. No increased or regular east-west traffic observed.

Situation U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann): Has been in the operational area off the Brazilian coast for 8 days. Only single escorted and unescorted vessels sighted along the 200 m. line. Neutral traffic continuing. Modern freighter of 8,000 GRT course 220° speed 13 knots sunk on the 18th February in FJ 8577. Air cover in the area strong, continual in some parts. After the sinking, location of aircraft by night.

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) reported a convoy of over 20 steamers at 2318 in BE 98 course 150°. Since there were no boats in the vicinity U 106 had freedom of action. She was however, forced to dive, owing apparently to the strong defence of the convoy, and lost contact.

U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) dived in DG 1487 in view of single corvette with mean course 50°. Since this was possibly an escort vessel and, in this case, there might be other ships in the vicinity U 504 received orders to pursue. The remaining boats of Group "Rochen" excluding U 258 and 264 proceeded immediately on course 120°, speed 7 knots. No further reports received.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
On the 20th February, 1055, U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) reported a hydrophone fix, wide spread. So that it was assumed that this was the expected S.W. bound convoy. When, an hour later, the boat reported a steamer with 3 corvettes it was safe to order further boats to operate against the convoy. Operational orders were given to U 600, 91, 92, 603, 454, 332, 753, 621, 623, 628, 653, 225, 377 and 468 16 boats in all, therefore. At 1347 U 604 reported the convoy in AK 9618. She maintained contact, with two short intervals, until 0324 on the 21st February. She was forced off by destroyers and was depth-charged. The convoy was again reported by U 332 (Oblt. Eberhard Hüttemann), according to hydrophone fix, to be in BD 3172 at 0740.
The convoy then proceeded on an initial south-westerly course and later on a straight southerly course and, according to dead reckoning, had a speed of almost 8 knots, which indicates an ON convoy. 16-20 steamers were reported by U 604.
On the 20th February no further boats approached the convoy in spite of continuous contact by U 604, probably on account of the fog by day and constantly changing visibility at night.
The operation on the convoy is continuing with Groups "Ritter" and "Knappen".

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) refueled from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 211 (Kptlt. Karl Hause) was heavily bombed by aircraft in BE 1658 and is returning in view of reduced diving capacity.

There is no further news from U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann). The boat was not found by air units and sub-chasers and must be assumed lost.

U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex U-Schnee) and U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. U-Metzler, "The Laughing Cow"), last reported on the evening of the 17th February near Convoy No. 9 (ON.165). The boats reported contacts from BC 3136 or BC 3252. Since there are no reports of aircraft, loss by action of escort units probable.

American movie studio executives agreed to allow the Office of War Information to censor movies.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Saturday, 20 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Admiral Kurt Fricke steps down as the Chief of the Department of Naval Operations at the Navy High Command. On 21 March, he will be made the commanding officer of Naval Group Command South.

German and Italian troops defeat American troops at Kasserine Pass in Tunisia, making the first use of their new 15 cm Nebelwerfer 41 rocket launcher; the force attacking Sbiba Pass, is met with stronger resistance.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) sank the American tanker "Deer Lodge" 6,187 GRT course 60°, on the 17th February in KZ 4113. The boat had been patrolling from the 10 - 17 February in KY 6263 - 6566 and KZ 4110 and sighted 3 ships in all. No increased or regular east-west traffic observed.

Situation U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann): Has been in the operational area off the Brazilian coast for 8 days. Only single escorted and unescorted vessels sighted along the 200 m. line. Neutral traffic continuing. Modern freighter of 8,000 GRT course 220° speed 13 knots sunk on the 18th February in FJ 8577. Air cover in the area strong, continual in some parts. After the sinking, location of aircraft by night.

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) reported a convoy of over 20 steamers at 2318 in BE 98 course 150°. Since there were no boats in the vicinity U 106 had freedom of action. She was however, forced to dive, owing apparently to the strong defence of the convoy, and lost contact.

U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) dived in DG 1487 in view of single corvette with mean course 50°. Since this was possibly an escort vessel and, in this case, there might be other ships in the vicinity U 504 received orders to pursue. The remaining boats of Group "Rochen" excluding U 258 and 264 proceeded immediately on course 120°, speed 7 knots. No further reports received.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
On the 20th February, 1055, U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) reported a hydrophone fix, wide spread. So that it was assumed that this was the expected S.W. bound convoy. When, an hour later, the boat reported a steamer with 3 corvettes it was safe to order further boats to operate against the convoy. Operational orders were given to U 600, 91, 92, 603, 454, 332, 753, 621, 623, 628, 653, 225, 377 and 468 16 boats in all, therefore. At 1347 U 604 reported the convoy in AK 9618. She maintained contact, with two short intervals, until 0324 on the 21st February. She was forced off by destroyers and was depth-charged. The convoy was again reported by U 332 (Oblt. Eberhard Hüttemann), according to hydrophone fix, to be in BD 3172 at 0740.
The convoy then proceeded on an initial south-westerly course and later on a straight southerly course and, according to dead reckoning, had a speed of almost 8 knots, which indicates an ON convoy. 16-20 steamers were reported by U 604.
On the 20th February no further boats approached the convoy in spite of continuous contact by U 604, probably on account of the fog by day and constantly changing visibility at night.
The operation on the convoy is continuing with Groups "Ritter" and "Knappen".

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) refueled from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 211 (Kptlt. Karl Hause) was heavily bombed by aircraft in BE 1658 and is returning in view of reduced diving capacity.

There is no further news from U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann). The boat was not found by air units and sub-chasers and must be assumed lost.

U 201 (Oblt. Günther Rosenberg; ex U-Schnee) and U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf; ex. U-Metzler, "The Laughing Cow"), last reported on the evening of the 17th February near Convoy No. 9 (ON.165). The boats reported contacts from BC 3136 or BC 3252. Since there are no reports of aircraft, loss by action of escort units probable.

American movie studio executives agreed to allow the Office of War Information to censor movies.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 21 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Red Army of the Soviet Union celebrates its 25th Birthday.

Axis troops push American troops back toward Thala, Tunisia and threaten to cross the Tunisian-Algerian border. To date, the Americans have lost 100 tanks, 55 heavy guns, and 80 trucks.

According to a report from the German Consul in Laurenco Marques, a convoy of 20 - 30 ships is to leave Capetown on its way to India on the 23rd February.

New objectives for U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) will be DH 96. Operation intended in that area. Latest report from Cape Jubi confirms assumption regarding future traffic; 9 ships were sighted northward bound.

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) was detected in the attack, in spite of minimum use of periscope, and subsequently pursued for a long time. Since there was no contact she proceeded on her outward passage.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 3. It moderated further during the course of the day and at 2300 there was dead calm in the area of the convoy. U 332 (Oblt. Eberhard Hüttemann) contacted a tanker in BD 3417 at 1100. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported a single vessel in ED 2633 probably the same one. At 1408 U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) then contacted the convoy again in BD 3457.
At 1610 she was again driven off. At 2050 U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) again detected the convoy and reported on it continuously until the next morning. At 0800 she was driven off in BD 3285. In addition to these two boats U 753 came up to the convoy in BD 2969 at 2000 but has ceased to report since then. U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) contacted the convoy at 2000 on the 21st February but was driven off by a flying boat and heavily depth-charged. She was forced to leave the convoy for repairs.
There have been four reports of aircraft from the boats, apparently only flying boats escorting the convoy.
The convoy proceeded on its south to south-easterly course up to the night of 21st then turned to course 250° towards midnight. Speed 8.3 knots according to data.

The operation on the convoy which was in BD 5285 at 0740 on the 22nd is being continued. U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) is not to operate against the convoy as it is too far away.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
At 1850 on the 21st, U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) sighted a convoy on a southward bound course in BE 1152. 4 boats in the vicinity, U 758 - 591 - 84 and 432 were sent into operation following this report. After taking on supplies U 409 further to the south, was also to operate against the convoy.
The convoy was reported by U 664 to consist of 10 steamers. Presumably this was the ONS convoy expected according to dead reckoning, which, however was not confirmed in view of the speed of 9 knots estimated. It might equally well be a small part of a convoy.
Contact with the convoy was maintained up to 2135 by U 664 which reported continuously. At 0337 on the 22nd February U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) the next boat in line, then contacted the convoy and reported it for the last time at 0510 as being in BD 3654.

The operation on the convoy, which was in BD 3568 at 0945 on a S.W. course, is being continued. It is important for control purposes that contact be maintained with the convoy in order that further boats from the Höltring convoy (No. 10; ON.166) may be sent later to operate against it.

U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) supplied U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) with spare parts.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) refueled U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) and U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine; both will operate on Convoy No. 10 (ON.166); U-Schnoor also, reported an enemy U-boat in BD 42; Rendezvous of supply Group "Schnoor" will be therefore, be moved to BD 4595.

The patrol lines of Group "Rochen" will be broken up. The boats will refuel as from 23 February "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) in DG 3155.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Sunday, 21 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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The Red Army of the Soviet Union celebrates its 25th Birthday.

Axis troops push American troops back toward Thala, Tunisia and threaten to cross the Tunisian-Algerian border. To date, the Americans have lost 100 tanks, 55 heavy guns, and 80 trucks.

According to a report from the German Consul in Laurenco Marques, a convoy of 20 - 30 ships is to leave Capetown on its way to India on the 23rd February.

New objectives for U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) will be DH 96. Operation intended in that area. Latest report from Cape Jubi confirms assumption regarding future traffic; 9 ships were sighted northward bound.

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) was detected in the attack, in spite of minimum use of periscope, and subsequently pursued for a long time. Since there was no contact she proceeded on her outward passage.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 3. It moderated further during the course of the day and at 2300 there was dead calm in the area of the convoy. U 332 (Oblt. Eberhard Hüttemann) contacted a tanker in BD 3417 at 1100. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported a single vessel in ED 2633 probably the same one. At 1408 U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) then contacted the convoy again in BD 3457.
At 1610 she was again driven off. At 2050 U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) again detected the convoy and reported on it continuously until the next morning. At 0800 she was driven off in BD 3285. In addition to these two boats U 753 came up to the convoy in BD 2969 at 2000 but has ceased to report since then. U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) contacted the convoy at 2000 on the 21st February but was driven off by a flying boat and heavily depth-charged. She was forced to leave the convoy for repairs.
There have been four reports of aircraft from the boats, apparently only flying boats escorting the convoy.
The convoy proceeded on its south to south-easterly course up to the night of 21st then turned to course 250° towards midnight. Speed 8.3 knots according to data.

The operation on the convoy which was in BD 5285 at 0740 on the 22nd is being continued. U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) is not to operate against the convoy as it is too far away.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
At 1850 on the 21st, U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) sighted a convoy on a southward bound course in BE 1152. 4 boats in the vicinity, U 758 - 591 - 84 and 432 were sent into operation following this report. After taking on supplies U 409 further to the south, was also to operate against the convoy.
The convoy was reported by U 664 to consist of 10 steamers. Presumably this was the ONS convoy expected according to dead reckoning, which, however was not confirmed in view of the speed of 9 knots estimated. It might equally well be a small part of a convoy.
Contact with the convoy was maintained up to 2135 by U 664 which reported continuously. At 0337 on the 22nd February U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) the next boat in line, then contacted the convoy and reported it for the last time at 0510 as being in BD 3654.

The operation on the convoy, which was in BD 3568 at 0945 on a S.W. course, is being continued. It is important for control purposes that contact be maintained with the convoy in order that further boats from the Höltring convoy (No. 10; ON.166) may be sent later to operate against it.

U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) supplied U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) with spare parts.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) refueled U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) and U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine; both will operate on Convoy No. 10 (ON.166); U-Schnoor also, reported an enemy U-boat in BD 42; Rendezvous of supply Group "Schnoor" will be therefore, be moved to BD 4595.

The patrol lines of Group "Rochen" will be broken up. The boats will refuel as from 23 February "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) in DG 3155.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 22 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Winston Churchill is said to be "on the mend" after a severe fever.

Air Marshall Sir Arthur Harris is appointed chief of RAF Bomber Command with a new remit: attempting to hit specific military and industrial targets is, in the main, to be abandoned in favour of the most densely built-up areas of German cities. The area bombing directive essentially says that if the RAF cannot destroy the factories it should destroy the homes and the morale of the workforce.

German Armeegruppe Mitte launches an offensive between the Dneiper and Donets Rivers in southern Russia.

Allied troops pre-emptively strike the Axis attacking forces near Thala, Tunisia.

Enemy reports torpedoing of a destroyer in the vicinity of Cape Spartel indicates a new sinking through the mines laid by U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), since no German boat was operating in this area at the time.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 4, sea 3 and variable visibility at midday on the 22nd February. Towards evening wind was S.W. 7.
The contact with the convoy was not broken. At 1025 U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) detected the convoy again in BD 5551. U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) also contacted it at 1035 and U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) at 1601 in BD 5458. In the course of the night U 92, 358, 223 and 186 also came up to the convoy. At 0738 U 628 reported it in BD 4564. According to the reports of the boats it was proceeding at 8 knots and maintaining its mean course of 250 - 260°.
Few reports were received regarding enemy escort. No air cover at all was reported. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported having been depth-charged, one Diesel being out of action for 20 hours and main periscope and stern tube being faulty. She received orders to operate against the subsequent Graef convoy after repairs. 5 boats reported being driven off by destroyers. The operation on the convoy is being continued. 5 boats from the supply group will also operate against the convoy, i.e. U 358, 707, 223, 186 and 403.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
Last contact report came from U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef): 0945 enemy in BD 3568. No further contact.
Boats operating in this area will form Group "Sturmbock". Operational orders, course 230 - 250°, enemy speed 7 - 9 knots. Indications of convoy route: U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) reported at 0128 on 23rd single destroyer BD 6116, 236°, speed slow. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported at 0510 destroyer in BD 5238, no hydrophone fix. According to this the convoy is following Convoy No. 11.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1):
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) reported at 1413 convoy in DH 1165. The following were sent into operation Group "Rochen" including U 66, 521, 43, 218, 504, 558, 87 and 202. In addition U 107, 382, 569 of Group "Robbe". U 522 reported continuous contact until 2016. Mean course of the convoy 235°, speed 10 knots. After losing contact the boats were ordered to search in the sector from 280 - 230°, 2 boats each in a 10° sector, one boat at enemy speed 11 knots, the other 9 knots. U 107 (Kptlt. Harald Gelhaus) broke off operations as she was too far away. U 522 freedom of action. At 0740 U 522 again contacted the convoy in DG 6239. Group "Rochen" was sent in.

Rendezvous of supply Group "Schnoor" ("Milkcow" U 460; Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will be revised to BD 4355 in view of the direct westerly course of the convoy. The boats there are ordered to operate against Convoy No. 10 or, if refueling later, against Convoy No. 11. Further refueling is permitted. For this reason U 462 (U-tanker; Oblt. Bruno Vowe) is ordered to proceed to BD 81 at high speed.

Since Group "Rochen" has been ordered to operate against Convoy No. 12, refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) has been temporarily suspended. U 461 will, therefore, arrive at 1600 on the 23rd February in CF 7355 with U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) to carry out refueling and to supply a Radar intercept antenna. Subsequently U 461 will proceed at slow speed behind the convoy, U 511 will cover the operational area ordered off Gibraltar.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) and U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) have not replied in spite of repeated orders to report. U 442 last reported on the 9th February a destroyer in CG 4861 and U 620 on the 12th February two destroyers in CF 9266. Both boats had been ordered to return, but up to now have not arrived in their port of destination. They were probably lost on operations on the south-bound Gibraltar convoy, sighted by U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) on the 12th or 13 February in area CG 40. On the night of the 13th February several U-boats were attacked by aircraft (British Intelligence reports).

Hans Scholl and his sister Sophie, members of the White Rose, are executed in Stadelheim Prison in Munich.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Monday, 22 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Winston Churchill is said to be "on the mend" after a severe fever.

Air Marshall Sir Arthur Harris is appointed chief of RAF Bomber Command with a new remit: attempting to hit specific military and industrial targets is, in the main, to be abandoned in favour of the most densely built-up areas of German cities. The area bombing directive essentially says that if the RAF cannot destroy the factories it should destroy the homes and the morale of the workforce.

German Armeegruppe Mitte launches an offensive between the Dneiper and Donets Rivers in southern Russia.

Allied troops pre-emptively strike the Axis attacking forces near Thala, Tunisia.

Enemy reports torpedoing of a destroyer in the vicinity of Cape Spartel indicates a new sinking through the mines laid by U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), since no German boat was operating in this area at the time.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 4, sea 3 and variable visibility at midday on the 22nd February. Towards evening wind was S.W. 7.
The contact with the convoy was not broken. At 1025 U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) detected the convoy again in BD 5551. U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) also contacted it at 1035 and U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) at 1601 in BD 5458. In the course of the night U 92, 358, 223 and 186 also came up to the convoy. At 0738 U 628 reported it in BD 4564. According to the reports of the boats it was proceeding at 8 knots and maintaining its mean course of 250 - 260°.
Few reports were received regarding enemy escort. No air cover at all was reported. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported having been depth-charged, one Diesel being out of action for 20 hours and main periscope and stern tube being faulty. She received orders to operate against the subsequent Graef convoy after repairs. 5 boats reported being driven off by destroyers. The operation on the convoy is being continued. 5 boats from the supply group will also operate against the convoy, i.e. U 358, 707, 223, 186 and 403.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
Last contact report came from U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef): 0945 enemy in BD 3568. No further contact.
Boats operating in this area will form Group "Sturmbock". Operational orders, course 230 - 250°, enemy speed 7 - 9 knots. Indications of convoy route: U 403 (Kptlt. Heinz-Ehlert Clausen) reported at 0128 on 23rd single destroyer BD 6116, 236°, speed slow. U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) reported at 0510 destroyer in BD 5238, no hydrophone fix. According to this the convoy is following Convoy No. 11.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1):
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) reported at 1413 convoy in DH 1165. The following were sent into operation Group "Rochen" including U 66, 521, 43, 218, 504, 558, 87 and 202. In addition U 107, 382, 569 of Group "Robbe". U 522 reported continuous contact until 2016. Mean course of the convoy 235°, speed 10 knots. After losing contact the boats were ordered to search in the sector from 280 - 230°, 2 boats each in a 10° sector, one boat at enemy speed 11 knots, the other 9 knots. U 107 (Kptlt. Harald Gelhaus) broke off operations as she was too far away. U 522 freedom of action. At 0740 U 522 again contacted the convoy in DG 6239. Group "Rochen" was sent in.

Rendezvous of supply Group "Schnoor" ("Milkcow" U 460; Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will be revised to BD 4355 in view of the direct westerly course of the convoy. The boats there are ordered to operate against Convoy No. 10 or, if refueling later, against Convoy No. 11. Further refueling is permitted. For this reason U 462 (U-tanker; Oblt. Bruno Vowe) is ordered to proceed to BD 81 at high speed.

Since Group "Rochen" has been ordered to operate against Convoy No. 12, refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) has been temporarily suspended. U 461 will, therefore, arrive at 1600 on the 23rd February in CF 7355 with U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) to carry out refueling and to supply a Radar intercept antenna. Subsequently U 461 will proceed at slow speed behind the convoy, U 511 will cover the operational area ordered off Gibraltar.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) and U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) have not replied in spite of repeated orders to report. U 442 last reported on the 9th February a destroyer in CG 4861 and U 620 on the 12th February two destroyers in CF 9266. Both boats had been ordered to return, but up to now have not arrived in their port of destination. They were probably lost on operations on the south-bound Gibraltar convoy, sighted by U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) on the 12th or 13 February in area CG 40. On the night of the 13th February several U-boats were attacked by aircraft (British Intelligence reports).

Hans Scholl and his sister Sophie, members of the White Rose, are executed in Stadelheim Prison in Munich.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 23 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Erwin Rommel orderes his forces in western Tunisia to move east to avoid being attacked on both sides.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 2, sea 3 on the 23rd February midday. Towards evening it freshened to west south west 5, sea 4. At 1030 U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) contacted the convoy and reported it continuously until 0110 on the 24th. Besides this boat the following also approached the convoy, U 621, 358, 653, 468, 92, 600 and 628. On the morning of the 24th U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) reported the convoy in BC 9361.
According to data, the convoy had maintained its mean course of 250° until 0200 on the 24th. According to the latest report of U 628 it was proceeding at 8 knots.
There was no air cover with the convoy on the 23rd. 4 boats reported being depth-charged, U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) with serious damage, so that the boats had to turn back. U 303, 223, 186 and 358 also broke off the operation in order to refuel.
The operation against the convoy is being continued.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
No contact.
According to aircraft locations, the convoy is about in the same latitude. A patrol line has been ordered from BC 3995 to BD 4755.
In operation: U 758, 664, 591, 84, 432, 409, 753, 332, 383, 226, 607.
The location reports received from the boats show that the majority are probably already behind the convoy.
The convoy is awaited towards 1800 on the 25th February in the area of the patrol line.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1):
Contact constantly by U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider), which dived for attack at 1540. Since then contact by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) until 2220, then by U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) until 0820. Convoy route DG 6239, squares 6191, 5624, 5812.
All the boats contacted the convoy which consisted of 16 large ships in two lines abreast, with 2 destroyers each as remote escort fore and aft, two destroyers and two corvettes as close escort. Speed of convoy was 10 knots. Probably convoy bound from Gibraltar to America.
Weather: wind S.E. 2-3, sea 1 - 2, 1/10 - 3/10 clouded, good visibility.
In the course of night attacks 5 boats were seen by escorts and attacked with depth charges.
Sinkings:
U 382 ptlt. Herbert Juli): 2214 1 "Falke" on a bunch of steamers, hits not observed, since submerged. 1 single F.A.T. and a two-fan on 2/8,000 tonners, 3 hits heard. Sinkings probable.
U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser): At 2220 in CG 5624 1 tanker, 1 steamer each 6,000 GRT sunk 2 further hits probable.
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen): At 2230 3 hits on large tanker, effect not observed, since she dived on account of destroyers.

U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) will proceed over BD 80 and is to take over there from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), 60 cbm. fuel and the casks for special purposes (U-180 to meet I-29 in the Indian Ocean to transfer two Indian Nationalists to the Japanese submarine, one of whom is Subhas Chandra Bose. I-29 to put both men ashore at Sumatra).

Rendezvous "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) for handing over Radar interception cables carried out.

U 403, 525, 607, 226, 283 refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 23 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Erwin Rommel orderes his forces in western Tunisia to move east to avoid being attacked on both sides.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The weather situation in the area of the convoy was wind W. 2, sea 3 on the 23rd February midday. Towards evening it freshened to west south west 5, sea 4. At 1030 U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) contacted the convoy and reported it continuously until 0110 on the 24th. Besides this boat the following also approached the convoy, U 621, 358, 653, 468, 92, 600 and 628. On the morning of the 24th U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) reported the convoy in BC 9361.
According to data, the convoy had maintained its mean course of 250° until 0200 on the 24th. According to the latest report of U 628 it was proceeding at 8 knots.
There was no air cover with the convoy on the 23rd. 4 boats reported being depth-charged, U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) with serious damage, so that the boats had to turn back. U 303, 223, 186 and 358 also broke off the operation in order to refuel.
The operation against the convoy is being continued.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
No contact.
According to aircraft locations, the convoy is about in the same latitude. A patrol line has been ordered from BC 3995 to BD 4755.
In operation: U 758, 664, 591, 84, 432, 409, 753, 332, 383, 226, 607.
The location reports received from the boats show that the majority are probably already behind the convoy.
The convoy is awaited towards 1800 on the 25th February in the area of the patrol line.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1):
Contact constantly by U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider), which dived for attack at 1540. Since then contact by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) until 2220, then by U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) until 0820. Convoy route DG 6239, squares 6191, 5624, 5812.
All the boats contacted the convoy which consisted of 16 large ships in two lines abreast, with 2 destroyers each as remote escort fore and aft, two destroyers and two corvettes as close escort. Speed of convoy was 10 knots. Probably convoy bound from Gibraltar to America.
Weather: wind S.E. 2-3, sea 1 - 2, 1/10 - 3/10 clouded, good visibility.
In the course of night attacks 5 boats were seen by escorts and attacked with depth charges.
Sinkings:
U 382 ptlt. Herbert Juli): 2214 1 "Falke" on a bunch of steamers, hits not observed, since submerged. 1 single F.A.T. and a two-fan on 2/8,000 tonners, 3 hits heard. Sinkings probable.
U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser): At 2220 in CG 5624 1 tanker, 1 steamer each 6,000 GRT sunk 2 further hits probable.
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen): At 2230 3 hits on large tanker, effect not observed, since she dived on account of destroyers.

U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) will proceed over BD 80 and is to take over there from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), 60 cbm. fuel and the casks for special purposes (U-180 to meet I-29 in the Indian Ocean to transfer two Indian Nationalists to the Japanese submarine, one of whom is Subhas Chandra Bose. I-29 to put both men ashore at Sumatra).

Rendezvous "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) for handing over Radar interception cables carried out.

U 403, 525, 607, 226, 283 refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 24 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++

Major General Omar Bradley arrives in French Algeria.

Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launches 75 USAAF P-40L fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger begins withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

Italian U-boat reported convoy in CG 1778 with course 340°, speed 12 knots. German boats were ordered to operate against it as far as possible but not to pursue it.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) has been in the Capetown area since the 14th February and, in this area as well as cruising from GQ 55 over GQ 93 to GR 95, found no traffic. Boat sank the steamer "Roger P. Taney, 6,800 GRT in GF 2224 on the 8th February, course 250° from Capetown to New York.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
In the area of the convoy on the 24th the weather situation by day was particularly calm, wind N.E. 1, visibility 10 miles. It was particularly dark before the moon rose which made contact with the convoy very difficult, then there was bright moonlight towards 0300. By day, contact was maintained by U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) and was reported by this boat, at 2124 for the last time in BC 9186. Before darkness U 621, U 600 and U 628 also came up to the convoy, only U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) of these being able to maintain contact. At 0639 U 628 reported the convoy in BC 5987. U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) also contacted the convoy at 0414 in 9175. In the first half of the night contact was maintained for the most part only by hydrophone fixes, but after the moon rose the convoy was again sighted. According to reports from U 628, which reported the convoy further to the N.W. than the other boats, it appeared that there were two separate convoy groups. This was confirmed by two reports from U 603 which assumed the convoy to be divided. U 603 reported at midday on the 24th a bunch of 7 steamers while U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) had definitely seen during underwater attack a bunch of 5 steamers. The two groups could not be distinguished exactly according to dead reckoning. On the 24th by day and in the night of the 25th, there were reports of air cover with the convoy. One boat was attacked by aircraft. 4 boats reported being pursued and depth-charged. U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) being obliged to retire for repairs owing to considerable depth-charge damage.
U 603, 628, 468, 600, 653, 621 and U 91 are operating now against the rest of the convoy. The convoy was, at 0639 on the 25th February, in BC 5987.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
ince it is assumed that the convoy will deviate to the north in order to avoid the area of the boats operating against Convoy No. 10, the patrol line will be moved northward, that is from BC 3685 to BC 6935. The boats will take up positions in the following sequence: U 332, 432, 753, 226, 383, 758, 607, 664, 84, 409, 591.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
In spite of avoiding movements to the south, contact was maintained by U 521, 202, 504, 66 until 0216. Convoy route DG 5812, 5713, 4922, 4892. Mean course of the convoy 250° cruising speed 10 knots. Course leads on to the Windward Passage.
U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) reported, in 5389 at 2345 on the 23rd February, a damaged freighter sighted and a stopped tanker sunk, 9,000 GRT.
U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) broke off operations owing to shortage of lubricating oil.
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) has not reported since underwater attack, in spite of orders to do so.
U 382, 218, 43, 558 were attacked by night, detected by destroyers and attacked with depth-charges. U 382 (Kptlt. Herbert Juli) heavily damaged, withdrew for repairs.
Further boats were driven off by destroyers. U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) and U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) fired but unsuccessfully.
Weather: Wind east southeast 3, sea 2, 3/4 clouded, good visibility.
Conditions for detection by destroyers were apparently particularly favorable.
Sinkings:
U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) reported later: On 23rd February at 2345 a damaged steamer sighted and a stopped tanker of 9,000 GRT sunk. DG 5385.

As several boats in the Gibraltar disposition are operating against Convoy No. 12, a new distribution is ordered, as follows: U 107 - CG 81 and 84, U 511 - CG 82 and 85. U 410 - CG 83 and 86. U 103 - CG 89, DJ 21 and 24. U 445 - CG 91, 94, 97, DJ 22 and eastward up to own minefield (Western line of this minefield lies 1.5 miles eastward CG 9585).

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) will proceed to DF 60 at slow speed. After refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) operations in the American area are intended.

In Route A the area between 5° South and 40° North now open for attack on single vessels.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig and Agru.-Front Hela.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Wednesday, 24 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Major General Omar Bradley arrives in French Algeria.

Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launches 75 USAAF P-40L fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger begins withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

Italian U-boat reported convoy in CG 1778 with course 340°, speed 12 knots. German boats were ordered to operate against it as far as possible but not to pursue it.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) has been in the Capetown area since the 14th February and, in this area as well as cruising from GQ 55 over GQ 93 to GR 95, found no traffic. Boat sank the steamer "Roger P. Taney, 6,800 GRT in GF 2224 on the 8th February, course 250° from Capetown to New York.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
In the area of the convoy on the 24th the weather situation by day was particularly calm, wind N.E. 1, visibility 10 miles. It was particularly dark before the moon rose which made contact with the convoy very difficult, then there was bright moonlight towards 0300. By day, contact was maintained by U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) and was reported by this boat, at 2124 for the last time in BC 9186. Before darkness U 621, U 600 and U 628 also came up to the convoy, only U 628 (Oblt. Heinrich Hasenschar) of these being able to maintain contact. At 0639 U 628 reported the convoy in BC 5987. U 91 (Kptlt. Heinz Walkerling) also contacted the convoy at 0414 in 9175. In the first half of the night contact was maintained for the most part only by hydrophone fixes, but after the moon rose the convoy was again sighted. According to reports from U 628, which reported the convoy further to the N.W. than the other boats, it appeared that there were two separate convoy groups. This was confirmed by two reports from U 603 which assumed the convoy to be divided. U 603 reported at midday on the 24th a bunch of 7 steamers while U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) had definitely seen during underwater attack a bunch of 5 steamers. The two groups could not be distinguished exactly according to dead reckoning. On the 24th by day and in the night of the 25th, there were reports of air cover with the convoy. One boat was attacked by aircraft. 4 boats reported being pursued and depth-charged. U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) being obliged to retire for repairs owing to considerable depth-charge damage.
U 603, 628, 468, 600, 653, 621 and U 91 are operating now against the rest of the convoy. The convoy was, at 0639 on the 25th February, in BC 5987.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
ince it is assumed that the convoy will deviate to the north in order to avoid the area of the boats operating against Convoy No. 10, the patrol line will be moved northward, that is from BC 3685 to BC 6935. The boats will take up positions in the following sequence: U 332, 432, 753, 226, 383, 758, 607, 664, 84, 409, 591.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
In spite of avoiding movements to the south, contact was maintained by U 521, 202, 504, 66 until 0216. Convoy route DG 5812, 5713, 4922, 4892. Mean course of the convoy 250° cruising speed 10 knots. Course leads on to the Windward Passage.
U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) reported, in 5389 at 2345 on the 23rd February, a damaged freighter sighted and a stopped tanker sunk, 9,000 GRT.
U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) broke off operations owing to shortage of lubricating oil.
U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) has not reported since underwater attack, in spite of orders to do so.
U 382, 218, 43, 558 were attacked by night, detected by destroyers and attacked with depth-charges. U 382 (Kptlt. Herbert Juli) heavily damaged, withdrew for repairs.
Further boats were driven off by destroyers. U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) and U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) fired but unsuccessfully.
Weather: Wind east southeast 3, sea 2, 3/4 clouded, good visibility.
Conditions for detection by destroyers were apparently particularly favorable.
Sinkings:
U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) reported later: On 23rd February at 2345 a damaged steamer sighted and a stopped tanker of 9,000 GRT sunk. DG 5385.

As several boats in the Gibraltar disposition are operating against Convoy No. 12, a new distribution is ordered, as follows: U 107 - CG 81 and 84, U 511 - CG 82 and 85. U 410 - CG 83 and 86. U 103 - CG 89, DJ 21 and 24. U 445 - CG 91, 94, 97, DJ 22 and eastward up to own minefield (Western line of this minefield lies 1.5 miles eastward CG 9585).

U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) will proceed to DF 60 at slow speed. After refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) operations in the American area are intended.

In Route A the area between 5° South and 40° North now open for attack on single vessels.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig and Agru.-Front Hela.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 25 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Battle for Kasserine Pass in Tunisia closes with the Americans, inexperienced and poorly led, suffering a major defeat. Nevertheless, the Americans will regain the pass at the end of the battle as overall strategy dictate the Axis forces to withdraw back into northern Tunisia.

U 410 (Oblt. Horst-Arno Fenski) lost contact, after a 12-hour chase, of a large vessel with two funnels when the weather suddenly deteriorated. The steamer was proceeding on a course of 15°, speed 16 knots. Last position CF 3549.

Situation of U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte): Only one steamer with course 160° sighted from 15/21 February in area GR 2948 - 5358. Moderate sea patrol. In view of own minefield, a nearer approach to the harbor to determine number of ships and their courses was not possible. Further operations intended in GR 6477 to 6763.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
Weather situation in the area of the convoy was extremely unfavorable for operations on the 25th and in the night of the 26th. The visibility was generally less than 300 meters owing to thick fog, sea calm, it only freshened towards evening to wind S.E. 5. At 1127 on the morning of the 25th U 468 (Oblt. Klemens Schamong) contacted the convoy in BC 8239 and reported on it continually until 2130. It was also possible to maintain contact by hydrophone fix, when darkness fell, however, contact was lost in view of an especially dark night. U 600 (Kptlt. Bernhard Zurmühlen) and U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) also came up to the convoy for a short time.
U 468 reported on the morning of the 25th that the convoy still consisted of 26 large steamers and tankers, while U 600 reported 4 more steamers. Possibly this was a new convoy which had joined the one already attacked.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) - U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 623 (Oblt. Hermann Schröder) were operating against Convoy 10 and have not reported up to now in spite of repeated orders to do so. While U 606 certainly reached the convoy and, according to a report from U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich), at 2222 on the 22nd February after successfully attacking, was probably machine-gunned and subsequently pursued and depth-charged, it is not certain that the other two boats contacted the convoy at all. They were ordered to report on the weather for the first time on the 22nd but did not reply. Since boats generally report on contacts at once, their loss must have occurred earlier unless the circumstances are exceptional. 3 boats are considered lost.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
Apart from destroyers reported by U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) and U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) nothing was sighted in the patrol line. On the 26th February at 1034 Group "Sturmbock" was dispersed. Convoy operation concluded.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
Contact was again made by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) in DF 7134 at 0912, which was maintained until 2118 by U 202, 66, 558, and 504. Convoy route DF 7121, 9345, 9264. At 0430 the convoy was again detected in DF 9124 by U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech), and reported on until 0820. Position of convoy at 0820 by U 558, DF 8365.
The following broke off operations: U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) owing to rudder damage, U 382 (Kptlt. Herbert Juli) owing to heavy damage from depth-charges. U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser), U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) owing to fuel shortage.
The question of approach is becoming increasingly difficult in view of very watchful, numerous and scattered escorts.

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) was operating against Convoy No. 12 and reported it last at 1536 on the 23rd February as being in DG 6158. The boat then dived for daylight attack. She has not reported again although repeatedly ordered to do so. Loss is probable.

U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis; ex Merten) was withdrawn, in view of faulty radar intercept gear, from the Windward Passage area where the air cover is very strong, and will proceed to DN 30 and DO, upper third, as a temporary operational area. Later operations with additional boats in the outer area of the American coast are intended. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus), which was originally to have operated off Hatteras, will be ordered to the Windward Passage in place of U 68 in order to keep the former operational area clear before the arrival of a group of U-boats.

U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) carried out special task of laying a minefield off Reykjavik and will now proceed to BD 42 to give up her remaining fuel.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has supplied U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) and U 186 (Kptlt. Siegfried Hesemann) the last boats, and will now return. The whole conduct of supply operations by U 460 was excellent.

In view of strong pressure by the Americans on the commander of the Vichy-controlled Islands in the Caribbean, boats are instructed not to approach these in cases of emergency owing to danger of internment.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) is on transit to Kiel.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

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Thursday, 25 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Battle for Kasserine Pass in Tunisia closes with the Americans, inexperienced and poorly led, suffering a major defeat. Nevertheless, the Americans will regain the pass at the end of the battle as overall strategy dictate the Axis forces to withdraw back into northern Tunisia.

U 410 (Oblt. Horst-Arno Fenski) lost contact, after a 12-hour chase, of a large vessel with two funnels when the weather suddenly deteriorated. The steamer was proceeding on a course of 15°, speed 16 knots. Last position CF 3549.

Situation of U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte): Only one steamer with course 160° sighted from 15/21 February in area GR 2948 - 5358. Moderate sea patrol. In view of own minefield, a nearer approach to the harbor to determine number of ships and their courses was not possible. Further operations intended in GR 6477 to 6763.

Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
Weather situation in the area of the convoy was extremely unfavorable for operations on the 25th and in the night of the 26th. The visibility was generally less than 300 meters owing to thick fog, sea calm, it only freshened towards evening to wind S.E. 5. At 1127 on the morning of the 25th U 468 (Oblt. Klemens Schamong) contacted the convoy in BC 8239 and reported on it continually until 2130. It was also possible to maintain contact by hydrophone fix, when darkness fell, however, contact was lost in view of an especially dark night. U 600 (Kptlt. Bernhard Zurmühlen) and U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) also came up to the convoy for a short time.
U 468 reported on the morning of the 25th that the convoy still consisted of 26 large steamers and tankers, while U 600 reported 4 more steamers. Possibly this was a new convoy which had joined the one already attacked.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) - U 225 (Oblt. Wolfgang Leimkühler) and U 623 (Oblt. Hermann Schröder) were operating against Convoy 10 and have not reported up to now in spite of repeated orders to do so. While U 606 certainly reached the convoy and, according to a report from U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich), at 2222 on the 22nd February after successfully attacking, was probably machine-gunned and subsequently pursued and depth-charged, it is not certain that the other two boats contacted the convoy at all. They were ordered to report on the weather for the first time on the 22nd but did not reply. Since boats generally report on contacts at once, their loss must have occurred earlier unless the circumstances are exceptional. 3 boats are considered lost.

Convoy No. 11 (ON.167):
Apart from destroyers reported by U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) and U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) nothing was sighted in the patrol line. On the 26th February at 1034 Group "Sturmbock" was dispersed. Convoy operation concluded.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
Contact was again made by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) in DF 7134 at 0912, which was maintained until 2118 by U 202, 66, 558, and 504. Convoy route DF 7121, 9345, 9264. At 0430 the convoy was again detected in DF 9124 by U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech), and reported on until 0820. Position of convoy at 0820 by U 558, DF 8365.
The following broke off operations: U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) owing to rudder damage, U 382 (Kptlt. Herbert Juli) owing to heavy damage from depth-charges. U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser), U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) owing to fuel shortage.
The question of approach is becoming increasingly difficult in view of very watchful, numerous and scattered escorts.

U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) was operating against Convoy No. 12 and reported it last at 1536 on the 23rd February as being in DG 6158. The boat then dived for daylight attack. She has not reported again although repeatedly ordered to do so. Loss is probable.

U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis; ex Merten) was withdrawn, in view of faulty radar intercept gear, from the Windward Passage area where the air cover is very strong, and will proceed to DN 30 and DO, upper third, as a temporary operational area. Later operations with additional boats in the outer area of the American coast are intended. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus), which was originally to have operated off Hatteras, will be ordered to the Windward Passage in place of U 68 in order to keep the former operational area clear before the arrival of a group of U-boats.

U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) carried out special task of laying a minefield off Reykjavik and will now proceed to BD 42 to give up her remaining fuel.

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has supplied U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) and U 186 (Kptlt. Siegfried Hesemann) the last boats, and will now return. The whole conduct of supply operations by U 460 was excellent.

In view of strong pressure by the Americans on the commander of the Vichy-controlled Islands in the Caribbean, boats are instructed not to approach these in cases of emergency owing to danger of internment.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) is on transit to Kiel.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 26 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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USAAF heavy bombers make a daylight attack on Wilhelmshaven.

The British government authorizes the use of the new water-skipping "Upkeep" bomb against dams.

Final Review on Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The convoy operation lasted from the 20 - 26 February 1943 over 1,100 miles from AK 96 up to the 100 m. line of the Newfoundland Bank. 19 boats in all were in operation, of which over half only took part in the operation for about 3 days, since part of them had first to come up from the north at the beginning of the operation, and another part only arrived from the west later, coming from supply rendezvous.
The boats succeeded in maintaining contact with the convoy from the 20th onwards, in spite of a comparatively high average speed on a mean course of 8.2 knots. The operation was made difficult in the last two days by very poor visibility, with partial fog. During the whole operation the weather was comparatively calm, so that the convoy on one occasion was able to get away and, also, conditions were favorable for locations by the escort. Nothing definite can be stated regarding the size of the convoy. There seems, according to various reports from the boats and also according to various locations at the end of the operation, to have definitely been 2 convoys. The convoy attacked, which must have comprised about 25 - 30 ships, was reported at the end only to consist of 4 steamers. It is particularly pleasing in connection with this convoy operation that 13 of the 19 boats operating fired successfully.
Therefore, over half of the boats participated equally in the sinkings. 23 ships in all were sunk, with 132,171 GRT, and a further 7 ships were torpedoed.
One boat, the U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) was lost in the operation. At 2000 on the 22nd the boat reported for the last time in BD 5441, no further reports being received. It is to be assumed that the boat attacked and made hits since U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine) reported having sighted a tanker and a freighter, both probably having been fired on, on the morning of the 23rd. Since no other boats had fired or none can have scored hits at this time they must have been steamers fired on by U 606. 10 boats were depth-charged by escorts 4 boats of which had to break off operations on the convoy on account of repairs.
Summarizing, it may be said that this convoy operation was particularly successful in view of the participation of 13 boats in the direct success. In spite of normally strong escort and unfavorable conditions for the boats, success was made possible by stubborn shadowing and continued pursuit of the convoy. Demands made on the boats were particularly high. However, the Commanding Officers were for the most part experienced older men.

The boats received the following orders upon conclusion of operations against Convoy No. 10: U 468 - 653 - 91 - 600 - 603 - 332 - 753 - 621 - will refuel from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and then go into operation again. U 607 - 226 - 382 - 87 - 383 - 358 - 454 and 707 will refuel for economical return speed.

U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) and U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) will also have to return owing to extensive damage.

Group "Sturmbock" has waited in vain for Convoy No. 11 (ON.167) in patrol line. The boats needing fuel will proceed via "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) home, U 432 - 758 - 664 - 84 - 409 and 591 will form Group "Wildfang" and, at economical cruising speed, take up patrol line from AJ 9856 to BC 3562.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
At 1350 U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) reported in DF 8354 contacting an escort far ahead. At 1625 U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R.) Hans Johannsen was driven off by starboard remote escorts and at 1755 reported last enemy position as in DF 8292.
U 504 diving for underwater attack, reported at 2032 no intercept.
Contact was therefore broken off and not found again.
U 569 damaged by depth-charges, broke off operations owing to fuel shortage.
The following are now operating: U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth; ex.Zapp), U 504, U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten). At 1731 on the 27th February U 66 reported sinking a single vessel on south-westerly course, in DF 7587. This vessel was apparently separated from the convoy. U 504 reported a destroyer in DR 1111, course 250 at 2028, and at 2121 she was driven off after several hours' pursuit with hydrophone contact. U 66 withdrew to take on torpedoes and for repairs.
U 521 reported faulty port Diesel maximum speed 11 knots, U 504 fuel 19 cbm. Convoy operation broken off owing to poor prospects of success.
The strong and efficient remote escort of the convoy made operations by the boats difficult. On account of particularly good radar location by destroyers, conditions were most unfavorable. The following report was made by radio "Group Rochen". 1 destroyer and 8 steamers of the convoy were sunk and further hits made on the units in tenacious and difficult attacks - escorts were strong and efficient, stormy conditions favored defense. This success proves that the U-boat can win against all odds when commanded by an efficient officer and a good crew. The fight was hard.
This convoy operation is concluded with the order to boats to refuel from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) will proceed to CA 50 after rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).

Blockade runner "Hohenfriedberg" which was escorted by 3 U-boats was detected by a British aircraft at 0945 in CF 2467, and according to report by U 264 (Oblt. Hartwig Looks), sunk by a heavy cruiser of the "London" class at 1750 in 2433. U 264 had before this attacked the cruiser with a 4-fan torpedo but without success. The boat took on all the crew and is returning. U 258 and 437 will remain in the vicinity on return in order to be able to give help in an emergency. Boats U 172 - 515 and 508, which comprised a wing protection, are now free and will proceed to CA 50.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) reported towards 1800 having been bombed by a British aircraft and being unable to dive though able to remain afloat. Pressure hull has 3 cracks, apart from much other damage. Boat is proceeding a maximum speed to the west. I 525 - 172 - 406 and 590, as medical boat, have been ordered to go to U 508 to render assistance or to take over the crew.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives in Kiel, after transit from the 25th Flotilla Danzig and Agru.-Front Hela.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 26 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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USAAF heavy bombers make a daylight attack on Wilhelmshaven.

The British government authorizes the use of the new water-skipping "Upkeep" bomb against dams.

Final Review on Convoy No. 10 (ON.166):
The convoy operation lasted from the 20 - 26 February 1943 over 1,100 miles from AK 96 up to the 100 m. line of the Newfoundland Bank. 19 boats in all were in operation, of which over half only took part in the operation for about 3 days, since part of them had first to come up from the north at the beginning of the operation, and another part only arrived from the west later, coming from supply rendezvous.
The boats succeeded in maintaining contact with the convoy from the 20th onwards, in spite of a comparatively high average speed on a mean course of 8.2 knots. The operation was made difficult in the last two days by very poor visibility, with partial fog. During the whole operation the weather was comparatively calm, so that the convoy on one occasion was able to get away and, also, conditions were favorable for locations by the escort. Nothing definite can be stated regarding the size of the convoy. There seems, according to various reports from the boats and also according to various locations at the end of the operation, to have definitely been 2 convoys. The convoy attacked, which must have comprised about 25 - 30 ships, was reported at the end only to consist of 4 steamers. It is particularly pleasing in connection with this convoy operation that 13 of the 19 boats operating fired successfully.
Therefore, over half of the boats participated equally in the sinkings. 23 ships in all were sunk, with 132,171 GRT, and a further 7 ships were torpedoed.
One boat, the U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) was lost in the operation. At 2000 on the 22nd the boat reported for the last time in BD 5441, no further reports being received. It is to be assumed that the boat attacked and made hits since U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine) reported having sighted a tanker and a freighter, both probably having been fired on, on the morning of the 23rd. Since no other boats had fired or none can have scored hits at this time they must have been steamers fired on by U 606. 10 boats were depth-charged by escorts 4 boats of which had to break off operations on the convoy on account of repairs.
Summarizing, it may be said that this convoy operation was particularly successful in view of the participation of 13 boats in the direct success. In spite of normally strong escort and unfavorable conditions for the boats, success was made possible by stubborn shadowing and continued pursuit of the convoy. Demands made on the boats were particularly high. However, the Commanding Officers were for the most part experienced older men.

The boats received the following orders upon conclusion of operations against Convoy No. 10: U 468 - 653 - 91 - 600 - 603 - 332 - 753 - 621 - will refuel from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and then go into operation again. U 607 - 226 - 382 - 87 - 383 - 358 - 454 and 707 will refuel for economical return speed.

U 604 (Kptlt. Horst Höltring) and U 753 (Korvkpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein) will also have to return owing to extensive damage.

Group "Sturmbock" has waited in vain for Convoy No. 11 (ON.167) in patrol line. The boats needing fuel will proceed via "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) home, U 432 - 758 - 664 - 84 - 409 and 591 will form Group "Wildfang" and, at economical cruising speed, take up patrol line from AJ 9856 to BC 3562.

Convoy No. 12 (UC.1; aka 'Greyhound' convoys):
At 1350 U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) reported in DF 8354 contacting an escort far ahead. At 1625 U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R.) Hans Johannsen was driven off by starboard remote escorts and at 1755 reported last enemy position as in DF 8292.
U 504 diving for underwater attack, reported at 2032 no intercept.
Contact was therefore broken off and not found again.
U 569 damaged by depth-charges, broke off operations owing to fuel shortage.
The following are now operating: U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth; ex.Zapp), U 504, U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten). At 1731 on the 27th February U 66 reported sinking a single vessel on south-westerly course, in DF 7587. This vessel was apparently separated from the convoy. U 504 reported a destroyer in DR 1111, course 250 at 2028, and at 2121 she was driven off after several hours' pursuit with hydrophone contact. U 66 withdrew to take on torpedoes and for repairs.
U 521 reported faulty port Diesel maximum speed 11 knots, U 504 fuel 19 cbm. Convoy operation broken off owing to poor prospects of success.
The strong and efficient remote escort of the convoy made operations by the boats difficult. On account of particularly good radar location by destroyers, conditions were most unfavorable. The following report was made by radio "Group Rochen". 1 destroyer and 8 steamers of the convoy were sunk and further hits made on the units in tenacious and difficult attacks - escorts were strong and efficient, stormy conditions favored defense. This success proves that the U-boat can win against all odds when commanded by an efficient officer and a good crew. The fight was hard.
This convoy operation is concluded with the order to boats to refuel from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler).

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) will proceed to CA 50 after rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).

Blockade runner "Hohenfriedberg" which was escorted by 3 U-boats was detected by a British aircraft at 0945 in CF 2467, and according to report by U 264 (Oblt. Hartwig Looks), sunk by a heavy cruiser of the "London" class at 1750 in 2433. U 264 had before this attacked the cruiser with a 4-fan torpedo but without success. The boat took on all the crew and is returning. U 258 and 437 will remain in the vicinity on return in order to be able to give help in an emergency. Boats U 172 - 515 and 508, which comprised a wing protection, are now free and will proceed to CA 50.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) reported towards 1800 having been bombed by a British aircraft and being unable to dive though able to remain afloat. Pressure hull has 3 cracks, apart from much other damage. Boat is proceeding a maximum speed to the west. I 525 - 172 - 406 and 590, as medical boat, have been ordered to go to U 508 to render assistance or to take over the crew.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives in Kiel, after transit from the 25th Flotilla Danzig and Agru.-Front Hela.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 27 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Bletchley Park Scientist, Alfred Dillwyn "Dilly" Knox, passes away from lymphoma.

U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) reported at 1414, 3 destroyers in BD 4533, 2250 speed slow. At 2100 boat lost contact in BD 4525.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) reported: for 3 days in KP 53 at night off harbor entrances 5 Portuguese vessels bound to and from the north. Boat operating up to 35 and 38.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) did not encounter any traffic. Moving operational area to ED.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
Information was only received by Control at 1700, owing to radio interference in the Greenland area, through a radio repeat by U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman), that U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) had detected a convoy at 0300, and lost it at 1100 in AJ 2839, 30°, 7 knots. Boats were on the group frequency provided for this contingency, communications within the Group at least being guaranteed by this. In order to clarify the situation, the boats were radioed that Control was assuming that all "Neptun" boats would operate against this convoy. U 529 (Kptlt. Georg-Werner Fraatz) and U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) were detailed to repeat radio messages so that Control might receive information on the course of the operation even, if possible, during combat. At 1740 U 405 reported destroyers in AJ 2650. According to a delayed message from U 759 the convoy consisted of numerous steamers in three wide columns. "Neptun" later received orders that only boats in a favorable position as regards distance were to continue the operation, and were to report on this, giving position. The following will definitely be operating at present: U 759 - 405 - 376 - 608. Probably U 448 - 359 and 135. Owing to unfavorable position, U 638 (Kptlt. Hinrich-Oscar Bernbeck) received orders to break off operations. Last report at 0618 from U 405: 1 steamer, 3 destroyers course 60° in AJ 2057 (?) weather, wind S.E. 5, sea 4, snow showers.

After refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) operations are intended, with Group "Rochen" on the convoy detected by special intercept message.

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) carried out.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) will be in BD 9595 with U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann), as from 1200 on the 28th for rendezvous with U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards). All remaining boats operating under U 508 will be ordered to continue outward passage also U 172 after rendezvous with U 590.

General:
The importance of the Tunisian campaign makes it imperative to do everything possible to interrupt enemy supplies to North Africa. Operations up to now in the Atlantic to this end have only led initially to satisfactory results. Later operations off Gibraltar west of the Iberian Peninsular and further north and south of the Azores have led only to slight successes. Reasons for this have been set out earlier.
On the orders of the Naval High Command attempts are now to be made with large boats to intercept supplies off American harbors i.e. off New York primarily. Prospects of success for this are not particularly favorable in view of the scarcity of the traffic and the vastness of the area not covered by air escort and reconnaissance. In spite of this it also must be attempted.
U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) - U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) and U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) will proceed to the area off New York as the first boats on these operations.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) transits the K.W.K. to Hamburg.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Saturday, 27 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Bletchley Park Scientist, Alfred Dillwyn "Dilly" Knox, passes away from lymphoma.

U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) reported at 1414, 3 destroyers in BD 4533, 2250 speed slow. At 2100 boat lost contact in BD 4525.

U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) reported: for 3 days in KP 53 at night off harbor entrances 5 Portuguese vessels bound to and from the north. Boat operating up to 35 and 38.

U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) did not encounter any traffic. Moving operational area to ED.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
Information was only received by Control at 1700, owing to radio interference in the Greenland area, through a radio repeat by U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman), that U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) had detected a convoy at 0300, and lost it at 1100 in AJ 2839, 30°, 7 knots. Boats were on the group frequency provided for this contingency, communications within the Group at least being guaranteed by this. In order to clarify the situation, the boats were radioed that Control was assuming that all "Neptun" boats would operate against this convoy. U 529 (Kptlt. Georg-Werner Fraatz) and U 664 (Oblt. Adolf Graef) were detailed to repeat radio messages so that Control might receive information on the course of the operation even, if possible, during combat. At 1740 U 405 reported destroyers in AJ 2650. According to a delayed message from U 759 the convoy consisted of numerous steamers in three wide columns. "Neptun" later received orders that only boats in a favorable position as regards distance were to continue the operation, and were to report on this, giving position. The following will definitely be operating at present: U 759 - 405 - 376 - 608. Probably U 448 - 359 and 135. Owing to unfavorable position, U 638 (Kptlt. Hinrich-Oscar Bernbeck) received orders to break off operations. Last report at 0618 from U 405: 1 steamer, 3 destroyers course 60° in AJ 2057 (?) weather, wind S.E. 5, sea 4, snow showers.

After refueling from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) operations are intended, with Group "Rochen" on the convoy detected by special intercept message.

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) rendezvous with "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) carried out.

U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) will be in BD 9595 with U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann), as from 1200 on the 28th for rendezvous with U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards). All remaining boats operating under U 508 will be ordered to continue outward passage also U 172 after rendezvous with U 590.

General:
The importance of the Tunisian campaign makes it imperative to do everything possible to interrupt enemy supplies to North Africa. Operations up to now in the Atlantic to this end have only led initially to satisfactory results. Later operations off Gibraltar west of the Iberian Peninsular and further north and south of the Azores have led only to slight successes. Reasons for this have been set out earlier.
On the orders of the Naval High Command attempts are now to be made with large boats to intercept supplies off American harbors i.e. off New York primarily. Prospects of success for this are not particularly favorable in view of the scarcity of the traffic and the vastness of the area not covered by air escort and reconnaissance. In spite of this it also must be attempted.
U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) - U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) and U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) will proceed to the area off New York as the first boats on these operations.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) transits the K.W.K. to Hamburg.


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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 28 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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712 RAF aircraft (457 Lancaster, 252 Halifax, and 3 Mosquito) attack Berlin; 20 terror-bombers are shot down.

Admiral Hipper is decommissioned from service and Werner Ehrhardt is named the commanding officer of Cruiser Prinz Eugen.

U 757 (Kptlt. Friedrich Deetz) reported a large freighter at 16 knots at 1930 in BE 1991 probable hit by F.A.T. torpedo.

U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) starboard thrust bearing burnt out, repairs 48 hours. On the 20th February group of patrol vessels with aircraft in BF 4234.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) reported several hydrophone fixes: 1230 AD 9771 - 3300, 1530 - AD 9751 - 2600, 1815 in 9721 - 0°. At 0130 fix on a underwater telegraphy. Weather sea 5, misty, wind southeast 5-6. U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) contacted 5 steamers in AJ 3341 90°.
Control considers that reports from U 566 concern the main convoy and that the 5 steamers reported by U 405 are part of a convoy. At midnight U 405 reported part of a convoy dispersed with course 60°, 11 knots. One steamer was hit twice and left burning. At 1045 on the 1st March U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) reported unescorted steamer in AK 1132, course northeast probably part of the convoy. U 709 (Oblt. Karl-Otto Weber) and U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) were also ordered to operate against the convoy. The following are returning: U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) owing to damage and fuel, U 376 (Oblt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) owing to serious defects and fuel. At the present there is only contact with single vessels presumably separated.

U 448 - 359 - 638 - 89 - 529 will join Group "WILDFANG" (432 - 758 - 664 - 84 - 409 - 591). The Group is ordered to take up patrol line at 0800 on the 3rd March from AJ 4686 to 9112. If U 448 - 359 - 529 are, however, operating against Convoy No. 13 they should continue the operation.

New objective for U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) is BD 36.

U 358 - 707 - 303 - 604 - 454 have refueled as ordered for return.

Six newly arrived Norwegian agents of the British Special Operations Executive (code named Gunnerside) join the four agents already in place since Oct 1942 (code named Grouse) in sabotaging the Norsk Hydro-Elektrisk Vemork heavy water production plant in Telemark, Norway, thereby depriving our atomic weapons scientists of 500 kilograms of heavy water and near-future heavy water production capability.

Meanwhile, construction begins on the first full-scale plutonium production reactor in the world at Hanford, Washington, United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg, for Final Repairs.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Sunday, 28 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++

712 RAF aircraft (457 Lancaster, 252 Halifax, and 3 Mosquito) attack Berlin; 20 terror-bombers are shot down.

Admiral Hipper is decommissioned from service and Werner Ehrhardt is named the commanding officer of Cruiser Prinz Eugen.

U 757 (Kptlt. Friedrich Deetz) reported a large freighter at 16 knots at 1930 in BE 1991 probable hit by F.A.T. torpedo.

U 435 (Kptlt. Siegfried Strelow) starboard thrust bearing burnt out, repairs 48 hours. On the 20th February group of patrol vessels with aircraft in BF 4234.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) reported several hydrophone fixes: 1230 AD 9771 - 3300, 1530 - AD 9751 - 2600, 1815 in 9721 - 0°. At 0130 fix on a underwater telegraphy. Weather sea 5, misty, wind southeast 5-6. U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) contacted 5 steamers in AJ 3341 90°.
Control considers that reports from U 566 concern the main convoy and that the 5 steamers reported by U 405 are part of a convoy. At midnight U 405 reported part of a convoy dispersed with course 60°, 11 knots. One steamer was hit twice and left burning. At 1045 on the 1st March U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) reported unescorted steamer in AK 1132, course northeast probably part of the convoy. U 709 (Oblt. Karl-Otto Weber) and U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) were also ordered to operate against the convoy. The following are returning: U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) owing to damage and fuel, U 376 (Oblt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) owing to serious defects and fuel. At the present there is only contact with single vessels presumably separated.

U 448 - 359 - 638 - 89 - 529 will join Group "WILDFANG" (432 - 758 - 664 - 84 - 409 - 591). The Group is ordered to take up patrol line at 0800 on the 3rd March from AJ 4686 to 9112. If U 448 - 359 - 529 are, however, operating against Convoy No. 13 they should continue the operation.

New objective for U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) is BD 36.

U 358 - 707 - 303 - 604 - 454 have refueled as ordered for return.

Six newly arrived Norwegian agents of the British Special Operations Executive (code named Gunnerside) join the four agents already in place since Oct 1942 (code named Grouse) in sabotaging the Norsk Hydro-Elektrisk Vemork heavy water production plant in Telemark, Norway, thereby depriving our atomic weapons scientists of 500 kilograms of heavy water and near-future heavy water production capability.

Meanwhile, construction begins on the first full-scale plutonium production reactor in the world at Hanford, Washington, United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg, for Final Repairs.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 1 March 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++


Heinz Guderian is appointed Inspector-General of Armoured Troops.

Our troops begin falling back from the Rzhev area in Russia.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) reports absence of traffic from area EO 66 to EP 73, and slight air activity. Owing to the breakdown of "Metox" the intended operations in the lower section of ED are doubtful. The oil track experienced earlier has not yet been eliminated.

U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) - on the return passage owing to rudder breakdown - sighted an eastbound convoy at 1527, speed 8-10 knots in CE 8688. Shortly afterwards the boat was beaten off and at 1800 lost sight of the convoy during a squall. Two steamer masts were sighted, a smoke trail and a light grey two-funnel destroyer.
U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) presumably had contact with the same group at 1230 on CE 8989 and also lost it. Both boats continue their passage. Operation was not possible as there were no other boats in the vicinity.

U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind; ex Steinhoff) reported convoy on a course of 310° in CG 8433 at 2352. Boats of the Group "Robbe" who should have been able to attack the same night were ordered to operate. U 511 was fired at from smoke cover in CG 8433. Contact was lost in the subsequent hydrophone activity. No further reports were received from any of the boats. The operation was broken off.

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) pursued an isolated vessel on a course of 200°, speed 15 knots in BD 3938. Contact was lost after an eight hour chase.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
Isolated messages: U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) sank a motorship of 9,000 GRT similar to type Perthshire, at 0039 on 1.3 in AK 1385. It subsequently sighted another steamer with destroyers in AK 1383, very low speed, and at 1355 a suspected "Q-boat" on a variable course of 0° - 270°. Further the boat chased 2 large steamers on a course of 250° at 1900 in AK 1442, one of which sank at 2056 suddenly without an explosion. The pursuit of the second ship continues.
U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) chased large steamer on a course of approx. 60° and speed 11 knots at 1150 from AK 1133 to AD 7859. After a single miss is broke off operations owing to Diesel damage. U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) operated on this ship from AK 3171 and sank it in AD 8264 after three hits. According to call sign the "Mary Weather Sayis" of 6,800 GRT.
U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) did not establish contact in spite of the previous hydrophone bearings and continued further operations on presumed convoy course of 90°.
At 1321, U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) encountered a westbound convoy in AK 1328. At the same time, U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) chased a tanker on a westerly course in AK 1191 and sighted in the meantime another steamer group in AK 1319. The boat presumes this to be the southerly part of U 608's convoy. The general course is 250, speed 8 knots. The Command conjectures that these are 2 different convoy sections. "Neptun" boats have received orders to operate on the target at the most favorable range. Both boats have apparently great differences in positions. U 608 pursued its group via AK 1347 to AD 9861 and was beaten off by destroyers at 2230 in AD 9852. The last course was west.
According to a possible new fix, U 376's convoy was in AK 1324 on a southwesterly course at 2100. This is a fast group of 10 steamers who made a strong deviation to the north as far as AK 1172 at night ad then proceeded to the southwest. The boat was beaten off by the apparent extremely strong and constantly attacking escort.
At 0230 contact was finally lost and was not re-established until morning.

On the supposition that the replenishing of supplies from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) was carried out before the evening of 2.3, U 504, 66, 43, 202, 558, 106 and U 521 are incorporated in Group "Tümmler" and disposed in patrol channels from DF 6899 to DS 1125 at 0000 on 3.3. Interception of the convoy made known on 27.2 in a Radio Intelligence report (special). The boat was directed to maintain strict wireless silence, also the Group "Wildfang" and "Burggraf".

U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis; ex Merten) received the ops. area center and eastern third of grid EC after repairs to its "Metox" apparatus have been carried out.

U D 3 (Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele; ex Dutch submarine O 25) is detailed as training ship for the home front.

Cruiser Köln is taken out of service and will remain so for one year.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Monday, 1 March 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

+++++++


Heinz Guderian is appointed Inspector-General of Armoured Troops.

Our troops begin falling back from the Rzhev area in Russia.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) reports absence of traffic from area EO 66 to EP 73, and slight air activity. Owing to the breakdown of "Metox" the intended operations in the lower section of ED are doubtful. The oil track experienced earlier has not yet been eliminated.

U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) - on the return passage owing to rudder breakdown - sighted an eastbound convoy at 1527, speed 8-10 knots in CE 8688. Shortly afterwards the boat was beaten off and at 1800 lost sight of the convoy during a squall. Two steamer masts were sighted, a smoke trail and a light grey two-funnel destroyer.
U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) presumably had contact with the same group at 1230 on CE 8989 and also lost it. Both boats continue their passage. Operation was not possible as there were no other boats in the vicinity.

U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind; ex Steinhoff) reported convoy on a course of 310° in CG 8433 at 2352. Boats of the Group "Robbe" who should have been able to attack the same night were ordered to operate. U 511 was fired at from smoke cover in CG 8433. Contact was lost in the subsequent hydrophone activity. No further reports were received from any of the boats. The operation was broken off.

U 406 (Kptlt. Horst Dieterichs) pursued an isolated vessel on a course of 200°, speed 15 knots in BD 3938. Contact was lost after an eight hour chase.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
Isolated messages: U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) sank a motorship of 9,000 GRT similar to type Perthshire, at 0039 on 1.3 in AK 1385. It subsequently sighted another steamer with destroyers in AK 1383, very low speed, and at 1355 a suspected "Q-boat" on a variable course of 0° - 270°. Further the boat chased 2 large steamers on a course of 250° at 1900 in AK 1442, one of which sank at 2056 suddenly without an explosion. The pursuit of the second ship continues.
U 759 (Kptlt. Rudolf Friedrich) chased large steamer on a course of approx. 60° and speed 11 knots at 1150 from AK 1133 to AD 7859. After a single miss is broke off operations owing to Diesel damage. U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) operated on this ship from AK 3171 and sank it in AD 8264 after three hits. According to call sign the "Mary Weather Sayis" of 6,800 GRT.
U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) did not establish contact in spite of the previous hydrophone bearings and continued further operations on presumed convoy course of 90°.
At 1321, U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) encountered a westbound convoy in AK 1328. At the same time, U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) chased a tanker on a westerly course in AK 1191 and sighted in the meantime another steamer group in AK 1319. The boat presumes this to be the southerly part of U 608's convoy. The general course is 250, speed 8 knots. The Command conjectures that these are 2 different convoy sections. "Neptun" boats have received orders to operate on the target at the most favorable range. Both boats have apparently great differences in positions. U 608 pursued its group via AK 1347 to AD 9861 and was beaten off by destroyers at 2230 in AD 9852. The last course was west.
According to a possible new fix, U 376's convoy was in AK 1324 on a southwesterly course at 2100. This is a fast group of 10 steamers who made a strong deviation to the north as far as AK 1172 at night ad then proceeded to the southwest. The boat was beaten off by the apparent extremely strong and constantly attacking escort.
At 0230 contact was finally lost and was not re-established until morning.

On the supposition that the replenishing of supplies from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) was carried out before the evening of 2.3, U 504, 66, 43, 202, 558, 106 and U 521 are incorporated in Group "Tümmler" and disposed in patrol channels from DF 6899 to DS 1125 at 0000 on 3.3. Interception of the convoy made known on 27.2 in a Radio Intelligence report (special). The boat was directed to maintain strict wireless silence, also the Group "Wildfang" and "Burggraf".

U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis; ex Merten) received the ops. area center and eastern third of grid EC after repairs to its "Metox" apparatus have been carried out.

U D 3 (Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele; ex Dutch submarine O 25) is detailed as training ship for the home front.

Cruiser Köln is taken out of service and will remain so for one year.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 2 March 1943 - Danzig

Concluding Repairs and Overhaul at Danziger Werft AG.

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


+++++++

Our troops destroy the Soviet 3rd Tank Army near Kharkov, Ukraine, which had only just been recaptured by the Soviets two weeks prior.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) sighted a convoy on an easterly course, speed 8 knots in FJ 8719 at 1400 on 28.2. All together 18 empty steamers, 5 escort vessels. The boat attacked and sank a freighter of 7,000 GRT in FJ 9411. In other attacks with 14 electrical torpedoes, under good firing conditions there were 8 failures owing to erratic depth keeping. Set depth 2 and 3 inches, seaway 1, slight swell.
In the course of 2.3. U 518 was continually forced to submerge by non-stop air activity, and broke off the pursuit owing to the hopeless position.
Situation: No traffic was confirmed apart from the reported convoy during a 7 day search in FJ 80. There was a slight surface but strong systematic air patrol. Radar activity off Bahia. Further operations are intended in FJ 30.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
In order to obtain a clear picture of the intentions of the boats, they were requested to send a situation report. Subsequently they received the following orders: U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) and U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) were to make for AJ 69 at economical cruising speed. Both boats are so far astern that pursuit of the convoy was pointless. U 448 (Oblt. Helmut Dauter), U 359 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Förster), and U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) continued to operate on a convoy course of 230° and 250° with a passage speed of 7 to 10 knots. U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) broke off ops owing to fuel shortage, without having established contact, and are proceeding to supply point, U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) to Western France without replenishment. U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) also had no contact. A clear report of the numbers and size of the ships sunk is requested. Search for the convoy continues. No new sightings up to morning. U 709's (Oblt. Karl-Otto Weber) wireless transmitter has broken down and it operates independently from now on (confirmed subsequently from report of 5.3.).

New position for boats supplied by "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) for further operations is BC 33. Reinforcing of Group "Burggraf" is proposed.

The following have taken on supplies from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), U 332, 603, U 628 (Fu.M.B.) on 28.2., U 383, 753, 226 and 91 on 1.3. Amount in tanker 384 cubic meters, provisions for 102 days, 4 torpedoes.

U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards) is near U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) and remains there to assist until it has decided whether the boat is able to submerge or not. U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) has filled up and is now proceeding to the ordered position = CA 50.

U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) was bombed by an a/c in BF 5546 and is unable to submerge. It proceeded at a speed of 9 knots on the approach to Lorient. 3 fishing steamers and 2 Junkers 88 were sent to render assistance. The boat put in to Lorient without further incident.

On Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger’s (CV-4) return voyage from North Africa to Norfolk, one of her patrol planes observes two life boats adrift. One of Ranger’s escorts, destroyer USS Hobson, picks up 46 survivors from the British merchant ship St. Margaret, torpedoed by U-66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth; ex Zapp) three days earlier on 27 Feb 1943.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Tuesday, 2 March 1943 - Danzig

Concluding Repairs and Overhaul at Danziger Werft AG.

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


+++++++

Our troops destroy the Soviet 3rd Tank Army near Kharkov, Ukraine, which had only just been recaptured by the Soviets two weeks prior.

U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann) sighted a convoy on an easterly course, speed 8 knots in FJ 8719 at 1400 on 28.2. All together 18 empty steamers, 5 escort vessels. The boat attacked and sank a freighter of 7,000 GRT in FJ 9411. In other attacks with 14 electrical torpedoes, under good firing conditions there were 8 failures owing to erratic depth keeping. Set depth 2 and 3 inches, seaway 1, slight swell.
In the course of 2.3. U 518 was continually forced to submerge by non-stop air activity, and broke off the pursuit owing to the hopeless position.
Situation: No traffic was confirmed apart from the reported convoy during a 7 day search in FJ 80. There was a slight surface but strong systematic air patrol. Radar activity off Bahia. Further operations are intended in FJ 30.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
In order to obtain a clear picture of the intentions of the boats, they were requested to send a situation report. Subsequently they received the following orders: U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) and U 566 (Oblt. Hans Hornkohl) were to make for AJ 69 at economical cruising speed. Both boats are so far astern that pursuit of the convoy was pointless. U 448 (Oblt. Helmut Dauter), U 359 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Förster), and U 659 (Kptlt. Hans Stock) continued to operate on a convoy course of 230° and 250° with a passage speed of 7 to 10 knots. U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) broke off ops owing to fuel shortage, without having established contact, and are proceeding to supply point, U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) to Western France without replenishment. U 405 (KrvKpt. Rolf-Heinrich Hopman) also had no contact. A clear report of the numbers and size of the ships sunk is requested. Search for the convoy continues. No new sightings up to morning. U 709's (Oblt. Karl-Otto Weber) wireless transmitter has broken down and it operates independently from now on (confirmed subsequently from report of 5.3.).

New position for boats supplied by "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) for further operations is BC 33. Reinforcing of Group "Burggraf" is proposed.

The following have taken on supplies from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), U 332, 603, U 628 (Fu.M.B.) on 28.2., U 383, 753, 226 and 91 on 1.3. Amount in tanker 384 cubic meters, provisions for 102 days, 4 torpedoes.

U 590 (Kptlt. Heinrich Müller-Edzards) is near U 508 (Kptlt. Georg Staats) and remains there to assist until it has decided whether the boat is able to submerge or not. U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) has filled up and is now proceeding to the ordered position = CA 50.

U 525 (Kptlt. Hans-Joachim Drewitz) was bombed by an a/c in BF 5546 and is unable to submerge. It proceeded at a speed of 9 knots on the approach to Lorient. 3 fishing steamers and 2 Junkers 88 were sent to render assistance. The boat put in to Lorient without further incident.

On Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger’s (CV-4) return voyage from North Africa to Norfolk, one of her patrol planes observes two life boats adrift. One of Ranger’s escorts, destroyer USS Hobson, picks up 46 survivors from the British merchant ship St. Margaret, torpedoed by U-66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth; ex Zapp) three days earlier on 27 Feb 1943.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 3 March 1943 - Danzig

During the shipyard time, Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment; FuMB-1/Metox600A; and Bold-2, were installed.

1600 - Casting off. Leaving Danzig for transfer to Kiel.


+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


Soviet troops recapture Rzhev, Russia.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
As contact was not reestablished before nightfall the boats discontinued the pursuit and were assigned to new operations areas.

A new patrol lie is to be disposed, composed of boats from home and Western France, to intercept other ON, HX and SC convoys. U 447, 229, 665, 633, 641, 190, 530, 642, 439, 618, 757, 406, 86, 373, 441, 440 and 221 form Group "Neuland" and are to take up position at 1200 on 7.3. from AK 6685 to BE 1521, course 240°, speed 5 knots. Boats able to reach their position sooner, have freedom of movement outside the position.

U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) is proceeding to BD 29 for the proposed supplying of U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) and U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier).

The following have taken on supplies for further ops. from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) = U 653, 621, 600 and 468. U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Nicolai Clausen) took fuel and trunks on board for execution of special duties.

In order to obtain a survey of defence and mining conditions in the Iceland Passage, the 10 last boats from home to arrive in this area were requested to send a situation report. From this it can be seen that aerial reconnaissance is to be expected in the entire area; although some boats have made no mention of the fact. Mines and surface patrols were only occasionally encountered.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Wednesday, 3 March 1943 - Danzig

During the shipyard time, Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment; FuMB-1/Metox600A; and Bold-2, were installed.

1600 - Casting off. Leaving Danzig for transfer to Kiel.


+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


Soviet troops recapture Rzhev, Russia.

Convoy No. 13 (HX.227; Group "Neptun"):
As contact was not reestablished before nightfall the boats discontinued the pursuit and were assigned to new operations areas.

A new patrol lie is to be disposed, composed of boats from home and Western France, to intercept other ON, HX and SC convoys. U 447, 229, 665, 633, 641, 190, 530, 642, 439, 618, 757, 406, 86, 373, 441, 440 and 221 form Group "Neuland" and are to take up position at 1200 on 7.3. from AK 6685 to BE 1521, course 240°, speed 5 knots. Boats able to reach their position sooner, have freedom of movement outside the position.

U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Alois Zech) is proceeding to BD 29 for the proposed supplying of U 377 (Kptlt. Otto Köhler) and U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier).

The following have taken on supplies for further ops. from "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe) = U 653, 621, 600 and 468. U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Nicolai Clausen) took fuel and trunks on board for execution of special duties.

In order to obtain a survey of defence and mining conditions in the Iceland Passage, the 10 last boats from home to arrive in this area were requested to send a situation report. From this it can be seen that aerial reconnaissance is to be expected in the entire area; although some boats have made no mention of the fact. Mines and surface patrols were only occasionally encountered.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 4 March 1943 - Bornholm/Rönne

Silent Running Test at Rönne.

During transit, testing of Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment and FuMB-1/Metox600A.

+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


While proceeding to American coast, U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) sunk the British ship "California Star" on a course of 45, speed 15 knots in CD 3245, carry butter and meat from New Zealand to England, and U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) sunk a steamer of 9,000 GRT carrying ammunition on a course of 100, speed 16 knots in CD 3239.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) sighted a convoy on the night of 3.3. composed of 10 steamers and three escort vessels on a southeast course. The boat pursued it from KZ 1336 to 2442 and sank a tanker and 4 freighters of 32,000 GRT. Two freighters were left sinking. All the ships were fully laden.
Situation: There has been daylight traffic by fast isolated vessels and small escort vessels south of Durban since 1.3. The traffic puts in with surface and air escort from the 200 meter line, and on the outward passage as far as KZ 1336, then it spreads out to sea. There is strong aerial activity by day and land radar off the harbor.

U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) reports approx. 4 freighters with destroyer and air escort at 0800 in KY 5640, on a westerly course. Otherwise nothing was sighted from GR 80 via 90 to KY 53.

An American convoy is expected to put out of Cape Town for the Persian Gulf on about 5.3.

The ops. area near Cape Town is to be extended immediately to the south as far as the latitude 45° S. The eastern and western boundaries are as formerly - 5° and 40° E. The new southerly boundaries may on no account be passed owing to the presence of our own ships.

If possible without danger to ourselves, U-boats are to stop Portuguese ships, and search for members of enemy states of military age. If these are particularly suitable they are to be taken on board.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Thursday, 4 March 1943 - Bornholm/Rönne

Silent Running Test at Rönne.

During transit, testing of Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment and FuMB-1/Metox600A.

+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


While proceeding to American coast, U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) sunk the British ship "California Star" on a course of 45, speed 15 knots in CD 3245, carry butter and meat from New Zealand to England, and U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) sunk a steamer of 9,000 GRT carrying ammunition on a course of 100, speed 16 knots in CD 3239.

U 160 (Kptlt. Georg Lassen) sighted a convoy on the night of 3.3. composed of 10 steamers and three escort vessels on a southeast course. The boat pursued it from KZ 1336 to 2442 and sank a tanker and 4 freighters of 32,000 GRT. Two freighters were left sinking. All the ships were fully laden.
Situation: There has been daylight traffic by fast isolated vessels and small escort vessels south of Durban since 1.3. The traffic puts in with surface and air escort from the 200 meter line, and on the outward passage as far as KZ 1336, then it spreads out to sea. There is strong aerial activity by day and land radar off the harbor.

U 506 (Kptlt. Erich Würdemann) reports approx. 4 freighters with destroyer and air escort at 0800 in KY 5640, on a westerly course. Otherwise nothing was sighted from GR 80 via 90 to KY 53.

An American convoy is expected to put out of Cape Town for the Persian Gulf on about 5.3.

The ops. area near Cape Town is to be extended immediately to the south as far as the latitude 45° S. The eastern and western boundaries are as formerly - 5° and 40° E. The new southerly boundaries may on no account be passed owing to the presence of our own ships.

If possible without danger to ourselves, U-boats are to stop Portuguese ships, and search for members of enemy states of military age. If these are particularly suitable they are to be taken on board.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 5 March 1943 - Kiel

1506 - Arrival at Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft - Degausing

(The unfinished) Aircraft Carrier Graf Zeppelin and Heavy Cruiser Gneisenau (historically, was in Gotenhafen at the time) are in Kiel.

+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


British bombers attack the Krupp works at Essen, Germany; This is the Allies' first attack on this industrial region, which started what the Allies called the Battle of the Ruhr. This attack also sees the first successful use of "Oboe", an aerial blind bombing targeting system.

Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue departs Argentia, Newfoundland, bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy HX.228.

Tirpitz completes post-refitting trials in Drontheim.

U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; in deputize for "Ali" Cremer in hospital) was attacked by enemy aircraft at night without previous radar in BF 5897. Slight damage. Aircraft was shot down in flames.

U 445 (Oblt. Heinz-Konrad Fenn) sighted outward bound convoy at 1215 in CG 9577. Contact was lost after hydrophone activity accompanied by bombs and depth charges lasting 12 hours. Very heavy air and surface reconnaissance in the area off Gibraltar.

Our own aircraft sighted Gibraltar convoy at 1830 in CG 4611, course 60°, speed 7.5 knots.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) reported Swedish steamer showing lights on a course of 70° in DM 7527. In spite of clear orders the boat requested permission to attack. It was accordingly corrected. The ship was later confirmed to be an Argentinean vessel.

Situation Cape Town:
U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte) confirmed westbound traffic during the day and on moonlit nights in GR 6720. Slight possibilities for action, owing to air and land observation. Triple and single miss on steamers of 7,000 and 2,000 GRT. Subsequent passage to KY 4350.
U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe): Nothing sighted in KZ 43 and 19 or from KZ 1781 to 1591 during a stay of several days. A modern passenger steamer, protected by corvettes, course 240° was sunk in KZ 1791 at 27.2. Size 10,000 GRT. Aerial activity up to 100 sea miles from land. Pieces of wreckage were rammed during patrol in KZ 1690 and KZ 2470. Withdrawn at the moment owing to oil tracks.

As more boats are to operate simultaneously in the area off the American coast, U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann), U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) and U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) already in CD are to be retained and distributed in the following order to the temporary ops. area CD 20, CD 30 and CD 40. As soon as the boats, also intended for this, arrive further movement is to take place. U 130 (KrvKpt. Ernst Kals) and U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) are to make for CA 50 also U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) is to replenish supplies from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler). 6 boats, therefore, are disposed for this operation. U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) is also to take on supplies from U 461 and proceed to the east to reinforce the Group "Tümmler". U 461 has given U 106, 180 cubic meters of fuel and U 521, 102 cubic meters. The tanker is empty and is on the return passage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++


Friday, 5 March 1943 - Kiel

1506 - Arrival at Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft - Degausing

(The unfinished) Aircraft Carrier Graf Zeppelin and Heavy Cruiser Gneisenau (historically, was in Gotenhafen at the time) are in Kiel.

+++++++

B.d.U. HQ moves from Paris to Berlin, Hotel am Steinplatz (until 12/43).


British bombers attack the Krupp works at Essen, Germany; This is the Allies' first attack on this industrial region, which started what the Allies called the Battle of the Ruhr. This attack also sees the first successful use of "Oboe", an aerial blind bombing targeting system.

Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue departs Argentia, Newfoundland, bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy HX.228.

Tirpitz completes post-refitting trials in Drontheim.

U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; in deputize for "Ali" Cremer in hospital) was attacked by enemy aircraft at night without previous radar in BF 5897. Slight damage. Aircraft was shot down in flames.

U 445 (Oblt. Heinz-Konrad Fenn) sighted outward bound convoy at 1215 in CG 9577. Contact was lost after hydrophone activity accompanied by bombs and depth charges lasting 12 hours. Very heavy air and surface reconnaissance in the area off Gibraltar.

Our own aircraft sighted Gibraltar convoy at 1830 in CG 4611, course 60°, speed 7.5 knots.

U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) reported Swedish steamer showing lights on a course of 70° in DM 7527. In spite of clear orders the boat requested permission to attack. It was accordingly corrected. The ship was later confirmed to be an Argentinean vessel.

Situation Cape Town:
U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte) confirmed westbound traffic during the day and on moonlit nights in GR 6720. Slight possibilities for action, owing to air and land observation. Triple and single miss on steamers of 7,000 and 2,000 GRT. Subsequent passage to KY 4350.
U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe): Nothing sighted in KZ 43 and 19 or from KZ 1781 to 1591 during a stay of several days. A modern passenger steamer, protected by corvettes, course 240° was sunk in KZ 1791 at 27.2. Size 10,000 GRT. Aerial activity up to 100 sea miles from land. Pieces of wreckage were rammed during patrol in KZ 1690 and KZ 2470. Withdrawn at the moment owing to oil tracks.

As more boats are to operate simultaneously in the area off the American coast, U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann), U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) and U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) already in CD are to be retained and distributed in the following order to the temporary ops. area CD 20, CD 30 and CD 40. As soon as the boats, also intended for this, arrive further movement is to take place. U 130 (KrvKpt. Ernst Kals) and U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) are to make for CA 50 also U 106 (Kptlt. Hermann Rasch; ex Oesten) is to replenish supplies from "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler). 6 boats, therefore, are disposed for this operation. U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) is also to take on supplies from U 461 and proceed to the east to reinforce the Group "Tümmler". U 461 has given U 106, 180 cubic meters of fuel and U 521, 102 cubic meters. The tanker is empty and is on the return passage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


+++++++



RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 6 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Loading of Fuel: 441t => 510cbm (at 865kg/m³) - 95 on gauge => 100%.

- Trimming trials in Kiel harbor.

Daily Op.-Briefing:


A) 1) The systematic evaluation of the English U-boat situation for the month of January and the beginning of February is reassuring, in view of the strong suspicion that the enemy had broken down our codes or otherwise obtained exceptional knowledge of our operations. (compare the English estimates of U-boat positions, confirmation of the facts accessible to the English, wireless bearings, sightings, U -boat attacks, a/s radar, also information obtained after the return of a number of U-boats.)
Except in the case of 2 - 3 unexplained incidents, English information from the facts accessible to him of U-boat positions, and plots of the boats, can throughout be traced to an explainable combination of facts. The most important revelation - confirmed almost without a doubt - was, that the enemy was able, with the help of a/c radar, to intercept U-boat dispositions with great accuracy - adequate for the successful evasive action of his convoys. As always, our countermeasures limp several weeks behind this kind of new enemy practice because:

a) His evasive measures are obvious, only after constant use, partly after receipt of English wireless messages (Special Radio Intelligence messages) not solved for weeks afterwards.
b) Reports of confirmed wireless location of U-boat dispositions, are rarely received by W/T, their use is not apparent until the operational survey and Commander's oral report.
c) The technical possibilities of "ASV" location (simultaneous confirmation of several targets at long range and thereby the simultaneous interception of several boats in one disposition) was still unknown.

A) 2) The fact perfectly corroborated by the increasing appearance of the additional word "radio located" in English U-boat situation (reports) of confirmation of U-boat dispositions by a/c radio location, meant an uncomfortable complication of the method used up to now, of intercepting convoys by patrol lines. As, in many cases, the inadequate number of U-boats in the patrol channels cannot be dispensed with.

a) The boats are ordered to submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar. (Stipulation for the effective execution of this measure is the presence of a constantly used Fu.M.B. in good working order. The Fu.M.B. aerials at present in use in the ops. areas are however not practicable in all weather conditions. An alteration will not be made until the beginning of March, the time of the equipping of boats with fixed Fu.M.B. cable and round dipole.)
b) Avoid all unnecessary waiting in patrol lines before the presumed convoy passage time. (Disposition of the groups: "Neptun", "Ritter", "Burggraf", "Neuland"). These groups were to proceed on a westerly to southwesterly course on the convoy routes as far as the area of Newfoundland Bank "Harken". The passage speed was for the most part very small in the bad weather conditions generally prevailing; the disposition could almost be considered stationary in view of the long range of the "ASV" apparatus and the high speed and radius of action of English a/c. Up to now no better method has been tried. All other dispositions, i.e. the indiscriminate, unsystematic spreading out of boats in a certain area, ("castor sugar") have the disadvantage of too large spaces between the individual boats. After the non-interception of a convoy by such a disposition there is always the riddle what's to be done. The required certainty is lacking in a clear lineal disposition in any case up to a certain point (adverse weather conditions, periods of fog excepted), that the convoy has not sailed through the disposition area, that then, an alteration of the area and method is necessary.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 6 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Loading of Fuel: 441t => 510cbm (at 865kg/m³) - 95 on gauge => 100%.

- Trimming trials in Kiel harbor.

Daily Op.-Briefing:


A) 1) The systematic evaluation of the English U-boat situation for the month of January and the beginning of February is reassuring, in view of the strong suspicion that the enemy had broken down our codes or otherwise obtained exceptional knowledge of our operations. (compare the English estimates of U-boat positions, confirmation of the facts accessible to the English, wireless bearings, sightings, U -boat attacks, a/s radar, also information obtained after the return of a number of U-boats.)
Except in the case of 2 - 3 unexplained incidents, English information from the facts accessible to him of U-boat positions, and plots of the boats, can throughout be traced to an explainable combination of facts. The most important revelation - confirmed almost without a doubt - was, that the enemy was able, with the help of a/c radar, to intercept U-boat dispositions with great accuracy - adequate for the successful evasive action of his convoys. As always, our countermeasures limp several weeks behind this kind of new enemy practice because:

a) His evasive measures are obvious, only after constant use, partly after receipt of English wireless messages (Special Radio Intelligence messages) not solved for weeks afterwards.
b) Reports of confirmed wireless location of U-boat dispositions, are rarely received by W/T, their use is not apparent until the operational survey and Commander's oral report.
c) The technical possibilities of "ASV" location (simultaneous confirmation of several targets at long range and thereby the simultaneous interception of several boats in one disposition) was still unknown.

A) 2) The fact perfectly corroborated by the increasing appearance of the additional word "radio located" in English U-boat situation (reports) of confirmation of U-boat dispositions by a/c radio location, meant an uncomfortable complication of the method used up to now, of intercepting convoys by patrol lines. As, in many cases, the inadequate number of U-boats in the patrol channels cannot be dispensed with.

a) The boats are ordered to submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar. (Stipulation for the effective execution of this measure is the presence of a constantly used Fu.M.B. in good working order. The Fu.M.B. aerials at present in use in the ops. areas are however not practicable in all weather conditions. An alteration will not be made until the beginning of March, the time of the equipping of boats with fixed Fu.M.B. cable and round dipole.)
b) Avoid all unnecessary waiting in patrol lines before the presumed convoy passage time. (Disposition of the groups: "Neptun", "Ritter", "Burggraf", "Neuland"). These groups were to proceed on a westerly to southwesterly course on the convoy routes as far as the area of Newfoundland Bank "Harken". The passage speed was for the most part very small in the bad weather conditions generally prevailing; the disposition could almost be considered stationary in view of the long range of the "ASV" apparatus and the high speed and radius of action of English a/c. Up to now no better method has been tried. All other dispositions, i.e. the indiscriminate, unsystematic spreading out of boats in a certain area, ("castor sugar") have the disadvantage of too large spaces between the individual boats. After the non-interception of a convoy by such a disposition there is always the riddle what's to be done. The required certainty is lacking in a clear lineal disposition in any case up to a certain point (adverse weather conditions, periods of fog excepted), that the convoy has not sailed through the disposition area, that then, an alteration of the area and method is necessary.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 7 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Testing of Navigational and Radio Equipment.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plate: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:


B) 1) Warfare against the African supplies from North America in the area north and south of the Azores has led to failure. Neither a U.G.S. or G.U.S. convoy has been intercepted by means of a patrol or reconnaissance channels ("Rochen, Robbe"). The enemy's possibility of taking evasive action north or south of the Great Circle are very great - owing to the great length of the entire route without any significant extension of the convoy route.
B) 2) The tricky situation of the forces defending the bridgehead Tunis, forces action against African supply lines. As, for one thing, the attacking of the convoys in the area of the Gibraltar lines is unpropitious owing to strong defence, for another, as described in 1), the interception of convoys halfway is pointless in view of the size of the area, the following is the remaining possibility:
Deployment of U-boats off the North American departure ports. Interception here and pursuit to open sea.
It must be ascertained in this connection:
a) The aerial defences off the coast is apparently very strong, disposition must therefore be stationary.
b) Facts of ports of departure and times of leaving are unpredictable therefore a certain number of boats are necessary
c) Defences, taken as a whole, mean a withdrawal to outside the coastal area during the full moon period. Consideration of these facts leads to the demand for an adequate number of boats, some of which would act as reconnaissance units stationed directly in front of the harbor, the others further out to act as "pick-up" groups able to operate on the reconnaissance groups reports. Owing to the length of the approach route, only a small percentage of U-boats (at the moment type IXc) come into the question. The following boats originally intended for deployment in the Cape Town area were distributed for this: U 172, U 515, U 513, also U 167, U 130, U 106, U 159.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 7 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Testing of Navigational and Radio Equipment.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plate: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:


B) 1) Warfare against the African supplies from North America in the area north and south of the Azores has led to failure. Neither a U.G.S. or G.U.S. convoy has been intercepted by means of a patrol or reconnaissance channels ("Rochen, Robbe"). The enemy's possibility of taking evasive action north or south of the Great Circle are very great - owing to the great length of the entire route without any significant extension of the convoy route.
B) 2) The tricky situation of the forces defending the bridgehead Tunis, forces action against African supply lines. As, for one thing, the attacking of the convoys in the area of the Gibraltar lines is unpropitious owing to strong defence, for another, as described in 1), the interception of convoys halfway is pointless in view of the size of the area, the following is the remaining possibility:
Deployment of U-boats off the North American departure ports. Interception here and pursuit to open sea.
It must be ascertained in this connection:
a) The aerial defences off the coast is apparently very strong, disposition must therefore be stationary.
b) Facts of ports of departure and times of leaving are unpredictable therefore a certain number of boats are necessary
c) Defences, taken as a whole, mean a withdrawal to outside the coastal area during the full moon period. Consideration of these facts leads to the demand for an adequate number of boats, some of which would act as reconnaissance units stationed directly in front of the harbor, the others further out to act as "pick-up" groups able to operate on the reconnaissance groups reports. Owing to the length of the approach route, only a small percentage of U-boats (at the moment type IXc) come into the question. The following boats originally intended for deployment in the Cape Town area were distributed for this: U 172, U 515, U 513, also U 167, U 130, U 106, U 159.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 8 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Testing of Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:


2) The reports from U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; in deputize for "Ali" Cremer, in hospital) of 5.3 and U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) of 6.3 confirm the conjecture of several weeks that the enemy was using new methods of locating which could not be picked up by Fu.M.B. equipment. Reports from both boats at sea and from Commander's upon return from patrol revealed occasionally at first, then more often, that they had been attacked by a/c at night (mostly in the Biscay and Trinidad areas) without previous appearance of an a/c searchlight in the vicinity, or radar activity being confirmed. The following new methods of locating appear possible according to observations and deliberations.
2) A) The enemy is working with either very high or very low, and therefore scarcely a completely inaudible frequency impulse. This possibility is strengthened by the observations of U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) from the Caribbean Sea. The P.O. Telegraphist Bruster, on confirming scarcely audible impulse frequencies, installed the magic eye of the wireless receiver Ela 10.12 in the Metox receiver in order to make visible the inaudible impulse frequencies. In this way apparently, a location was once confirmed.
Magic eyes are to be installed in the receivers of all outward bound boats, after P.O. Tel. Bruster's report to the S.O. Naval Signals and Communications Equipment Command. Apart from this, on 6.3 a number of oscillographs were sent by courier to the western area to be added to the Metox receiver in order to ascertain as soon as possible whether the enemy is in fact, working with inaudible impulse frequencies.
Boats at sea have received instructions to send observations if necessary.
2) B) The enemy is working on carrier frequencies outside the frequency range of the present Fu.M.B. receivers. The shooting down, over Holland of an enemy a/c apparently carrying an apparatus with a frequency of 5.7 centimeters is the only indication at present of this possibility. It is possible that the enemy is attempting to escape from the frequency range of our Fu.M.B. which indicates the knowledge of this and the introduction of countermeasures.
2) C) The enemy uses his search and locating apparatus for a very short space of time (2 to 3 secs). This method is a development and perfecting of the economical use of locating already observed. It would be very difficulty and almost only occasionally possible for an Fu.M.B. observer to confirm a location with the Fu.M.B. equipment at present in use. Theoretically it appears desirable to counter all these three possibilities in the following way:
Use of an aperiodic, untuned receiver with optical sight indicator, in which every location will be immediately seen, whether carrier or impulse frequency. It remains to be seen whether this possibility is technically practicable. Further information in this connection is to be requested directly from the appropriate departments.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 8 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Testing of Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt equipment.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:


2) The reports from U 333 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff; in deputize for "Ali" Cremer, in hospital) of 5.3 and U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) of 6.3 confirm the conjecture of several weeks that the enemy was using new methods of locating which could not be picked up by Fu.M.B. equipment. Reports from both boats at sea and from Commander's upon return from patrol revealed occasionally at first, then more often, that they had been attacked by a/c at night (mostly in the Biscay and Trinidad areas) without previous appearance of an a/c searchlight in the vicinity, or radar activity being confirmed. The following new methods of locating appear possible according to observations and deliberations.
2) A) The enemy is working with either very high or very low, and therefore scarcely a completely inaudible frequency impulse. This possibility is strengthened by the observations of U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) from the Caribbean Sea. The P.O. Telegraphist Bruster, on confirming scarcely audible impulse frequencies, installed the magic eye of the wireless receiver Ela 10.12 in the Metox receiver in order to make visible the inaudible impulse frequencies. In this way apparently, a location was once confirmed.
Magic eyes are to be installed in the receivers of all outward bound boats, after P.O. Tel. Bruster's report to the S.O. Naval Signals and Communications Equipment Command. Apart from this, on 6.3 a number of oscillographs were sent by courier to the western area to be added to the Metox receiver in order to ascertain as soon as possible whether the enemy is in fact, working with inaudible impulse frequencies.
Boats at sea have received instructions to send observations if necessary.
2) B) The enemy is working on carrier frequencies outside the frequency range of the present Fu.M.B. receivers. The shooting down, over Holland of an enemy a/c apparently carrying an apparatus with a frequency of 5.7 centimeters is the only indication at present of this possibility. It is possible that the enemy is attempting to escape from the frequency range of our Fu.M.B. which indicates the knowledge of this and the introduction of countermeasures.
2) C) The enemy uses his search and locating apparatus for a very short space of time (2 to 3 secs). This method is a development and perfecting of the economical use of locating already observed. It would be very difficulty and almost only occasionally possible for an Fu.M.B. observer to confirm a location with the Fu.M.B. equipment at present in use. Theoretically it appears desirable to counter all these three possibilities in the following way:
Use of an aperiodic, untuned receiver with optical sight indicator, in which every location will be immediately seen, whether carrier or impulse frequency. It remains to be seen whether this possibility is technically practicable. Further information in this connection is to be requested directly from the appropriate departments.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 9 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Installation and testing of the Magic Eye (of the Wireless Receiver Ela 10.12) in the FuMB-1/Metox600A.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:

The Naval C.-in-C. decided on 20.2.43, that after the transference of the boats U 377, 592, 403, 405, 209, 376 and 334 from the North Sea to the Atlantic - the amount of North Sea boats will be supplemented from the boats from home - U 644, 467, 639, 711, 269, 339, 304, 636, 646 - 23 boats.

Erwin Rommel departed North Africa on account of health reasons.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 9 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Final Adjustments and Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Installation and testing of the Magic Eye (of the Wireless Receiver Ela 10.12) in the FuMB-1/Metox600A.

- Loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

Daily Op.-Briefing:

The Naval C.-in-C. decided on 20.2.43, that after the transference of the boats U 377, 592, 403, 405, 209, 376 and 334 from the North Sea to the Atlantic - the amount of North Sea boats will be supplemented from the boats from home - U 644, 467, 639, 711, 269, 339, 304, 636, 646 - 23 boats.

Erwin Rommel departed North Africa on account of health reasons.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 10 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Completed loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

- Final Adjustments and Repairs. Basin Trials.

Pre-War Patrol Briefing and new B.d.U.-Standing Orders:
1) Since 11.42, Deckgun also as Flak
2) Since End1942, A/C with Rockets RP-3
3) As of 8 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 307: Inspection/Replacement of Pistol G7H after Wabo Attack.
4) As of 8 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 308: Closing of Torpedo Tubes during Deep Dive.
5) As of 30 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510: Test Run of Main Diesels at AK for 30min., every 4 days.
6) As of March 1943:
A) Forward Projectile "Hedgehog": Range/Distance 230-260m; Effective Range/Radius 30m; Sinking Speed 13m/s.
B) Mark24 Mine "Fido" (Homing) Torpedo: Depth 15-45m; Speed 12 kn for 10 min; Range 3700m.

Axis forces in Tunisia fall back to the Mareth Line.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 10 March 1943 - Kiel Kriegsmarinewerft

Pre-War Patrol Preparation:

- Completed loading of Provisions, Ammunitions and Torpedoes:

Ari and A/A ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/32: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 5280 x SpG (2 x 2640); 2720 x PbG (2 x 1360)

Torpedoes:
- Tubes I-IV & VI: T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Tube V: T-4 "Falke" Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow above floor plates: 2 x T-3 (G7e), Pi-2/Pi39H (MZ/AZ)
- Bow under floor plates: 4 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Aft under floor plates: 3 x T-1/G7a FAT (AtoFat), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)
- Upper deck containers: 10 (8 fwd, 2 aft) x T-1/G7a (Ato), Pi-1/G7H/K-a (AZ only)

- Final Adjustments and Repairs. Basin Trials.

Pre-War Patrol Briefing and new B.d.U.-Standing Orders:
1) Since 11.42, Deckgun also as Flak
2) Since End1942, A/C with Rockets RP-3
3) As of 8 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 307: Inspection/Replacement of Pistol G7H after Wabo Attack.
4) As of 8 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 308: Closing of Torpedo Tubes during Deep Dive.
5) As of 30 Jan.1943, B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510: Test Run of Main Diesels at AK for 30min., every 4 days.
6) As of March 1943:
A) Forward Projectile "Hedgehog": Range/Distance 230-260m; Effective Range/Radius 30m; Sinking Speed 13m/s.
B) Mark24 Mine "Fido" (Homing) Torpedo: Depth 15-45m; Speed 12 kn for 10 min; Range 3700m.

Axis forces in Tunisia fall back to the Mareth Line.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) undergoes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 11 March 1943 - Kiel

Taking on of fresh food and water supply.

Received transit and Op.-Orders:
- Proceed to Kristiansand under escort for fuel and lubrication oil, and fresh water supply.
- Further Op.-Orders will be given during transit.
- Tirpitz and Scharnhorst will sail today from Drontheim, escorted by Torpedo Boats Jaguar and Greif, to our Navy base in Bogen Bay, Norway.

Pre-War Patrol Preparation completed (sailed without Focke Achgelis Fa 330 Bachstelze).

Cmdr.: The day we all have been waiting for has finally come: 5 months after commissioning of our new boat, we get to give proof of what we have learned in the many weeks of rigorous training and exercises, testing - and often times exceeding - the limits of our boat and us. May good luck and fortune be with us and accompany us until after a glorious journey, we are allowed to enter the safe haven again.

1510 - N3/2, clear, visibility 7sm, >1000mb - Casting off Tirpitz Mole. Departed Kiel for escort meeting point.

1530 - Taking on of escort (Class 34 Destroyer).

1541 - Cleared barrage Friedrichsort.

1550 - Transit in convoy (with U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn) for Kristiansand. Entering transit path, which is patrolled by a Class 36 Destroyer, and a Dornier Do-24 and a Arado AR196.

Today, Feldmarschall Erwin Rommel received Diamonds to his Knight's Cross.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 11 March 1943 - Kiel

Taking on of fresh food and water supply.

Received transit and Op.-Orders:
- Proceed to Kristiansand under escort for fuel and lubrication oil, and fresh water supply.
- Further Op.-Orders will be given during transit.
- Tirpitz and Scharnhorst will sail today from Drontheim, escorted by Torpedo Boats Jaguar and Greif, to our Navy base in Bogen Bay, Norway.

Pre-War Patrol Preparation completed (sailed without Focke Achgelis Fa 330 Bachstelze).

Cmdr.: The day we all have been waiting for has finally come: 5 months after commissioning of our new boat, we get to give proof of what we have learned in the many weeks of rigorous training and exercises, testing - and often times exceeding - the limits of our boat and us. May good luck and fortune be with us and accompany us until after a glorious journey, we are allowed to enter the safe haven again.

1510 - N3/2, clear, visibility 7sm, >1000mb - Casting off Tirpitz Mole. Departed Kiel for escort meeting point.

1530 - Taking on of escort (Class 34 Destroyer).

1541 - Cleared barrage Friedrichsort.

1550 - Transit in convoy (with U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn) for Kristiansand. Entering transit path, which is patrolled by a Class 36 Destroyer, and a Dornier Do-24 and a Arado AR196.

Today, Feldmarschall Erwin Rommel received Diamonds to his Knight's Cross.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 12 March 1943 - Great Belt/Skagerrak

During transit, received daily intel and Op.-Updates:
1) RAF bombers attack the Krupp steel plants in Essen.
2) Heavy fighting at Kharkov; Our troops evacuate Vyazma.
3) British destroyer HMS Lighting (G55) of Force Q is sunk in the Mediterranean by twelve German torpedo bombers and German motor torpedo boat S-158.
4) Tirpitz arrives at Bogen/Narvik.
5) In order to facilitate the transit of closed areas within Route "A" to uboats, the areas will be divided into the following sections:
A) Section "A" extends from W. France to 30° W.
B) Section "B" extends from 30° W. to the south to 30° N.
C) Section "C" extends from 30° N. to 15° N.
D) Section "D" extends from 15° N. to 05° S.
With the immediate closing of section "B" until further notice, only section "A" is open for attacks on isolated vessels.

1200 - Days Run: 311.5 nm ↗ (20h 50') - since Kiel
504cbm (6cbm in 20h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Kiel.

Bottoming boat outside of Kristiansand, due to darkness rapidly setting-in.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 12 March 1943 - Great Belt/Skagerrak

During transit, received daily intel and Op.-Updates:
1) RAF bombers attack the Krupp steel plants in Essen.
2) Heavy fighting at Kharkov; Our troops evacuate Vyazma.
3) British destroyer HMS Lighting (G55) of Force Q is sunk in the Mediterranean by twelve German torpedo bombers and German motor torpedo boat S-158.
4) Tirpitz arrives at Bogen/Narvik.
5) In order to facilitate the transit of closed areas within Route "A" to uboats, the areas will be divided into the following sections:
A) Section "A" extends from W. France to 30° W.
B) Section "B" extends from 30° W. to the south to 30° N.
C) Section "C" extends from 30° N. to 15° N.
D) Section "D" extends from 15° N. to 05° S.
With the immediate closing of section "B" until further notice, only section "A" is open for attacks on isolated vessels.

1200 - Days Run: 311.5 nm ↗ (20h 50') - since Kiel
504cbm (6cbm in 20h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Kiel.

Bottoming boat outside of Kristiansand, due to darkness rapidly setting-in.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 13 March 1943 - Kristiansand

Raising boat from sea bottom. Surfaced and approaching Kristiansand.

0849 - A Class 36A Destroyer is protecting the harbor entry. Entered Kristiansand via the southern approach path. Many fishing trawlers in Kristiansand roadsted; Manning flak guns.

0945 - Made fast Kristiansand - Maviken. (Fuel and lubrication oil, and fresh water supply).

1200 - Days Run: 176.2 nm

2303 - F.T. from B.d.U.: O.K.W.-Report:
A Chinese counter attack pushes the Japanese back across the Yangtze River.

(Off the record: The Führer visited Günther von Kluge's field headquarters at Smolensk. Anti-Hitler conspirators spoke to von Kluge beforehand, but they could not convince von Kluge to take action to arrest Hitler. Without von Kluge's help, the conspirators acted on their own, sneaking fused bombs disguised as brandy bottles aboard Hitler's aircraft, which took off for Rastenburg/Berlin, after dinner. The bombs failed to explode, and the conspirators had to take the risk, successfully, to retrieve the bottles before they were discovered.)

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 13 March 1943 - Kristiansand

Raising boat from sea bottom. Surfaced and approaching Kristiansand.

0849 - A Class 36A Destroyer is protecting the harbor entry. Entered Kristiansand via the southern approach path. Many fishing trawlers in Kristiansand roadsted; Manning flak guns.

0945 - Made fast Kristiansand - Maviken. (Fuel and lubrication oil, and fresh water supply).

1200 - Days Run: 176.2 nm

2303 - F.T. from B.d.U.: O.K.W.-Report:
A Chinese counter attack pushes the Japanese back across the Yangtze River.

(Off the record: The Führer visited Günther von Kluge's field headquarters at Smolensk. Anti-Hitler conspirators spoke to von Kluge beforehand, but they could not convince von Kluge to take action to arrest Hitler. Without von Kluge's help, the conspirators acted on their own, sneaking fused bombs disguised as brandy bottles aboard Hitler's aircraft, which took off for Rastenburg/Berlin, after dinner. The bombs failed to explode, and the conspirators had to take the risk, successfully, to retrieve the bottles before they were discovered.)

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 14 March 1943 - Kristiansand-Maviken

10 cbm fuel oil, lubrication oil and fresh water taken on.

Received Op.-Orders and intel briefing:
I. The Russian BI-3 rocket-powered prototype aircraft took its second flight at Sverdlovsk Oblast (modern day Yekaterinburg), in Russia.
II. US Terror bombers of the US 8th Air Force bombed Kiel.
III. After the successful convoy battles in the North Atlantic against convoys SC.121 and HX.228, the next big convoy battle operations against the two following convoys SC.122 and HX.229 are shaping up.
a) Outbound transit via Iceland Passage and Qu.5269AL.
b) Aerial reconnaissance is to be expected in the entire area of the Iceland Passage (although, some boats have made no mention of the fact). Mines and surface patrols were only occasionally encountered.
c) Submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar (also, by Magic Eye).
d) Op.area:
1) As part of Group Seehund (2nd wave), Cape Town area, Mozambique Strait and Indian Ocean, East of Madagascar.
2) According to KTB of 8.3 para III U 509 was detailed to operate on traffic in the area north of Cape Town and received freedom of movement for this purpose. Supplying of "Seehund" boats is planned to take place in approximately lower third of DG. The Commander (Kptlt. Werner Witte) will decide whether the return passage is to take place with or without replenishment, according to the number of torpedoes and the traffic situation.
3) As of 8 March, the area of Route "A" east of Cape Town has been extended as follows: The boundary now runs from FM 4957 via GZ 7644, JK 8254, JC 1432 and KG 6876 then to the west as far as the African coast.
4) Return port is Bordeaux.

1618 - Casting off Kristiansand - Maviken
N3/2, clear, visibility 7sm, >1000.

Leaving Kristiansand via the northern transit path. Again many fishing trawlers in Kristiansand roadsted; Manning flak guns.

1721 - Qu.3869AN - Departed in convoy (with U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn). Entered transit path. During transit, some fishing trawlers cross the transit path.

1825 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2047 - Reached exit point of transit path.

2054 - Qu.3891AN - Course 270°.

2302 - F.T. from B.d.U.: O.K.W.-Report:
Our armoured forces recapture Charkow. The British Submarine Thunderbolt (ex. Thetis), was sunk by the Italian Corvette Cicogna off Capo San Vito, Sicily.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 14 March 1943 - Kristiansand-Maviken

10 cbm fuel oil, lubrication oil and fresh water taken on.

Received Op.-Orders and intel briefing:
I. The Russian BI-3 rocket-powered prototype aircraft took its second flight at Sverdlovsk Oblast (modern day Yekaterinburg), in Russia.
II. US Terror bombers of the US 8th Air Force bombed Kiel.
III. After the successful convoy battles in the North Atlantic against convoys SC.121 and HX.228, the next big convoy battle operations against the two following convoys SC.122 and HX.229 are shaping up.
a) Outbound transit via Iceland Passage and Qu.5269AL.
b) Aerial reconnaissance is to be expected in the entire area of the Iceland Passage (although, some boats have made no mention of the fact). Mines and surface patrols were only occasionally encountered.
c) Submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar (also, by Magic Eye).
d) Op.area:
1) As part of Group Seehund (2nd wave), Cape Town area, Mozambique Strait and Indian Ocean, East of Madagascar.
2) According to KTB of 8.3 para III U 509 was detailed to operate on traffic in the area north of Cape Town and received freedom of movement for this purpose. Supplying of "Seehund" boats is planned to take place in approximately lower third of DG. The Commander (Kptlt. Werner Witte) will decide whether the return passage is to take place with or without replenishment, according to the number of torpedoes and the traffic situation.
3) As of 8 March, the area of Route "A" east of Cape Town has been extended as follows: The boundary now runs from FM 4957 via GZ 7644, JK 8254, JC 1432 and KG 6876 then to the west as far as the African coast.
4) Return port is Bordeaux.

1618 - Casting off Kristiansand - Maviken
N3/2, clear, visibility 7sm, >1000.

Leaving Kristiansand via the northern transit path. Again many fishing trawlers in Kristiansand roadsted; Manning flak guns.

1721 - Qu.3869AN - Departed in convoy (with U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn). Entered transit path. During transit, some fishing trawlers cross the transit path.

1825 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2047 - Reached exit point of transit path.

2054 - Qu.3891AN - Course 270°.

2302 - F.T. from B.d.U.: O.K.W.-Report:
Our armoured forces recapture Charkow. The British Submarine Thunderbolt (ex. Thetis), was sunk by the Italian Corvette Cicogna off Capo San Vito, Sicily.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 15 March 1943 - Southern coast of Norway

0540 - Morning Dawn.

0601 - F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst Report:
The Allies will soon begin to deploy the so called "Leigh Lights" (as of 14 April) and the British Royal Navy has launched their first X-class midget submarines.

0659 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Kristiansand.

0713 - Qu.3791AN - Course 304°. Released from convoy according to orders. (U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn, goes to Bergen)

0715 - Diving for Test dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507. 145rpm. Seems to take a long time for the boat reach and to level out on the set depth (10m increments).

0754 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0755 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0800 - Boat rises to 17.5m and levels out at T=20 at 0802.

0815 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.7nm.

0816 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%.

1200 - Qu.3751AN - Days Run: 205.6 nm (19h 42') - ↗ 201.9nm (18h 42') - ↘ 3.7nm (1h) - since Kristiansand
Total: 693.3 nm (62h 17') - ↗ 689.6nm (61h 17') - ↘ 3.7nm (1h)
504cbm (6cbm in 20h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Kristiansand.

1445 - Crash dive for training.
Boat sinks to 75m and levels out at 71m at 1449h.

1450 - Set for Reception Depth. 96rpm.

1455 - Boat levels out very well at T=20.

1500 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15min. and 1nm.

1501 - Boat ventilated, Compressed Air Supply filled. Battery 94%.

1501 - F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst report:
Enemy task force within the Eastern Barrage, Qu.5742AN, course SE, 21kn.

1836 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day/2h.

2315 - Qu.2655AN - Course 0°.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 15 March 1943 - Southern coast of Norway

0540 - Morning Dawn.

0601 - F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst Report:
The Allies will soon begin to deploy the so called "Leigh Lights" (as of 14 April) and the British Royal Navy has launched their first X-class midget submarines.

0659 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Kristiansand.

0713 - Qu.3791AN - Course 304°. Released from convoy according to orders. (U-191; IXC/40; Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn, goes to Bergen)

0715 - Diving for Test dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507. 145rpm. Seems to take a long time for the boat reach and to level out on the set depth (10m increments).

0754 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0755 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0800 - Boat rises to 17.5m and levels out at T=20 at 0802.

0815 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.7nm.

0816 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%.

1200 - Qu.3751AN - Days Run: 205.6 nm (19h 42') - ↗ 201.9nm (18h 42') - ↘ 3.7nm (1h) - since Kristiansand
Total: 693.3 nm (62h 17') - ↗ 689.6nm (61h 17') - ↘ 3.7nm (1h)
504cbm (6cbm in 20h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Kristiansand.

1445 - Crash dive for training.
Boat sinks to 75m and levels out at 71m at 1449h.

1450 - Set for Reception Depth. 96rpm.

1455 - Boat levels out very well at T=20.

1500 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15min. and 1nm.

1501 - Boat ventilated, Compressed Air Supply filled. Battery 94%.

1501 - F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst report:
Enemy task force within the Eastern Barrage, Qu.5742AN, course SE, 21kn.

1836 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day/2h.

2315 - Qu.2655AN - Course 0°.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 16 March 1943 - West of Utsira

0541 - Morning dawn. Just before breakfast of the Port-Watch, FuMB Warning (no Magic Eye) 290°true, E=14000.

0542 - Diving. Just before closing the C/T hatch, an airplane is seen approaching the boat from 290°true, E~6000. Diving with A.K. During the diving process, Sound Contact with a convoy on a southerly heading bearing 95°, E=19000.

0545 - At A-Meter Wabos and again at 0548h. No damage.

0556 - 96rpm. Setting for Reception Depth.

0601 - T=20. Boat stays submerged.

0705 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 23min. and 4.2nm.
Boat ventilated. Battery 92%.

0707 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day/15h.

0711 - Qu.2855AN - Wind and Sea increasing: N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Course 355°.

F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst report:
Enemy task force within the Eastern Barrage, Qu.4661AN, course ESE, 21kn. Operational trials of the 37-mm Flak gun-armed German Ju 87G anti-tank aircraft began on the Eastern Front.

1200 - Qu.8782AF - Days Run: 230.2 nm - ↗ 225.0nm (22h 22') - ↘ 5.2nm (1h 38') - On course 355°.
Total: 923.5 nm (86h 17') - ↗ 914.6nm (83h 39') - ↘ 8.9nm (2h 38').
499cbm (5cbm in 24h); Battery 94%; Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700.

1211 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
At 0542h in Qu.2358AN, after FuMB detection diving from A/C approaching from 290°true. At A-Meter two Wabos - no damages. According sound contact convoy in Qu.2359AN on southerly heading. 499cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1303 - Qu.8755AF - Course 302°.

1843 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0711.

2302 - F.T. from B.d.U.:
Report on conovy battles HX.229 (37 ships) and SC.122 (50 ships): Group Raubgraf sank 13 ships of HX.229 and Group Stürmer sank 9 ships of SC.122.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 16 March 1943 - West of Utsira

0541 - Morning dawn. Just before breakfast of the Port-Watch, FuMB Warning (no Magic Eye) 290°true, E=14000.

0542 - Diving. Just before closing the C/T hatch, an airplane is seen approaching the boat from 290°true, E~6000. Diving with A.K. During the diving process, Sound Contact with a convoy on a southerly heading bearing 95°, E=19000.

0545 - At A-Meter Wabos and again at 0548h. No damage.

0556 - 96rpm. Setting for Reception Depth.

0601 - T=20. Boat stays submerged.

0705 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 23min. and 4.2nm.
Boat ventilated. Battery 92%.

0707 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day/15h.

0711 - Qu.2855AN - Wind and Sea increasing: N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Course 355°.

F.T. from B.d.U.: B-Dienst report:
Enemy task force within the Eastern Barrage, Qu.4661AN, course ESE, 21kn. Operational trials of the 37-mm Flak gun-armed German Ju 87G anti-tank aircraft began on the Eastern Front.

1200 - Qu.8782AF - Days Run: 230.2 nm - ↗ 225.0nm (22h 22') - ↘ 5.2nm (1h 38') - On course 355°.
Total: 923.5 nm (86h 17') - ↗ 914.6nm (83h 39') - ↘ 8.9nm (2h 38').
499cbm (5cbm in 24h); Battery 94%; Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700.

1211 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
At 0542h in Qu.2358AN, after FuMB detection diving from A/C approaching from 290°true. At A-Meter two Wabos - no damages. According sound contact convoy in Qu.2359AN on southerly heading. 499cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1303 - Qu.8755AF - Course 302°.

1843 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0711.

2302 - F.T. from B.d.U.:
Report on conovy battles HX.229 (37 ships) and SC.122 (50 ships): Group Raubgraf sank 13 ships of HX.229 and Group Stürmer sank 9 ships of SC.122.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 17 March 1943 - Northern North-Sea

0535 - Morning Dawn. Setting 3/4-Moon in NW.

0713 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0715 - Qu.7352AF - Diving for torpedo maintenance.

1020 - Bow tubes serviced - break.

1030 - Servicing of stern tubes until 1200.

1200 - Qu.7351AF - Days Run: 206.9 nm - ↗ 193.7sm (19h 15') - ↘ 13.2sm (4h 45')
Total: 1130.4 nm (110h 17') - ↗ 1108.3nm (102h 54') - ↘ 22.1nm (7h 23')
On course 288°; 493cbm (6cbm in 24h)

1201 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 45').

1300 - Setting for reception depth. At 1305 T=20.

1315 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.6nm
(Total: 6h and 16.8nm); Weather and Sea unchanged in 1day/6h.

1316 - Boat ventilated.

1323 - Crash dive for training.

1324 - A-10, 96rpm.

1327 - Setting for reception depth. T=20 at 1332.

1338 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15min. and 1nm.

1340 - Boat ventilated; Compressed air supply filled; Battery 80%.

1342 - Charging batteries: Stbd.Diesel Charging, 496RPM; Port Diesel Propulsion, 375RPM/10kn.

1552 - Batteries charged: 2h 10' for 20%. 1/3-Ahead/10kn.

1713 - Qu.7311AF bottom right - ALARM! from Flying Boat (Sunderland) approaching from 295°true. Diving at E=7900. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye). At T=60 two loud Wabo detonations.

1717 - At A-Meter, further Wabos and again at 1720 - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1813 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1818.

1828 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.8nm.

1829 - Boat ventilated; Compressed air supply filled; Battery 97%.

1842 - Qu.7311AF center - Diving due to FuMB detection in 136°true, E=15400 (no Magic Eye).

1847 - At A-Meter no Wabos.

1855 - Sundown.

1857 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1902.

1907 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25' and 1.4nm.
Battery 94%.

2028 - Switched to Ireland Circuit as ordered.

2030 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Switched to Irland Circuit. At 1713 Alarm from Sunderland in 295°true, no FuMB and Magic Eye detection. At A-20 and A-Meter Wabos, no damages, Qu.7311AF center right. At 1842 diving due to FuMB Detection, at A-Meter no Wabos, Qu.7311AF center. 491cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

2300 - Qu.4895AF top left - Crossed Prime Meridian.

2303 - F.T. from B.d.U.: OKW-Report:
Japanese forces attack British positions in Arakan, West-Burma, forcing Indian troops to fall back. US troops captured Gafsa, Tunisia. 90 Luftwaffe bombers attacked Cardiff, Wales.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 17 March 1943 - Northern North-Sea

0535 - Morning Dawn. Setting 3/4-Moon in NW.

0713 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0715 - Qu.7352AF - Diving for torpedo maintenance.

1020 - Bow tubes serviced - break.

1030 - Servicing of stern tubes until 1200.

1200 - Qu.7351AF - Days Run: 206.9 nm - ↗ 193.7sm (19h 15') - ↘ 13.2sm (4h 45')
Total: 1130.4 nm (110h 17') - ↗ 1108.3nm (102h 54') - ↘ 22.1nm (7h 23')
On course 288°; 493cbm (6cbm in 24h)

1201 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 45').

1300 - Setting for reception depth. At 1305 T=20.

1315 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.6nm
(Total: 6h and 16.8nm); Weather and Sea unchanged in 1day/6h.

1316 - Boat ventilated.

1323 - Crash dive for training.

1324 - A-10, 96rpm.

1327 - Setting for reception depth. T=20 at 1332.

1338 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15min. and 1nm.

1340 - Boat ventilated; Compressed air supply filled; Battery 80%.

1342 - Charging batteries: Stbd.Diesel Charging, 496RPM; Port Diesel Propulsion, 375RPM/10kn.

1552 - Batteries charged: 2h 10' for 20%. 1/3-Ahead/10kn.

1713 - Qu.7311AF bottom right - ALARM! from Flying Boat (Sunderland) approaching from 295°true. Diving at E=7900. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye). At T=60 two loud Wabo detonations.

1717 - At A-Meter, further Wabos and again at 1720 - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1813 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1818.

1828 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.8nm.

1829 - Boat ventilated; Compressed air supply filled; Battery 97%.

1842 - Qu.7311AF center - Diving due to FuMB detection in 136°true, E=15400 (no Magic Eye).

1847 - At A-Meter no Wabos.

1855 - Sundown.

1857 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1902.

1907 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25' and 1.4nm.
Battery 94%.

2028 - Switched to Ireland Circuit as ordered.

2030 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Switched to Irland Circuit. At 1713 Alarm from Sunderland in 295°true, no FuMB and Magic Eye detection. At A-20 and A-Meter Wabos, no damages, Qu.7311AF center right. At 1842 diving due to FuMB Detection, at A-Meter no Wabos, Qu.7311AF center. 491cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

2300 - Qu.4895AF top left - Crossed Prime Meridian.

2303 - F.T. from B.d.U.: OKW-Report:
Japanese forces attack British positions in Arakan, West-Burma, forcing Indian troops to fall back. US troops captured Gafsa, Tunisia. 90 Luftwaffe bombers attacked Cardiff, Wales.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 18 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

- 1st week at sea completed -


0535 - Morning Dawn. Setting 3/4-Moon in NW.

0722 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

0810 - Crash Dive for Training.

0815 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 0820.

0825 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15' and 1.1nm.

0826 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1126 - Qu.4499AF bottom right - ALARM! from Sunderland in 330°true, E=9000, first on southerly heading, then turning toward the boat. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1128 - At A-10 two Wabos and at 1131 and 1134 further Wabos - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1200 - Qu.4499AF - Days Run: 213.7 nm - ↗ 201.0nm (20h) - ↘ 12.7nm (4h)
Total: 1344.1 nm (5days 14h 17') - ↗ 1309.3nm (5 days 2h 54') - ↘ 34.8nm (11h 23')
On course 288°; 485cbm (8cbm in 24h)

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1305.

1311 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 11' and 3.4nm - since Etmal (Total 1h 45', 5.2 nm).

1313 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 90%.

1320 - Testing of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510:
2xH.F., 375RPM, 13kn; G.F., 450RPM, 16kn; A.K., 496RPM, 17.5kn, for 30min. - all okay.

1512 - Qu.4495AF top left - FuMB detection in 166°true, E=13100 (no Magic Eye). Just before closing the C/T hatch, a twin A/C is sighted at E=6800.

1514 - At T=40 Wabos far off.

1515 - At A-Meter no damages.

1521 - Further Wabos far off are heard.

1555 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1600.

1612 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Directly after surfacing, FuMB signals (Magic Eye) and a A/C is sighted in 130°true, E=13000, flying off on a southerly heading.

1613 - Boat ventilated; Battery 88.5%.

1645 - Qu.4491AF center right - FuMB Warning (no Magic Eye) and at 1646 A/C sighted in 230°true, E=12700, first on course N and at E=10000 turns towards the boat. Diving from approaching A/C. At A-20, four Wabos and further on at A-Meter, another 2x2 Wabos until 1651 - no damages.

Cmdr.: Certainly a well patrolled area. FuMB and lookout crew are working well together.

1700 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1705.

1711 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25' and 1.3nm.

1716 - 2xH.F. (Cmdr.: Need to make up for lost ground)

1720 - Qu.4491AF center - ALARM! from Sunderland in 15°true, E=8000, on course SSW. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1722 - At A-Meter three Wabos and two more at 1723 - no damages.

1730 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1735.

1740 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20' and 1.4nm.

1742 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1745 - 2xH.F.

1817 - Qu.4459AF bottom right - Sunderland approaching boat from 200°true. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye). Is already pretty close, E=7000. Turning with A.K. toward the attacking A/C. Machine Gun fire, 4 Wabos fall wide behind the boat. Immediately after the fly-over, ALARM! At A-20 further four Wabos.

Cmdr.: Turning towards the attacking A/C caused the Wabos to overshoot the boat.

1820 - At A-Meter, hull damage is assessed at 2%. This means that the boat now has a safe diving depth of max.215m!

1845 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1900 - Inspection of Pi-G7H pistols acc. Standing B.d.U. Order No.307: 4 AtoFat under the bow and 3 AtoFat under the stern floor plates.

1915 - Sundown.

2002 - All Bow AtoFat Pi-G7H checked and found operational.

2100 - All Stern AtoFat Pi-G7H checked and found operational. Lights-Out for the Off-Watch.

2300 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 43min.); Battery: 75.7%.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 18 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

- 1st week at sea completed -


0535 - Morning Dawn. Setting 3/4-Moon in NW.

0722 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

0810 - Crash Dive for Training.

0815 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 0820.

0825 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 15' and 1.1nm.

0826 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1126 - Qu.4499AF bottom right - ALARM! from Sunderland in 330°true, E=9000, first on southerly heading, then turning toward the boat. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1128 - At A-10 two Wabos and at 1131 and 1134 further Wabos - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1200 - Qu.4499AF - Days Run: 213.7 nm - ↗ 201.0nm (20h) - ↘ 12.7nm (4h)
Total: 1344.1 nm (5days 14h 17') - ↗ 1309.3nm (5 days 2h 54') - ↘ 34.8nm (11h 23')
On course 288°; 485cbm (8cbm in 24h)

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1305.

1311 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 11' and 3.4nm - since Etmal (Total 1h 45', 5.2 nm).

1313 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 90%.

1320 - Testing of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510:
2xH.F., 375RPM, 13kn; G.F., 450RPM, 16kn; A.K., 496RPM, 17.5kn, for 30min. - all okay.

1512 - Qu.4495AF top left - FuMB detection in 166°true, E=13100 (no Magic Eye). Just before closing the C/T hatch, a twin A/C is sighted at E=6800.

1514 - At T=40 Wabos far off.

1515 - At A-Meter no damages.

1521 - Further Wabos far off are heard.

1555 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1600.

1612 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Directly after surfacing, FuMB signals (Magic Eye) and a A/C is sighted in 130°true, E=13000, flying off on a southerly heading.

1613 - Boat ventilated; Battery 88.5%.

1645 - Qu.4491AF center right - FuMB Warning (no Magic Eye) and at 1646 A/C sighted in 230°true, E=12700, first on course N and at E=10000 turns towards the boat. Diving from approaching A/C. At A-20, four Wabos and further on at A-Meter, another 2x2 Wabos until 1651 - no damages.

Cmdr.: Certainly a well patrolled area. FuMB and lookout crew are working well together.

1700 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1705.

1711 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25' and 1.3nm.

1716 - 2xH.F. (Cmdr.: Need to make up for lost ground)

1720 - Qu.4491AF center - ALARM! from Sunderland in 15°true, E=8000, on course SSW. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1722 - At A-Meter three Wabos and two more at 1723 - no damages.

1730 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1735.

1740 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20' and 1.4nm.

1742 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1745 - 2xH.F.

1817 - Qu.4459AF bottom right - Sunderland approaching boat from 200°true. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye). Is already pretty close, E=7000. Turning with A.K. toward the attacking A/C. Machine Gun fire, 4 Wabos fall wide behind the boat. Immediately after the fly-over, ALARM! At A-20 further four Wabos.

Cmdr.: Turning towards the attacking A/C caused the Wabos to overshoot the boat.

1820 - At A-Meter, hull damage is assessed at 2%. This means that the boat now has a safe diving depth of max.215m!

1845 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1900 - Inspection of Pi-G7H pistols acc. Standing B.d.U. Order No.307: 4 AtoFat under the bow and 3 AtoFat under the stern floor plates.

1915 - Sundown.

2002 - All Bow AtoFat Pi-G7H checked and found operational.

2100 - All Stern AtoFat Pi-G7H checked and found operational. Lights-Out for the Off-Watch.

2300 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 43min.); Battery: 75.7%.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 19 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

0000 - CO₂ Warning at 1.9%.

0333 - Qu.4455AF - Course 270°.

0545 - Breakfast for the Port Watch. Setting for Reception Depth.

0550 - T=20.

0552 - S-Tiefe. Morning Dawn. 7/8-Moon in the West.
Battery 65.7%; Compressed Air 270 Atü; CO₂ 2.7%.

0557 - Surfaced after 11h 40' and 32.6nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

0600 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled. Breakfast for the rest of the crew.

0605 - Charging batteries: Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM.

0635 - Battery charged to 75%. 7/8-Moon setting in 300°true.

0726 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchagned in 3 days.

0806 - Qu.4446AF - center right - Right during watch change, ALARM! from A/C in 315°true, E=10500, on course south (No FuMB and no Magic Eye Warning). Interrupting charging process at 85%. At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact. Submerged cruise at A-20.

0914 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0919 - T=20.

0926 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 20min., and 4.0nm.

0930 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.
Continue battery charging (83.6%) as before.

1130 - Battery Charged (2h for 16.4%); 2xH.F.

1200 - Qu.4444AF - Days Run: 134.5 nm - ↗ 88.8nm (8h 04') - ↘ 45.7nm (15h 56')
Total: 1478.6 nm (6days 14h 17') - ↗ 1398.1nm (5days 10h 58') - ↘ 80.5nm (1day 3h 19')
On course 270°; 484cbm (1cbm in 24h)

1834 - Qu.6655AE -

1925 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3.5 days. 7/8-Moon in the East.

2303 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: The British 8th Army has started its offensive against the Axis Mareth defense line.
B-Dienst Report: The new Allied radiolocation system ASV 271-Mark-III (9.7cm Range) was used over the Bay of Biscay by bombers of the RAF No. 172 Squadron. This new radar system can locate Uboats at a distance of 12nm (22.22km).
To U 191: Fiehn: Proceed to AE 2233 at high cruising speed. From there obtain information on the ice boundary north of Iceland and in the Denmark Straits. Report on this at the latest by 26.3 south of 61° N. Remain unobserved as far as possible and you are forbidden to attack any ships except troop transports and cruisers and above.

Cmdr.: I appears as though, that at least some of the attacking aircraft are also equipped with the new radar system (mainly Sunderlands), as it seems that our installed FuMB system is unable to detect this new radar frequency. Detection by Magic Eye has only been done once thus far.
The boat that we left in convoy with from Kiel and Kristiansand, received special orders. We wish her best of luck!

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 19 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

0000 - CO₂ Warning at 1.9%.

0333 - Qu.4455AF - Course 270°.

0545 - Breakfast for the Port Watch. Setting for Reception Depth.

0550 - T=20.

0552 - S-Tiefe. Morning Dawn. 7/8-Moon in the West.
Battery 65.7%; Compressed Air 270 Atü; CO₂ 2.7%.

0557 - Surfaced after 11h 40' and 32.6nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

0600 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled. Breakfast for the rest of the crew.

0605 - Charging batteries: Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM.

0635 - Battery charged to 75%. 7/8-Moon setting in 300°true.

0726 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchagned in 3 days.

0806 - Qu.4446AF - center right - Right during watch change, ALARM! from A/C in 315°true, E=10500, on course south (No FuMB and no Magic Eye Warning). Interrupting charging process at 85%. At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact. Submerged cruise at A-20.

0914 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0919 - T=20.

0926 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 20min., and 4.0nm.

0930 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.
Continue battery charging (83.6%) as before.

1130 - Battery Charged (2h for 16.4%); 2xH.F.

1200 - Qu.4444AF - Days Run: 134.5 nm - ↗ 88.8nm (8h 04') - ↘ 45.7nm (15h 56')
Total: 1478.6 nm (6days 14h 17') - ↗ 1398.1nm (5days 10h 58') - ↘ 80.5nm (1day 3h 19')
On course 270°; 484cbm (1cbm in 24h)

1834 - Qu.6655AE -

1925 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3.5 days. 7/8-Moon in the East.

2303 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: The British 8th Army has started its offensive against the Axis Mareth defense line.
B-Dienst Report: The new Allied radiolocation system ASV 271-Mark-III (9.7cm Range) was used over the Bay of Biscay by bombers of the RAF No. 172 Squadron. This new radar system can locate Uboats at a distance of 12nm (22.22km).
To U 191: Fiehn: Proceed to AE 2233 at high cruising speed. From there obtain information on the ice boundary north of Iceland and in the Denmark Straits. Report on this at the latest by 26.3 south of 61° N. Remain unobserved as far as possible and you are forbidden to attack any ships except troop transports and cruisers and above.

Cmdr.: I appears as though, that at least some of the attacking aircraft are also equipped with the new radar system (mainly Sunderlands), as it seems that our installed FuMB system is unable to detect this new radar frequency. Detection by Magic Eye has only been done once thus far.
The boat that we left in convoy with from Kiel and Kristiansand, received special orders. We wish her best of luck!

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 20 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

0530 - Qu.6555AE - North of the Faeroe Islands - Course 252° - Entry to the Iceland Passage.

0555 - Morning Dawn.

0742 - Sunrise. 7/8-Moon setting in the West. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days.

0753 - Crash Dive for Training and Test Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507.

0853 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0900 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

1200 - Qu.6577AF - Days Run: 304.8 nm - ↗ 301.0nm (23h) - ↘ 3.8nm (1h)
Total: 1783.4 nm (7days 14h 17') - ↗ 1699.1nm (6days 9h 58') - ↘ 84.3nm (1day 4h 19')
On course 252°; 470cbm (14cbm in 24h)

1227 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
18.3., 1126, Qu.4499AF bottom right, Alarm for Sunderland, 2x2 Wabos no damage. 18.3., 1720, Qu.4491AF center, Alarm for Sunderland, 4 Wabos no damage.
18.3., 1817, Qu.4459AF bottom right, Alarm for Sunderland, Machine Gun Fire and 4 Wabos behind the boat. Tube VI can only be opened and closed with great effort, will attempt to repair with onboard tools. Test of Pi-G7H acc. B.d.U-Order No.307 without complaints. 19.3., 0806, Qu.4446AF center right, Alarm for A/C, no Wabos.
Test Dive acc. B.d.U.-Order No.507 without complaints. 470cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1746 - Qu.67455AE -

1947 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4.5 days. Full Moon in the East.

2303 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
B-Dienst Report: Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE 9) and her task group departed Argentia, Newfoundland bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy SC123.
To all boats: Because of the homeward-bound blockade runners "Regensburg" and "Karin" attack on unescorted independent ships is forbidden with immediate effect within a 200-mile wide strip, 100 miles either side of a line from CD 32 to AK 13. All independent ships encountered within this strip are to be reported immediately. Further areas will be closed in due course.
OKW-Report: Continued attacks of the British 8th Army against the Mareth-Line of the DAK in southern Tunisia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 20 March 1943 - Norwegian Sea -

0530 - Qu.6555AE - North of the Faeroe Islands - Course 252° - Entry to the Iceland Passage.

0555 - Morning Dawn.

0742 - Sunrise. 7/8-Moon setting in the West. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days.

0753 - Crash Dive for Training and Test Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507.

0853 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0900 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

1200 - Qu.6577AF - Days Run: 304.8 nm - ↗ 301.0nm (23h) - ↘ 3.8nm (1h)
Total: 1783.4 nm (7days 14h 17') - ↗ 1699.1nm (6days 9h 58') - ↘ 84.3nm (1day 4h 19')
On course 252°; 470cbm (14cbm in 24h)

1227 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
18.3., 1126, Qu.4499AF bottom right, Alarm for Sunderland, 2x2 Wabos no damage. 18.3., 1720, Qu.4491AF center, Alarm for Sunderland, 4 Wabos no damage.
18.3., 1817, Qu.4459AF bottom right, Alarm for Sunderland, Machine Gun Fire and 4 Wabos behind the boat. Tube VI can only be opened and closed with great effort, will attempt to repair with onboard tools. Test of Pi-G7H acc. B.d.U-Order No.307 without complaints. 19.3., 0806, Qu.4446AF center right, Alarm for A/C, no Wabos.
Test Dive acc. B.d.U.-Order No.507 without complaints. 470cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1746 - Qu.67455AE -

1947 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4.5 days. Full Moon in the East.

2303 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
B-Dienst Report: Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE 9) and her task group departed Argentia, Newfoundland bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy SC123.
To all boats: Because of the homeward-bound blockade runners "Regensburg" and "Karin" attack on unescorted independent ships is forbidden with immediate effect within a 200-mile wide strip, 100 miles either side of a line from CD 32 to AK 13. All independent ships encountered within this strip are to be reported immediately. Further areas will be closed in due course.
OKW-Report: Continued attacks of the British 8th Army against the Mareth-Line of the DAK in southern Tunisia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 21 March 1943 - Iceland Passage -

0401 - Qu.8353AE center - During watch change diving from FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 60°true, E=9000. At A-Meter no Wabos.

0404 - Sound contact warship bearing 158°, E=8600, in Qu.8329AE bottom right, on course 285°, speed approx.13kn.

0412 - At Reception Depth.

0445 - Sound contact 0404/21 now bearing 79°, E=14000, in Qu.8329AE center left, on course 315°.

0508 - Lost sound contact 0404/21 in 77°, E=22600, in Qu.8325AE bottom right, on course 315°.

Cmdr.: I suspect that this is one of the patrol vessels patrolling the Iceland Passage from Faeroe Islands to Iceland, as reported in the Op.-Briefing. Tube VI cannot be repaired with on-board tools. We will have to continue our war patrol with one less torpedo tube.

0516 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. Full Moon in WSW.

0521 - Boat ventilated. 2xH.F.

0618 - Qu.8355AE - Morning Dawn.

0750 - Sunrise. Full Moon setting in West. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days.

1102 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
B-Dienst Report: According to a new Radio Intelligence (X) report, SC 123 was in BC 4564 at 1100/21/3.
The Russian BI-3 rocket-powered prototype aircraft took its third flight at Sverdlovsk (modern day Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia.
To all boats: U 332 urgently requested aircraft assistance in BF 81. She was attacked there, presumably by English aircraft. 4 Ju 88's were sent out, 2 of which were shot down by Beaufighters.
As the blockade-runner "Doggerbank" is taking avoiding action, attack is forbidden with immediate effect, on independent ships in CF 30, 60, 90 and in large square CG.
During the first three weeks of March, Uboats have sunk 97 ships for 500,00ts, much more than the enemy can build during this time frame.

1200 - Qu.8377AE - Days Run: 301.0 nm - ↗ 297.2nm (22h 45') - ↘ 3.8nm (1h 15')
Total: 2084.4 nm (8days 14h 17') - ↗ 1996.3nm (7days 8h 43') - ↘ 88.1nm (1day 5h 34')
On course 252°; 456cbm (14cbm in 24h)

1226 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
From 0404 to 0508, after FuMB detection, sound contact with patrol vessel from Qu.8329AE bottom right on course 285° to Qu.8429AE center left and further on course 315° to Qu.8325AE bottom right. Speed approx.13kn. Suspect patrol vessel between Faeroe Islands and Iceland. Repair of tube VI not possible with onboard tools. 456cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1300 - Wind and Sea increasing to NNE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Reducing speed to 1/3-Ahead (some crew members sick).

1640 - Qu.8537AE - Crash dive for training.
Submerged cruise at A-20, 100rpm.

1845 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1850.

1855 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 15' and 6.6nm.
CO₂ = 1.3% ; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 88.6%.

1857 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1958 - Sundown. SSE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2114 - Qu.8555AE -

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 21 March 1943 - Iceland Passage -

0401 - Qu.8353AE center - During watch change diving from FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 60°true, E=9000. At A-Meter no Wabos.

0404 - Sound contact warship bearing 158°, E=8600, in Qu.8329AE bottom right, on course 285°, speed approx.13kn.

0412 - At Reception Depth.

0445 - Sound contact 0404/21 now bearing 79°, E=14000, in Qu.8329AE center left, on course 315°.

0508 - Lost sound contact 0404/21 in 77°, E=22600, in Qu.8325AE bottom right, on course 315°.

Cmdr.: I suspect that this is one of the patrol vessels patrolling the Iceland Passage from Faeroe Islands to Iceland, as reported in the Op.-Briefing. Tube VI cannot be repaired with on-board tools. We will have to continue our war patrol with one less torpedo tube.

0516 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 15' and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. Full Moon in WSW.

0521 - Boat ventilated. 2xH.F.

0618 - Qu.8355AE - Morning Dawn.

0750 - Sunrise. Full Moon setting in West. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days.

1102 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
B-Dienst Report: According to a new Radio Intelligence (X) report, SC 123 was in BC 4564 at 1100/21/3.
The Russian BI-3 rocket-powered prototype aircraft took its third flight at Sverdlovsk (modern day Yekaterinburg), Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia.
To all boats: U 332 urgently requested aircraft assistance in BF 81. She was attacked there, presumably by English aircraft. 4 Ju 88's were sent out, 2 of which were shot down by Beaufighters.
As the blockade-runner "Doggerbank" is taking avoiding action, attack is forbidden with immediate effect, on independent ships in CF 30, 60, 90 and in large square CG.
During the first three weeks of March, Uboats have sunk 97 ships for 500,00ts, much more than the enemy can build during this time frame.

1200 - Qu.8377AE - Days Run: 301.0 nm - ↗ 297.2nm (22h 45') - ↘ 3.8nm (1h 15')
Total: 2084.4 nm (8days 14h 17') - ↗ 1996.3nm (7days 8h 43') - ↘ 88.1nm (1day 5h 34')
On course 252°; 456cbm (14cbm in 24h)

1226 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
From 0404 to 0508, after FuMB detection, sound contact with patrol vessel from Qu.8329AE bottom right on course 285° to Qu.8429AE center left and further on course 315° to Qu.8325AE bottom right. Speed approx.13kn. Suspect patrol vessel between Faeroe Islands and Iceland. Repair of tube VI not possible with onboard tools. 456cbm. N4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1300 - Wind and Sea increasing to NNE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. Reducing speed to 1/3-Ahead (some crew members sick).

1640 - Qu.8537AE - Crash dive for training.
Submerged cruise at A-20, 100rpm.

1845 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1850.

1855 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 15' and 6.6nm.
CO₂ = 1.3% ; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 88.6%.

1857 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1958 - Sundown. SSE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2114 - Qu.8555AE -

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 22 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0405 - Qu.8577AE - Crossing 15°W - Switching to Circuit Amerika I.

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
15°W. Circuit Amerika I. 452cbm. SSE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

0615 - Morning Dawn.

0758 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12h.

0905 - Qu.8737AE top right - Diving for FuMB detection (also, no Magic Eye) in 192°true, E=17700.

0910 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

0920 - At T=50 Torpedo Maintenance.

1150 - Tubes I, II and III serviced. Lunch Break.

1200 - Qu.8737AE - Days Run: 197.2 nm - ↗ 182.4nm (18h 50') - ↘ 14.8nm (5h 10')
T=50; Battery: 82.9%; CO₂ = 1.5%
Total: 2281.6 nm (9days 14h 17') - ↗ 2178.7nm (8days 3h 33') - ↘ 102.9 nm (1day 10h 44')
On course 252°; 450cbm (6cbm in 24h);

1320 - Tube IV serviced.

1355 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1455 - Stern tubes serviced. Submerged cruise at A-20.

1610 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1615.

1620 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 4h 20' and 12.1nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 15' and 20.3nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 20h.
CO₂ = 1.7%; Battery: 75%; Compressed Air Supply: 290Atü.

1625 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.
Charging Batteries: Stbd.-Charging; 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7-8kn.

1642 - Qu.8753AE center - Diving for FuMB-Ortung (no Magic Eye) in 273°true, E=15100.

1646 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

1657 - Setting for Reception Depth; T=20 at 1702.

1707 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.4nm.

1710 - Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1717 - Qu8753AE bottom left - FuMB detection (also, Magic Eye) and A/C in 353°true, E=9500, on course South. ALARM!

1719 - At A-10 no Wabos and no sound contact.

1737 - T=20

1742 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm.
CO₂ = 1.1%; Battery: 77.8%; Compressed Air Supply: 385Atü.

1745 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before.

1803 - Qu.8753AE bottom left - ALARM! from A/C in 174°true, E=9700, on course NNW. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1805 - At A-10 no Wabos and no sound contact.

1823 - T=20

1828 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.6nm.

1835 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1900 - Qu.8755AE top right - ALARM! for twin engine A/C in 225°true, E=6100, on course NW. No FuMB detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1902 to 1906 - At A-10, 3 times Wabos - no damages.
Submerged cruise at A-10; Battery 81%.

2009 - Sundown.

2057 - Qu.8755AE -

2350 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 22 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0405 - Qu.8577AE - Crossing 15°W - Switching to Circuit Amerika I.

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
15°W. Circuit Amerika I. 452cbm. SSE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

0615 - Morning Dawn.

0758 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12h.

0905 - Qu.8737AE top right - Diving for FuMB detection (also, no Magic Eye) in 192°true, E=17700.

0910 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

0920 - At T=50 Torpedo Maintenance.

1150 - Tubes I, II and III serviced. Lunch Break.

1200 - Qu.8737AE - Days Run: 197.2 nm - ↗ 182.4nm (18h 50') - ↘ 14.8nm (5h 10')
T=50; Battery: 82.9%; CO₂ = 1.5%
Total: 2281.6 nm (9days 14h 17') - ↗ 2178.7nm (8days 3h 33') - ↘ 102.9 nm (1day 10h 44')
On course 252°; 450cbm (6cbm in 24h);

1320 - Tube IV serviced.

1355 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1455 - Stern tubes serviced. Submerged cruise at A-20.

1610 - Setting for Reception Depth. T=20 at 1615.

1620 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 4h 20' and 12.1nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 15' and 20.3nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 20h.
CO₂ = 1.7%; Battery: 75%; Compressed Air Supply: 290Atü.

1625 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.
Charging Batteries: Stbd.-Charging; 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7-8kn.

1642 - Qu.8753AE center - Diving for FuMB-Ortung (no Magic Eye) in 273°true, E=15100.

1646 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

1657 - Setting for Reception Depth; T=20 at 1702.

1707 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.4nm.

1710 - Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1717 - Qu8753AE bottom left - FuMB detection (also, Magic Eye) and A/C in 353°true, E=9500, on course South. ALARM!

1719 - At A-10 no Wabos and no sound contact.

1737 - T=20

1742 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm.
CO₂ = 1.1%; Battery: 77.8%; Compressed Air Supply: 385Atü.

1745 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before.

1803 - Qu.8753AE bottom left - ALARM! from A/C in 174°true, E=9700, on course NNW. No FuMB Detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1805 - At A-10 no Wabos and no sound contact.

1823 - T=20

1828 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.6nm.

1835 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1900 - Qu.8755AE top right - ALARM! for twin engine A/C in 225°true, E=6100, on course NW. No FuMB detection (also, no Magic Eye).

1902 to 1906 - At A-10, 3 times Wabos - no damages.
Submerged cruise at A-10; Battery 81%.

2009 - Sundown.

2057 - Qu.8755AE -

2350 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 23 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0626 - T=40.

0654 - Reception Depth.

0700 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 12h and 33.5nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. CO₂ = 2.8%; Battery: 62%; Compressed Air Supply: 270Atü.

0705 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before.

0802 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 36h.

0823 - Battery charged to 75%.

0921 - Qu.8775AE top right - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 192°true, E=11000. Just before closing the C/T Hatch, a twin engine A/C is sighted on a northerly heading. At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

0930 - Setting for Reception Depth; T=20 at 0936.

0941 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20min. and 1.1nm.

0945 - Charging batteries as before (83.6%).

1001 - Qu.8775AE center - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 358°true, E=9300. Right after, A/C sighted bearing 104°, E=5800, on course South. At T=18 two Wabos behind the boat - no damages. Submerged cruise at A-20.

1032 - Reception Depth.

1036 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 35min. and 1.7nm.

1037 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 83.6%.

1041 - Charging batteries as before.

1046 - Qu.8775AE bottom left - ALARM! for A/C as at 1001. Sighting at same time as FuMB detection (Magic Eye).

1048 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1053 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.8775AE - Days Run: 87.0 nm - ↗ 52.0nm (4h 16') - ↘ 35.0nm (19h 44')
Total: 2368.6 nm (10days 14h 17') - ↗ 2230.7 nm (8days 7h 49') - ↘ 137.9 nm (2days 6h 28')
On course 252°; 448cbm (2cbm in 24h); T=60; Battery: 80.7%; CO₂ = 1.3%

1215 - Reception Depth.

1246 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 46min. and 2.3nm - since Etmal (Total: 2h and 5.9 nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 40h; Visibility 5nm.

1248 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

Directly after surfacing, a twin-engine A/C is right on top of the boat and drops two Wabos that fall wide to Port - no damages. Afterwards, the A/C flies off on course South. Boat remains surfaced.

Cmdr.: Seems that the A/C was just surprised to see us, as we were to see it.

1301 - Charging batteries as before.

1346 - Qu.8777AE center - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 208°true, E=14600.

1353 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1403 - A-20.

1407 - Reception Depth.

1411 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.2nm.

1416 - Charging batteries as before.

1426 - Qu.8777AE bottom left - FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) in 152°true., E=15400 and shortly after a twin-engine A/C is sighted. At the same time the boat is approached by a twin-engine A/C from 20°true, E=3600. Increasing speed to A.K. The boat is now attacked by two twin-engine A/C with machine gun fire but no Wabos - no damages.

1429 - ALARM! At A-Meter, Wabos at 1434 and at 1435 - no damages.

1450 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1615 - Reception Depth.

1619 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 50min. and 5.4nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 44h.

1620 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1630 - Charging batteries as before (85%).

1649 - Qu.3313AL top right - FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 70°true, E=17000 - is in the area of the last attack at 1426. Boat remains surfaced. Charging interrupted.

1700 - Continuing charging as before.

1830 - Batteries charged (1h 50min. for 15%). 1/3-Ahead.

1853 - ALARM! for Sunderland in 14°true, E=7100, on course 190° (no FuMB Detection, also no Magic Eye).

1854 - At A-10 no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1908 - At A-20, sound contact with warship bearing 284°, E=26000, very fast on course NW.

1918 - By now, three warships can be heard. S-Tiefe. Nothing can be seen with the A-Periscope.

1921 - Reception Depth. Now four warships are heard. Per sound contact are located in Qu.3239AL center right, on course 300°, speed 15kn.

1950 - Number of warships increases to five and at 1950 to six.

2003 - Sundown. By now seven warships are heard, are on search patterns in Qu.3235AL.

Cmdr.: I suspect a U-Hunter Group working together with the Sunderland sighted at 1853.

2052 - S-Tiefe. Lost sound contact to U-Hunter Group.

2055 - Surfaced after 2h 02min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days.

2100 - Boat ventilated (CO₂ was 1.3%); Compressed Air supply filled (was 260Atü). Charging batteries as before (95%).

2130 - Batteries charged (30min. for 5%).

2227 - FuMB Detecion (no Magic Eye) in 316°true, E=8300. Twin Engine A/C on course 137°. Increasing speed to A.K. Spotlights, Machine Gun fire, two Wabos that fall wide to Port.

2228 - After the flyover ALARM! E=3500. At T=20 several well placed Wabos. Water entry in the aft torpedo compartment, which is quickly stopped. Tube VI is now completely unoperational. Pressure hull has taken 3% damage, is now 5%; Safe Diving Depth is now 218.5m. Several wounded crew members in the aft torpedo compartment.

2238 - At A-Meter no further Wabos and no Sound contact.

2255 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

2322 - All men are back on station. One MechMt.(T) (BtsMt.Lutz A. Fischer) is listed as "Shaken".

2327 - Reception Depth.

2332 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 04min. and 3.2nm
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 3 hours.

2335 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 23 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0626 - T=40.

0654 - Reception Depth.

0700 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 12h and 33.5nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. CO₂ = 2.8%; Battery: 62%; Compressed Air Supply: 270Atü.

0705 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries as before.

0802 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 36h.

0823 - Battery charged to 75%.

0921 - Qu.8775AE top right - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 192°true, E=11000. Just before closing the C/T Hatch, a twin engine A/C is sighted on a northerly heading. At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

0930 - Setting for Reception Depth; T=20 at 0936.

0941 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20min. and 1.1nm.

0945 - Charging batteries as before (83.6%).

1001 - Qu.8775AE center - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 358°true, E=9300. Right after, A/C sighted bearing 104°, E=5800, on course South. At T=18 two Wabos behind the boat - no damages. Submerged cruise at A-20.

1032 - Reception Depth.

1036 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 35min. and 1.7nm.

1037 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 83.6%.

1041 - Charging batteries as before.

1046 - Qu.8775AE bottom left - ALARM! for A/C as at 1001. Sighting at same time as FuMB detection (Magic Eye).

1048 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1053 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.8775AE - Days Run: 87.0 nm - ↗ 52.0nm (4h 16') - ↘ 35.0nm (19h 44')
Total: 2368.6 nm (10days 14h 17') - ↗ 2230.7 nm (8days 7h 49') - ↘ 137.9 nm (2days 6h 28')
On course 252°; 448cbm (2cbm in 24h); T=60; Battery: 80.7%; CO₂ = 1.3%

1215 - Reception Depth.

1246 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 46min. and 2.3nm - since Etmal (Total: 2h and 5.9 nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 40h; Visibility 5nm.

1248 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

Directly after surfacing, a twin-engine A/C is right on top of the boat and drops two Wabos that fall wide to Port - no damages. Afterwards, the A/C flies off on course South. Boat remains surfaced.

Cmdr.: Seems that the A/C was just surprised to see us, as we were to see it.

1301 - Charging batteries as before.

1346 - Qu.8777AE center - Diving for FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 208°true, E=14600.

1353 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1403 - A-20.

1407 - Reception Depth.

1411 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.2nm.

1416 - Charging batteries as before.

1426 - Qu.8777AE bottom left - FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) in 152°true., E=15400 and shortly after a twin-engine A/C is sighted. At the same time the boat is approached by a twin-engine A/C from 20°true, E=3600. Increasing speed to A.K. The boat is now attacked by two twin-engine A/C with machine gun fire but no Wabos - no damages.

1429 - ALARM! At A-Meter, Wabos at 1434 and at 1435 - no damages.

1450 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1615 - Reception Depth.

1619 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 50min. and 5.4nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 44h.

1620 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1630 - Charging batteries as before (85%).

1649 - Qu.3313AL top right - FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 70°true, E=17000 - is in the area of the last attack at 1426. Boat remains surfaced. Charging interrupted.

1700 - Continuing charging as before.

1830 - Batteries charged (1h 50min. for 15%). 1/3-Ahead.

1853 - ALARM! for Sunderland in 14°true, E=7100, on course 190° (no FuMB Detection, also no Magic Eye).

1854 - At A-10 no Wabos and no Sound Contact.

1908 - At A-20, sound contact with warship bearing 284°, E=26000, very fast on course NW.

1918 - By now, three warships can be heard. S-Tiefe. Nothing can be seen with the A-Periscope.

1921 - Reception Depth. Now four warships are heard. Per sound contact are located in Qu.3239AL center right, on course 300°, speed 15kn.

1950 - Number of warships increases to five and at 1950 to six.

2003 - Sundown. By now seven warships are heard, are on search patterns in Qu.3235AL.

Cmdr.: I suspect a U-Hunter Group working together with the Sunderland sighted at 1853.

2052 - S-Tiefe. Lost sound contact to U-Hunter Group.

2055 - Surfaced after 2h 02min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days.

2100 - Boat ventilated (CO₂ was 1.3%); Compressed Air supply filled (was 260Atü). Charging batteries as before (95%).

2130 - Batteries charged (30min. for 5%).

2227 - FuMB Detecion (no Magic Eye) in 316°true, E=8300. Twin Engine A/C on course 137°. Increasing speed to A.K. Spotlights, Machine Gun fire, two Wabos that fall wide to Port.

2228 - After the flyover ALARM! E=3500. At T=20 several well placed Wabos. Water entry in the aft torpedo compartment, which is quickly stopped. Tube VI is now completely unoperational. Pressure hull has taken 3% damage, is now 5%; Safe Diving Depth is now 218.5m. Several wounded crew members in the aft torpedo compartment.

2238 - At A-Meter no further Wabos and no Sound contact.

2255 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

2322 - All men are back on station. One MechMt.(T) (BtsMt.Lutz A. Fischer) is listed as "Shaken".

2327 - Reception Depth.

2332 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 04min. and 3.2nm
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 3 hours.

2335 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 24 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0013 - Qu.3226AL bottom left - FuMB Detection in 71°true, E=16000 (no Magic Eye) - is in the area of the last attack on 23 March, 2227. Boat remains surfaced.

0056 - Qu.3225AL bottom left - Diving for FuMB Detection in 127°true (no Magic Eye), E=13700 - is located in Qu.3229AL center. Just before diving, Magic Eye detection with A/C in 119°true, E=7400, on course NW.

0100 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

0110 - Submerged crusie at A-20.

0152 - T=20.

0156 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 5.5 hours.
Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95%. 1/3-Ahead.

Found both Flak guns damaged from the air attack on 23 March, 2227 - can not be repaired until daylight.

0412 - After watch change, the Morale of the MechMt.(T) is listed again as "Normal".

0559 - Qu.3163AL top right - FuMB Detection in 95°true, E=16000 (no Magic Eye), is located in Qu.3241AL center right.

0601 - Magic Eye Detection of A/C in 60°true, on course 297°. Boat remains surfaced.

0638 - Qu.3162AL center right - Morning Dawn -
FuMB Detection in 335°true (no Magic Eye), E=16000, is located in Qu.3138AL center right.
Shortly after, boat is approached by a twin-engine A/C from 355°true, no wabos and no machine gun fire. The A/C circles over the boat and flies off on course ESE. Boat remains surfaced.

0815 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 12h.

0817 - Qu.3164AL top right - Diving for FuMB Detection in 100°true (no Magic Eye), E=7300. Just before closing the C/T hatch, a twin-engine A/C is sighted bearing 180°, E=2700. At T=20, 3-4 Waboss behind the boat - at A-Meter no damages.

0840 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

0912 - T=20.

0917 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0918 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 93.6%. 1/3-Ahead.

0931 - Qu.3156AL top center - Diving from A/C in 2°true (no FuMB or Magic Eye detection), E=8000, on course ESE.

0935 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

0955 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1110 - T=20.

1116 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 40min. and 5.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1135 - Qu.3155AL - Course 225°.

1156 - Qu.3155AK bottom left - Diving for FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) and sighting of A/C in 278°true, E=10600, on course 100°.

1159 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

1200 - Qu.3155AL - Days Run: 154.8nm - ↗ 125.3nm (14h 09') - ↘ 29.5nm (9h 51')
Total: 2523.4 nm (11days 14h 17') - ↗ 2356.0 nm (8days 21h 58') - ↘ 167.4 nm (2days 16h 19')
On course 225°; 445cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=80; Battery: 89.3%; CO₂ = 1.0%

1245 - After Lunch break, beginning of Test Dive acc. Standing B.d.U.-Order No.507 & No.308.

1320 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.
Setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm.

1328 - Boat rises to T=18 and levels out at T=20 at 1330.

1335 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 35min. and 5.1nm - since Etmal (Total: 1h 39min. and 5.4nm).
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 17 hours - medium heavy swell.
Boat ventilated. Damaged Flak guns cannot be repaired due to swell continously washing over the bridge.

1340 - Charging batteries as before (86.4%).

1344 - Qu.3157AL center - A/C sighted in 100°true, on course WNW (no FuMB or Magic Eye detection).

1345 - "ALARM!" for Sunderland at E=8600.

1346 - At A-10 no Wabos and no Sound contact.

1400 - At A-Meter setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm.

1405 - T=20.

1410 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm.

1411 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Charging batteries as before.

1431 - Qu.3157AL bottom left - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 323°true; is initially on course ESE and at E=6200, turns towards the boat (no FuMB or Magic Eye Detection).
At T=25 several Wabos off to port and in due course at A-Meter, further Wabos four different times until 1439 - no damages.

1525 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1530 - T=20.

1536 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.3nm.

1537 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1540 - Charging batteries as before (85%).

1604 - Qu.3173AL center - Magic Eye Detection and Sighting of A/C in 62°true, E=7000 - in the area of the last attack.
Interrupting Charging Process. A/C is on westerly heading and crosses our stern at a distance of 4200m, when suddenly it turns towards the boat, approaching from 0°true.

1606 - "ALARM!" for Wellington bomber. At T=30 two Wabos off to port.

1608 - At A-Meter another two Wabos behind the boat - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1644 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1800 - After dinner, setting for Reception Depth.

1805 - T=20.

1811 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 05min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 22 hours.

1813 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1816 - Charging batteries as before (83.6%).

1821 - Qu.3175AL top right - FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 80°true, E=14000. Interrupting Charging Process.

1823 - A/C sighted in 37°true, E=6500, seems to fly on course 282°.

1827 - FuMB Detection now in 310°true (no Magic Eye), E=14000. Suspect same A/C. Continuing Charging Process at 1831.

1905 - Qu.3175AL center - Magic Eye Detection and A/C sighting in 112°true, E=5700. "ALARM!". At T=30 1-2 Wabos far off - no damages.

1909 - At A-Meter again Wabos - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

2005 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2010 - T=20.

2015 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.5nm
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

2016 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2017 - Sundown.

2020 - Charging batteries as before (86.4%).

2150 - Batteries charged (1h 30min. for 13.6%). 1/3-Ahead.

Cmdr.: Strong air patrol in this part of the North-Atlantic. The Magic Eye (and FuMB) has worked well. Still, some A/C seem to have the new rader gear installed, which cannot be detected by our FuMB systems (mostly Sunderlands).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 24 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

0013 - Qu.3226AL bottom left - FuMB Detection in 71°true, E=16000 (no Magic Eye) - is in the area of the last attack on 23 March, 2227. Boat remains surfaced.

0056 - Qu.3225AL bottom left - Diving for FuMB Detection in 127°true (no Magic Eye), E=13700 - is located in Qu.3229AL center. Just before diving, Magic Eye detection with A/C in 119°true, E=7400, on course NW.

0100 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

0110 - Submerged crusie at A-20.

0152 - T=20.

0156 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 5.5 hours.
Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95%. 1/3-Ahead.

Found both Flak guns damaged from the air attack on 23 March, 2227 - can not be repaired until daylight.

0412 - After watch change, the Morale of the MechMt.(T) is listed again as "Normal".

0559 - Qu.3163AL top right - FuMB Detection in 95°true, E=16000 (no Magic Eye), is located in Qu.3241AL center right.

0601 - Magic Eye Detection of A/C in 60°true, on course 297°. Boat remains surfaced.

0638 - Qu.3162AL center right - Morning Dawn -
FuMB Detection in 335°true (no Magic Eye), E=16000, is located in Qu.3138AL center right.
Shortly after, boat is approached by a twin-engine A/C from 355°true, no wabos and no machine gun fire. The A/C circles over the boat and flies off on course ESE. Boat remains surfaced.

0815 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 12h.

0817 - Qu.3164AL top right - Diving for FuMB Detection in 100°true (no Magic Eye), E=7300. Just before closing the C/T hatch, a twin-engine A/C is sighted bearing 180°, E=2700. At T=20, 3-4 Waboss behind the boat - at A-Meter no damages.

0840 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

0912 - T=20.

0917 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0918 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 93.6%. 1/3-Ahead.

0931 - Qu.3156AL top center - Diving from A/C in 2°true (no FuMB or Magic Eye detection), E=8000, on course ESE.

0935 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

0955 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1110 - T=20.

1116 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 40min. and 5.0nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged. Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1135 - Qu.3155AL - Course 225°.

1156 - Qu.3155AK bottom left - Diving for FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) and sighting of A/C in 278°true, E=10600, on course 100°.

1159 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no Sound contact.

1200 - Qu.3155AL - Days Run: 154.8nm - ↗ 125.3nm (14h 09') - ↘ 29.5nm (9h 51')
Total: 2523.4 nm (11days 14h 17') - ↗ 2356.0 nm (8days 21h 58') - ↘ 167.4 nm (2days 16h 19')
On course 225°; 445cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=80; Battery: 89.3%; CO₂ = 1.0%

1245 - After Lunch break, beginning of Test Dive acc. Standing B.d.U.-Order No.507 & No.308.

1320 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.
Setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm.

1328 - Boat rises to T=18 and levels out at T=20 at 1330.

1335 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 35min. and 5.1nm - since Etmal (Total: 1h 39min. and 5.4nm).
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 17 hours - medium heavy swell.
Boat ventilated. Damaged Flak guns cannot be repaired due to swell continously washing over the bridge.

1340 - Charging batteries as before (86.4%).

1344 - Qu.3157AL center - A/C sighted in 100°true, on course WNW (no FuMB or Magic Eye detection).

1345 - "ALARM!" for Sunderland at E=8600.

1346 - At A-10 no Wabos and no Sound contact.

1400 - At A-Meter setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm.

1405 - T=20.

1410 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm.

1411 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Charging batteries as before.

1431 - Qu.3157AL bottom left - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 323°true; is initially on course ESE and at E=6200, turns towards the boat (no FuMB or Magic Eye Detection).
At T=25 several Wabos off to port and in due course at A-Meter, further Wabos four different times until 1439 - no damages.

1525 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1530 - T=20.

1536 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.3nm.

1537 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1540 - Charging batteries as before (85%).

1604 - Qu.3173AL center - Magic Eye Detection and Sighting of A/C in 62°true, E=7000 - in the area of the last attack.
Interrupting Charging Process. A/C is on westerly heading and crosses our stern at a distance of 4200m, when suddenly it turns towards the boat, approaching from 0°true.

1606 - "ALARM!" for Wellington bomber. At T=30 two Wabos off to port.

1608 - At A-Meter another two Wabos behind the boat - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

1644 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1800 - After dinner, setting for Reception Depth.

1805 - T=20.

1811 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 05min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 22 hours.

1813 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1816 - Charging batteries as before (83.6%).

1821 - Qu.3175AL top right - FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 80°true, E=14000. Interrupting Charging Process.

1823 - A/C sighted in 37°true, E=6500, seems to fly on course 282°.

1827 - FuMB Detection now in 310°true (no Magic Eye), E=14000. Suspect same A/C. Continuing Charging Process at 1831.

1905 - Qu.3175AL center - Magic Eye Detection and A/C sighting in 112°true, E=5700. "ALARM!". At T=30 1-2 Wabos far off - no damages.

1909 - At A-Meter again Wabos - no damages. Boat remains submerged.

2005 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2010 - T=20.

2015 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.5nm
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

2016 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2017 - Sundown.

2020 - Charging batteries as before (86.4%).

2150 - Batteries charged (1h 30min. for 13.6%). 1/3-Ahead.

Cmdr.: Strong air patrol in this part of the North-Atlantic. The Magic Eye (and FuMB) has worked well. Still, some A/C seem to have the new rader gear installed, which cannot be detected by our FuMB systems (mostly Sunderlands).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 25 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

- 2nd Week at Sea completed -


0316 - Qu.2655AL - Course 180°.

0630 - Morning Dawn.

0804 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 12h.

1040 - Qu.2955AL - Course 225°.

1200 - Qu.2957AL - Days Run: 179.2nm - ↗ 159.7nm (17h 45') - ↘ 19.5nm (6h 15')
Total: 2702.6 nm (12days 14h 17') - ↗ 2515.7 nm (9days 15h 43') - ↘ 186.9 nm (2days 22h 34')
On course 225°; 440cbm (5cbm in 24h)

1304 - Incoming F.T.'s:
1) From B.d.U.:
a) Op.-Order from 24 March: Contrary to present instructions Portuguese ships are not for the present to be stopped for the purpose of removing enemy nationals of military age. This does not cancel the general instructions for occasional examination of these ships for contraband.
b) Intel-Report: Torpedo boats Jaguar and Greif, escorting heavy cruiser Lützow and light cruiser Nürnberg, arrived yesterday at Altafjord, Norway.
c) OKW-Report: Report from U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) about Op. at coast of Guyana (South America) against convoy BT-6 from Brazil to Trinidad, and the need for a new Pi-2 pistol.
2) From U 191:
As ordered, have reconnoitered the ice boundary N. of Iceland and in the Denmark Straits. The boundary runs from AE 2231 via AE 2284 to AD 2931 and thence bearing 240°. Nature: pack-ice barriers with drift-ice in parts. Very thick fog in the Denmark Straits. Drift mine sighted in AD 2931, otherwise no patrol or Radar. Fired on by destroyer at 1700/25/3. - Fiehn -

Cmdr.: Special Op.-Report from the boat we left with together from Kiel and Kristiansand for both of our first war patrols.

1611 - Qu.5233AL - Course 180°.

2020 - Qu.5269AL top right - Reached ordered approach point.

2026 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 22.5h.

2107 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached ordered patrol area. Alarm from enemy aircraft as follows: 22.3., 1717 and 1803 Qu.8753AE bottom left, 1900 Qu.8755AE top right; 23.3., 1046 Qu.8775AE bottom left, 1429 Qu.8777AE bottom left, 1830 Qu.3311AL bottom left, 2227 Qu.3234AL center; 24.3., 1345 Qu.3157AL center, 1431 Qu.3157AL bottom left, 1604 Qu3173AL center, 1905 Qu.3175AL center. During attack on 23.3., 2227, water entry in stern torpedo room, tube VI not operational, damages to both Flak guns cannot be repaired due to sea state, damage to pressure hull, safe diving depth 209m, several slightly wounded crew members back on deck. On 23.3., 1908 until 2002, according sound contact U.-Search Group of six patrol vessels from Qu.3239AL center right to Qu.3235AL, course 300°, speed 15kn. Airplanes mainly Sunderland, some Hudson, few Wellington. Mainly Sunderlands with new radar gear, cannot be detected by means of FuMB and Magic Eye. 439cbm. SSE7/6, medium to heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

Cmdr.: We seem to have cleared the Enemy Patrol Area of the Iceland Passage.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 25 March 1943 - North Atlantic -

- 2nd Week at Sea completed -


0316 - Qu.2655AL - Course 180°.

0630 - Morning Dawn.

0804 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 12h.

1040 - Qu.2955AL - Course 225°.

1200 - Qu.2957AL - Days Run: 179.2nm - ↗ 159.7nm (17h 45') - ↘ 19.5nm (6h 15')
Total: 2702.6 nm (12days 14h 17') - ↗ 2515.7 nm (9days 15h 43') - ↘ 186.9 nm (2days 22h 34')
On course 225°; 440cbm (5cbm in 24h)

1304 - Incoming F.T.'s:
1) From B.d.U.:
a) Op.-Order from 24 March: Contrary to present instructions Portuguese ships are not for the present to be stopped for the purpose of removing enemy nationals of military age. This does not cancel the general instructions for occasional examination of these ships for contraband.
b) Intel-Report: Torpedo boats Jaguar and Greif, escorting heavy cruiser Lützow and light cruiser Nürnberg, arrived yesterday at Altafjord, Norway.
c) OKW-Report: Report from U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) about Op. at coast of Guyana (South America) against convoy BT-6 from Brazil to Trinidad, and the need for a new Pi-2 pistol.
2) From U 191:
As ordered, have reconnoitered the ice boundary N. of Iceland and in the Denmark Straits. The boundary runs from AE 2231 via AE 2284 to AD 2931 and thence bearing 240°. Nature: pack-ice barriers with drift-ice in parts. Very thick fog in the Denmark Straits. Drift mine sighted in AD 2931, otherwise no patrol or Radar. Fired on by destroyer at 1700/25/3. - Fiehn -

Cmdr.: Special Op.-Report from the boat we left with together from Kiel and Kristiansand for both of our first war patrols.

1611 - Qu.5233AL - Course 180°.

2020 - Qu.5269AL top right - Reached ordered approach point.

2026 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 22.5h.

2107 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached ordered patrol area. Alarm from enemy aircraft as follows: 22.3., 1717 and 1803 Qu.8753AE bottom left, 1900 Qu.8755AE top right; 23.3., 1046 Qu.8775AE bottom left, 1429 Qu.8777AE bottom left, 1830 Qu.3311AL bottom left, 2227 Qu.3234AL center; 24.3., 1345 Qu.3157AL center, 1431 Qu.3157AL bottom left, 1604 Qu3173AL center, 1905 Qu.3175AL center. During attack on 23.3., 2227, water entry in stern torpedo room, tube VI not operational, damages to both Flak guns cannot be repaired due to sea state, damage to pressure hull, safe diving depth 209m, several slightly wounded crew members back on deck. On 23.3., 1908 until 2002, according sound contact U.-Search Group of six patrol vessels from Qu.3239AL center right to Qu.3235AL, course 300°, speed 15kn. Airplanes mainly Sunderland, some Hudson, few Wellington. Mainly Sunderlands with new radar gear, cannot be detected by means of FuMB and Magic Eye. 439cbm. SSE7/6, medium to heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

Cmdr.: We seem to have cleared the Enemy Patrol Area of the Iceland Passage.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 26 March 1943 - West of Rockall Bank -

0150 - Qu.5611AL - Course 135°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0700 - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance.

0705 - T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

0812 - Sunrise.

1016 - Bow tubes serviced. Break.

1031 - Servicing stern tubes (Tube VI is not operational).

1122 - Tube V serviced.

1154 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.5655AL - Days Run: 154.2nm - ↗ 140.3nm (19h) - ↘ 13.9nm (5h)
Total: 2856.8 nm (13days 14h 17') - ↗ 2656.0 nm (10days 10h 43') - ↘ 200.8 nm (3days 3h 34')
On course 135°; 437cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=50; Battery 92%.

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1304 - T=20.

1310 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.3nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 15h.

1311 - Boat ventilated.

1315 - Charging batteries (89.3%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

1430 - Batteries charged (1h 15' for 10.7%). Small Ahead.

1538 - Qu.5682AL center - FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 49°true, E=13000.

1539 - "ALARM!" for approaching twin-engine A/C in 45°true, E=10000.

1541 - At A-Meter Wabos and again at 1542 and 1544 - no damages, no Sound Contact. Boat remains submerged.

1555 - A-20.

1646 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1651 - T=20.

1654 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 19h.

1657 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 22.5h.

2224 - Qu.5955AL -

2303 - Incoming F.T.s:
1) From B.d.U.:
a) Op.Order: Sector C in Route A (15 - 30 N.) is open for attack on independent ships with immediate effect until 29.3 inclusive.
b) Intel-Report: Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE 9) and her escorts detached from Convoy SC.123 in the mid-Atlantic and set course back toward Argentia, Newfoundland.
c) OKW-Report: During Operation Supercharge II, the British 8th Army, lead by the Indian 4th Division, has won the battle for the Mareth-Line, Tunisia, forcing the Axis Troops to withdraw to the North.
2) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) completes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 26 March 1943 - West of Rockall Bank -

0150 - Qu.5611AL - Course 135°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0700 - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance.

0705 - T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

0812 - Sunrise.

1016 - Bow tubes serviced. Break.

1031 - Servicing stern tubes (Tube VI is not operational).

1122 - Tube V serviced.

1154 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.5655AL - Days Run: 154.2nm - ↗ 140.3nm (19h) - ↘ 13.9nm (5h)
Total: 2856.8 nm (13days 14h 17') - ↗ 2656.0 nm (10days 10h 43') - ↘ 200.8 nm (3days 3h 34')
On course 135°; 437cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=50; Battery 92%.

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1304 - T=20.

1310 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.3nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 15h.

1311 - Boat ventilated.

1315 - Charging batteries (89.3%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

1430 - Batteries charged (1h 15' for 10.7%). Small Ahead.

1538 - Qu.5682AL center - FuMB Detection (no Magic Eye) in 49°true, E=13000.

1539 - "ALARM!" for approaching twin-engine A/C in 45°true, E=10000.

1541 - At A-Meter Wabos and again at 1542 and 1544 - no damages, no Sound Contact. Boat remains submerged.

1555 - A-20.

1646 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1651 - T=20.

1654 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 19h.

1657 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 22.5h.

2224 - Qu.5955AL -

2303 - Incoming F.T.s:
1) From B.d.U.:
a) Op.Order: Sector C in Route A (15 - 30 N.) is open for attack on independent ships with immediate effect until 29.3 inclusive.
b) Intel-Report: Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE 9) and her escorts detached from Convoy SC.123 in the mid-Atlantic and set course back toward Argentia, Newfoundland.
c) OKW-Report: During Operation Supercharge II, the British 8th Army, lead by the Indian 4th Division, has won the battle for the Mareth-Line, Tunisia, forcing the Axis Troops to withdraw to the North.
2) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) completes Final Repairs at Blohm & Voss shipyard Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 27 March 1943 - West of the Porcupine Bank -

0548 - Qu.8355AL -

0635 - Morning Dawn. Halfmoon in the South, relative bearing 0°.

0700 - Diving for Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & No.308.

0705 - A-Meter. 145rpm/4kn.

0742 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0745 - Setting for Reception Depth. 96rpm.

0753 - T=20.

0800 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.6nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 10h.
Boat ventilated.

0803 - Sunrise.

0805 - Charging batteries (93.6%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

0850 - Batteries charged (45' for 6.4%). 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.8623AL - Days Run: 195.6nm - ↗ 184.9nm (20h 45') - ↘ 10.7nm (3h 15')
Total: 3052.4 nm (14days 14h 17') - ↗ 2840.9 nm (11days 7h 28') - ↘ 211.5 nm (3days 6h 49')
On course 180°; 432cbm (5cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 14h.

1403 - Qu.8655AL -

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 22 1/2h.

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 27 March 1943 - West of the Porcupine Bank -

0548 - Qu.8355AL -

0635 - Morning Dawn. Halfmoon in the South, relative bearing 0°.

0700 - Diving for Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & No.308.

0705 - A-Meter. 145rpm/4kn.

0742 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0745 - Setting for Reception Depth. 96rpm.

0753 - T=20.

0800 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 3.6nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 10h.
Boat ventilated.

0803 - Sunrise.

0805 - Charging batteries (93.6%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

0850 - Batteries charged (45' for 6.4%). 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.8623AL - Days Run: 195.6nm - ↗ 184.9nm (20h 45') - ↘ 10.7nm (3h 15')
Total: 3052.4 nm (14days 14h 17') - ↗ 2840.9 nm (11days 7h 28') - ↘ 211.5 nm (3days 6h 49')
On course 180°; 432cbm (5cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 14h.

1403 - Qu.8655AL -

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days and 22 1/2h.

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 28 March 1943 - Western Approaches -

0432 - Qu.2155BE - Course 180°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0800 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 10h.

1035 - Qu.2455BE -

1100 - Qu.2458BE center top - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 152°true, E=14000.

1102 - At Reception Depth, sound contact with three warships, relative bearings from 312° to 315°, varrying distances from E=17000 to E=23000, very fast on course SSW; according sound contact positioned in Qu.2483BE left half. Suspect enemy Task Force or U-Hunter Group.

1200 - Qu.2458AL - Days Run: 221.8nm - ↗ 217.5nm (23h 00') - ↘ 4.3nm (1h)
Total: 3274.2 nm (15days 14h 17') - ↗ 3058.4 nm (12days 6h 28') - ↘ 215.8 nm (3days 7h 49')
On course 180°; 423cbm (9cbm in 24h); T=20; Battery 95%; CO₂ 1.2%.

1240 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 40min and 2.1nm - since Etmal (Total: 1h 40' and 6.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 15h.

1245 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1300 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
26.3., 1539, Alarm for twin-engine A/C in Qu.5682Al center, no bombs. 28.3., 1100, Diving for FuMB-Detection in Qu.2458BE top center. Obtained sound contact with task force or hunter group in Qu.2483BE left half, at high speed on course SSW, at least one capital ship. 423cbm. SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

1303 - Qu.2482BE center - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 306°true, E=8300. Boat sinks quickly to A+10 and can only be brought up to A-Meter with 1/3-Ahead. No Wabos and no sound contact.

1330 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1336 - T=20.

1338 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 35min and 1.9nm.

1342 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1357 - Qu.2485BE top center - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 104°true, E=10000.

1402 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

1427 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1432 - T=20.

1434 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 40min and 2nm.

1440 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1444 - Qu.2485BE center bottom - FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 19°true, E=9400.

1445 - "ALARM!" for A/C approaching from 15°true, E=5000.

1446 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact. Boat remains submerged.

1605 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1608 - Sound contact with several warships in relative bearings from 17-22°, E=26000. Seems to be the same task force from 1102.

1611 - T=20.

1613 - S-Tiefe. Nothing can be seen. Difficult to maintain boat at S-Tiefe due to the high swell.

1624 - An A/C can be seen in the B-Periscope on the stbd. beam on opposite course. The presence of the Escort Group explains the heavy air patrols in this area.

1630 - Task force comes into sight, consists of an Escort Carrier Baiter Class, 12400ts, and two Light Cruisers (Pos.2, Lightweight Class, 5950ts and Pos.3, Arethusa Class, 5240ts and in keel line, and 7 escorts, on course 41°. Closing on task force at S-Tiefe at A.K. and both periscopes up. "Battle Stations!".

1657 - Flooding bow tubes.

1700 - Qu.2488BE bottom right - Spread Shot with tubes I-IV: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Angle of divergence 1.5°; Running depth 5m; Vt30; Own course 90°; Own speed 6kn ahead; Target ship: Position 1 Escort Carrier Baiter Class 12400ts, draught 6.7m. Target ship is located in Qu.2489BE bottom left.
Target course 41°; Target distance 4500m; Target angle red132°; Target speed 18kn; Firing angle α 26°.
Weather/Sea: SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, diving to A+50 and rigging for Silent Running. Throughout the entire process, no detection by the escorts, which at times come verily close to the boat.

All torpedoes are misses. Seems like they all passed between the pos.2 and pos.3 Cruisers.

Cmdr.: In hindsight, it would have been better to turn towards the target with angle red90, set the target speed to the max. speed of the vessel (20kn) and set the Angle of divergence to 3°.

1725 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1733 - T=20.

1735 - S-Tiefe. All clear. Breaking off action, diving deeper for torpedo loading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

1742 - At T=50, on course 137°. Commencing torpedo loading.

1755 - Tubes I and II loaded with T-3/Pi39H(MZ/AZ).

1809 - Tubes III and IV loaded with AtoFAT/Pi-1(G7H/AZ).
Setting for Reception Depth.

1813 - T=20.

1815 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 30' and 12.5nm.

1823 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled.
Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1903 - Qu.2723BE - Course 180°.

2010 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 22h.

2048 - Qu.2729BE - Batteries charged (2h 25' for 22.2%). 1/3-Ahead.

2105 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
28.3., 1700, 4-spread in heavy sea state missed Escort Carrier in Qu.2488BE bottom right. Carrier part of Escort Group of 2 Light Cruisers and 7 Destroyers. Last position at 1800 in Qu.2489BE bottom left, on course 41°, speed 20kn. Group is protected by strong air cover in Qu.24BE. Continue with outbound transit. Have 11 internal eels and 420cbm. SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

2305 - F.T.s from B.d.U.:
1) To RST: Go to Bordeaux for repairs. As Operation "Elisabeth" is about to begin, attention is again called to the closing of routes in BF and BE.
2) Intel-Report: Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) arrived at Casco Bay, Maine, U.S.A.
3) OKW-Report: The British 1st Army launched its Offensive in Tunisia. The US 12th Air Force bombed the oil refinery at Livorno, Italy.
4) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

Cmdr.: We received our new marching orders.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 28 March 1943 - Western Approaches -

0432 - Qu.2155BE - Course 180°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0800 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 10h.

1035 - Qu.2455BE -

1100 - Qu.2458BE center top - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 152°true, E=14000.

1102 - At Reception Depth, sound contact with three warships, relative bearings from 312° to 315°, varrying distances from E=17000 to E=23000, very fast on course SSW; according sound contact positioned in Qu.2483BE left half. Suspect enemy Task Force or U-Hunter Group.

1200 - Qu.2458AL - Days Run: 221.8nm - ↗ 217.5nm (23h 00') - ↘ 4.3nm (1h)
Total: 3274.2 nm (15days 14h 17') - ↗ 3058.4 nm (12days 6h 28') - ↘ 215.8 nm (3days 7h 49')
On course 180°; 423cbm (9cbm in 24h); T=20; Battery 95%; CO₂ 1.2%.

1240 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 40min and 2.1nm - since Etmal (Total: 1h 40' and 6.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 15h.

1245 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1300 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
26.3., 1539, Alarm for twin-engine A/C in Qu.5682Al center, no bombs. 28.3., 1100, Diving for FuMB-Detection in Qu.2458BE top center. Obtained sound contact with task force or hunter group in Qu.2483BE left half, at high speed on course SSW, at least one capital ship. 423cbm. SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

1303 - Qu.2482BE center - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 306°true, E=8300. Boat sinks quickly to A+10 and can only be brought up to A-Meter with 1/3-Ahead. No Wabos and no sound contact.

1330 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1336 - T=20.

1338 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 35min and 1.9nm.

1342 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1357 - Qu.2485BE top center - Diving for FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 104°true, E=10000.

1402 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact.

1427 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1432 - T=20.

1434 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 40min and 2nm.

1440 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries as before (95%).

1444 - Qu.2485BE center bottom - FuMB-Detection (no Magic Eye) in 19°true, E=9400.

1445 - "ALARM!" for A/C approaching from 15°true, E=5000.

1446 - At A-Meter no Wabos and no sound contact. Boat remains submerged.

1605 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1608 - Sound contact with several warships in relative bearings from 17-22°, E=26000. Seems to be the same task force from 1102.

1611 - T=20.

1613 - S-Tiefe. Nothing can be seen. Difficult to maintain boat at S-Tiefe due to the high swell.

1624 - An A/C can be seen in the B-Periscope on the stbd. beam on opposite course. The presence of the Escort Group explains the heavy air patrols in this area.

1630 - Task force comes into sight, consists of an Escort Carrier Baiter Class, 12400ts, and two Light Cruisers (Pos.2, Lightweight Class, 5950ts and Pos.3, Arethusa Class, 5240ts and in keel line, and 7 escorts, on course 41°. Closing on task force at S-Tiefe at A.K. and both periscopes up. "Battle Stations!".

1657 - Flooding bow tubes.

1700 - Qu.2488BE bottom right - Spread Shot with tubes I-IV: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Angle of divergence 1.5°; Running depth 5m; Vt30; Own course 90°; Own speed 6kn ahead; Target ship: Position 1 Escort Carrier Baiter Class 12400ts, draught 6.7m. Target ship is located in Qu.2489BE bottom left.
Target course 41°; Target distance 4500m; Target angle red132°; Target speed 18kn; Firing angle α 26°.
Weather/Sea: SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, diving to A+50 and rigging for Silent Running. Throughout the entire process, no detection by the escorts, which at times come verily close to the boat.

All torpedoes are misses. Seems like they all passed between the pos.2 and pos.3 Cruisers.

Cmdr.: In hindsight, it would have been better to turn towards the target with angle red90, set the target speed to the max. speed of the vessel (20kn) and set the Angle of divergence to 3°.

1725 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1733 - T=20.

1735 - S-Tiefe. All clear. Breaking off action, diving deeper for torpedo loading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

1742 - At T=50, on course 137°. Commencing torpedo loading.

1755 - Tubes I and II loaded with T-3/Pi39H(MZ/AZ).

1809 - Tubes III and IV loaded with AtoFAT/Pi-1(G7H/AZ).
Setting for Reception Depth.

1813 - T=20.

1815 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 30' and 12.5nm.

1823 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled.
Charging batteries as before (77.8%).

1903 - Qu.2723BE - Course 180°.

2010 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 22h.

2048 - Qu.2729BE - Batteries charged (2h 25' for 22.2%). 1/3-Ahead.

2105 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
28.3., 1700, 4-spread in heavy sea state missed Escort Carrier in Qu.2488BE bottom right. Carrier part of Escort Group of 2 Light Cruisers and 7 Destroyers. Last position at 1800 in Qu.2489BE bottom left, on course 41°, speed 20kn. Group is protected by strong air cover in Qu.24BE. Continue with outbound transit. Have 11 internal eels and 420cbm. SSE7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

2305 - F.T.s from B.d.U.:
1) To RST: Go to Bordeaux for repairs. As Operation "Elisabeth" is about to begin, attention is again called to the closing of routes in BF and BE.
2) Intel-Report: Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) arrived at Casco Bay, Maine, U.S.A.
3) OKW-Report: The British 1st Army launched its Offensive in Tunisia. The US 12th Air Force bombed the oil refinery at Livorno, Italy.
4) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

Cmdr.: We received our new marching orders.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 29 March 1943 - Western Approaches -

0200 - Clocks set an hour ahead in accordance with Op.-Orders.

0304 - F.T.: from B.d.U.: To U 260:
Cmdr to explain why steamer 7176t was not attacked. Should send copy of attack report in KTB.

0446 - F.T. from U 260: To B.d.U.:
Had to break-off of attack due to weather and setting-in darkness. End of report. - Purkhold -

0630 - Morning Dawn -

0747 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.5486BE - Days Run: 185.9nm - ↗ 167.4nm (18h 33') - ↘ 18.5nm (5h 27')
Total: 3460.1 nm (16days 14h 17') - ↗ 3225.8 nm (13days 1h 01') - ↘ 234.3 nm (3days 13h 16')
On course 180°; 417cbm (6cbm in 24h).

2013 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 22h.

2216 - Qu.8156BE - Course 90°.

F.T. from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
The Führer orders the construction of large missile launch sites on the French coast.
New Zealand troops capture Gabès, Tunisia, while Axis troops withdraw from El Hamma.
2) From U 174: Have not yet found "Karlin". - Grandefeld -
3) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 29 March 1943 - Western Approaches -

0200 - Clocks set an hour ahead in accordance with Op.-Orders.

0304 - F.T.: from B.d.U.: To U 260:
Cmdr to explain why steamer 7176t was not attacked. Should send copy of attack report in KTB.

0446 - F.T. from U 260: To B.d.U.:
Had to break-off of attack due to weather and setting-in darkness. End of report. - Purkhold -

0630 - Morning Dawn -

0747 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.5486BE - Days Run: 185.9nm - ↗ 167.4nm (18h 33') - ↘ 18.5nm (5h 27')
Total: 3460.1 nm (16days 14h 17') - ↗ 3225.8 nm (13days 1h 01') - ↘ 234.3 nm (3days 13h 16')
On course 180°; 417cbm (6cbm in 24h).

2013 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 22h.

2216 - Qu.8156BE - Course 90°.

F.T. from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
The Führer orders the construction of large missile launch sites on the French coast.
New Zealand troops capture Gabès, Tunisia, while Axis troops withdraw from El Hamma.
2) From U 174: Have not yet found "Karlin". - Grandefeld -
3) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes War Patrol Outfitting in Hamburg.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 30 March 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

0630 - Morning Dawn -

0742 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.8344BE - Days Run: 227.9nm - ↗ 227.9nm (24h) - ↘ 0nm (0h) -
Total: 3688.0 nm (17days 14h 17') - ↗ 3453.7 nm (14days 1h 01') - ↘ 234.3 nm (3days 13h 16')
On course 90°; 409cbm (8cbm in 24h).

1632 - Qu.8355BE - It's becoming overcast and beginning to rain.

2003 - Sundown. SE7/6, overcast, rain, poor visibility, <1000mb.

2305 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
a) The RAF bombed the Philips factory in Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
b) Elements of the British 8th Army have broken through the Gabes Pass by more than 100miles and are continuing to push North, while the US 1st and 9th Infantry Divisions attacked Italian positions at Hill 369 near El Guettar, Tunisia, with little success.
c) British light cruiser HMS Glasgow intercepted Blockade Runner Regensburg, whose crew scuttled the ship.
2) B-Dienst-Report:
a) Escort Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland, and Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) transits from Casco Bay, Maine to the Boston Navy Yard, Massachusetts.
3) To all boats:
a) U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) last reported on 7 March from EE 45. Several orders to give her position and the situation remained unanswered. On 8 March a U-boat was attacked by an aircraft in EE 91. According to dead reckoning, only U 156 could have been there at the time. She must be presumed lost.
b) U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) was damaged by 2 unexplained explosions at 40 meters while test diving on 28 March. Flotillas have been instructed to ensure better protection against sabotage for ships in the dockyard and to have the boats thoroughly examined before they sail. It is not impossible that sabotage had a hand in boats which were lost through unknown causes.
c) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) transits the K.W.K. to Kiel.

Cmdr.: We lost the commander and boat that sunk the Laconia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 30 March 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

0630 - Morning Dawn -

0742 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.8344BE - Days Run: 227.9nm - ↗ 227.9nm (24h) - ↘ 0nm (0h) -
Total: 3688.0 nm (17days 14h 17') - ↗ 3453.7 nm (14days 1h 01') - ↘ 234.3 nm (3days 13h 16')
On course 90°; 409cbm (8cbm in 24h).

1632 - Qu.8355BE - It's becoming overcast and beginning to rain.

2003 - Sundown. SE7/6, overcast, rain, poor visibility, <1000mb.

2305 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
a) The RAF bombed the Philips factory in Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
b) Elements of the British 8th Army have broken through the Gabes Pass by more than 100miles and are continuing to push North, while the US 1st and 9th Infantry Divisions attacked Italian positions at Hill 369 near El Guettar, Tunisia, with little success.
c) British light cruiser HMS Glasgow intercepted Blockade Runner Regensburg, whose crew scuttled the ship.
2) B-Dienst-Report:
a) Escort Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland, and Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) transits from Casco Bay, Maine to the Boston Navy Yard, Massachusetts.
3) To all boats:
a) U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) last reported on 7 March from EE 45. Several orders to give her position and the situation remained unanswered. On 8 March a U-boat was attacked by an aircraft in EE 91. According to dead reckoning, only U 156 could have been there at the time. She must be presumed lost.
b) U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) was damaged by 2 unexplained explosions at 40 meters while test diving on 28 March. Flotillas have been instructed to ensure better protection against sabotage for ships in the dockyard and to have the boats thoroughly examined before they sail. It is not impossible that sabotage had a hand in boats which were lost through unknown causes.
c) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) transits the K.W.K. to Kiel.

Cmdr.: We lost the commander and boat that sunk the Laconia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 31 March 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

0215 - Qu.9155BE - It stopped raining but is still very foggy: SE7/6, overcast, fog, poor visibility, <1000mb.

0500 - Qu.9165BE - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Test Dive.

0545 - At Reception Depth, Breakfast for the Port Machine Watch and at 0600, breakfast for the rest of the crew.

0700 - T=50. Commencing with Torpedo Maintenance.

0730 - Sunrise.

0809 - Tube I serviced and Tube II pulled. - Watch change -

0843 - Tube II serviced and loaded. - Break -

1025 - Tubes III and IV serviced.

1040 - CO₂-Warning at 1.7%.

1130 - Tube V serviced (Tube VI not operational).

1131 - Commencing of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & No.308.

1136 - A-Meter.

1200 - Qu.9244BE - Days Run: 180.6nm - ↗ 160.6nm (17h) - ↘ 20nm (7h) -
Total: 3868.6 nm (18days 14h 17') - ↗ 3614.3 nm (14days 18h 01') - ↘ 254.3 nm (3days 20h 16')
On course 90°; 406cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=A+60; Battery: 85.7%; CO₂:2.0%.

1210 - 2A-Meter. Boat is safe and secure. Setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm/3kn.

1218 - T=20.

1225 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 25min. and 21.5nm)
Weather and Sea unchanged in 8.5h.

1230 - Boat ventilated; Charging Batteries as before (84.3%).

1415 - Batteries charged (1h 45' for 14.1%). 1/3-Ahead.

1505 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
a) The Führer met Bulgarian King Boris III at his headquarters at Rastenburg, East Prussia.
b) Soviet troops defeated the 17th Army in the Kuban Peninsula and captured Anastasyevsk north of Novorossiysk, near the coast of the Black Sea in southern Russia.
c) British troops occupied Cap Serrat on the Tunisian coast. Operation Supercharge II was concluded with success in Tunisia, forcing the Axis defenses to move north to Wadi Akarit, while the US 1st and 9th Infantry Divisions continue to attack Italian positions at Hill 369 near El Guettar, Tunisia, with little success.
d) USAAF bombers attacked the Italian airfield at Cagliari, Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea.
2) To all boats:
a) According to diplomatic channels, our U-Boats have brought the British on the brink of defeat in the Battle of the Atlantic. Congratulations to all boats!
b) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 31 March 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

0215 - Qu.9155BE - It stopped raining but is still very foggy: SE7/6, overcast, fog, poor visibility, <1000mb.

0500 - Qu.9165BE - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Test Dive.

0545 - At Reception Depth, Breakfast for the Port Machine Watch and at 0600, breakfast for the rest of the crew.

0700 - T=50. Commencing with Torpedo Maintenance.

0730 - Sunrise.

0809 - Tube I serviced and Tube II pulled. - Watch change -

0843 - Tube II serviced and loaded. - Break -

1025 - Tubes III and IV serviced.

1040 - CO₂-Warning at 1.7%.

1130 - Tube V serviced (Tube VI not operational).

1131 - Commencing of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & No.308.

1136 - A-Meter.

1200 - Qu.9244BE - Days Run: 180.6nm - ↗ 160.6nm (17h) - ↘ 20nm (7h) -
Total: 3868.6 nm (18days 14h 17') - ↗ 3614.3 nm (14days 18h 01') - ↘ 254.3 nm (3days 20h 16')
On course 90°; 406cbm (3cbm in 24h); T=A+60; Battery: 85.7%; CO₂:2.0%.

1210 - 2A-Meter. Boat is safe and secure. Setting for Reception Depth; 96rpm/3kn.

1218 - T=20.

1225 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 25min. and 1.5nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 25min. and 21.5nm)
Weather and Sea unchanged in 8.5h.

1230 - Boat ventilated; Charging Batteries as before (84.3%).

1415 - Batteries charged (1h 45' for 14.1%). 1/3-Ahead.

1505 - F.T.'s from B.d.U.:
1) OKW-Report:
a) The Führer met Bulgarian King Boris III at his headquarters at Rastenburg, East Prussia.
b) Soviet troops defeated the 17th Army in the Kuban Peninsula and captured Anastasyevsk north of Novorossiysk, near the coast of the Black Sea in southern Russia.
c) British troops occupied Cap Serrat on the Tunisian coast. Operation Supercharge II was concluded with success in Tunisia, forcing the Axis defenses to move north to Wadi Akarit, while the US 1st and 9th Infantry Divisions continue to attack Italian positions at Hill 369 near El Guettar, Tunisia, with little success.
d) USAAF bombers attacked the Italian airfield at Cagliari, Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea.
2) To all boats:
a) According to diplomatic channels, our U-Boats have brought the British on the brink of defeat in the Battle of the Atlantic. Congratulations to all boats!
b) U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) commences Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 1 April 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

- 3rd week at sea completed -


0312 - Qu.9355BE -

0615 - Morning Dawn.

0712 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 3h.

1200 - Qu.7154BF - Days Run: 221.2nm - ↗ 219.7nm (23h 35') - ↘ 1.5nm (25')
Total: 4089.8 nm (19days 14h 17') - ↗ 3834.0 nm (15days 17h 36') - ↘ 255.8 nm (3days 20h 41')
On course 90°; 400cbm (6cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 8h.

1252 - Qu.7155BF - Approaching the Allied Air Cover Zone over the Biscaya. "All hands on the Quivive!".

1939 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 15.5h.

2233 - Qu.7255BF -

Cmdr.: While U 648 continues with the Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel, her Commander Peter-Arthur Stahl, is promoted to Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 1 April 1943 - Off the Bay of Biscay -

- 3rd week at sea completed -


0312 - Qu.9355BE -

0615 - Morning Dawn.

0712 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 3h.

1200 - Qu.7154BF - Days Run: 221.2nm - ↗ 219.7nm (23h 35') - ↘ 1.5nm (25')
Total: 4089.8 nm (19days 14h 17') - ↗ 3834.0 nm (15days 17h 36') - ↘ 255.8 nm (3days 20h 41')
On course 90°; 400cbm (6cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 8h.

1252 - Qu.7155BF - Approaching the Allied Air Cover Zone over the Biscaya. "All hands on the Quivive!".

1939 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 15.5h.

2233 - Qu.7255BF -

Cmdr.: While U 648 continues with the Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel, her Commander Peter-Arthur Stahl, is promoted to Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 2 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0550 - Morning Dawn.

0656 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 3h.

0813 - Qu.7355BF -

0823 - Qu.7355BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection in 182°true, E=15500.

0840 - Diving for FuMB and Magic Eye Detection.
Sound contact warship bearing 119°, E=11000, medium speed on course 340°. Boat remains submerged. T=20.

0907 - Second sound contact with warship bearing 95°, E=37000, fast, on course 252°.

0928 - S-Tiefe. Distance to first sound contact is 20000m. Lost second sound contact.

0930 - Surfaced after 50min. and 2.4nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0931 - Boat ventilated. 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.7365BF - Days Run: 222.0nm - ↗ 219.6nm (23h 10') - ↘ 2.4nm (50')
Total: 4311.8 nm (20days 14h 17') - ↗ 4053.6 nm (16days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
On course 90°; 392cbm (8cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 8h.

1830 - Qu.8155BF -

1927 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 15.5h.

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes her Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 2 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0550 - Morning Dawn.

0656 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 3h.

0813 - Qu.7355BF -

0823 - Qu.7355BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection in 182°true, E=15500.

0840 - Diving for FuMB and Magic Eye Detection.
Sound contact warship bearing 119°, E=11000, medium speed on course 340°. Boat remains submerged. T=20.

0907 - Second sound contact with warship bearing 95°, E=37000, fast, on course 252°.

0928 - S-Tiefe. Distance to first sound contact is 20000m. Lost second sound contact.

0930 - Surfaced after 50min. and 2.4nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

0931 - Boat ventilated. 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.7365BF - Days Run: 222.0nm - ↗ 219.6nm (23h 10') - ↘ 2.4nm (50')
Total: 4311.8 nm (20days 14h 17') - ↗ 4053.6 nm (16days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
On course 90°; 392cbm (8cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 8h.

1830 - Qu.8155BF -

1927 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 15.5h.

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes her Final War Patrol Outfitting and Op.-Briefing in Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 3 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0005 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Will be at entry point Gabel on 4 April, 0000. - RST -

0225 - Qu.8246BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection in 170°true, E=18000. Boat remains surfaced.

0241 - Qu.8254BF center left - FuMB Detection 0225 now in 187°true, E=19000 - seems to be on course 222°, speed 4-5kn.

0411 - Qu.8255BF -

0530 - Morning Dawn.

0642 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 3h.

1200 - Qu.8346BF - Days Run: 227.5nm - ↗ 227.5nm (24h) - On course 90°; 386cbm (6cbm in 24h)
Total: 4539.3 nm (21days 14h 17') - ↗ 4281.1 nm (17days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 8h; 11 internal torpedoes.

1352 - Qu.8355BF -

1915 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 15.5h.

2310 - Qu.9155BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection of A/C in 119° true, E=6600. In due course, continued FuMB and Magic Eye Detection with A/C in different directions and distances. Appears to be of own escort airplane patrolling the escort point.

2334 - Qu.9155BF - Course 122°.

2346 - Arrived at escort point Gabel. Course 70°.
(No escort sighted).

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) leaves Kiel for her First War Patrol, acc. Op.-Order 54.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 3 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0005 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Will be at entry point Gabel on 4 April, 0000. - RST -

0225 - Qu.8246BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection in 170°true, E=18000. Boat remains surfaced.

0241 - Qu.8254BF center left - FuMB Detection 0225 now in 187°true, E=19000 - seems to be on course 222°, speed 4-5kn.

0411 - Qu.8255BF -

0530 - Morning Dawn.

0642 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 3h.

1200 - Qu.8346BF - Days Run: 227.5nm - ↗ 227.5nm (24h) - On course 90°; 386cbm (6cbm in 24h)
Total: 4539.3 nm (21days 14h 17') - ↗ 4281.1 nm (17days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 8h; 11 internal torpedoes.

1352 - Qu.8355BF -

1915 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 15.5h.

2310 - Qu.9155BF center right - FuMB and Magic Eye Detection of A/C in 119° true, E=6600. In due course, continued FuMB and Magic Eye Detection with A/C in different directions and distances. Appears to be of own escort airplane patrolling the escort point.

2334 - Qu.9155BF - Course 122°.

2346 - Arrived at escort point Gabel. Course 70°.
(No escort sighted).

Cmdr.: U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) leaves Kiel for her First War Patrol, acc. Op.-Order 54.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 4 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0003 - Entering approach path escorted by own A/C. The entire time, several FuMB and Magic Eye Detections - seem to be 2-3 A/C.

0520 - Morning Dawn.

0629 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 2.5h.

0722 - Radar Detection with Surface Vessel in 70°true; E=7500. It is our escort. Wind and Sea subsiding somewhat, weather is clearing up.

0735 - SE7/6, decreasing, shifting East, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb.
Taking on escort (1 Escort Destroyer und 3 R-Boats); Bf110's continue to patrol approach path.

0836 - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.9234BF - Days Run: 228.0nm - ↗ 228.0nm (24h)
Total: 4767.3 nm (22days 14h 17') - ↗ 4509.1 nm (18days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
On course 110°; ENE7/6, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb; 380cbm (6cbm in 24h); 11 internal torpedoes; Battery 97%.

1228 - Arrived at exit point of approach path. Releasing escort. Course 90°.

1300 - ENE4/3, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb.
Starting repair of Flak guns.

1325 - Patrol boat (M-Boat) on opposite course to our port beam.

1419 - Course 135°. Flak guns repaired. Three 3-Mast-Schooners are patrolling the Gironde Estuary.

1533 - Qu.9341BF - Course 140°. Entering Bordeaux.

1615 - Making fast in the Box. Mooring boat.

1615 - Qu.9344BF - Since Etmal: 41.5nm - ↗ 41.5nm (4h 15')
Total: 4808.8 nm (22days 18h 32') - ↗ 4550.6 nm (18days 21h 01') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
Arrived Bordeaux: ENE7/6, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb; 379cbm (1cbm in 4h); 11 internal torpedoes; Battery 97%.

Clearing out of boat and placing boat in dry-dock.
Crew standing by and guarding the boat during the shipyard time.

Cmdr.: Upon arrival in Bordeaux received word that RAF bombers conducted a raid on Kiel during the night and that Soviet troops launched the Taman Offensive Operation in an attempt to push our troops out of the Taman Peninsula in the Caucasus.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 4 April 1943 - Bay of Biscay -

0003 - Entering approach path escorted by own A/C. The entire time, several FuMB and Magic Eye Detections - seem to be 2-3 A/C.

0520 - Morning Dawn.

0629 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 2.5h.

0722 - Radar Detection with Surface Vessel in 70°true; E=7500. It is our escort. Wind and Sea subsiding somewhat, weather is clearing up.

0735 - SE7/6, decreasing, shifting East, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb.
Taking on escort (1 Escort Destroyer und 3 R-Boats); Bf110's continue to patrol approach path.

0836 - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.9234BF - Days Run: 228.0nm - ↗ 228.0nm (24h)
Total: 4767.3 nm (22days 14h 17') - ↗ 4509.1 nm (18days 16h 46') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
On course 110°; ENE7/6, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb; 380cbm (6cbm in 24h); 11 internal torpedoes; Battery 97%.

1228 - Arrived at exit point of approach path. Releasing escort. Course 90°.

1300 - ENE4/3, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb.
Starting repair of Flak guns.

1325 - Patrol boat (M-Boat) on opposite course to our port beam.

1419 - Course 135°. Flak guns repaired. Three 3-Mast-Schooners are patrolling the Gironde Estuary.

1533 - Qu.9341BF - Course 140°. Entering Bordeaux.

1615 - Making fast in the Box. Mooring boat.

1615 - Qu.9344BF - Since Etmal: 41.5nm - ↗ 41.5nm (4h 15')
Total: 4808.8 nm (22days 18h 32') - ↗ 4550.6 nm (18days 21h 01') - ↘ 258.2 nm (3days 21h 31')
Arrived Bordeaux: ENE7/6, partly cloudy, light haze, visibility 3.5nm, >1000mb; 379cbm (1cbm in 4h); 11 internal torpedoes; Battery 97%.

Clearing out of boat and placing boat in dry-dock.
Crew standing by and guarding the boat during the shipyard time.

Cmdr.: Upon arrival in Bordeaux received word that RAF bombers conducted a raid on Kiel during the night and that Soviet troops launched the Taman Offensive Operation in an attempt to push our troops out of the Taman Peninsula in the Caucasus.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 5 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux -

Debriefing with F.d.U. (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108)

Totals of 1st leg of the 1st war patrol with U 115 (17th war patrol overall):

- Torpedo hits: None
- Torpedo misses: 4 T-3/Pi39H on fast Escort Carrier at great distance and in medium-heavy swell.
- Torpedo failures: None

- Crash Dives: 18 from airplanes (mainly in Iceland Passage)

- Depth Charges/Fliebos: 80 from airplanes (one from warships). The Bold-2 was not deployed.

Pressure hull: 95% (Accumulated damage: 5%); Safe Diving Depth is now 218.5m (historic specification max.230m x 95%); Honour points: None (Accumulated: None)

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Major General Theo Osterkemp is appointed the commanding officer of Jagdfliegerführer Sizilien and charged with safeguarding Axis flights between Sicily and Tunisia, while the Allies launch Operation Flax, a concentrated effort to destroy Axis capability to supply Tunisia by air.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives at Kristiansand for Fuel and Fresh Water Supply.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 5 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux -

Debriefing with F.d.U. (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108)

Totals of 1st leg of the 1st war patrol with U 115 (17th war patrol overall):

- Torpedo hits: None
- Torpedo misses: 4 T-3/Pi39H on fast Escort Carrier at great distance and in medium-heavy swell.
- Torpedo failures: None

- Crash Dives: 18 from airplanes (mainly in Iceland Passage)

- Depth Charges/Fliebos: 80 from airplanes (one from warships). The Bold-2 was not deployed.

Pressure hull: 95% (Accumulated damage: 5%); Safe Diving Depth is now 218.5m (historic specification max.230m x 95%); Honour points: None (Accumulated: None)

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Major General Theo Osterkemp is appointed the commanding officer of Jagdfliegerführer Sizilien and charged with safeguarding Axis flights between Sicily and Tunisia, while the Allies launch Operation Flax, a concentrated effort to destroy Axis capability to supply Tunisia by air.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) arrives at Kristiansand for Fuel and Fresh Water Supply.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 6 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Axis forces fell back from Wadi Akarit towards Enfidaville, Tunisia, as the British Eighth Army began linking up with US II Corps.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Captured French torpedo boats Bombarde, La Pomone, and L'Iphigénie, been in Italian service since Dec 1942, are transferred on loan to the German Navy.
b) U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) leaves Kristiansand for a stop-over in Egersund, due to an escort vessel suffering damage from the high sea; leaving Egersund again in the evening without escort.
c) After leaving the Bay of Biscay U 124 (KrvKpt. Johann Mohr; ex Kptlt. Georg-Wilhelm Schulz) operated against a convoy bound for Gibraltar and reported it for the last time on the 2nd April in CF 3652. Since there were no other boats in the vicinity, U 124 was ordered not to send in further reports on contacts. Later orders to report her position were not answered. She must be considered lost. There is no information from any sighting or operational report.

Cmdr.: Mohr and U 124 are gone!

+++++++


Uboat disposition report from 2 April 1943


Supreme Command of the Navy (O.K.M.)
S. O. Only.


U-boats as of 1.April 1943


I. In service on the 1st March 1943: 411 (412 incl. U 115)
Put into commission in March: 27
Total: 438 (439 incl. U 115)

Losses in March: 15 (incl. 1 in home waters, U 5)
In service on 1st April 1943: 423 (424 incl. U 115)
Foreign submarines: 9
Total: 432 (433 incl. U 115)

Losses in March:
a) In the Atlantic:
Type VIIc: U 87 - 444 - 633 - 432 - 384 - 665 - 469 = 7
Type IX: U 529 - 130 - 163 - 156 - 524 = 5
b) In the Mediterranean:
Type VII: U 83 - 77 = 2
c) At home:
Type II: U 5 = 1
Total: 15

Details:
a) In the Atlantic:
Type VIIc:
1) U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) - Arrived in the Atlantic. Refueled from U 461 for the last time on the 26th February in the North Atlantic. Then did not report again.
2) U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) - 2nd voyage. Last report was contact with convoy on 11th March in the North Atlantic. Probably sunk by convoy escort.
3) U 633 (Oblt. Bernhard Müller) - 1st voyage. Last report on 3rd March after passing Iceland Passage. No further information.
4) U 432 (Kptlt. Hermann Eckhardt) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultz), new Commanding Officer. Last report on the 10th March S.E. Greenland. No information.
5) U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) - 2nd voyage. Last report on 19th March S of Greenland. Probably sunk by convoy escort.
6) U 665 (Oblt.d.R. Hans-Jürgen Haupt) - 1st voyage. Last report on 21st March that she had been off La Pallice for 36 hours. Probably sunk by aircraft bombs.
7) U 469 (Oblt. Emil Claussen) - 1st voyage. No report, no information.
Type IXc:
8) U 529 - (Kptlt. Georg-Werner Fraatz) - New boat (IXc/40), experienced Commanding Officer. Last report was on weather S. of Iceland. No information regarding loss.
9) U 130 (Oblt. Siegfried Keller) - Old boat (ex KrvKpt. Ernst Kals), new Commanding Officer. Last report on 12th March in the North Atlantic. Probably sunk by convoy.
10) U 163 (KrvKpt. Kurt-Eduard Engelmann) - 3rd voyage. No report, no information.
11) U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) - Old boat. Last report on 7th March from the Caribbean. No information.
12) U 524 (Kptlt. Freiherr Walter von Steinaecker) - 2nd voyage.
b) In the Mediterranean:
Type VIIc:
13) U 83 (Kptlt. Ulrich Wörisshoffer) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Hans-Werner Kraus), new Commanding Officer. West Mediterranean.
14) U 77 (Oblt. Otto Hartmann) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Heinrich Schonder), new Commanding Officer. Badly damaged by aircraft bombs. Sunk 15 miles off Cap de la Nao (Spain). 9 men rescued.
c) In Home Waters:
Type II:
15) U 5 (IIA; Oblt. Hermann Rahn) - Loss when she tried to dive deep contrary to orders. 16 men rescued.

II. Distribution:
a) Operational:
II - 3
VIIa - 0
VIIb/c - 159
VIId - 3
IXb/c - 53
IXD1 - 2
IXD2 - 6 (7 incl. U 115)
XB - 3
XIV - 6
Total - 235 (236 incl. U 115)
b) On Trial:
II - 0
VIIa - 0
VIIb/c - 93
VIId - 0
IXb/c - 20
IXD1 - 0
IXD2 - 6
XB - 2
XIV - 3
Total - 124
c) Training:
II - 33
VIIa - 4
VIIb/c - 25 (12 of these temporarily transferred for training purposes)
VIId - 0
IXb/c - 2
IXD1 - 0
IXD2 - 0
XB - 0
XIV - 0
Total - 64
d) Total overall:
II - 36 (a further 3 temporarily out of service for the Black Sea)
VIIa - 4
VIIb/c - 277
VIId - 3
IXb/c - 75
IXD1 - 2
IXD2 - 12 (13 incl. U 115)
XB - 5
XIV - 9
TOTAL Overall - 423 (424 incl. U 115)

III. In March:
Further boats detailed for operations: 20
Total number increased by: + 12
Number of operational boats increased by: + 6
Number of trial boats increased by: + 4
Number of training boats increased by: + 2

IV. Distribution of Operational Boats on 1st April 1943:
In the Atlantic: 194 (195 incl. U 115)
In the Mediterranean: 17
In the North Sea: 21 (to be made up to 23 during April)
In the Black Sea: 3
Total: 235 (236 incl. U 115)

V. During the Atlantic in March:
Daily average at sea: 116 boats. (117 incl. U 115)
Of these, in operations area: 49 boats.
Outbound transit: 67 boats. (68 incl. U 115)
Of the later on return passage: 28.5 boats.

VI. Set out in March:
From home waters: 20 boats (21 incl. U 115; 7 into North Sea)
From Western France: 46 boats

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 6 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Axis forces fell back from Wadi Akarit towards Enfidaville, Tunisia, as the British Eighth Army began linking up with US II Corps.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Captured French torpedo boats Bombarde, La Pomone, and L'Iphigénie, been in Italian service since Dec 1942, are transferred on loan to the German Navy.
b) U 648 (Ob.Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) leaves Kristiansand for a stop-over in Egersund, due to an escort vessel suffering damage from the high sea; leaving Egersund again in the evening without escort.
c) After leaving the Bay of Biscay U 124 (KrvKpt. Johann Mohr; ex Kptlt. Georg-Wilhelm Schulz) operated against a convoy bound for Gibraltar and reported it for the last time on the 2nd April in CF 3652. Since there were no other boats in the vicinity, U 124 was ordered not to send in further reports on contacts. Later orders to report her position were not answered. She must be considered lost. There is no information from any sighting or operational report.

Cmdr.: Mohr and U 124 are gone!

+++++++


Uboat disposition report from 2 April 1943


Supreme Command of the Navy (O.K.M.)
S. O. Only.


U-boats as of 1.April 1943


I. In service on the 1st March 1943: 411 (412 incl. U 115)
Put into commission in March: 27
Total: 438 (439 incl. U 115)

Losses in March: 15 (incl. 1 in home waters, U 5)
In service on 1st April 1943: 423 (424 incl. U 115)
Foreign submarines: 9
Total: 432 (433 incl. U 115)

Losses in March:
a) In the Atlantic:
Type VIIc: U 87 - 444 - 633 - 432 - 384 - 665 - 469 = 7
Type IX: U 529 - 130 - 163 - 156 - 524 = 5
b) In the Mediterranean:
Type VII: U 83 - 77 = 2
c) At home:
Type II: U 5 = 1
Total: 15

Details:
a) In the Atlantic:
Type VIIc:
1) U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) - Arrived in the Atlantic. Refueled from U 461 for the last time on the 26th February in the North Atlantic. Then did not report again.
2) U 444 (Oblt. Albert Langfeld) - 2nd voyage. Last report was contact with convoy on 11th March in the North Atlantic. Probably sunk by convoy escort.
3) U 633 (Oblt. Bernhard Müller) - 1st voyage. Last report on 3rd March after passing Iceland Passage. No further information.
4) U 432 (Kptlt. Hermann Eckhardt) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultz), new Commanding Officer. Last report on the 10th March S.E. Greenland. No information.
5) U 384 (Oblt. Hans-Achim von Rosenberg-Gruszcynski) - 2nd voyage. Last report on 19th March S of Greenland. Probably sunk by convoy escort.
6) U 665 (Oblt.d.R. Hans-Jürgen Haupt) - 1st voyage. Last report on 21st March that she had been off La Pallice for 36 hours. Probably sunk by aircraft bombs.
7) U 469 (Oblt. Emil Claussen) - 1st voyage. No report, no information.
Type IXc:
8) U 529 - (Kptlt. Georg-Werner Fraatz) - New boat (IXc/40), experienced Commanding Officer. Last report was on weather S. of Iceland. No information regarding loss.
9) U 130 (Oblt. Siegfried Keller) - Old boat (ex KrvKpt. Ernst Kals), new Commanding Officer. Last report on 12th March in the North Atlantic. Probably sunk by convoy.
10) U 163 (KrvKpt. Kurt-Eduard Engelmann) - 3rd voyage. No report, no information.
11) U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein) - Old boat. Last report on 7th March from the Caribbean. No information.
12) U 524 (Kptlt. Freiherr Walter von Steinaecker) - 2nd voyage.
b) In the Mediterranean:
Type VIIc:
13) U 83 (Kptlt. Ulrich Wörisshoffer) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Hans-Werner Kraus), new Commanding Officer. West Mediterranean.
14) U 77 (Oblt. Otto Hartmann) - Old boat (ex Kptlt. Heinrich Schonder), new Commanding Officer. Badly damaged by aircraft bombs. Sunk 15 miles off Cap de la Nao (Spain). 9 men rescued.
c) In Home Waters:
Type II:
15) U 5 (IIA; Oblt. Hermann Rahn) - Loss when she tried to dive deep contrary to orders. 16 men rescued.

II. Distribution:
a) Operational:
II - 3
VIIa - 0
VIIb/c - 159
VIId - 3
IXb/c - 53
IXD1 - 2
IXD2 - 6 (7 incl. U 115)
XB - 3
XIV - 6
Total - 235 (236 incl. U 115)
b) On Trial:
II - 0
VIIa - 0
VIIb/c - 93
VIId - 0
IXb/c - 20
IXD1 - 0
IXD2 - 6
XB - 2
XIV - 3
Total - 124
c) Training:
II - 33
VIIa - 4
VIIb/c - 25 (12 of these temporarily transferred for training purposes)
VIId - 0
IXb/c - 2
IXD1 - 0
IXD2 - 0
XB - 0
XIV - 0
Total - 64
d) Total overall:
II - 36 (a further 3 temporarily out of service for the Black Sea)
VIIa - 4
VIIb/c - 277
VIId - 3
IXb/c - 75
IXD1 - 2
IXD2 - 12 (13 incl. U 115)
XB - 5
XIV - 9
TOTAL Overall - 423 (424 incl. U 115)

III. In March:
Further boats detailed for operations: 20
Total number increased by: + 12
Number of operational boats increased by: + 6
Number of trial boats increased by: + 4
Number of training boats increased by: + 2

IV. Distribution of Operational Boats on 1st April 1943:
In the Atlantic: 194 (195 incl. U 115)
In the Mediterranean: 17
In the North Sea: 21 (to be made up to 23 during April)
In the Black Sea: 3
Total: 235 (236 incl. U 115)

V. During the Atlantic in March:
Daily average at sea: 116 boats. (117 incl. U 115)
Of these, in operations area: 49 boats.
Outbound transit: 67 boats. (68 incl. U 115)
Of the later on return passage: 28.5 boats.

VI. Set out in March:
From home waters: 20 boats (21 incl. U 115; 7 into North Sea)
From Western France: 46 boats

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 7 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W. Report:
a) The Führer and Benito Mussolini began a four-day meeting near Salzburg, Austria, discussing the war effort.
b) Bolivia declared war on the Axis powers.
c) The Luftwaffe assigned 148 fighters to Jagdfliegerführer Sizilien.
d) Claus von Stauffenberg was seriously injured when his car was strafed by Allied aircraft in North Africa.
e) British and American troops linked up on the El Guettar-Gabès road in Tunisia, ending the Battle of El Guettar.

B.d.U. Report:
a) According to a report from the Attache Group, about 50 Germans have landed on the Canaries. These are the crew of U 167 (IXC/40) which was so badly damaged by a British aircraft in DH 96 that the Commanding Officer (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) had to scuttle the boat. The whole crew was rescued.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-) departed Argentia, Newfoundland bound for Philadelphia Navy Yard for emergency repairs to her aircraft catapult.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 7 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W. Report:
a) The Führer and Benito Mussolini began a four-day meeting near Salzburg, Austria, discussing the war effort.
b) Bolivia declared war on the Axis powers.
c) The Luftwaffe assigned 148 fighters to Jagdfliegerführer Sizilien.
d) Claus von Stauffenberg was seriously injured when his car was strafed by Allied aircraft in North Africa.
e) British and American troops linked up on the El Guettar-Gabès road in Tunisia, ending the Battle of El Guettar.

B.d.U. Report:
a) According to a report from the Attache Group, about 50 Germans have landed on the Canaries. These are the crew of U 167 (IXC/40) which was so badly damaged by a British aircraft in DH 96 that the Commanding Officer (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) had to scuttle the boat. The whole crew was rescued.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-) departed Argentia, Newfoundland bound for Philadelphia Navy Yard for emergency repairs to her aircraft catapult.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 8 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) US President Roosevelt froze wages and prices of utilities in order to prevent inflation. He also banned workers from changing jobs unless the switch would further the war effort.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) which is no longer operational owing to extensive damage sustained from a/c Wabos during attack of Wolfpack Seeräuber on convoy RS 3 off the coast of Spanish/Western Sahara, will be ordered to DG 69 and will rendezvous there with U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe). It is intended to pick up the crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) from the Canaries with U 455 and to transport them home later, some on each of these two boats.
b) U 203 (Kptlt. Hermann Kottmann; ex Mützelburg) sighted in BE 1689 a large vessel type "Queen Elizabeth" course S.W.; contact lost in view of high speed.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The first modified Lancaster ED765/G ("G" for "Guard" denoting the special security arrangements required) bomber was delivered to the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough, Hampshire, England, for planned attacks against German dams.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 8 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) US President Roosevelt froze wages and prices of utilities in order to prevent inflation. He also banned workers from changing jobs unless the switch would further the war effort.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) which is no longer operational owing to extensive damage sustained from a/c Wabos during attack of Wolfpack Seeräuber on convoy RS 3 off the coast of Spanish/Western Sahara, will be ordered to DG 69 and will rendezvous there with U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe). It is intended to pick up the crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) from the Canaries with U 455 and to transport them home later, some on each of these two boats.
b) U 203 (Kptlt. Hermann Kottmann; ex Mützelburg) sighted in BE 1689 a large vessel type "Queen Elizabeth" course S.W.; contact lost in view of high speed.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The first modified Lancaster ED765/G ("G" for "Guard" denoting the special security arrangements required) bomber was delivered to the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough, Hampshire, England, for planned attacks against German dams.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 9 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) British troops captured Mahares, Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) On the personal orders of the Naval High Command, U 128 - 376 - 91 - 262 are sent at maximum speed to meet the homeward-bound vessel, in order to take over in close escort complete flak defence and defence against surface ships. "Irene" was to proceed with course 86° to BE 9527 and there be met at 1800 by 4 destroyers which had previously escorted the "Himalaya" out. In view of several reports by our own aircraft of enemy forces sighted (cruisers, destroyers), Group West decided to escort the "Himalaya" back with destroyers and order "Irene" to proceed to Vigo.
U-boats will now operate on a new course and the rendezvous according to dead reckoning. They will wait there for about 2 hours and then proceed to Vigo with searching courses. Rendezvous with the ship will take place at the earliest in the course of the morning, approximately in BE 8640.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe) confirmed heavy corrosions on pressure hull at the level of battery compartment 2. She is able to dive only slight depths, and is returning at increased speed.
b) U 339 (Kptlt. Georg-Wilhelm Basse) arrived at Kiel being seriously damaged on 26 March by six depth charges from a British Catalina from the Faeroe Islands (190 Sqn RAF, pilot J. Fish), and was forced to return to Drontheim, Norway, where it was classed unfit for service and reclassified as a training boat.
c) U 635 (Oblt. Heinz Eckelmann) and U 632 (KrvKpt. Hans Karpf) operated against Convoy No. 24 (HX.231) and reported this at 0910 on the 5th April in AK 1852 and at 1710 on the 6th April in AL 3851. Both boats still had contact with the convoy. Since there were no more reports after this, they were ordered several times to give their position but without result. They must, therefore, be considered lost. There is no information as to whether this was due to convoy escort units or to aircraft.

B-Dienst Report:
a) American aircraft ordered at 1150 to attack enemy U-boat in minefield off Fedala (U 117; XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 9 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) British troops captured Mahares, Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) On the personal orders of the Naval High Command, U 128 - 376 - 91 - 262 are sent at maximum speed to meet the homeward-bound vessel, in order to take over in close escort complete flak defence and defence against surface ships. "Irene" was to proceed with course 86° to BE 9527 and there be met at 1800 by 4 destroyers which had previously escorted the "Himalaya" out. In view of several reports by our own aircraft of enemy forces sighted (cruisers, destroyers), Group West decided to escort the "Himalaya" back with destroyers and order "Irene" to proceed to Vigo.
U-boats will now operate on a new course and the rendezvous according to dead reckoning. They will wait there for about 2 hours and then proceed to Vigo with searching courses. Rendezvous with the ship will take place at the earliest in the course of the morning, approximately in BE 8640.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe) confirmed heavy corrosions on pressure hull at the level of battery compartment 2. She is able to dive only slight depths, and is returning at increased speed.
b) U 339 (Kptlt. Georg-Wilhelm Basse) arrived at Kiel being seriously damaged on 26 March by six depth charges from a British Catalina from the Faeroe Islands (190 Sqn RAF, pilot J. Fish), and was forced to return to Drontheim, Norway, where it was classed unfit for service and reclassified as a training boat.
c) U 635 (Oblt. Heinz Eckelmann) and U 632 (KrvKpt. Hans Karpf) operated against Convoy No. 24 (HX.231) and reported this at 0910 on the 5th April in AK 1852 and at 1710 on the 6th April in AL 3851. Both boats still had contact with the convoy. Since there were no more reports after this, they were ordered several times to give their position but without result. They must, therefore, be considered lost. There is no information as to whether this was due to convoy escort units or to aircraft.

B-Dienst Report:
a) American aircraft ordered at 1150 to attack enemy U-boat in minefield off Fedala (U 117; XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 10 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Allies continue Operation Flax over the waters between Sicily and Tunisia, claiming many destroyed Axis transport aircraft and fighters, while 84 American B-24 bombers attack Sardinia, Italy, sinking one cruiser and damaging another. On the ground, British troops captured Sfax, Tunisia.

O.K.M-Report:
a) "Irene" was not encountered by the 4 U-boats proceeding to meet her. Reconnaissance flight for "Irene" and "Himalaya", sighted at 1250 one cruiser of "Adventure" class in square 3355, course 30°, high speed. "Irene" was attacked towards 1700 in BE 9884, lower left, by a cruiser and presumably sunk. The boats were ordered to proceed to the position and take on survivors or look for lifeboats. At 2032 U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) reported enemy unit in sight in BE 9762. She recognized this later as a cruiser or destroyer with unknown aircraft and lost contact in BE 9495 because of high enemy speed, course being N.W. No further reports have been received.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 704 (Kptlt. Horst Wilhelm Kessler) has arrived in Kiel and will be used as training boat.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After being diverted, Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Boston Navy Yard, U.S.A.
b) The first modified Lancaster bomber was moved to RAF Manston, England, to conduct dropping trials for attacks on German dams.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 10 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Allies continue Operation Flax over the waters between Sicily and Tunisia, claiming many destroyed Axis transport aircraft and fighters, while 84 American B-24 bombers attack Sardinia, Italy, sinking one cruiser and damaging another. On the ground, British troops captured Sfax, Tunisia.

O.K.M-Report:
a) "Irene" was not encountered by the 4 U-boats proceeding to meet her. Reconnaissance flight for "Irene" and "Himalaya", sighted at 1250 one cruiser of "Adventure" class in square 3355, course 30°, high speed. "Irene" was attacked towards 1700 in BE 9884, lower left, by a cruiser and presumably sunk. The boats were ordered to proceed to the position and take on survivors or look for lifeboats. At 2032 U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) reported enemy unit in sight in BE 9762. She recognized this later as a cruiser or destroyer with unknown aircraft and lost contact in BE 9495 because of high enemy speed, course being N.W. No further reports have been received.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 704 (Kptlt. Horst Wilhelm Kessler) has arrived in Kiel and will be used as training boat.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After being diverted, Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Boston Navy Yard, U.S.A.
b) The first modified Lancaster bomber was moved to RAF Manston, England, to conduct dropping trials for attacks on German dams.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 11 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer issued orders that the best armies, the best leaders and the best weapons were to be made available for employment in the "Encirclement of the enemy forces deployed in the Kursk area".
b) The Allies claim several German transport aircraft shot down flying between Sicily and Tunisia. On the ground, Allied troops captured Kairouan, Tunisia.
c) 73 Zero fighters and 27 D3A carrier dive bombers attacked Oro Bay near Dobodura, Australian Papua, sinking 1 US cargo ship, sinking 1 US destroyer, damaging 1 transport, and damaging 1 Australian minesweeper.

O.K.M-Report:
a) Of the boats sent in to pick up survivors from the "Irene" U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert) was forced to submerge for several hours by a search group in BE 9726, U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) suspected the sinking to have been in BE 9790. At 1800 on the 10th April she observed in that position or southward from it a large cloud of smoke but found nothing in spite of a lengthy search. Our own air reconnaissance reported at 1101 in BE 9739, 8 empty rescue floats. Our own boats were ordered to proceed over the above mentioned square and, if nothing were sighted up to then, to break off the search at midday on the 12th of April.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 84 (Kptlt. Horst Uphoff) will proceed to AJ 82 and en route there, in order to give a false impression of the presence of several boats, give out radio messages continuously.
b) U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) pursued the vessel reported yesterday further and sank it at night in AK 5417. The vessel was probably an auxiliary warship of 12,000 GRT. The Commanding Officer was wounded by splinters and had to return.
c) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) sighted the American vessel "Monasses", 5,983 GRT, course 45°, in ET 8881 and sank her by torpedo and artillery fire. In the course of the engagement 1 man was killed (MtrGfr. Wilhelm Williger) and 2 injured by 3.7 cm barrel premature. As it was necessary for them to be taken on by a homeward-bound vessel, rendezvous was arranged with U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe) at 1200 on the 12th April in FE 6155.
d) U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) has carried out minelaying as ordered.
e) U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) has passed the Straits of Gibraltar and has, therefore, reached the area under the command of the Senior Officer U-boats, Mediterranean.
f) U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) was bombed by an aircraft in BF 4569 and is returning.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 11 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer issued orders that the best armies, the best leaders and the best weapons were to be made available for employment in the "Encirclement of the enemy forces deployed in the Kursk area".
b) The Allies claim several German transport aircraft shot down flying between Sicily and Tunisia. On the ground, Allied troops captured Kairouan, Tunisia.
c) 73 Zero fighters and 27 D3A carrier dive bombers attacked Oro Bay near Dobodura, Australian Papua, sinking 1 US cargo ship, sinking 1 US destroyer, damaging 1 transport, and damaging 1 Australian minesweeper.

O.K.M-Report:
a) Of the boats sent in to pick up survivors from the "Irene" U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert) was forced to submerge for several hours by a search group in BE 9726, U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) suspected the sinking to have been in BE 9790. At 1800 on the 10th April she observed in that position or southward from it a large cloud of smoke but found nothing in spite of a lengthy search. Our own air reconnaissance reported at 1101 in BE 9739, 8 empty rescue floats. Our own boats were ordered to proceed over the above mentioned square and, if nothing were sighted up to then, to break off the search at midday on the 12th of April.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 84 (Kptlt. Horst Uphoff) will proceed to AJ 82 and en route there, in order to give a false impression of the presence of several boats, give out radio messages continuously.
b) U 615 (Kptlt. Ralph Kapitzky) pursued the vessel reported yesterday further and sank it at night in AK 5417. The vessel was probably an auxiliary warship of 12,000 GRT. The Commanding Officer was wounded by splinters and had to return.
c) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) sighted the American vessel "Monasses", 5,983 GRT, course 45°, in ET 8881 and sank her by torpedo and artillery fire. In the course of the engagement 1 man was killed (MtrGfr. Wilhelm Williger) and 2 injured by 3.7 cm barrel premature. As it was necessary for them to be taken on by a homeward-bound vessel, rendezvous was arranged with U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe) at 1200 on the 12th April in FE 6155.
d) U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) has carried out minelaying as ordered.
e) U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) has passed the Straits of Gibraltar and has, therefore, reached the area under the command of the Senior Officer U-boats, Mediterranean.
f) U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) was bombed by an aircraft in BF 4569 and is returning.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 12 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer named Martin Bormann his secretary.
b) Our troops announced the discovery of over 4,000 bodies of Polish officers, reportedly deported by the Soviets in 1940, in a mass grave at Katyn, near Smolensk.
c) British RAF Desert Air Force assumed leadership roles in Operation Flax in North Africa. On the ground, troops of British 8th Army captured Sousse, Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) gave wounded men over to U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe).
b) U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine) passed the Straits of Gibraltar and, therefore, has entered the area under the command of Senior Officer U-boats, Mediterranean.
c) According to a report from the British Station Daventry regarding the destruction of (U 444 Oblt. Albert Langfeld) and U 432 (Kptlt. Hermann Eckhardt) the following information has been obtained: U 444 was attacked near Convoy No. 16 (HX-228) by British destroyer "Harvester" with depth charges and later, when she had to surface, rammed. The destroyer was also damaged in this engagement. The French corvette "Aconit" hurried to her assistance, firing with guns on the boat, which was surfaced, and sinking her after further ramming.
The damaged destroyer "Harvester" the next morning was completely out of action and had to stop. She was sunk shortly after by U 432 with 2 torpedoes. The "Aconit" which had hurried to the scene sighted the U-boat on the surface and sank her by gunfire and ramming, after she had submerged for a short time and been attacked by depth charges. 29 men in all were rescued from the two boats.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to Italian decypher, SC 126, expected by Group "Meise", was in position BB 8851 at 2100 on the 9th April, course about 90°, speed 7.5 knots.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 12 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer named Martin Bormann his secretary.
b) Our troops announced the discovery of over 4,000 bodies of Polish officers, reportedly deported by the Soviets in 1940, in a mass grave at Katyn, near Smolensk.
c) British RAF Desert Air Force assumed leadership roles in Operation Flax in North Africa. On the ground, troops of British 8th Army captured Sousse, Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) gave wounded men over to U 516 (KrvKpt. Gerhard Wiebe).
b) U 303 (Kptlt. Karl-Franz Heine) passed the Straits of Gibraltar and, therefore, has entered the area under the command of Senior Officer U-boats, Mediterranean.
c) According to a report from the British Station Daventry regarding the destruction of (U 444 Oblt. Albert Langfeld) and U 432 (Kptlt. Hermann Eckhardt) the following information has been obtained: U 444 was attacked near Convoy No. 16 (HX-228) by British destroyer "Harvester" with depth charges and later, when she had to surface, rammed. The destroyer was also damaged in this engagement. The French corvette "Aconit" hurried to her assistance, firing with guns on the boat, which was surfaced, and sinking her after further ramming.
The damaged destroyer "Harvester" the next morning was completely out of action and had to stop. She was sunk shortly after by U 432 with 2 torpedoes. The "Aconit" which had hurried to the scene sighted the U-boat on the surface and sank her by gunfire and ramming, after she had submerged for a short time and been attacked by depth charges. 29 men in all were rescued from the two boats.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to Italian decypher, SC 126, expected by Group "Meise", was in position BB 8851 at 2100 on the 9th April, course about 90°, speed 7.5 knots.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 13 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) US bombers attacked Italian airfields at Castelvetrano and Trapani, Sicily, claiming to have destroyed 11 Italian and 8 German aircraft and damaging 16 Italian and 40 German aircraft, at the cost of only 2 B-17 bombers.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) kept a rendezvous last night off Las Palmas with Woermann tug and took on the crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm).

B-Dienst Report:
a) The Italian report regarding position of SC 126, being at 2100 on the 9th April in BB 8851, has been confirmed by our own special intercept message.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 13 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) US bombers attacked Italian airfields at Castelvetrano and Trapani, Sicily, claiming to have destroyed 11 Italian and 8 German aircraft and damaging 16 Italian and 40 German aircraft, at the cost of only 2 B-17 bombers.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) kept a rendezvous last night off Las Palmas with Woermann tug and took on the crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm).

B-Dienst Report:
a) The Italian report regarding position of SC 126, being at 2100 on the 9th April in BB 8851, has been confirmed by our own special intercept message.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 14 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Stalin's son Yakov Dzhugashvili dies in one of our prisoner camps after his father refused to make a deal to secure his release. Apparantly, he committed suicide by running into the electric fence surrounding the camp, and supposedly, was also shot by a prison guard.
b) Our thrust southeast of Leningrad, is pushed back by the Soviet 14th Army.
c) The remnants of "Tobruch" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of the Italian Navy begin to arrive in Italy from Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) While entering Lorient escorted by a Sperrbrecher, U 526 (Kptlt. Hans Möglich) struck a mine and sank in a matter of seconds at a depth of 8 meters. The boat was proceeding at a distance apart of 300 meters, as ordered. By contrast with earlier cases observed (particularly high water columns with mine detonations) a surprisingly low black explosive column only was seen up to about the level of the conning tower.
It seems possible that this is a new type of mine which is directed only against U-boat escorts and was possibly laid by some vessel from Lorient, and therefore, that this may involve sabotage. The point in question - the fairway channel at "Trois Pierres" - is passed daily by numerous vessels outward and inward bound. No laying of mines by aircraft has been observed in the last year, and is considered a very difficult task in view of the heavy flak defence.
Investigations will be carried out by the Flotilla and the Officer Commanding Western Defences.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 14 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Stalin's son Yakov Dzhugashvili dies in one of our prisoner camps after his father refused to make a deal to secure his release. Apparantly, he committed suicide by running into the electric fence surrounding the camp, and supposedly, was also shot by a prison guard.
b) Our thrust southeast of Leningrad, is pushed back by the Soviet 14th Army.
c) The remnants of "Tobruch" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of the Italian Navy begin to arrive in Italy from Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) While entering Lorient escorted by a Sperrbrecher, U 526 (Kptlt. Hans Möglich) struck a mine and sank in a matter of seconds at a depth of 8 meters. The boat was proceeding at a distance apart of 300 meters, as ordered. By contrast with earlier cases observed (particularly high water columns with mine detonations) a surprisingly low black explosive column only was seen up to about the level of the conning tower.
It seems possible that this is a new type of mine which is directed only against U-boat escorts and was possibly laid by some vessel from Lorient, and therefore, that this may involve sabotage. The point in question - the fairway channel at "Trois Pierres" - is passed daily by numerous vessels outward and inward bound. No laying of mines by aircraft has been observed in the last year, and is considered a very difficult task in view of the heavy flak defence.
Investigations will be carried out by the Flotilla and the Officer Commanding Western Defences.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 15 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M-Report:
a) RAF bombers conducted a raid on La Spezia, Italy.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 2211, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 2150/15/102, to occupy AL 13 as temporary attack area.
b) In view of the loss of U 526 (Kptlt. Hans Möglich) the following instructions are given, effective at once, for incoming and outgoing boats when sailing in convoy - as far as weather conditions permit:
1) All members of the crew are to wear life-jackets.
2) Boats will proceed with bulkheads ready to close, and ready to submerge with the exception of Kingston valves, watertight forecastle and watertight stern.
3) The whole of the free watch must remain on the conning tower and also all on watch, who are not definitely required below deck.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Major General Hastings Ismay reported to Winston Churchill on our experiments with rockets.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 15 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M-Report:
a) RAF bombers conducted a raid on La Spezia, Italy.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 2211, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 2150/15/102, to occupy AL 13 as temporary attack area.
b) In view of the loss of U 526 (Kptlt. Hans Möglich) the following instructions are given, effective at once, for incoming and outgoing boats when sailing in convoy - as far as weather conditions permit:
1) All members of the crew are to wear life-jackets.
2) Boats will proceed with bulkheads ready to close, and ready to submerge with the exception of Kingston valves, watertight forecastle and watertight stern.
3) The whole of the free watch must remain on the conning tower and also all on watch, who are not definitely required below deck.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Major General Hastings Ismay reported to Winston Churchill on our experiments with rockets.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 16 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The first night fighter attack on London, carried out by thirty Focke-Wulf 190 aircraft, resulted in two bombs hitting the city, and four German pilots getting lost, thought that they were over France and landed at West Malling RAF fighter base in Kent where three were taken prisoner and one was killed crash-landing.
b) 13 British Spitfire fighters intercepted a large Axis air convoy off Tunisia, claiming to have shot down 7 SM.82 and 1 Bf 109 aircraft at the cost of only 2 Spitfire fighters.

O.K.M-Report:
a) Italians raised the wreck of the French Cruiser Foch at Toulon, France, for repair.
b) Convoy warfare in March has led to a considerable using up of U-boats. A large number of boats have returned owing to fuel and torpedo exhaustion and damage. The resulting gaps must be filled as quickly as possible, if the monthly sinking figures are to be increased. On 6.4, therefore, all boats of type IX about to put out were ordered to proceed to the North Atlantic in order to make up the number of U-boats needed there to intercept convoys.
The fact that sinking results (as far as can be seen) in the southern operational area have decreased (owing to absence of traffic caused by withdrawal of ships for operations in North Africa, and the frequent changes in isolated vessel and convoy traffic.) makes this order timely. Whether future events will justify it remains to be seen.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 0141, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) gives short weather report acc. F.T.2209/15/104.
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) reports on "Bachstelze" (observation device).
On the southbound passage from 33°N there were two take offs daily. Successful operation up to seaway 4 and medium swell. Critical point when landing, pitching of boat is no great hindrance as the landing platform is midships and static. It is advisable to wind in the last meter of wire by hand.
The Commander considers more discrimination in the choice of personnel and better training in engine maintenance necessary.
c) A meeting has taken place between U 154 (Oblt. Oskar-Heinz Kusch), U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) and U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann). The crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) has been evenly distributed among the boats.
d) Since U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) put out of La Pallice on 6.4., it has not reported. The boat was detailed to search for the crew of "Irene". Apart from aircraft sightings of U-boats, there is no information of any kind whatsoever from the Biscay area or W. of it. Several requests for a situation report remained unanswered. The boat must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to special Radio Intelligence reports, the SC 126 convoy was in BC 8485 at 2100 on 12.4., and is to have carried out a change of course.
b) The first release of a non-explosive "Upkeep" bouncing bomb took place at Reculver, off the North Kent coast in Britain, but the device broke up on hitting the water.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 16 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The first night fighter attack on London, carried out by thirty Focke-Wulf 190 aircraft, resulted in two bombs hitting the city, and four German pilots getting lost, thought that they were over France and landed at West Malling RAF fighter base in Kent where three were taken prisoner and one was killed crash-landing.
b) 13 British Spitfire fighters intercepted a large Axis air convoy off Tunisia, claiming to have shot down 7 SM.82 and 1 Bf 109 aircraft at the cost of only 2 Spitfire fighters.

O.K.M-Report:
a) Italians raised the wreck of the French Cruiser Foch at Toulon, France, for repair.
b) Convoy warfare in March has led to a considerable using up of U-boats. A large number of boats have returned owing to fuel and torpedo exhaustion and damage. The resulting gaps must be filled as quickly as possible, if the monthly sinking figures are to be increased. On 6.4, therefore, all boats of type IX about to put out were ordered to proceed to the North Atlantic in order to make up the number of U-boats needed there to intercept convoys.
The fact that sinking results (as far as can be seen) in the southern operational area have decreased (owing to absence of traffic caused by withdrawal of ships for operations in North Africa, and the frequent changes in isolated vessel and convoy traffic.) makes this order timely. Whether future events will justify it remains to be seen.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 0141, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) gives short weather report acc. F.T.2209/15/104.
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) reports on "Bachstelze" (observation device).
On the southbound passage from 33°N there were two take offs daily. Successful operation up to seaway 4 and medium swell. Critical point when landing, pitching of boat is no great hindrance as the landing platform is midships and static. It is advisable to wind in the last meter of wire by hand.
The Commander considers more discrimination in the choice of personnel and better training in engine maintenance necessary.
c) A meeting has taken place between U 154 (Oblt. Oskar-Heinz Kusch), U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte) and U 518 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Wilhelm Wissmann). The crew of U 167 (KrvKpt. Kurt Sturm) has been evenly distributed among the boats.
d) Since U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) put out of La Pallice on 6.4., it has not reported. The boat was detailed to search for the crew of "Irene". Apart from aircraft sightings of U-boats, there is no information of any kind whatsoever from the Biscay area or W. of it. Several requests for a situation report remained unanswered. The boat must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to special Radio Intelligence reports, the SC 126 convoy was in BC 8485 at 2100 on 12.4., and is to have carried out a change of course.
b) The first release of a non-explosive "Upkeep" bouncing bomb took place at Reculver, off the North Kent coast in Britain, but the device broke up on hitting the water.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 17 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In response to our discovery of a mass grave at Katyn, the Soviet Union insist that the massacre was committed by us. The Polish government-in-exile in London, requested the International Red Cross to investigate the matter.
b) US bombers attacked Palermo, Sicily. Our Luftwaffe shot down 5 bombers and 1 fighter.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 2400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in ordered attack area (Qu.AL 1343) at most economic crusing speed (135° - 315°).
b) It can no longer be considered possible to intercept SC 126 with Group "Meise". It is possible that the convoy sailed through the center of the line in the bad visibility of the last few days. As visibility has improved since yesterday and these conditions are likely to continue for some time, Group "Meise" is to remain in this area, but further to the N. The reason for this is the assumption that the HX and SC convoys expected in the next few days will again use the northern route.
c) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) and the Japanese U-boat I-29 are ordered to meet at 0600 on 23.4 in JA 2432. After execution of special duties (transfer of two Indian Nationalist agents; to be put ashore by I-29 at Sumatra), U 180 is to operate in the lower third of KP and KQ and the upper third of KZ and JA, with central point off Durban. E.W. traffic is presumed in the vicinity of this port.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) departed Boston bound for Argentia, Newfoundland, while in a routine change of command, Captain Arnold Jay "Buster" Isbell relieved Captain James Sykes as commanding officer of Escort Carrier USS Card (CVE-11), while the ship was at anchor in Hampton Roads, Virginia.
b) The demanding training of dropping the new "Upkeep" bombs at low altitudes had proven too much for some British pilots, bringing 617 Squadron's stenghth down to 21 crews.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 17 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In response to our discovery of a mass grave at Katyn, the Soviet Union insist that the massacre was committed by us. The Polish government-in-exile in London, requested the International Red Cross to investigate the matter.
b) US bombers attacked Palermo, Sicily. Our Luftwaffe shot down 5 bombers and 1 fighter.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 2400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in ordered attack area (Qu.AL 1343) at most economic crusing speed (135° - 315°).
b) It can no longer be considered possible to intercept SC 126 with Group "Meise". It is possible that the convoy sailed through the center of the line in the bad visibility of the last few days. As visibility has improved since yesterday and these conditions are likely to continue for some time, Group "Meise" is to remain in this area, but further to the N. The reason for this is the assumption that the HX and SC convoys expected in the next few days will again use the northern route.
c) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) and the Japanese U-boat I-29 are ordered to meet at 0600 on 23.4 in JA 2432. After execution of special duties (transfer of two Indian Nationalist agents; to be put ashore by I-29 at Sumatra), U 180 is to operate in the lower third of KP and KQ and the upper third of KZ and JA, with central point off Durban. E.W. traffic is presumed in the vicinity of this port.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) departed Boston bound for Argentia, Newfoundland, while in a routine change of command, Captain Arnold Jay "Buster" Isbell relieved Captain James Sykes as commanding officer of Escort Carrier USS Card (CVE-11), while the ship was at anchor in Hampton Roads, Virginia.
b) The demanding training of dropping the new "Upkeep" bombs at low altitudes had proven too much for some British pilots, bringing 617 Squadron's stenghth down to 21 crews.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 18 April 1943 (Palm Sunday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Our 17.Armee attacked the Soviet bridgehead at Novorossiysk in southern Russia.
b) 47 P-40 and 12 Spitfire fighters intercepted a large Axis air convoy off Tunisia, claiming to have shot down 24 German transport aircraft, 10 German and some Italian fighters.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Outward bound U 732 (Oblt. Claus-Peter Carlsen) sighted 5 steamers in AE 78 at 1954. According to later reports the convoy was steering a course of 220°, speed 8 knots. The boats U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) and U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) in the vicinity according to reckoning were detailed to operate, at 2320 per F.T.2251/18/181.
U 732 attacked towards 0100 and sank an ammunition ship of 5,000 GRT in AE 7792. The boat was forced to submerge by aircraft and destroyers and was attacked with bombs and depth charges. In AE 7768 the enemy altered course to 150°. There was no contact by the boats engaged. Further reports have not been received. The ships probably belong to the Reykjavik section of the ON convoy at present at sea. However, the presence of an ammunition ship contradicts this supposition (so, either ONS.3 or HX.234). The operation continues.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 18 April 1943 (Palm Sunday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Our 17.Armee attacked the Soviet bridgehead at Novorossiysk in southern Russia.
b) 47 P-40 and 12 Spitfire fighters intercepted a large Axis air convoy off Tunisia, claiming to have shot down 24 German transport aircraft, 10 German and some Italian fighters.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Outward bound U 732 (Oblt. Claus-Peter Carlsen) sighted 5 steamers in AE 78 at 1954. According to later reports the convoy was steering a course of 220°, speed 8 knots. The boats U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) and U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) in the vicinity according to reckoning were detailed to operate, at 2320 per F.T.2251/18/181.
U 732 attacked towards 0100 and sank an ammunition ship of 5,000 GRT in AE 7792. The boat was forced to submerge by aircraft and destroyers and was attacked with bombs and depth charges. In AE 7768 the enemy altered course to 150°. There was no contact by the boats engaged. Further reports have not been received. The ships probably belong to the Reykjavik section of the ON convoy at present at sea. However, the presence of an ammunition ship contradicts this supposition (so, either ONS.3 or HX.234). The operation continues.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 19 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In Hamburg, Traute Lafrenz was sentenced to a one-year prison term for her involvement with the White Rose resistance group.
b) Waffen-SS used tanks and other heavy weapons to counter the uprising in the Jewish ghetto in Warsaw.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) The boats U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) and U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) detailed for operations on U 732's (Oblt. Claus-Peter Carlsen) report, have received orders at 1129 per F.T.1046/19/103 to continue operations if conditions make surprise enemy attacks appear unlikely and success probable. Up to 1900 all boats including U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) which also went after the convoy, had broken off operations owing to air activity and unfavorable weather conditions. The operation is therefore broken off.
At 2231 U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T.2148/19/122, to occupy AK 34 as temporary attack area.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) has put out on special duties (Minelaying off Lands End).
c) U 175 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Bruns) put out of Nazaire on 10.4 and was detailed to operate on Convoy No. 27 (HX.233) immediately on leaving the Biscay area. The boat reported for the last time at 1057 on 17.4 with a short contact signal. Position at this time was about BE 46. As repeated requests have not been answered its loss must be presumed. The convoy was heavily escorted by air and surface forces.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 19 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In Hamburg, Traute Lafrenz was sentenced to a one-year prison term for her involvement with the White Rose resistance group.
b) Waffen-SS used tanks and other heavy weapons to counter the uprising in the Jewish ghetto in Warsaw.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) The boats U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) and U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) detailed for operations on U 732's (Oblt. Claus-Peter Carlsen) report, have received orders at 1129 per F.T.1046/19/103 to continue operations if conditions make surprise enemy attacks appear unlikely and success probable. Up to 1900 all boats including U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) which also went after the convoy, had broken off operations owing to air activity and unfavorable weather conditions. The operation is therefore broken off.
At 2231 U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T.2148/19/122, to occupy AK 34 as temporary attack area.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) has put out on special duties (Minelaying off Lands End).
c) U 175 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Bruns) put out of Nazaire on 10.4 and was detailed to operate on Convoy No. 27 (HX.233) immediately on leaving the Biscay area. The boat reported for the last time at 1057 on 17.4 with a short contact signal. Position at this time was about BE 46. As repeated requests have not been answered its loss must be presumed. The convoy was heavily escorted by air and surface forces.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 20 April 1943 (The "GröFaZ's" Birthday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The British government announced a limited recruitment for women for the Home Guard.
b) British troops captured the Enfidaville Airfield in Tunisia.
c) Japanese troops under the Commander in Chief of the Combined Fleet, Admiral Mineichi Koga, attacked the British Maungdaw-Buthidaung line in Burma.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) has put out for special duties (Minelaying in North Channel).
b) U 197 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Bartels) is ordered to proceed to the Cape Town area.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 20 April 1943 (The "GröFaZ's" Birthday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The British government announced a limited recruitment for women for the Home Guard.
b) British troops captured the Enfidaville Airfield in Tunisia.
c) Japanese troops under the Commander in Chief of the Combined Fleet, Admiral Mineichi Koga, attacked the British Maungdaw-Buthidaung line in Burma.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) has put out for special duties (Minelaying in North Channel).
b) U 197 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Bartels) is ordered to proceed to the Cape Town area.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 21 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) New Zealand Maori troops capture Takrouna, Tunisia, while troops of the 48th Battalion of the British Royal Tank Regiment, capture Tiger I tank "131" near Medjez-el-Bab, Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28:
At 0600 on the morning of the 21st, U 306 (Northern section of Group "Meise") sighted a northeast-bound convoy in AJ 2771. The first message from the convoy was not received until 0930. The boats belonging to the Group "Meise" were detailed to operate on the convoy if they were not more favorably placed to attack the southwestward-bound convoy further to the E.
U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) continually reported contact with the convoy (at 1614 in AJ 2586, course 90°) up to 0200 in the morning, in AJ 2696. This boat sank a ship of the type "Sibajack" (12.000 GRT) at this time and lost contact. U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) reported a convoy hydrophone bearing at 0100. Other boats did not come up. 2 boats reported flying boats with the convoy. Visibility deteriorated during the night and fog and snow drifts came with a N.N.E. wind strength 8.
Up to now, 7 U-boats are operating on the convoy, U 306, 631, 108, 598, 134, 552 and 189. In addition, a group of 5 more boats in waiting positions further to the E, are detailed for this - U 378, 732, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), 209 and 934.
Operations on the convoy continue: At 1800, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 1713/21/172, to operate at increased cruising speed on the "Trotha"-Convoy (HX.234) and by dead-reckoning, can make contact with the convoy in the morning of 23 April. According to the plot and convoy reckoning this should be the expected HX convoy No. 234.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) receives freedom of movement in BE. The boat is to withdraw from this area in good time so that the special duty can be carried out when the moon is in a favorable quarter (Minelaying off Lands End).

B-Dienst Report:
a) An attempt was made to assassinate General Charles de Gaulle when the Wellington bomber flying him to Glasgow, Scotland, was sabotaged at RAF Hendon. The pilot detected the elevator controls had been cut just before take-off and aborted the flight. The incident is hushed up and blamed on our intelligence but de Gaulle will never fly by plane in Britain again.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 21 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) New Zealand Maori troops capture Takrouna, Tunisia, while troops of the 48th Battalion of the British Royal Tank Regiment, capture Tiger I tank "131" near Medjez-el-Bab, Tunisia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28:
At 0600 on the morning of the 21st, U 306 (Northern section of Group "Meise") sighted a northeast-bound convoy in AJ 2771. The first message from the convoy was not received until 0930. The boats belonging to the Group "Meise" were detailed to operate on the convoy if they were not more favorably placed to attack the southwestward-bound convoy further to the E.
U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) continually reported contact with the convoy (at 1614 in AJ 2586, course 90°) up to 0200 in the morning, in AJ 2696. This boat sank a ship of the type "Sibajack" (12.000 GRT) at this time and lost contact. U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) reported a convoy hydrophone bearing at 0100. Other boats did not come up. 2 boats reported flying boats with the convoy. Visibility deteriorated during the night and fog and snow drifts came with a N.N.E. wind strength 8.
Up to now, 7 U-boats are operating on the convoy, U 306, 631, 108, 598, 134, 552 and 189. In addition, a group of 5 more boats in waiting positions further to the E, are detailed for this - U 378, 732, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), 209 and 934.
Operations on the convoy continue: At 1800, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 1713/21/172, to operate at increased cruising speed on the "Trotha"-Convoy (HX.234) and by dead-reckoning, can make contact with the convoy in the morning of 23 April. According to the plot and convoy reckoning this should be the expected HX convoy No. 234.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) receives freedom of movement in BE. The boat is to withdraw from this area in good time so that the special duty can be carried out when the moon is in a favorable quarter (Minelaying off Lands End).

B-Dienst Report:
a) An attempt was made to assassinate General Charles de Gaulle when the Wellington bomber flying him to Glasgow, Scotland, was sabotaged at RAF Hendon. The pilot detected the elevator controls had been cut just before take-off and aborted the flight. The incident is hushed up and blamed on our intelligence but de Gaulle will never fly by plane in Britain again.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 22 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) South African and British fighters intercepted an Italian air convoy off Tunisia, and claimed to have shot down 12 transport aircraft and 7 escorts. On the ground, the final Allied assault began against the remaining Axis forces in North Africa with armoured thrusts from Sidi Nsir, Medjez, and Pont du Fahs. Only at Enfidaville was there a halt. Resistance remained fierce, however, and was professionally handled by the Axis troops, allowing Luftwaffe units to be evacuated from the shrinking perimeter.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
Weather conditions in the convoy area are reported as wind N.W. 5, visibility 10 seamiles on 22nd. Contact, which was broken off at 2000, was not reestablished during the day. Only 2 steamers on a course of 60, a destroyer and an aircraft were reported by U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel) in the evening. U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) resumed contact with the convoy, lost it again and then reported the convoy in AJ 3361 at 0800. This boat also reported aircraft with the convoy.
At 2350, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 2345/22/117, if no further contact, occupy until 1400, assigned position in patrol line AJ 2526 to 2959. U-Stahl is running a highest speed to assigend position.
U 134 (Oblt. Hans-Günther Brosin) began the return passage owing to heavy damage to engine, not caused by enemy activity. 18 boats are now operating on the convoy.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Mosquito reconnaissance aircraft photographed on of our rockets at Peenemünde, but intelligence analysts can not be certain of the object photographed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 22 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) South African and British fighters intercepted an Italian air convoy off Tunisia, and claimed to have shot down 12 transport aircraft and 7 escorts. On the ground, the final Allied assault began against the remaining Axis forces in North Africa with armoured thrusts from Sidi Nsir, Medjez, and Pont du Fahs. Only at Enfidaville was there a halt. Resistance remained fierce, however, and was professionally handled by the Axis troops, allowing Luftwaffe units to be evacuated from the shrinking perimeter.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
Weather conditions in the convoy area are reported as wind N.W. 5, visibility 10 seamiles on 22nd. Contact, which was broken off at 2000, was not reestablished during the day. Only 2 steamers on a course of 60, a destroyer and an aircraft were reported by U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel) in the evening. U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) resumed contact with the convoy, lost it again and then reported the convoy in AJ 3361 at 0800. This boat also reported aircraft with the convoy.
At 2350, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is ordered per F.T. 2345/22/117, if no further contact, occupy until 1400, assigned position in patrol line AJ 2526 to 2959. U-Stahl is running a highest speed to assigend position.
U 134 (Oblt. Hans-Günther Brosin) began the return passage owing to heavy damage to engine, not caused by enemy activity. 18 boats are now operating on the convoy.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Mosquito reconnaissance aircraft photographed on of our rockets at Peenemünde, but intelligence analysts can not be certain of the object photographed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 23 April 1943 (Good Friday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Our 17.Armee abandoned the attempt to dislodge the Soviet bridgehead at Novorossisk in southern Russia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
Weather conditions in the convoy area were reported as wind W.N.W. 5, visibility 15 sea miles at 1700 on 23rd. A boat reported wind N.W. 2, seaway 1 at 0200.
U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) reported the convoy on the 23rd at 0247 per F.T.0212/22/119 in AJ 3377, on northerly course and at 0807 per ßß-Signal in AJ 3361, course 60°, speed 8kn. Contact was reported throughout the day in such an exemplary fashion that 11 more boats were able to approach during the day and night owing to the good messages, e.g., beacon locator signal at 0909 which is heard by U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) in 350°true, being positoned south of the convoy. At 1210, U-Stahl sights smoke plumes of 3-5 steamers and 2 masts, apparently in keel-line in, in 18°true, AK 1513, the ßß-Signals sent by U-Stahl and again at 1350 are not heard by command. At 1633, U-Stahl sends ßß-Signal: Enemy position AK 1533, 105°, which is immediately acknowledged by command. At 1928, U-Stahl has to crash-dive from a 4-engine land based A/C and has to evade an escort, ejecting a Bold. At 2120, U-Stahl surfaces but has lost its forward position to the convoy. At 2230, the weather rapidly starts to deteriorate. At 2346 in AK 1379, U-Stahl is at "Battle Stations", as the Commander wants to attack using the approaching rain and hail squalls from the West as cover. On 24 April, 0010, U-Stahl dismisses from Battle Stations as the hail squall is over and the boat losses its cover by the clouds lifting again for a surface attack and the distance is too great for a submerged attack. As the convoy cannot be seen, U-Stahl dives at 0138 for a listening check and obtains a good contact in 330°true, and surfaces again at 0153. U 306 reported the convoy in AK 2443 at 0700 on the morning of the 24th. Various boats again lost contact. In spite of this 7 boats were in the convoy area in the night. Not until 1900 was the convoy escorted by aircraft. The Command found it difficult to form a clear picture of the surface defence as only a few boats reported depth charge attacks. 4 boats were attacked with depth charges, one sustained considerable damage. One boat was attacked by aerial bombs. The mass attack on the convoy did not have the desired results. U 306 sank a steamer of 7,000 GRT at 1500 in an underwater attack. U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) also scored a hit in a daylight attack on a large steamer at 1600. U 610 Kptlt. Walter Freiherr von Freyberg-Eisenberg-Allmendingen) scored a "FAT" hit at 0635 on the 24th.
15 boats are now operating on the convoy, as 3 boats are attacking the recently intercepted S.W.-bound convoy.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group departed Argentia, Newfoundland, bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy HX-235.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 23 April 1943 (Good Friday) - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Our 17.Armee abandoned the attempt to dislodge the Soviet bridgehead at Novorossisk in southern Russia.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
Weather conditions in the convoy area were reported as wind W.N.W. 5, visibility 15 sea miles at 1700 on 23rd. A boat reported wind N.W. 2, seaway 1 at 0200.
U 306 (Kptlt. Claus von Trotha) reported the convoy on the 23rd at 0247 per F.T.0212/22/119 in AJ 3377, on northerly course and at 0807 per ßß-Signal in AJ 3361, course 60°, speed 8kn. Contact was reported throughout the day in such an exemplary fashion that 11 more boats were able to approach during the day and night owing to the good messages, e.g., beacon locator signal at 0909 which is heard by U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) in 350°true, being positoned south of the convoy. At 1210, U-Stahl sights smoke plumes of 3-5 steamers and 2 masts, apparently in keel-line in, in 18°true, AK 1513, the ßß-Signals sent by U-Stahl and again at 1350 are not heard by command. At 1633, U-Stahl sends ßß-Signal: Enemy position AK 1533, 105°, which is immediately acknowledged by command. At 1928, U-Stahl has to crash-dive from a 4-engine land based A/C and has to evade an escort, ejecting a Bold. At 2120, U-Stahl surfaces but has lost its forward position to the convoy. At 2230, the weather rapidly starts to deteriorate. At 2346 in AK 1379, U-Stahl is at "Battle Stations", as the Commander wants to attack using the approaching rain and hail squalls from the West as cover. On 24 April, 0010, U-Stahl dismisses from Battle Stations as the hail squall is over and the boat losses its cover by the clouds lifting again for a surface attack and the distance is too great for a submerged attack. As the convoy cannot be seen, U-Stahl dives at 0138 for a listening check and obtains a good contact in 330°true, and surfaces again at 0153. U 306 reported the convoy in AK 2443 at 0700 on the morning of the 24th. Various boats again lost contact. In spite of this 7 boats were in the convoy area in the night. Not until 1900 was the convoy escorted by aircraft. The Command found it difficult to form a clear picture of the surface defence as only a few boats reported depth charge attacks. 4 boats were attacked with depth charges, one sustained considerable damage. One boat was attacked by aerial bombs. The mass attack on the convoy did not have the desired results. U 306 sank a steamer of 7,000 GRT at 1500 in an underwater attack. U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) also scored a hit in a daylight attack on a large steamer at 1600. U 610 Kptlt. Walter Freiherr von Freyberg-Eisenberg-Allmendingen) scored a "FAT" hit at 0635 on the 24th.
15 boats are now operating on the convoy, as 3 boats are attacking the recently intercepted S.W.-bound convoy.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group departed Argentia, Newfoundland, bound for mid-Atlantic rendezvous with eastbound Convoy HX-235.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 24 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Taking boat out of dry dock and putting on charging station.

During the shipyard time in Bordeaux, the pressure hull, torpedo tube no.6 and the flak guns were repaired. Several crew members had to disembark and were replaced, due to injuries sustained in the air attacks during the outbound transit.

Beginning of pre-war patrol preparation.

+++++++


Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In the Mediterranean Sea, British submarine HMS Sahib (P 212; Lieutenant J. H. Bromage) was scuttled and abandoned by her crew to avoid capture after being seriously damaged by the Italian torpedo boat Climene and Ju88 aircraft off Cape Milazzo. All her crew was saved except for one who was wounded and will die on 3 May 1943. Her loss will be officially announced by the Admiralty on 6 May 1943.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) reported: Met at 0620 on 23.4. Exchange has so far been impossible owing to weather conditions. Boat accompanying until improvement in weather. (U 180 and the Japanese U-boat I-29 were ordered to meet at 0600 on 23.4 in JA 2432. After execution of special duties - transfer of two Indian Nationalist agents, to be put ashore by I-29 at Sumatra - U 180 is to operate in the lower third of KP and KQ and the upper third of KZ and JA, with central point off Durban. E.W. traffic is presumed in the vicinity of this port).

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
At 0200, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is back o Battle Stations but is kept at bay by convoy escorts and is attacked with escort surface weapons at 0315 and has to crash-dive at 0328 and turns toward the convoy. At 130m, U-Stahl receives the first Wabos and dives deeper to 140-150m, and is now positioned right under the convoy; ASDIC pings continue until 0600 in Qu.AK 2336. At 0625 U-Stahl surfaces and has to crash-dive 5 times due to airplanes until 1912 (at 1000 U-Stahl briefly sights the convoy in 46°true and a VIIC type boat 2nm abeam to port). At 1953, U-Stahl surfaces in Qu. AK 3354, Wind and Sea have increased and the boat can not go faster than 2xH.F., as the sea is continually washing over the Conning Tower. At 2300, U 267 (Kptlt. Otto Tinschert) reports contact in AK 3493, and again at 2330. At 2342, the wolfpack receives F.T. 2325/24/131 from HQ: To Trotha-Convoy: If during the night no attack opportunity, operate in such a way that by daybreak boat is positioned in front of the convoy.
In spite of the fact that altogether 12 boats were operating on the convoy on the night of 24th, and that at dawn several boats were still in contact, this could not be maintained during the day. The reason for this was the appearance of strong air escort with the beginning of daylight.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In the Pacific, after repeated failures, Admiral Nimitz discontinues the use of magnetic pistols on torpedoes for his theater of operation. Submarines under General MacArthur's command, however, continue to use them.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 24 April 1943 - 12th U.-Flotilla Bordeaux (Korvkpt. Klaus Scholtz; ex U 108) -

Taking boat out of dry dock and putting on charging station.

During the shipyard time in Bordeaux, the pressure hull, torpedo tube no.6 and the flak guns were repaired. Several crew members had to disembark and were replaced, due to injuries sustained in the air attacks during the outbound transit.

Beginning of pre-war patrol preparation.

+++++++


Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) In the Mediterranean Sea, British submarine HMS Sahib (P 212; Lieutenant J. H. Bromage) was scuttled and abandoned by her crew to avoid capture after being seriously damaged by the Italian torpedo boat Climene and Ju88 aircraft off Cape Milazzo. All her crew was saved except for one who was wounded and will die on 3 May 1943. Her loss will be officially announced by the Admiralty on 6 May 1943.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) reported: Met at 0620 on 23.4. Exchange has so far been impossible owing to weather conditions. Boat accompanying until improvement in weather. (U 180 and the Japanese U-boat I-29 were ordered to meet at 0600 on 23.4 in JA 2432. After execution of special duties - transfer of two Indian Nationalist agents, to be put ashore by I-29 at Sumatra - U 180 is to operate in the lower third of KP and KQ and the upper third of KZ and JA, with central point off Durban. E.W. traffic is presumed in the vicinity of this port).

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
At 0200, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is back o Battle Stations but is kept at bay by convoy escorts and is attacked with escort surface weapons at 0315 and has to crash-dive at 0328 and turns toward the convoy. At 130m, U-Stahl receives the first Wabos and dives deeper to 140-150m, and is now positioned right under the convoy; ASDIC pings continue until 0600 in Qu.AK 2336. At 0625 U-Stahl surfaces and has to crash-dive 5 times due to airplanes until 1912 (at 1000 U-Stahl briefly sights the convoy in 46°true and a VIIC type boat 2nm abeam to port). At 1953, U-Stahl surfaces in Qu. AK 3354, Wind and Sea have increased and the boat can not go faster than 2xH.F., as the sea is continually washing over the Conning Tower. At 2300, U 267 (Kptlt. Otto Tinschert) reports contact in AK 3493, and again at 2330. At 2342, the wolfpack receives F.T. 2325/24/131 from HQ: To Trotha-Convoy: If during the night no attack opportunity, operate in such a way that by daybreak boat is positioned in front of the convoy.
In spite of the fact that altogether 12 boats were operating on the convoy on the night of 24th, and that at dawn several boats were still in contact, this could not be maintained during the day. The reason for this was the appearance of strong air escort with the beginning of daylight.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In the Pacific, after repeated failures, Admiral Nimitz discontinues the use of magnetic pistols on torpedoes for his theater of operation. Submarines under General MacArthur's command, however, continue to use them.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Sunday, 25 April 1943 - Bordeaux - (Easter Sunday)

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Taking on of Fuel Oil (510cbm at 865kg/m³) and Lubricating Oil.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing

O.K.M.-Report:
a) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) has put out for special duties (Mining Op. Halifax).
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) reported experiences with "Bachstelze".
c) Italian submarine Leonardo da Vinci hit British tanker Doryssa, en route from Cape Town, to Abadan, Iran, with a torpedo in the Indian Ocean at 1726 hours. At 1845 hours, a second torpedo hit her. Shortly after, Leonardo da Vinci closed in and sank the tanker with gunfire. 53 were killed, and the 11 survivors were picked up by British whaler HMSAS Southern Barrier five days later. Having expended all torpedoes, Leonardo da Vinci began her journey back to Bordeaux.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
At 0130, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) sends F.T.0128/25/138: Due to A/C positioned 60nm behind Trotha-Convoy. Due to weather max. speed 11kn. Question continue Op.
At 0200, another boat reports wind N.N.E. 9, seaway 8, visibility 500 meters.
At 0900, U-Stahl is diving for torpedo maintenance and at 1218, receives F.T.1050/25/151 from HQ: Break off Op., proceed to SW.
At 1554, U-Stahl receives F.T.1249/25/153 from HQ: Group "Meise" in new order Junker, Mäder ..., proceed at cruisng speed to position in patrol line from AK 2386 to 0347. Slow NE convoy will pass the area of the patrol line tomorrow.
At 1718, U-Stahl surfaces and is in AK 3451 at 2400h, wind and sea have subsided considerably.
The main reason for the failure of the operation can be attributed to the extremely changeable visibility experienced during the night, and very unfavorable weather, hail, fog, rain, snow squalls. The convoy exploited this very cleverly for his zig zags. The enemy sailed in line ahead with about 10 ships, and destroyers or escort vessels were disposed in the gaps (later it is determined, that convoy HX.234 consisted of 46 ships and 21 escorts).
The Commanders, for the most part inexperienced and fresh from home waters, were unable to cope with these conditions.
Air activity was so intense on the 24th, that all boats were beaten off and lost the convoy. As intensified air activity is anticipated in the vicinity of Iceland on the 25th, the operations were broken off on the morning of that day. Altogether 2 ships of 19,500 GRT were sunk and 2 ships torpedoed.
b) The loss of U 191 (Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn; Convoy No. 30/ON.178) and U 189 (KrvKpt. Hellmut Kurrer; Convoy No. 28/HX.234) must be presumed. The boats reported for the last time on 23.4 from AK 01 and AK 15 respectively.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Sunday, 25 April 1943 - Bordeaux - (Easter Sunday)

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Taking on of Fuel Oil (510cbm at 865kg/m³) and Lubricating Oil.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing

O.K.M.-Report:
a) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) has put out for special duties (Mining Op. Halifax).
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) reported experiences with "Bachstelze".
c) Italian submarine Leonardo da Vinci hit British tanker Doryssa, en route from Cape Town, to Abadan, Iran, with a torpedo in the Indian Ocean at 1726 hours. At 1845 hours, a second torpedo hit her. Shortly after, Leonardo da Vinci closed in and sank the tanker with gunfire. 53 were killed, and the 11 survivors were picked up by British whaler HMSAS Southern Barrier five days later. Having expended all torpedoes, Leonardo da Vinci began her journey back to Bordeaux.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
At 0130, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) sends F.T.0128/25/138: Due to A/C positioned 60nm behind Trotha-Convoy. Due to weather max. speed 11kn. Question continue Op.
At 0200, another boat reports wind N.N.E. 9, seaway 8, visibility 500 meters.
At 0900, U-Stahl is diving for torpedo maintenance and at 1218, receives F.T.1050/25/151 from HQ: Break off Op., proceed to SW.
At 1554, U-Stahl receives F.T.1249/25/153 from HQ: Group "Meise" in new order Junker, Mäder ..., proceed at cruisng speed to position in patrol line from AK 2386 to 0347. Slow NE convoy will pass the area of the patrol line tomorrow.
At 1718, U-Stahl surfaces and is in AK 3451 at 2400h, wind and sea have subsided considerably.
The main reason for the failure of the operation can be attributed to the extremely changeable visibility experienced during the night, and very unfavorable weather, hail, fog, rain, snow squalls. The convoy exploited this very cleverly for his zig zags. The enemy sailed in line ahead with about 10 ships, and destroyers or escort vessels were disposed in the gaps (later it is determined, that convoy HX.234 consisted of 46 ships and 21 escorts).
The Commanders, for the most part inexperienced and fresh from home waters, were unable to cope with these conditions.
Air activity was so intense on the 24th, that all boats were beaten off and lost the convoy. As intensified air activity is anticipated in the vicinity of Iceland on the 25th, the operations were broken off on the morning of that day. Altogether 2 ships of 19,500 GRT were sunk and 2 ships torpedoed.
b) The loss of U 191 (Kptlt. Helmut Fiehn; Convoy No. 30/ON.178) and U 189 (KrvKpt. Hellmut Kurrer; Convoy No. 28/HX.234) must be presumed. The boats reported for the last time on 23.4 from AK 01 and AK 15 respectively.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Monday, 26 April 1943 - Bordeaux -

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Trimming trials at Bordeaux roadstead and Test cruise at Gironde Estuary.

+++++++


Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) RAF bombers conducted a raid against Duisburg.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 566 (Kptlt. Hans Hornkohl) experienced a severe a/c depth charge attack at 2325 in BF 4599 (outbound from Brest). Unable to submerge, return passage. Close escort by 4 Ju 88's from daylight, also escort by F.O.I.C. Western Defences.
b) Final summary on Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
The slight success achieved, in an operation lasting four days and with a fairly large numbers of boats, may be explained as follows: The conditions of convoy warfare are becoming increasingly difficult, above all the case of convoys in the N., where the nights are especially short, and the enemy is able to provide protection with strong air forces from Greenland, and to an even greater extent from Iceland. Boats usually choose a night when a large number of boats are in contact with the convoy, and the not disproportionately strong defence makes success appear likely. The night of 23/24 in this case. Before this, only one boat was in contact and afterwards the air protection was too strong. This night was the only chance. It could not be exploited owing to the very unfavorable weather conditions in conjunction with the inexperience of the large number of new Commanders who were not equal to the situation.
On the next to last day the convoy air escort was particularly strong and all hopes of success had to be abandoned. Surface protection was of normal strength. 4 boats were attacked by depth charges by the convoy. One boat U 189 (KrvKpt. Hellmut Kurrer), was sunk by the convoy escorts after reporting contact for the last time on the afternoon of the 23rd.
c) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in ordered position of new patrol line.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Monday, 26 April 1943 - Bordeaux -

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Trimming trials at Bordeaux roadstead and Test cruise at Gironde Estuary.

+++++++


Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) RAF bombers conducted a raid against Duisburg.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 566 (Kptlt. Hans Hornkohl) experienced a severe a/c depth charge attack at 2325 in BF 4599 (outbound from Brest). Unable to submerge, return passage. Close escort by 4 Ju 88's from daylight, also escort by F.O.I.C. Western Defences.
b) Final summary on Convoy No. 28 (HX.234):
The slight success achieved, in an operation lasting four days and with a fairly large numbers of boats, may be explained as follows: The conditions of convoy warfare are becoming increasingly difficult, above all the case of convoys in the N., where the nights are especially short, and the enemy is able to provide protection with strong air forces from Greenland, and to an even greater extent from Iceland. Boats usually choose a night when a large number of boats are in contact with the convoy, and the not disproportionately strong defence makes success appear likely. The night of 23/24 in this case. Before this, only one boat was in contact and afterwards the air protection was too strong. This night was the only chance. It could not be exploited owing to the very unfavorable weather conditions in conjunction with the inexperience of the large number of new Commanders who were not equal to the situation.
On the next to last day the convoy air escort was particularly strong and all hopes of success had to be abandoned. Surface protection was of normal strength. 4 boats were attacked by depth charges by the convoy. One boat U 189 (KrvKpt. Hellmut Kurrer), was sunk by the convoy escorts after reporting contact for the last time on the afternoon of the 23rd.
c) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in ordered position of new patrol line.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Tuesday, 27 April 1943 - Bordeaux -

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Testing of Navigational and Radio Equipment.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M.-Report:
a) Torpedo boats Jaguar and Greif, and Destroyer Z4 Richard Beitzen, escorted light cruiser Nürnberg out of Harstad, Norway, toward Kiel.
b) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) has taken on the anticipated apparatus from the Japanese U-boat (I-29). It is operating as ordered in the area off Durban.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) For quite some time it has been possible to dispose a patrol line with boats from home waters and Western France, between Iceland and Greenland. The object of this is the interception of the next ONS convoy at present proceeding in the N. The following boats form the new Group "Star":
U 710 - 650 - 533 - 386 - 528 - 231 - 532 - 378 - 381 - 192 - 258 - 552 - 954 - U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) - 209 - 413. At 1119, they are ordered per F.T.1038/27/191, to take up position in patrol lines from AD 8731 via AK 3523 to AK 0329 at 0900 on 28.4. A slower S.W. bound convoy is expected here from 28.4.
U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), is proceeding with diesel/electric propulsion to the new position, and dives from 0930-0956 for trimming exercises. At 1214, U-Stahl has has to crash dive from A/C. At 1235 the Attack Periscope is steamed over, which is fixed by wiping down the mirror. U-Stahl surfaces at 1304 and is in Qu.AK3847 at 2400h.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to a special Radio Intelligence report the SC 127 convoy should have been in BC 5447 at 2100 on 20.4, from there to a point BC 5278 and then on a course of 35° degrees. According to a new decoded report, the convoy was actually in BC 4372 on the evening of 21.4. It therefore curved prematurely to the N., probably to avoid a suspected U-boat disposition. At this time Group "Meise" with 19 boats, was in patrol line from AJ 1690 to AJ 6980.
b) According to an American U-boat situation report the enemy suspected 15 boats in the area 50 - 55° N and 39 - 45° W on 25.4. Actually Group "Specht" had 16 boats in this area. In spite of the fact that on the previous days numerous wireless messages were sent and U-boats sighted, the very exact dividing line of this patrol line is significant, especially, as up to then Group "Specht" was on the move and took up the present disposition from the south, only shortly beforehand. This confirms, more than ever, the suspicion that the enemy has at his disposal a radar device, especially, effective for aircraft, which our boats are powerless to intercept.
c) Further, 5 boats were reported within 150 seamile circumference of 50° N, 34° W. Supplies have taken place here for a long time. Unfortunately, the boats have often inaugurated radio concerts here and this had led to the interception of the supply point. It is, however, significant that this was suspected in the area where there has been no wireless activity for several days.
d) Radar jamming devices began operations in eastern England.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Tuesday, 27 April 1943 - Bordeaux -

Pre-war patrol preparation:

- Testing of Navigational and Radio Equipment.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M.-Report:
a) Torpedo boats Jaguar and Greif, and Destroyer Z4 Richard Beitzen, escorted light cruiser Nürnberg out of Harstad, Norway, toward Kiel.
b) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) has taken on the anticipated apparatus from the Japanese U-boat (I-29). It is operating as ordered in the area off Durban.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) For quite some time it has been possible to dispose a patrol line with boats from home waters and Western France, between Iceland and Greenland. The object of this is the interception of the next ONS convoy at present proceeding in the N. The following boats form the new Group "Star":
U 710 - 650 - 533 - 386 - 528 - 231 - 532 - 378 - 381 - 192 - 258 - 552 - 954 - U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) - 209 - 413. At 1119, they are ordered per F.T.1038/27/191, to take up position in patrol lines from AD 8731 via AK 3523 to AK 0329 at 0900 on 28.4. A slower S.W. bound convoy is expected here from 28.4.
U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), is proceeding with diesel/electric propulsion to the new position, and dives from 0930-0956 for trimming exercises. At 1214, U-Stahl has has to crash dive from A/C. At 1235 the Attack Periscope is steamed over, which is fixed by wiping down the mirror. U-Stahl surfaces at 1304 and is in Qu.AK3847 at 2400h.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to a special Radio Intelligence report the SC 127 convoy should have been in BC 5447 at 2100 on 20.4, from there to a point BC 5278 and then on a course of 35° degrees. According to a new decoded report, the convoy was actually in BC 4372 on the evening of 21.4. It therefore curved prematurely to the N., probably to avoid a suspected U-boat disposition. At this time Group "Meise" with 19 boats, was in patrol line from AJ 1690 to AJ 6980.
b) According to an American U-boat situation report the enemy suspected 15 boats in the area 50 - 55° N and 39 - 45° W on 25.4. Actually Group "Specht" had 16 boats in this area. In spite of the fact that on the previous days numerous wireless messages were sent and U-boats sighted, the very exact dividing line of this patrol line is significant, especially, as up to then Group "Specht" was on the move and took up the present disposition from the south, only shortly beforehand. This confirms, more than ever, the suspicion that the enemy has at his disposal a radar device, especially, effective for aircraft, which our boats are powerless to intercept.
c) Further, 5 boats were reported within 150 seamile circumference of 50° N, 34° W. Supplies have taken place here for a long time. Unfortunately, the boats have often inaugurated radio concerts here and this had led to the interception of the supply point. It is, however, significant that this was suspected in the area where there has been no wireless activity for several days.
d) Radar jamming devices began operations in eastern England.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Wednesday, 28 April 1943 - Bordeaux


- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

Ari and Flak ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/30: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 2640 (x2=5280) x SpG; 1360 (x2=2720) x PpG (x2 = Total: 8000)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu wrote to Baron Hiroshi Oshima in Berlin, urging the ambassador to exert his influence with our leadership to encourage Germany to make a separate peace with the Soviet Union.
b) Otto Skorzeny is promoted to the rank of Hauptsturmführer and was given command of the commandos of the Oranienburg Special Training Unit.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 0400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in the ordered position Qu.AK 3851 in the patrol line, ESE1/1, good visibility, 1015mb. At 0904, U-Stahl dives for trimming exercise and surfaces at 0930. At 1053, U-Stahl receives F.T.1037/28/120: U-Witzendorff (U 650) has contact to convoy ONS.5 in AD 3738, 8-10kn, 270°, and operates with highest speed on convoy. From 1910-2120, one diesel has to be repaired due to a broken valve spring.
b) U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) was attacked by aircraft without previous radar location in BF 49 after a suspicious looking trawler group had passed. The boat presumes cooperation.
c) U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) was heavily bombed during the night in BF 7281 (outbound). The boat is temporarily out of control and submerging is restricted. Help is urgently needed. All boats in the vicinity are ordered to proceed at high speed to this area to render assistance. Destroyer and fighter protection is requested.
The night attacks repeatedly reported recently make it necessary for the boats in the Biscay area to be given permission to proceed on the surface during the day only to recharge batteries, and submerged at night.
Every effort is being made to produce apparatus able to intercept the radar equipment presumably used by the enemy.
d) U 710 (Oblt. Dietrich von Carlowitz) has not reported since it sailed from Kiel on 15.4. There have been numerous sighting and attack messages recently from the area of the Iceland Passage, so that its loss through aircraft must be presumed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Wednesday, 28 April 1943 - Bordeaux


- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

Ari and Flak ammunition:
- 10,5cm-SK-C/30: 150 x SpG; 80 x PbG; 20 x LkG
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 2550 x PbG
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 2640 (x2=5280) x SpG; 1360 (x2=2720) x PpG (x2 = Total: 8000)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu wrote to Baron Hiroshi Oshima in Berlin, urging the ambassador to exert his influence with our leadership to encourage Germany to make a separate peace with the Soviet Union.
b) Otto Skorzeny is promoted to the rank of Hauptsturmführer and was given command of the commandos of the Oranienburg Special Training Unit.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) At 0400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is standing up and down in the ordered position Qu.AK 3851 in the patrol line, ESE1/1, good visibility, 1015mb. At 0904, U-Stahl dives for trimming exercise and surfaces at 0930. At 1053, U-Stahl receives F.T.1037/28/120: U-Witzendorff (U 650) has contact to convoy ONS.5 in AD 3738, 8-10kn, 270°, and operates with highest speed on convoy. From 1910-2120, one diesel has to be repaired due to a broken valve spring.
b) U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) was attacked by aircraft without previous radar location in BF 49 after a suspicious looking trawler group had passed. The boat presumes cooperation.
c) U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) was heavily bombed during the night in BF 7281 (outbound). The boat is temporarily out of control and submerging is restricted. Help is urgently needed. All boats in the vicinity are ordered to proceed at high speed to this area to render assistance. Destroyer and fighter protection is requested.
The night attacks repeatedly reported recently make it necessary for the boats in the Biscay area to be given permission to proceed on the surface during the day only to recharge batteries, and submerged at night.
Every effort is being made to produce apparatus able to intercept the radar equipment presumably used by the enemy.
d) U 710 (Oblt. Dietrich von Carlowitz) has not reported since it sailed from Kiel on 15.4. There have been numerous sighting and attack messages recently from the area of the Iceland Passage, so that its loss through aircraft must be presumed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Thusday, 29 April 1943 - Bordeaux


- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr I-II-IV: T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Rohr III: AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)
- Fwd above floor plates: 2 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Fwd below floor plates: 1 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ) and 3 x AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer met with French Prime Minister Pierre Laval and Italian Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Giuseppe Bastianini, at the Berghof.
b) Our troops fell back to Lake Garaet Anchkel west of Bizerte, Tunisia; "Grado" Battalion of the "San Marco" Italian Naval Infantry Regiment, served as rearguard.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
At 0400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is in Qu.AK 2145. After diving 4 times for sound detection of the convoy, U-Stahl is maneuvering into submerged attack position at 0930; Wabos are being dropped but not close to the boat, light concussions. Upon surfacing, U-Stahl sends at 1019, ßß Enemy steers 220°. U-Stahl is on course 220° and highest speed, as to be in position for a submerged attack, as soon as the weather clears up, which is rapidly deteriorating, visibility up to 2000m, wind and sea increasing heavily, max speed possible is 10kn. There have been no further contact reports since 1100. U-Stahl dives 2 more times for sound detection in the afternoon and evening but has lost contact with the convoy, position at 2400, Qu.AK 1172.
The operation on the convoy continues, and the boats are to continue the search assuming the enemy's course to be from 205 - 250° and enemy speed to be 4 - 7 knots according to the weather.
b) U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) able to submerge only with difficulty after bombing attack in BF 7371. Speed 7 knots, course 80°. 2 waves of 4 Ju. 88's. Only aerial protection. U 437 reported at 1450. Speed 14 knots. Boats approaching to render assistance are ordered to proceed on their course, U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) on the return passage is to follow the damaged U 437 to render assistance if necessary.
c) The loss of U 174 (Oblt. Wolfgang Grandefeld) must be presumed, as this boat has not answered numerous requests to report. Last message from convoy area in BB 8689 on 27.4.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After much experimentation an "Upkeep" bomb drop was successfully carried out at Reculver in southeastern Britain. By this time several of the new Lancaster bombers modified for dam attacks have been delivered to the squadron's base, RAF Scampton, in Lincolnshire.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Thursday, 29 April 1943 - Bordeaux


- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr I-II-IV: T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Rohr III: AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)
- Fwd above floor plates: 2 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Fwd below floor plates: 1 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ) and 3 x AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer met with French Prime Minister Pierre Laval and Italian Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Giuseppe Bastianini, at the Berghof.
b) Our troops fell back to Lake Garaet Anchkel west of Bizerte, Tunisia; "Grado" Battalion of the "San Marco" Italian Naval Infantry Regiment, served as rearguard.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
At 0400, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) is in Qu.AK 2145. After diving 4 times for sound detection of the convoy, U-Stahl is maneuvering into submerged attack position at 0930; Wabos are being dropped but not close to the boat, light concussions. Upon surfacing, U-Stahl sends at 1019, ßß Enemy steers 220°. U-Stahl is on course 220° and highest speed, as to be in position for a submerged attack, as soon as the weather clears up, which is rapidly deteriorating, visibility up to 2000m, wind and sea increasing heavily, max speed possible is 10kn. There have been no further contact reports since 1100. U-Stahl dives 2 more times for sound detection in the afternoon and evening but has lost contact with the convoy, position at 2400, Qu.AK 1172.
The operation on the convoy continues, and the boats are to continue the search assuming the enemy's course to be from 205 - 250° and enemy speed to be 4 - 7 knots according to the weather.
b) U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) able to submerge only with difficulty after bombing attack in BF 7371. Speed 7 knots, course 80°. 2 waves of 4 Ju. 88's. Only aerial protection. U 437 reported at 1450. Speed 14 knots. Boats approaching to render assistance are ordered to proceed on their course, U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) on the return passage is to follow the damaged U 437 to render assistance if necessary.
c) The loss of U 174 (Oblt. Wolfgang Grandefeld) must be presumed, as this boat has not answered numerous requests to report. Last message from convoy area in BB 8689 on 27.4.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After much experimentation an "Upkeep" bomb drop was successfully carried out at Reculver in southeastern Britain. By this time several of the new Lancaster bombers modified for dam attacks have been delivered to the squadron's base, RAF Scampton, in Lincolnshire.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Friday, 30 April 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr I-II-IV: T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Rohr III: AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)
- Fwd above floor plates: 2 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Fwd below floor plates: 1 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ) and 3 x AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M.-Report:
a) Italian submarine Leonardo da Vinci transmitted her final signal in the Atlantic Ocean about 600 miles northwest of Cape Town.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
The weather conditions in the convoy area were also unfavorable on the 30th. Wind S.W. 7, visibility 4 seamiles high, steep waves running against the boats.
At 0447, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) receives F.T.2307/29/183: Stahl: At 0400 switch to circuit Hubertus. At 0908, U-Stahl dives for trimming excerises and surfaces at 0930.
U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) reported the convoy in AD 9853, speed 5 knots, course 220° at 1600 according to hydrophone and depth charges. It was able to maintain contact until 1700, but then lost it owing to bad visibility.
U-Stahl meets U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) at 2125. Comparison of navigational data reveals the same, U-Brodda will search in SE direction, U-Stahl in SW direction, position of U-Stahl at 2400 is Qu.AJ 3312.
There have been no further reports of the convoy.
U 386 (Oblt. Hans-Albrecht Kandler) and U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) began return passage owing to considerable damage to boats caused by aerial bombs and depth charges. The operation continues.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After receiving a special Radio Intelligence report according to which the expected convoy in BC 5489 is to alter course to "Unknown" (probably between 0 and 90°) patrol lines are to be transferred as follows: Group "Specht" from AJ 7679 via 8824 to BC 2666, Group "Amsel" from BC 4372 via 3875 to 9264. The entire disposition is therefore transferred to the S.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her escorts detached from Convoy HX-235 in the eastern Atlantic and set course toward Belfast.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Friday, 30 April 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr I-II-IV: T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Rohr III: AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)
- Fwd above floor plates: 2 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ)
- Fwd below floor plates: 1 x T-3, Pi-2/39H (MZ/AZ) and 3 x AtoFAT, Pi-1/G7H (AZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.M.-Report:
a) Italian submarine Leonardo da Vinci transmitted her final signal in the Atlantic Ocean about 600 miles northwest of Cape Town.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
The weather conditions in the convoy area were also unfavorable on the 30th. Wind S.W. 7, visibility 4 seamiles high, steep waves running against the boats.
At 0447, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) receives F.T.2307/29/183: Stahl: At 0400 switch to circuit Hubertus. At 0908, U-Stahl dives for trimming excerises and surfaces at 0930.
U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) reported the convoy in AD 9853, speed 5 knots, course 220° at 1600 according to hydrophone and depth charges. It was able to maintain contact until 1700, but then lost it owing to bad visibility.
U-Stahl meets U 209 (Kptlt. Heinrich Brodda) at 2125. Comparison of navigational data reveals the same, U-Brodda will search in SE direction, U-Stahl in SW direction, position of U-Stahl at 2400 is Qu.AJ 3312.
There have been no further reports of the convoy.
U 386 (Oblt. Hans-Albrecht Kandler) and U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) began return passage owing to considerable damage to boats caused by aerial bombs and depth charges. The operation continues.

B-Dienst Report:
a) After receiving a special Radio Intelligence report according to which the expected convoy in BC 5489 is to alter course to "Unknown" (probably between 0 and 90°) patrol lines are to be transferred as follows: Group "Specht" from AJ 7679 via 8824 to BC 2666, Group "Amsel" from BC 4372 via 3875 to 9264. The entire disposition is therefore transferred to the S.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her escorts detached from Convoy HX-235 in the eastern Atlantic and set course toward Belfast.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Saturday, 1 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr V: EtoFAT, Pi-2/39H(MZ/AZ) - only as circle runners against escorts.
- Rohr VI: T-4 ("Falke"), Pi-4(MZ) - only stern tube; only against merchants due to its slow speed of 20kn.
- Aft below floor plates: 2 x EtoFAT, Pi-2/39H(MZ/AZ) and 1 x T-4 ("Falke"), Pi-4(MZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The International Medical Commission completed its investigation on the Katyn Massacre, concluding that the Soviet Union was responsible for the atrocity.
b) US troops captured Hill 609 in Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Seaplane tender Richthofen is commissioned into service.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
The continuing bad weather also prevented contact being reestablished on 1st May.
At 0428 the I.W.O.(Ltnt.z.S. Gerhard Nolte) of U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) gives ALARM, as he believes to have seen an airplane shining a light on the water in the distance. The latter has been confirmed by U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) per F.T.1800/1/883. At 1200, position of U-Stahl is Qu.AJ 3247, snow flurries. There is still no sound contact of the convoy and the F.T. reception is very poor, sound volume 1. At 1712, U-Stahl sends a short weather report as ordered with F.T.1253/1/878. At 2143, U-Stahl receives F.T. 2011/1/885: If at dusk no contact, break off operation. Remain in the current position. "Stahl" send position and fuel. At 2400, position of U-Stahl is Qu.AJ 3428.
To sum up:
The operations against the convoy with 16 boats in all suffered from first to last from very hazy weather and strong S.W. wind, against which the boats had to struggle during their pursuit of the enemy. Lookout, finding and shadowing of the convoy were much hampered thereby. In all, only 5 boats contacted the convoy. After 29th April contact could not be reestablished.
The only success was scored by U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen), who probably sank 2 ships and torpedoed a third. Naval defences were not reported as very strong. No reports were received about them. There was some air activity on the first day, but only seaplanes. During the last night a boat reported continuous air patrol, probably based on Greenland. The same boat observed what was probably a new type of location gear. The Commander repeatedly noticed planes approaching at great height and carrying a light like a planet that went on and off. No location was heard at the time.
Two boats had to give up the chase because of enemy counter-measures. They were bombed and depth-charged and badly damaged. No boats were lost while attacking the convoy.
The whole operation was hampered by heavy atmospherics, so that Operational Control had no definite information on the course of the operation from midnight until noon the next day. It can therefore be said that this attack failed only because of the bad weather, not because of the enemy's defences.
As there was little prospect of picking the convoy up again while weather remained hazy, the boats were ordered to break off the operation at dusk on 1st May.
b) "Milkcow" U 487 (Oblt.d.R. Helmut Metz) has given her remaining fuel to "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler), has taken over Engineer Officer from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) and is continuing her homeward voyage.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Saturday, 1 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of Provisions, Ammunitions, Torpedoes:

- Rohr V: EtoFAT, Pi-2/39H(MZ/AZ) - only as circle runners against escorts.
- Rohr VI: T-4 ("Falke"), Pi-4(MZ) - only stern tube; only against merchants due to its slow speed of 20kn.
- Aft below floor plates: 2 x EtoFAT, Pi-2/39H(MZ/AZ) and 1 x T-4 ("Falke"), Pi-4(MZ)

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The International Medical Commission completed its investigation on the Katyn Massacre, concluding that the Soviet Union was responsible for the atrocity.
b) US troops captured Hill 609 in Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Seaplane tender Richthofen is commissioned into service.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 33 (ONS.5):
The continuing bad weather also prevented contact being reestablished on 1st May.
At 0428 the I.W.O.(Ltnt.z.S. Gerhard Nolte) of U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) gives ALARM, as he believes to have seen an airplane shining a light on the water in the distance. The latter has been confirmed by U 954 (Kptlt. Odo Loewe) per F.T.1800/1/883. At 1200, position of U-Stahl is Qu.AJ 3247, snow flurries. There is still no sound contact of the convoy and the F.T. reception is very poor, sound volume 1. At 1712, U-Stahl sends a short weather report as ordered with F.T.1253/1/878. At 2143, U-Stahl receives F.T. 2011/1/885: If at dusk no contact, break off operation. Remain in the current position. "Stahl" send position and fuel. At 2400, position of U-Stahl is Qu.AJ 3428.
To sum up:
The operations against the convoy with 16 boats in all suffered from first to last from very hazy weather and strong S.W. wind, against which the boats had to struggle during their pursuit of the enemy. Lookout, finding and shadowing of the convoy were much hampered thereby. In all, only 5 boats contacted the convoy. After 29th April contact could not be reestablished.
The only success was scored by U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen), who probably sank 2 ships and torpedoed a third. Naval defences were not reported as very strong. No reports were received about them. There was some air activity on the first day, but only seaplanes. During the last night a boat reported continuous air patrol, probably based on Greenland. The same boat observed what was probably a new type of location gear. The Commander repeatedly noticed planes approaching at great height and carrying a light like a planet that went on and off. No location was heard at the time.
Two boats had to give up the chase because of enemy counter-measures. They were bombed and depth-charged and badly damaged. No boats were lost while attacking the convoy.
The whole operation was hampered by heavy atmospherics, so that Operational Control had no definite information on the course of the operation from midnight until noon the next day. It can therefore be said that this attack failed only because of the bad weather, not because of the enemy's defences.
As there was little prospect of picking the convoy up again while weather remained hazy, the boats were ordered to break off the operation at dusk on 1st May.
b) "Milkcow" U 487 (Oblt.d.R. Helmut Metz) has given her remaining fuel to "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler), has taken over Engineer Officer from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) and is continuing her homeward voyage.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Sunday, 2 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Loading of Cargo for transport to Penang in upper deck containers.

- Final Repairs and Adjustments. Basin Trials.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese aircraft conducted a raid on Darwin, Australia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Order: In future do not report when Iceland-Faroes have been passed. Report by short signal when passing 61° North to the south.
b) U 183 (Kptlt. Heinrich Schäfer) has refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and is returning.
c) As the Italian submarine (Leonardo da Vinci) did not keep her rendezvous for refueling, U 117 has turned back.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 34:
At 0012, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) reports via ßß-Signal: "My position is AJ 3429, 41cbm.". Is not received by HQ, in general very poor signal volumes. At 0430, U-Stahl is passing a big Iceberg to Stbd. At 0600, U-Stahl repeats F.T. from 0012, is again not received by HQ. At 0815, in Qu.AJ 3497, U-Stahl crash-dives for training and remains submerged for torpedo maintenance until 1316.
During the morning of 2nd May weather was reported from the convoy area as wind south 5, visibility 6 miles. Towards evening the wind freshened to south 9, stormy, visibility up to 3 miles. One boat reported fog. The only news of the convoy came from U 628 (Kptlt. Heinrich Hasenschar), who reported at 0956 from AJ 8695 a wide band, probably a convoy, on a true bearing of 300°.
Only at 1720, U-Stahl receives F.T.1035/2/895: To Stahl: "Operate on Hasenschar-Convoy. Switch to Amerika-I circuit immediately.". This important F.T. was not received for the first time by U-Stahl until 1347, which is now operating on course 260° and 2xH.F. If the convoy steers North, U-Stahl should be positioned in front of the convoy at noon tomorrow. At 2000, U-Stahl position is Qu.AJ 3769, Wind South to West 7, Sea 7, visibility 2nm, 1003mb, the boat is shipping much water.
U 358 (Kptlt. Rolf Manke) reported that she had searched on a northerly course without success. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold), who had sighted a star shell during the night of 1/2 May, searched from 30 to 40°, also without success. According to the report from U 628, the convoy has probably steered a course of 20-25° and speed of 7.7 knots by dead reckoning. This information was radioed to the boats as a clue. Boats were also informed that enemy courses of 10-50° and 6.8 knots might be reckoned on for further hunting of the convoy.
U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) had to move away as her Diesel coupling and thrust bearing were faulty, 2 cylinder heads had cracked. The operation is being continued with 29 boats.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Banghor Bay, Belfast Harbor, where Bogue will have HF/DF radio detection gear installed (Huff-Duff).
b) The RAF Bomber Command reported to the British Air Ministry that it currently has 725 ready crews for operations; the number included 129 crews of Wellington bombers and 250 crews for Lancaster bombers.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Sunday, 2 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Loading of Cargo for transport to Penang in upper deck containers.

- Final Repairs and Adjustments. Basin Trials.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese aircraft conducted a raid on Darwin, Australia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Order: In future do not report when Iceland-Faroes have been passed. Report by short signal when passing 61° North to the south.
b) U 183 (Kptlt. Heinrich Schäfer) has refueled from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and is returning.
c) As the Italian submarine (Leonardo da Vinci) did not keep her rendezvous for refueling, U 117 has turned back.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) Convoy No. 34:
At 0012, U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl) reports via ßß-Signal: "My position is AJ 3429, 41cbm.". Is not received by HQ, in general very poor signal volumes. At 0430, U-Stahl is passing a big Iceberg to Stbd. At 0600, U-Stahl repeats F.T. from 0012, is again not received by HQ. At 0815, in Qu.AJ 3497, U-Stahl crash-dives for training and remains submerged for torpedo maintenance until 1316.
During the morning of 2nd May weather was reported from the convoy area as wind south 5, visibility 6 miles. Towards evening the wind freshened to south 9, stormy, visibility up to 3 miles. One boat reported fog. The only news of the convoy came from U 628 (Kptlt. Heinrich Hasenschar), who reported at 0956 from AJ 8695 a wide band, probably a convoy, on a true bearing of 300°.
Only at 1720, U-Stahl receives F.T.1035/2/895: To Stahl: "Operate on Hasenschar-Convoy. Switch to Amerika-I circuit immediately.". This important F.T. was not received for the first time by U-Stahl until 1347, which is now operating on course 260° and 2xH.F. If the convoy steers North, U-Stahl should be positioned in front of the convoy at noon tomorrow. At 2000, U-Stahl position is Qu.AJ 3769, Wind South to West 7, Sea 7, visibility 2nm, 1003mb, the boat is shipping much water.
U 358 (Kptlt. Rolf Manke) reported that she had searched on a northerly course without success. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold), who had sighted a star shell during the night of 1/2 May, searched from 30 to 40°, also without success. According to the report from U 628, the convoy has probably steered a course of 20-25° and speed of 7.7 knots by dead reckoning. This information was radioed to the boats as a clue. Boats were also informed that enemy courses of 10-50° and 6.8 knots might be reckoned on for further hunting of the convoy.
U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich) had to move away as her Diesel coupling and thrust bearing were faulty, 2 cylinder heads had cracked. The operation is being continued with 29 boats.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Banghor Bay, Belfast Harbor, where Bogue will have HF/DF radio detection gear installed (Huff-Duff).
b) The RAF Bomber Command reported to the British Air Ministry that it currently has 725 ready crews for operations; the number included 129 crews of Wellington bombers and 250 crews for Lancaster bombers.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Monday, 3 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of fresh food and water supply.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) 487 Squadron of the New Zealand Air Force attacked a power station in Amsterdam. All 10 bombers dispatched were lost to Luftwaffe fighters.
b) US troops captured Mateur, Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Light cruiser Nürnberg arrived at Kiel; Torpedo Boats Jaguar and Greif, and Z4 Richard Beitzen had escorted her to Kiel from Norway. Later that day, Jaguar, Greif, and Möwe escorted minelayers out of Kiel for the North Sea.
b) Royal Navy began bombarding Pantelleria Island near Sicily.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) After the following boats have passed the approach points ordered on 16.4., they are to occupy the attack areas shown:
U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) - KP 30, 50, 60 and KQ 10, 40. Focal point Lourenzo Marques.
According to reliable reports there is brisk outward and inward traffic.
U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) and U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) - KP 80, 90 and KZ 10 to 30. U 198 is to steer N.E. and U 196 S.W. of the line running from KP 8480 to KZ 3990. Focal point off Durban. Italian submarine sank several ships in this area.

+++++++

Pre-War Patrol Briefing:


a) Since 11.42: Deckgun also as Flak.
b) Since End1942: A/C with Rockets RP-3.
c) Since 8 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 307:
Inspection/Replacement of Pistol G7H after Wabo Attack.
d) Since 8 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 308:
Closing of Torpedo Tubes during Deep Dive.
e) Since 30 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510:
Test Run of Main Diesels at AK for 30min., every 4 days.
f) Since March 1943:
1) Forward Projectile "Hedgehog": Range/Distance 230-260m; Effective Range/Radius 30m; Sinking Speed 13m/s.
2) Mark24 Mine "Fido" (Homing) Torpedo: Depth 15-45m; Speed 12 kn for 10 min; Range 3700m.
g) Since 1 April 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.309:
Depth Setting of Pi-2/39H at MZ-Setting.
h) Since 14 Apr.1943:
1) New Allied Radar 271-Mark-III (9.7cm Range), can detect Uboats a distance of 12nm.
2) Submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar (also, Magic Eye).
3) A/C equipped with Leigh Lights for night attacks.
i) Since 1 May 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.306:
Op.-Order for use of FAT-Torpedoes.
j) As of 3 May 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.305:
Op.-Order on loading of Upper Deck Containers.
k) Report on enemy a/c A/S activity:
1) On 28 April, U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) was attacked by aircraft without previous radar location in BF 49 after a suspicious looking trawler group had passed. The boat presumes cooperation. Also, U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) was heavily bombed during the night in BF 7281 (outbound). The boat was temporarily out of control and submerging was restricted. Help was urgently needed and all boats in the vicinity were ordered to proceed at high speed to the area to render assistance. Destroyer and fighter protection was also requested.
Today, U 415 (Oblt. Kurt Neide) was bombed 3 times by a plane in BF 74 while homeward bound. Despite much damage she was still able to dive. Boat has requested escort from outer point "KERN".
During the period November 1942 to January 1943 enemy a/c A/S activity had little result, but since February its effect has increased to an alarming extent. It is not known whether this is due to improved location gear or to the use of more suitable types of a/c. The fact is that during the last two months there have been more U-boat sighting by English aircraft, and more U-boats have been attacked.
The night attacks repeatedly reported recently make it necessary for the boats in the Biscay area to be given permission to proceed on the surface during the day only to recharge batteries, and submerged at night.
Every effort is being made to produce apparatus able to intercept the radar equipment presumably used by the enemy.
2) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces gives the following information on English air operations in his Reg. No. Most Secret 853/43:
"Average sortie of enemy sea reconnaissance during the last 3 months was 35 - 40 planes daily from the following bases:
- Beaulieu (near Southampton) - unknown number of Halifaxes and Liberators
- Talbenny (near Milford Haven) - 23 Beaufighters
- Chivenor (Cornwall) - 36 Whitleys and Wellingtons
- St. Eval, Trevose Head - 73 Wellingtons
- Mount Batten - 14 Sunderlands
- Pembroke Dock - 12 Sunderlands
- Poole - 12 Sunderlands
Concentration by day W. of 10° W, by night in inner Biscay. Largest number of aircraft during the afternoon. When convoys were sailing N. and S. between Gibraltar and England reconnaissance was reinforced to about 50 aircraft daily. English reconnaissance aircraft keep radio silence S. of 49° N., so that it is not possible to discover in what areas they are concentrating.
Ther is no particular increase in activity observed during the last few weeks."
3) It should be noted here that when convoys are going through it is almost impossible for U-boats to operate on the surface owing to constant air activity.
Experience shows that aircraft A/S activity increases when there are a number of U-boats on return passage through Biscay after major convoy operations. Action by Ju 88's type C6, available to G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces, against A/S aircraft is possible only to a restricted extent.
4) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces states in his Reg. No. 853/43, para. 4):
"The Ju 88 C6 is inferior to the Beaufighter (a further 2 Ju88's lost on 22 on U-boat escort off the Spanish coast) and no longer superior to modern A/S aircraft Boeings and Fortress II. Reasons: too slow, unsuitable armament, water-cooled engines sensitive to gunfire".
5) It is clear from G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces' report that no improvement can be expected in the near future in countermeasures to the ever increasing enemy aircraft anti-submarine hunts, which are now making themselves felt immediately off our own bases. There will be further losses.

Cmdr.: When we arrived in Bordeuax 3 weeks ago, the escort path was patrolled by Bf110's.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[KaleunMarco]

an IJN cruiser exploding just after being struck by a Mk18.
Playing mod-set TMO 2.5 under RSRD.

https://i.ibb.co/k6fvNJk/SH4-Img-2023-04-30-14-55-46-894.png

[KaleunMarco]

IJN Escort Carrier (ASW) reeling after a hit by Mk18.
Notice the planes still resting on the non-existent deck (i love this stuff).
a few moments later, each of the planes just dissolved.

Playing TMO 2.5 under RSRD.

https://i.ibb.co/DRnZwcY/SH4-Img-2023-05-01-19-38-23-686.png

[KaleunMarco]

a fair size Merchie is exploding from its initial hit from a Mk18 during a night attack.
notice the pieces in the air.

playing TMO 2.5 under RSRD

https://i.ibb.co/TKg06x6/SH4-Img-2023-05-01-20-12-51-750.png

[Kapitän]

@KaleunMarco: Nice fireworks :-)

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)



Monday, 3 May 1943 - Bordeaux

- Taking on of fresh food and water supply.

+++++++

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) 487 Squadron of the New Zealand Air Force attacked a power station in Amsterdam. All 10 bombers dispatched were lost to Luftwaffe fighters.
b) US troops captured Mateur, Tunisia.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) Light cruiser Nürnberg arrived at Kiel; Torpedo Boats Jaguar and Greif, and Z4 Richard Beitzen had escorted her to Kiel from Norway. Later that day, Jaguar, Greif, and Möwe escorted minelayers out of Kiel for the North Sea.
b) Royal Navy began bombarding Pantelleria Island near Sicily.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) After the following boats have passed the approach points ordered on 16.4., they are to occupy the attack areas shown:
U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) - KP 30, 50, 60 and KQ 10, 40. Focal point Lourenzo Marques.
According to reliable reports there is brisk outward and inward traffic.
U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) and U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) - KP 80, 90 and KZ 10 to 30. U 198 is to steer N.E. and U 196 S.W. of the line running from KP 8480 to KZ 3990. Focal point off Durban. Italian submarine sank several ships in this area.

+++++++

Pre-War Patrol Briefing:


a) Since 11.42: Deckgun also as Flak.
b) Since End1942: A/C with Rockets RP-3.
c) Since 8 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 307:
Inspection/Replacement of Pistol G7H after Wabo Attack.
d) Since 8 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 308:
Closing of Torpedo Tubes during Deep Dive.
e) Since 30 Jan.1943: B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510:
Test Run of Main Diesels at AK for 30min., every 4 days.
f) Since March 1943:
1) Forward Projectile "Hedgehog": Range/Distance 230-260m; Effective Range/Radius 30m; Sinking Speed 13m/s.
2) Mark24 Mine "Fido" (Homing) Torpedo: Depth 15-45m; Speed 12 kn for 10 min; Range 3700m.
g) Since 1 April 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.309:
Depth Setting of Pi-2/39H at MZ-Setting.
h) Since 14 Apr.1943:
1) New Allied Radar 271-Mark-III (9.7cm Range), can detect Uboats a distance of 12nm.
2) Submerge for about 30 minutes on confirmation of a/c radar (also, Magic Eye).
3) A/C equipped with Leigh Lights for night attacks.
i) Since 1 May 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.306:
Op.-Order for use of FAT-Torpedoes.
j) As of 3 May 1943: B.d.U-Standing Order No.305:
Op.-Order on loading of Upper Deck Containers.
k) Report on enemy a/c A/S activity:
1) On 28 April, U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) was attacked by aircraft without previous radar location in BF 49 after a suspicious looking trawler group had passed. The boat presumes cooperation. Also, U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) was heavily bombed during the night in BF 7281 (outbound). The boat was temporarily out of control and submerging was restricted. Help was urgently needed and all boats in the vicinity were ordered to proceed at high speed to the area to render assistance. Destroyer and fighter protection was also requested.
Today, U 415 (Oblt. Kurt Neide) was bombed 3 times by a plane in BF 74 while homeward bound. Despite much damage she was still able to dive. Boat has requested escort from outer point "KERN".
During the period November 1942 to January 1943 enemy a/c A/S activity had little result, but since February its effect has increased to an alarming extent. It is not known whether this is due to improved location gear or to the use of more suitable types of a/c. The fact is that during the last two months there have been more U-boat sighting by English aircraft, and more U-boats have been attacked.
The night attacks repeatedly reported recently make it necessary for the boats in the Biscay area to be given permission to proceed on the surface during the day only to recharge batteries, and submerged at night.
Every effort is being made to produce apparatus able to intercept the radar equipment presumably used by the enemy.
2) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces gives the following information on English air operations in his Reg. No. Most Secret 853/43:
"Average sortie of enemy sea reconnaissance during the last 3 months was 35 - 40 planes daily from the following bases:
- Beaulieu (near Southampton) - unknown number of Halifaxes and Liberators
- Talbenny (near Milford Haven) - 23 Beaufighters
- Chivenor (Cornwall) - 36 Whitleys and Wellingtons
- St. Eval, Trevose Head - 73 Wellingtons
- Mount Batten - 14 Sunderlands
- Pembroke Dock - 12 Sunderlands
- Poole - 12 Sunderlands
Concentration by day W. of 10° W, by night in inner Biscay. Largest number of aircraft during the afternoon. When convoys were sailing N. and S. between Gibraltar and England reconnaissance was reinforced to about 50 aircraft daily. English reconnaissance aircraft keep radio silence S. of 49° N., so that it is not possible to discover in what areas they are concentrating.
Ther is no particular increase in activity observed during the last few weeks."
3) It should be noted here that when convoys are going through it is almost impossible for U-boats to operate on the surface owing to constant air activity.
Experience shows that aircraft A/S activity increases when there are a number of U-boats on return passage through Biscay after major convoy operations. Action by Ju 88's type C6, available to G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces, against A/S aircraft is possible only to a restricted extent.
4) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces states in his Reg. No. 853/43, para. 4):
"The Ju 88 C6 is inferior to the Beaufighter (a further 2 Ju88's lost on 22 on U-boat escort off the Spanish coast) and no longer superior to modern A/S aircraft Boeings and Fortress II. Reasons: too slow, unsuitable armament, water-cooled engines sensitive to gunfire".
5) It is clear from G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces' report that no improvement can be expected in the near future in countermeasures to the ever increasing enemy aircraft anti-submarine hunts, which are now making themselves felt immediately off our own bases. There will be further losses.

Cmdr.: When we arrived in Bordeuax 3 weeks ago, the escort path was patrolled by Bf110's.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 4 May 1943 - Bordeaux

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer postponed Operation Citadel, which ultimately will give the Soviets more time to prepare their defenses.
b) RAF bombers conducted a raid on Dortmund, late in the night and into the next day, killing almost 700.
c) The Luftwaffe evacuation from Tunisia is completed.


+++++++


Op.Briefing:
Operations Order No. 54 in effect for the patrol.
a) Transport of supplies to our U.-Base in Penang.
b) Transit via Pre-Defined control points:
1) Qu.CF 5610
2) Qu.EH 6230
3) Qu.FS 5580 - 1st Supply point
4) Qu.GR 9570
5) Qu.JB 5490 - 2nd Supply point
6) Qu.LF 5560 - U.-Base Penang
c) Sink min. 25,000ts of enemy shipping during transit.
d) As per B.d.U.-Order from 19 April: The operational area in southern waters is to be extended immediately. The new boundary now runs from GZ 7644 via JK 8254, KT 4745, KJ 4772, LM 2456, to the W. as far as the coast. Outside this area all attacks on unescorted isolated vessels are forbidden.


+++++++


1400 - Bordeaux - N3/2, clear, visibility 5.3nm, >1000mb.
Casting Off. Leaving for 2nd leg of First War Patrol.

1600 - Qu.9237BF - Entry point to mine-free path - Taking on of escort: 1 Escort Destroyer, 2 TBMT1924 and 1 Bf110. Course 290°.

1700 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force in the English Channel, Qu.3374BF, on course West, speed 27kn.

1742 - Qu.9226BF - FuMB-Detection. Boat stays surfaced. Nothing seen. Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt Gerät remains turned off.

1820 - Qu.9222BF - Boat is attacked by a single Hudson. The escort flak shoots down the plane, which crashes into the ocean about 50m to our stbd. beam. As nothing can be seen from the airplane, our group continues on.

1853 - Qu.9221BF - Our escort group is attacked by three Liberator bombers (from Beaulieu, near Southampton), approach from 340° true, firing RP-3 rockets and machine guns, and dropping bombs, which all fall wide. The escorts shoot down one plane and our Flak shoots down two airplanes. One escort destroyer is searching for survivors but none are found.
The boat sustains 2% hull damage (2% => 98% of 230m = 225.4m safe max. diving depth).
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 30 rounds PbG fired (remaining 2520 x PbG)
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 460 rounds SpG fired (remaining 2180 + 2640 = 4820 SpG; 1360x2=2720 PpG; Total: 7540)

1905 - On Course 250°.

1934 - Sundown. N3/2, clear, visibility 4.6nm, >1000mb.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[KaleunMarco]

@KaleunMarco: Nice fireworks :-)

:up:
i love it when i have the time to switch over to the external view and watch all of the piece-parts go flying.:D

two of my last three missions were historical and i had to deal with beau-coup escorts, pinging their little sonars off. very dangerous...you go first.:har:

[Kapitän]

:up:
i love it when i have the time to switch over to the external view and watch all of the piece-parts go flying.:D

two of my last three missions were historical and i had to deal with beau-coup escorts, pinging their little sonars off. very dangerous...you go first.:har:


Yes, escorts are picking up steam during mid 1943 ...

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 4 May 1943 - Bordeaux

Daily F.d.U. Briefing


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The Führer postponed Operation Citadel, which ultimately will give the Soviets more time to prepare their defenses.
b) RAF bombers conducted a raid on Dortmund, late in the night and into the next day, killing almost 700.
c) The Luftwaffe evacuation from Tunisia is completed.


+++++++


Op.Briefing:
Operations Order No. 54 in effect for the patrol.
a) Transport of supplies to our U.-Base in Penang.
b) Transit via Pre-Defined control points:
1) Qu.CF 5610
2) Qu.EH 6230
3) Qu.FS 5580 - 1st Supply point
4) Qu.GR 9570
5) Qu.JB 5490 - 2nd Supply point
6) Qu.LF 5560 - U.-Base Penang
c) Sink min. 25,000ts of enemy shipping during transit.
d) As per B.d.U.-Order from 19 April: The operational area in southern waters is to be extended immediately. The new boundary now runs from GZ 7644 via JK 8254, KT 4745, KJ 4772, LM 2456, to the W. as far as the coast. Outside this area all attacks on unescorted isolated vessels are forbidden.


+++++++


1400 - Bordeaux - N3/2, clear, visibility 5.3nm, >1000mb.
Casting Off. Leaving for 2nd leg of First War Patrol.

1600 - Qu.9237BF - Entry point to mine-free path - Taking on of escort: 1 Escort Destroyer, 2 TBMT1924 and 1 Bf110. Course 290°.

1700 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force in the English Channel, Qu.3374BF, on course West, speed 27kn.

1742 - Qu.9226BF - FuMB-Detection. Boat stays surfaced. Nothing seen. Short Range Radar FMG 41G (gU) FuMO 29 Seetakt Gerät remains turned off.

1820 - Qu.9222BF - Boat is attacked by a single Hudson. The escort flak shoots down the plane, which crashes into the ocean about 50m to our stbd. beam. As nothing can be seen from the airplane, our group continues on.

1853 - Qu.9221BF - Our escort group is attacked by three Liberator bombers (from Beaulieu, near Southampton), approach from 340° true, firing RP-3 rockets and machine guns, and dropping bombs, which all fall wide. The escorts shoot down one plane and our Flak shoots down two airplanes. One escort destroyer is searching for survivors but none are found.
The boat sustains 2% hull damage (2% => 98% of 230m = 225.4m safe max. diving depth).
- 3.7cm-SK-C/30: 30 rounds PbG fired (remaining 2520 x PbG)
- Twin-M.G.-2cm-C/30: 460 rounds SpG fired (remaining 2180 + 2640 = 4820 SpG; 1360x2=2720 PpG; Total: 7540)

1905 - On Course 250°.

1934 - Sundown. N3/2, clear, visibility 4.6nm, >1000mb.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 5 May 1943 - Bay of Biscay

0200 - Qu.9154BF - Reached Escort Point Gabel.

0205 - On 200m-Line, diving for Test dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & 308. 205rpm.

0248 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0250 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0258 - T=20.

0305 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 2.8nm.

0306 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%.
Releasing escort and running off at most economic speed on course 250°. Continuing transit independently.

Most economic speed: 225-235RPM/8kn => Range 42000km/22678nm

0430 - Early Morning Dawn.

0509 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force ESE of Scilly, Qu.2555BF, course NW, 25kn.

0538 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux.

1200 - Qu.8397BF - Days Run: 232.4nm (22h) - ↗ 229.6nm (21h) - ↘ 2.8nm (1h) - since Bordeaux
Total: 232.4 nm (22h) - ↗ 229.6nm (21h) - ↘ 2.8nm (1h)
505cbm (5cbm in 22h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux.

1201 - Incoming F.T.: From U 638:
Sinking after Wabo attack. - Staudinger -

1231 - Incoming F.T.: From U 531:
Sinking after Wabo attack. - Neckel -

1700 - Test Run of Main Diesels in increments acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510, until 1800.

1830 - Crash dive for training.
T=10 after 39sec. Boat levels out at A-Meter at 1832.

1835 - Set for Reception Depth. Small-Ahead.

1900 - Surfaced after 30min. and 1.6nm.

1903 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95%.

2000 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux (30h).

2220 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force South of Land's End, Qu.2592BF, course NW, 25kn.

Cmdr.: Hopefully, not endangering U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) out on special duties (Minelaying off Lands End).

2303 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: The British have broken through the lines of the 5th Panzer Army, south of Tunis.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 5 May 1943 - Bay of Biscay

0200 - Qu.9154BF - Reached Escort Point Gabel.

0205 - On 200m-Line, diving for Test dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & 308. 205rpm.

0248 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0250 - Setting for Reception Depth.

0258 - T=20.

0305 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 2.8nm.

0306 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%.
Releasing escort and running off at most economic speed on course 250°. Continuing transit independently.

Most economic speed: 225-235RPM/8kn => Range 42000km/22678nm

0430 - Early Morning Dawn.

0509 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force ESE of Scilly, Qu.2555BF, course NW, 25kn.

0538 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux.

1200 - Qu.8397BF - Days Run: 232.4nm (22h) - ↗ 229.6nm (21h) - ↘ 2.8nm (1h) - since Bordeaux
Total: 232.4 nm (22h) - ↗ 229.6nm (21h) - ↘ 2.8nm (1h)
505cbm (5cbm in 22h); Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux.

1201 - Incoming F.T.: From U 638:
Sinking after Wabo attack. - Staudinger -

1231 - Incoming F.T.: From U 531:
Sinking after Wabo attack. - Neckel -

1700 - Test Run of Main Diesels in increments acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510, until 1800.

1830 - Crash dive for training.
T=10 after 39sec. Boat levels out at A-Meter at 1832.

1835 - Set for Reception Depth. Small-Ahead.

1900 - Surfaced after 30min. and 1.6nm.

1903 - Boat ventilated; Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95%.

2000 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux (30h).

2220 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Enemy Task Force South of Land's End, Qu.2592BF, course NW, 25kn.

Cmdr.: Hopefully, not endangering U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) out on special duties (Minelaying off Lands End).

2303 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: The British have broken through the lines of the 5th Panzer Army, south of Tunis.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 6 May 1943 - Bay of Biscay

0430 - Early Morning Dawn.

0557 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux (40h).

1028 - Qu.8732BF - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting East: NE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.
Securing Flak guns.

1200 - Qu.8734BF - Days Run: 200.2nm - ↗ 198.6nm (23h 30') - ↘ 1.6nm (30')
Total: 432.6nm (46h) - ↗ 428.2nm (44h 30') - ↘ 4.4nm (1h 30')
502cbm (3cbm in 24h); East7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1202 - Incoming F.T.: From U 438:
Sinking after escort attack. - Heinsohn -

Cmdr.: On 3 May, at 1830, U.-Heinsohn compared navigational position data with U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), in Qu.AJ 61, and was operating on convoy ONS.5.

1349 - Course 270°.

1903 - 5.4nm north of Cape Les de Terra - Course 242°.
SSE4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2016 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1903.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 6 May 1943 - Bay of Biscay

0430 - Early Morning Dawn.

0557 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Bordeaux (40h).

1028 - Qu.8732BF - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting East: NE7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.
Securing Flak guns.

1200 - Qu.8734BF - Days Run: 200.2nm - ↗ 198.6nm (23h 30') - ↘ 1.6nm (30')
Total: 432.6nm (46h) - ↗ 428.2nm (44h 30') - ↘ 4.4nm (1h 30')
502cbm (3cbm in 24h); East7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1202 - Incoming F.T.: From U 438:
Sinking after escort attack. - Heinsohn -

Cmdr.: On 3 May, at 1830, U.-Heinsohn compared navigational position data with U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), in Qu.AJ 61, and was operating on convoy ONS.5.

1349 - Course 270°.

1903 - 5.4nm north of Cape Les de Terra - Course 242°.
SSE4/3, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2016 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1903.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 7 May 1943 - Northern coast of Spain

0145 - Qu.7983BF - Course 270°.

0417 - Qu.7981BF - Course 238°.

0445 - Early Morning Dawn.

0612 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.2238CG - West of Cape Finisterre -Days Run: 191.2nm - (↗ 24h)
Total: 623.8nm (70h) - ↗ 619.4nm (68h 30') - ↘ 4.4nm (1h 30') - 33nm
500cbm (2cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 17h.

1532 - Incoming F.T.: From U 663:
Sinking after airplane attack in Bay of Biscay. - Schmid -

1555 - Qu.2255CG - Course 231°.

1732 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 192:
Happe: Give status and position report.

1831 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 192:
Happe: Urgently give status and position report.

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 25h.

2303 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: Tunis has been captured by the British 1st Army.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 7 May 1943 - Northern coast of Spain

0145 - Qu.7983BF - Course 270°.

0417 - Qu.7981BF - Course 238°.

0445 - Early Morning Dawn.

0612 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.2238CG - West of Cape Finisterre -Days Run: 191.2nm - (↗ 24h)
Total: 623.8nm (70h) - ↗ 619.4nm (68h 30') - ↘ 4.4nm (1h 30') - 33nm
500cbm (2cbm in 24h); Weather and Sea unchanged in 17h.

1532 - Incoming F.T.: From U 663:
Sinking after airplane attack in Bay of Biscay. - Schmid -

1555 - Qu.2255CG - Course 231°.

1732 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 192:
Happe: Give status and position report.

1831 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 192:
Happe: Urgently give status and position report.

2027 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 25h.

2303 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: Tunis has been captured by the British 1st Army.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 8 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0010 - SE5/4, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

0400 - Qu.2455CG - Course 270°.

0510 - Early Morning Dawn.

0629 - Sunrise. ENE5/4, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

0705 - Qu.2445CG - Crash dive for training.
T=10 after 37sec. (2sec. improvement). Boat levels out at A-Meter at 0707.

0720 - At T=50, Commencing Torpedo Maintenance.

0754 - Tube III (AtoFAT) pulled and serviced. At 0800 Change of Watch.

1050 - Tubes IV, II and I (all T-3) serviced. Break.

1100 - Commencing servicing of stern tubes.

1151 - Tube V (EtoFAT) serviced.

1157 - CO₂ - Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.1666CG - Days Run: 166.0nm - ↗ 153.0nm (19h 05') - ↘ 13.0nm (4h 55')
Total: 789.8nm (3tg 22h) - ↗ 772.4nm (3tg 15h 35') - ↘ 17.4nm (6h 25')
499cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 270°; T=50; Battery 88%; Compressed Air 290Atü. - Lunch Break -

1300 - Commencing servicing of tube VI (T-4).

1351 - Tube VI serviced.

1407 - At Reception Depth.

1410 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 10' and 5.6nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 05' and 18.6nm).
Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1416 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1420 - Charging batteries (82%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn.

1545 - Batteries charged: 1h 25' for 18%.
Small-Ahead/225RPM/8kn.

2041 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

2304 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: British troops withdraw from Buthidaung, Burma; Allied naval forces have begun the Operation Retribution blockade, sealing off Tunisia from the sea; German television began broadcasting from studios in Paris.

Cmdr.: U 465, 439, 332 have not yet reported since they left Western France. Several challenges received no reply. Their loss must be assumed during the last few days in April when air patrolling was very strong. On 28.4. U 439 and 332 were detailed to assist U 437, who had been damaged. They did not reply to this order either, although they must have been in the vicinity.
Search planes sent out did not find U 663, although considering the prevailing sea force this was not extraordinary. No reports were received from the boats detailed to assist. So far, U 663 has not replied to control. She can use only her emergency transmitter and probably cannot get through during heavy weather (antenna awash).

Considering all this, we have been able to transit the Bay of Biscay relativly unscathed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 8 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0010 - SE5/4, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

0400 - Qu.2455CG - Course 270°.

0510 - Early Morning Dawn.

0629 - Sunrise. ENE5/4, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

0705 - Qu.2445CG - Crash dive for training.
T=10 after 37sec. (2sec. improvement). Boat levels out at A-Meter at 0707.

0720 - At T=50, Commencing Torpedo Maintenance.

0754 - Tube III (AtoFAT) pulled and serviced. At 0800 Change of Watch.

1050 - Tubes IV, II and I (all T-3) serviced. Break.

1100 - Commencing servicing of stern tubes.

1151 - Tube V (EtoFAT) serviced.

1157 - CO₂ - Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.1666CG - Days Run: 166.0nm - ↗ 153.0nm (19h 05') - ↘ 13.0nm (4h 55')
Total: 789.8nm (3tg 22h) - ↗ 772.4nm (3tg 15h 35') - ↘ 17.4nm (6h 25')
499cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 270°; T=50; Battery 88%; Compressed Air 290Atü. - Lunch Break -

1300 - Commencing servicing of tube VI (T-4).

1351 - Tube VI serviced.

1407 - At Reception Depth.

1410 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 10' and 5.6nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 05' and 18.6nm).
Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1416 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1420 - Charging batteries (82%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn.

1545 - Batteries charged: 1h 25' for 18%.
Small-Ahead/225RPM/8kn.

2041 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

2304 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
OKW-Report: British troops withdraw from Buthidaung, Burma; Allied naval forces have begun the Operation Retribution blockade, sealing off Tunisia from the sea; German television began broadcasting from studios in Paris.

Cmdr.: U 465, 439, 332 have not yet reported since they left Western France. Several challenges received no reply. Their loss must be assumed during the last few days in April when air patrolling was very strong. On 28.4. U 439 and 332 were detailed to assist U 437, who had been damaged. They did not reply to this order either, although they must have been in the vicinity.
Search planes sent out did not find U 663, although considering the prevailing sea force this was not extraordinary. No reports were received from the boats detailed to assist. So far, U 663 has not replied to control. She can use only her emergency transmitter and probably cannot get through during heavy weather (antenna awash).

Considering all this, we have been able to transit the Bay of Biscay relativly unscathed.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0338 - Qu.1555CG - Course 231°.

0525 - Early Morning Dawn.

0642 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0700 - Qu.1575CG - Alarm for training. T=10 after 36sec. (1sec. faster than before).

0705 - At A-Meter commencing Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & 308; 145rpm.

0741 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0742 - Setting for T=20; 98rpm.

0759 - Reception Depth.

0805 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.8nm.

0807 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 94%; 225RPM/8kn.

0917 - Qu.1577CG - "Surface Vessel!". S Class Destroyer bearing 310°, E=13000, very fast on course 325°.

0920 - Another surface vessel as a mere shadow bearing 0°, is identified as an Escort Carrier and two FuMB-Detection (No Magic Eye).

0922 - Aircraft sighted in 163°true, E=6000, direct approach. The S Class Destroyer is turning toward the boat at high speed. "ALARM!".

0923 - At T=20, 2 bombs, light concussions, no damages.

0930 - At A-Meter, Silent Running.

0935 - 26 Wabos dropped by two destroyers at the diving position astern until 1003.

1003 - One of the destroyers heads back to the Aircraft Carrier, while the other destroyer keeps loitering around our diving position.

1025 - The second destroyer leaves for the A/C Carrier at medium speed.

1035 - Secured from Silent Running; Setting for T=20.

1044 - Reception Depth.

1049 - S-Tiefe. In relative bearing 110°, a Tribal Class Destroyer, that still searching for us but in a different location, E=8000.

1122 - Surfaced after 2h and 5.5nm.

1123 - Boat ventilated; Battery 90%.
FuMB Detection in the area of our diving position, 9700m astern (no Magic Eye).

1126 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.1733CG - Days Run: 164.7nm - ↗ 149.8nm (18h 45') - ↘ 14.9nm (5h 15')
Total: 954.5nm (4tg 22h) - ↗ 922.2nm (4tg 10h 20') - ↘ 32.3nm (11h 40')
498cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 231°; Battery 90%; Weather and Sea unchanged in 29h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1215 - 225RPM/8kn.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0338 - Qu.1555CG - Course 231°.

0525 - Early Morning Dawn.

0642 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0700 - Qu.1575CG - Alarm for training. T=10 after 36sec. (1sec. faster than before).

0705 - At A-Meter commencing Trial Dive acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.507 & 308; 145rpm.

0741 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0742 - Setting for T=20; 98rpm.

0759 - Reception Depth.

0805 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 05min. and 3.8nm.

0807 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 94%; 225RPM/8kn.

0917 - Qu.1577CG - "Surface Vessel!". S Class Destroyer bearing 310°, E=13000, very fast on course 325°.

0920 - Another surface vessel as a mere shadow bearing 0°, is identified as an Escort Carrier and two FuMB-Detection (No Magic Eye).

0922 - Aircraft sighted in 163°true, E=6000, direct approach. The S Class Destroyer is turning toward the boat at high speed. "ALARM!".

0923 - At T=20, 2 bombs, light concussions, no damages.

0930 - At A-Meter, Silent Running.

0935 - 26 Wabos dropped by two destroyers at the diving position astern until 1003.

1003 - One of the destroyers heads back to the Aircraft Carrier, while the other destroyer keeps loitering around our diving position.

1025 - The second destroyer leaves for the A/C Carrier at medium speed.

1035 - Secured from Silent Running; Setting for T=20.

1044 - Reception Depth.

1049 - S-Tiefe. In relative bearing 110°, a Tribal Class Destroyer, that still searching for us but in a different location, E=8000.

1122 - Surfaced after 2h and 5.5nm.

1123 - Boat ventilated; Battery 90%.
FuMB Detection in the area of our diving position, 9700m astern (no Magic Eye).

1126 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1200 - Qu.1733CG - Days Run: 164.7nm - ↗ 149.8nm (18h 45') - ↘ 14.9nm (5h 15')
Total: 954.5nm (4tg 22h) - ↗ 922.2nm (4tg 10h 20') - ↘ 32.3nm (11h 40')
498cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 231°; Battery 90%; Weather and Sea unchanged in 29h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1215 - 225RPM/8kn.

- to be continued -



Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

- continued from 9 May 1943, 1215 -


1657 - Qu.1755CG top right - Diving for FuMB Detection (No Magic Eye) in 210°true, E=13000.

1700 - At T=30, one bomb at the diving position and again at 1701.

1703 - At A-Meter, no sound contact.

1723 - At A-20, Sound contact warship bearing 328°, E=14000, on course NW. Seems to be too far from the position of the last contact at noon, to be the same escort group.

1729 - Reception Depth.

1737 - S-Tiefe. U Class Destroyer bearing 330° on search pattern, E=7500. Anything further cannot be seen due to the high swell and the destroyer is too close to be able to surface.

1741 - Boat turning to course 321°.

1748 - The destroyer runs off at high sped on course West.

1757 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.1nm.
Escort Carrier sighted bearing 323°, on course 323°. Boat changing course to 304° and A.K.

1815 - Qu.1752CG bottom left - Boat is attacked by carrier-based A/C with machine guns and bombs, E=2500. Turing toward the approaching A/C hard to port, which cause the two bombs to overshoot the boat. After the fly-over, "ALARM!".

1817 - At T=25, ejecting one Bold (9 pcs. left), and running off on course 004°.

1818 - At A-Meter no further bombs or damages, but two destroyers are approaching our diving position.

1821 - At E=7000 to destroyers, rigging for Silent Running. The Escort Carrier seems to have reduced its speed, most likely zig-zagging.

1832 - The two destroyers run off from our diving position, in direction toward the Escort Carrier. As before, one very fast and the other at medium speed.

1842 - At Reception Depth. Secured from Silent Running.

1845 - S-Tiefe. A G&H Destroyer bearing 225°, E=6500, still on search pattern.

1855 - In the B-Periscope a carrier based A/C is seen on our stbd. beam, approaching from NNE, on opposite course, and dropping two bombs in the area of our last diving position, 4250m astern.

1910 - At E=10000, the Destroyer is out of sight (a faint smoke trail can still be seen in the B-Periscope).

1915 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.1nm.

1918 - Qu.1752CG top left - Right after the boat is ventilated and the Compressed Air Supply is filled, the boat is attacked by an Avenger A/C with Machine Guns, bombs and RP-3 Rockets, direct approach from West. Again, turned toward the approaching A/C with A.K., which cause the bombs and rockets to overshoot the boat. Right after the fly-over, "ALARM!".

1921 - At A-Meter, rigged for Silent Running and ran-off on course 0°.

1930 - As the two destroyers about 13000m away are not approaching, secured from silent running.

1940 - A-20.

2015 - After the watch change, set for Reception Depth.

2028 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.1nm.

2033 - Boat ventilated. On course 65°.

2037 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2040 - Charging batteries (80%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn. FuMB-Detection in 250°true, E=14500 (No Magic Eye). Boat stays surfaced.

2108 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 38h.

2220 - Batteries charged: 1h 40min. for 20%.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

- continued from 9 May 1943, 1215 -


1657 - Qu.1755CG top right - Diving for FuMB Detection (No Magic Eye) in 210°true, E=13000.

1700 - At T=30, one bomb at the diving position and again at 1701.

1703 - At A-Meter, no sound contact.

1723 - At A-20, Sound contact warship bearing 328°, E=14000, on course NW. Seems to be too far from the position of the last contact at noon, to be the same escort group.

1729 - Reception Depth.

1737 - S-Tiefe. U Class Destroyer bearing 330° on search pattern, E=7500. Anything further cannot be seen due to the high swell and the destroyer is too close to be able to surface.

1741 - Boat turning to course 321°.

1748 - The destroyer runs off at high sped on course West.

1757 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.1nm.
Escort Carrier sighted bearing 323°, on course 323°. Boat changing course to 304° and A.K.

1815 - Qu.1752CG bottom left - Boat is attacked by carrier-based A/C with machine guns and bombs, E=2500. Turing toward the approaching A/C hard to port, which cause the two bombs to overshoot the boat. After the fly-over, "ALARM!".

1817 - At T=25, ejecting one Bold (9 pcs. left), and running off on course 004°.

1818 - At A-Meter no further bombs or damages, but two destroyers are approaching our diving position.

1821 - At E=7000 to destroyers, rigging for Silent Running. The Escort Carrier seems to have reduced its speed, most likely zig-zagging.

1832 - The two destroyers run off from our diving position, in direction toward the Escort Carrier. As before, one very fast and the other at medium speed.

1842 - At Reception Depth. Secured from Silent Running.

1845 - S-Tiefe. A G&H Destroyer bearing 225°, E=6500, still on search pattern.

1855 - In the B-Periscope a carrier based A/C is seen on our stbd. beam, approaching from NNE, on opposite course, and dropping two bombs in the area of our last diving position, 4250m astern.

1910 - At E=10000, the Destroyer is out of sight (a faint smoke trail can still be seen in the B-Periscope).

1915 - Surfaced after 1h and 3.1nm.

1918 - Qu.1752CG top left - Right after the boat is ventilated and the Compressed Air Supply is filled, the boat is attacked by an Avenger A/C with Machine Guns, bombs and RP-3 Rockets, direct approach from West. Again, turned toward the approaching A/C with A.K., which cause the bombs and rockets to overshoot the boat. Right after the fly-over, "ALARM!".

1921 - At A-Meter, rigged for Silent Running and ran-off on course 0°.

1930 - As the two destroyers about 13000m away are not approaching, secured from silent running.

1940 - A-20.

2015 - After the watch change, set for Reception Depth.

2028 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.1nm.

2033 - Boat ventilated. On course 65°.

2037 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2040 - Charging batteries (80%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn. FuMB-Detection in 250°true, E=14500 (No Magic Eye). Boat stays surfaced.

2108 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 38h.

2220 - Batteries charged: 1h 40min. for 20%.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

- continued from 9 May 1943, 2220 -


2233 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
9.5., 0920, Qu.1577CG, Escort Group with Escort Carrier and three Destroyers and again at 1700 in Qu.1755CG, both on course NW, 18kn. Both times not able to attack due to attack of carrier based airplane and high swell at day time. No damages. Suspect two different escort groups. Switching to Circuit Amerika-I. 497cbm. 15 eels. ENE5/4, clear, visibility 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

2304 - Incoming F.T.'s:
From O.K.W.:
a) The German occupation government in the Netherlands declared martial law.
b) The "San Marco" Italian naval infantry regiment surrendered at Bizerte, Tunisia.
From O.K.M.:
a) In order to make it possible for the boats to guide in other boats when they themselves have sighted a convoy even when there are major differences in fixes, a shadower's signal buoy has been constructed and two boats (U 358 and U 381) have been equipped with one to try out. The buoy is to be fired as a star or rocket in the same way as the former signal rocket with axial staff, and will be distinguishable by very obvious characteristics from star signals and illuminant rockets, as the enemy often uses these to lead our boats astray. If these buoys are satisfactory, it is intended to use them operationally.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 666 Oblt. Herbert Engel) brought down a "Halifax" (misidentified as a Sunderland) with 6 shots at 1028 in the Bay of Biscay, Qu. BE 6888. The Halifax only strafed the boat on its first attack and received AA hits in one of the port engines during a second run. The pilot then apparently lost control when turning to come in again and the Halifax crashed into the sea about 500m (546 yds) from the boat, killing the crew of eight.
b) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), 168, 381 and 226 refueled from U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).
c) U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) was not found and so far, has not reported. According to dead reckoning she must enter port at the latest on 12.5.
d) U 531 and 438 were probably caught unawares and sunk in the thick fog while operating on convoy No.36, U 438 was probably lost after a daylight attack. U 630 and U 192 (Oblt. Werner Happe) did not report at all after attacking the convoy. Last message from U 630 was dated 21.4. as she left the supply boat in BD 25. U 192 last radioed on 3.5. from AJ 3757 (Convoy No. 33). Both these boats may therefore have been lost earlier.
5 boats must be considered lost.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 9 May 1943 - West of Vigo

- continued from 9 May 1943, 2220 -


2233 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
9.5., 0920, Qu.1577CG, Escort Group with Escort Carrier and three Destroyers and again at 1700 in Qu.1755CG, both on course NW, 18kn. Both times not able to attack due to attack of carrier based airplane and high swell at day time. No damages. Suspect two different escort groups. Switching to Circuit Amerika-I. 497cbm. 15 eels. ENE5/4, clear, visibility 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

2304 - Incoming F.T.'s:
From O.K.W.:
a) The German occupation government in the Netherlands declared martial law.
b) The "San Marco" Italian naval infantry regiment surrendered at Bizerte, Tunisia.
From O.K.M.:
a) In order to make it possible for the boats to guide in other boats when they themselves have sighted a convoy even when there are major differences in fixes, a shadower's signal buoy has been constructed and two boats (U 358 and U 381) have been equipped with one to try out. The buoy is to be fired as a star or rocket in the same way as the former signal rocket with axial staff, and will be distinguishable by very obvious characteristics from star signals and illuminant rockets, as the enemy often uses these to lead our boats astray. If these buoys are satisfactory, it is intended to use them operationally.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 666 Oblt. Herbert Engel) brought down a "Halifax" (misidentified as a Sunderland) with 6 shots at 1028 in the Bay of Biscay, Qu. BE 6888. The Halifax only strafed the boat on its first attack and received AA hits in one of the port engines during a second run. The pilot then apparently lost control when turning to come in again and the Halifax crashed into the sea about 500m (546 yds) from the boat, killing the crew of eight.
b) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter Arthur Stahl), 168, 381 and 226 refueled from U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf).
c) U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) was not found and so far, has not reported. According to dead reckoning she must enter port at the latest on 12.5.
d) U 531 and 438 were probably caught unawares and sunk in the thick fog while operating on convoy No.36, U 438 was probably lost after a daylight attack. U 630 and U 192 (Oblt. Werner Happe) did not report at all after attacking the convoy. Last message from U 630 was dated 21.4. as she left the supply boat in BD 25. U 192 last radioed on 3.5. from AJ 3757 (Convoy No. 33). Both these boats may therefore have been lost earlier.
5 boats must be considered lost.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115


tarted new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 10 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0201 - Trying to re-establish contact with the escort groups in the area. Course 52°.

0242 - Qu.1577CG - Course 128°.

0402 - Qu.1812CG - Course 180°.

0454 - Qu.1815CG - Course 231°.

0545 - Early Morning Dawn.

0703 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days.

1017 - Qu.1767CG - Course 270°.

1039 - Qu.1759CG - FuMB Detection in 250°true and 262°true (no Magic Eye), E=18000. 2xH.F.

1043 - Destroyer bearing 344°, E=138000, on course NNE, medium speed.

1047 - Trying to get a closer look. Course 315°, Full-Ahead.
Slowly more and more destroyers come into sight, a River Class Frigate can clearly be identified. Appears to be a Hunter/Escort Group consisting of at least 7 destroyers, on course 18°, 12 kn.

1052 - New course 18°, 2xH.F./13kn. Approaching as close as 9400m - no detection.

1124 - On course 0°. Decision to break-off pursuit. Reason:
1. Unfavourable attack conditions, i.e, medium heavy swell and no cover due to clear daylight;
2. Numeric superiority of enemy;
3. Such attack not within scope of actual Op.-Order.

1140 - Running off on course 110°, and at 1153 on course 164°.

1200 - Qu.1764CG - Days Run: 183.6nm - ↗ 174.3nm (20h 50') - ↘ 9.3nm (3h 10')
Total: 1138.1nm (5tg 22h) - ↗ 1096.5nm (5tg 7h 10') - ↘ 41.6nm (14h 50')
495cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 164°; Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 5h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1215 - Qu.1764CG - Course 270°.

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
1200 Enemy Task Force 7 Destroyers in Qu.1753CG on course 18°, 12kn. Attack not possible due to seastate and no cover due to clear daylight. Continue outbound transit. 495cbm. ENE5/4, medium heavy swell, clear, visibilty 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1355 - Qu.1755CG - 225RPM/8kn.

2120 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 14h.

2244 - Qu.3955CF -

2303 - Incoming F.T.'s:
From OKW:
a) Heinz Guderian tells The Führer of his misgivings about the Zitadelle plan. Uncharacteristically, Hitler responded that, he too, had concerns about an offensive at Kursk.
b) The British 1st Army reached Hammamet, Tunesia, with the British 6th Armoured Division cutting off our troops at Cape Bon, Tunisia.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) not found.
b) Received the following orders for torpedo equipment of boats:
1) Standing B.d.U. Order No. 40 (Appendix 5) for the torpedo equipment of boats with the Pi 2, Fat G7A and FAT G 7e at present available.
2) Standing B.d.U. Order No. 309: New depth settings of Pi 2 with "MZ one" (Previous reference: Standing B.d.U. Order No. 35 and Standing B.d.U. Order No. 301 "Draughts of Merchant Vessels".).
3) Standing B.d.U. Order 306: Method of using FAT torpedoes (incl. Operational release of FAT G 7E).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 10 May 1943 - West of Vigo

0201 - Trying to re-establish contact with the escort groups in the area. Course 52°.

0242 - Qu.1577CG - Course 128°.

0402 - Qu.1812CG - Course 180°.

0454 - Qu.1815CG - Course 231°.

0545 - Early Morning Dawn.

0703 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days.

1017 - Qu.1767CG - Course 270°.

1039 - Qu.1759CG - FuMB Detection in 250°true and 262°true (no Magic Eye), E=18000. 2xH.F.

1043 - Destroyer bearing 344°, E=138000, on course NNE, medium speed.

1047 - Trying to get a closer look. Course 315°, Full-Ahead.
Slowly more and more destroyers come into sight, a River Class Frigate can clearly be identified. Appears to be a Hunter/Escort Group consisting of at least 7 destroyers, on course 18°, 12 kn.

1052 - New course 18°, 2xH.F./13kn. Approaching as close as 9400m - no detection.

1124 - On course 0°. Decision to break-off pursuit. Reason:
1. Unfavourable attack conditions, i.e, medium heavy swell and no cover due to clear daylight;
2. Numeric superiority of enemy;
3. Such attack not within scope of actual Op.-Order.

1140 - Running off on course 110°, and at 1153 on course 164°.

1200 - Qu.1764CG - Days Run: 183.6nm - ↗ 174.3nm (20h 50') - ↘ 9.3nm (3h 10')
Total: 1138.1nm (5tg 22h) - ↗ 1096.5nm (5tg 7h 10') - ↘ 41.6nm (14h 50')
495cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 164°; Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 5h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1215 - Qu.1764CG - Course 270°.

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
1200 Enemy Task Force 7 Destroyers in Qu.1753CG on course 18°, 12kn. Attack not possible due to seastate and no cover due to clear daylight. Continue outbound transit. 495cbm. ENE5/4, medium heavy swell, clear, visibilty 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1355 - Qu.1755CG - 225RPM/8kn.

2120 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 14h.

2244 - Qu.3955CF -

2303 - Incoming F.T.'s:
From OKW:
a) Heinz Guderian tells The Führer of his misgivings about the Zitadelle plan. Uncharacteristically, Hitler responded that, he too, had concerns about an offensive at Kursk.
b) The British 1st Army reached Hammamet, Tunesia, with the British 6th Armoured Division cutting off our troops at Cape Bon, Tunisia.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) not found.
b) Received the following orders for torpedo equipment of boats:
1) Standing B.d.U. Order No. 40 (Appendix 5) for the torpedo equipment of boats with the Pi 2, Fat G7A and FAT G 7e at present available.
2) Standing B.d.U. Order No. 309: New depth settings of Pi 2 with "MZ one" (Previous reference: Standing B.d.U. Order No. 35 and Standing B.d.U. Order No. 301 "Draughts of Merchant Vessels".).
3) Standing B.d.U. Order 306: Method of using FAT torpedoes (incl. Operational release of FAT G 7E).

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 11 May 1943 - North Atlantic

- 1st week at sea completed -


0555 - Early Morning Dawn.

0700 - Qu.3855CF - Course 227°.

0720 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

0945 - FuMB-Detection in 30°true, E=17700 (No Magic Eye). Boat stays surfaced.

1158 - Incoming F.T.: From U 528:
Attacked by aircraft. Severe damages and casualties. Unable to dive. - Rabenau -

1200 - Qu.3877CF - Days Run: 195.4nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 1333.5nm (6d 22h) - ↗ 1291.9nm (6d 7h 10') - ↘ 41.6nm (14h 50')
492cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 227°; Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 5h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1530 - East7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.

1828 - Qu.6155CF - Course 270°.

1953 - Qu.6146CF - Airplane in 80°true, on northerly heading. Boat stays surfaced.

2130 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6h.

2232 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
At 1158 in BE 6520 U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) requested immediate assistance from planes as she was totally unable to dive. She was ordered to move away to the west at once and report course and speed. U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) was ordered to proceed to her assistance. Air support cannot be provided before 12.5. by a BV 128. No further messages have been received from U 528.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:
From OKW:
a) The British are evacuating Maungdaw before the Monsum season begins in Arakan.
b) Winston Churchill arrived in Washington DC for the Trident Conference scheduled to start tomorrow.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) has been allocated the area between GR 54 and KY 66, and that north of JJ 48 as her attack area. When the moon is favourable, she is to operate close inshore and later move away to the south. Independent traffic is suspected inshore and in JJ 10-50. It remains to be seen whether the "Bachstelze" being tried out by this submarine proves its worth.
b) U 192 (Oblt. Werner Happe) is listed as missing 3 stars and U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) has not been picked up although an escort has been sent out several times. She must be assumed lost.
B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) departed Norfolk bound for New York.
b) Allied convoy SC 130 (37 ships) departed Halifax for Liverpool.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++++

U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 11 May 1943 - North Atlantic

- 1st week at sea completed -


0555 - Early Morning Dawn.

0700 - Qu.3855CF - Course 227°.

0720 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

0945 - FuMB-Detection in 30°true, E=17700 (No Magic Eye). Boat stays surfaced.

1158 - Incoming F.T.: From U 528:
Attacked by aircraft. Severe damages and casualties. Unable to dive. - Rabenau -

1200 - Qu.3877CF - Days Run: 195.4nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 1333.5nm (6d 22h) - ↗ 1291.9nm (6d 7h 10') - ↘ 41.6nm (14h 50')
492cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 227°; Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 5h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1530 - East7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.

1828 - Qu.6155CF - Course 270°.

1953 - Qu.6146CF - Airplane in 80°true, on northerly heading. Boat stays surfaced.

2130 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6h.

2232 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
At 1158 in BE 6520 U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) requested immediate assistance from planes as she was totally unable to dive. She was ordered to move away to the west at once and report course and speed. U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) was ordered to proceed to her assistance. Air support cannot be provided before 12.5. by a BV 128. No further messages have been received from U 528.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:
From OKW:
a) The British are evacuating Maungdaw before the Monsum season begins in Arakan.
b) Winston Churchill arrived in Washington DC for the Trident Conference scheduled to start tomorrow.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) has been allocated the area between GR 54 and KY 66, and that north of JJ 48 as her attack area. When the moon is favourable, she is to operate close inshore and later move away to the south. Independent traffic is suspected inshore and in JJ 10-50. It remains to be seen whether the "Bachstelze" being tried out by this submarine proves its worth.
b) U 192 (Oblt. Werner Happe) is listed as missing 3 stars and U 663 (KrvKpt. Heinrich Schmid) has not been picked up although an escort has been sent out several times. She must be assumed lost.
B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) departed Norfolk bound for New York.
b) Allied convoy SC 130 (37 ships) departed Halifax for Liverpool.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 12 May 1943 - East of the Azores

0302 - Qu.5355CF - Course 208°.

0610 - Early Morning Dawn.

0731 - Qu.5613CF - Course 180°.

0732 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 16h.

0735 - Alarm for Training: T=10 after 40sec. (heavy swell).

0737 - A-Meter, 98rpm.

0750 - T=50. Commencing of Torpedo Maintenance.

0807 - Tube III (AtoFat) pulled. - Watch Change -

0847 - Tube III serviced and loaded.

- Step 1 of Op.-Order completed -


0938 - Tube IV (T-3) maintenance completed.

1029 - Tube II (T-3) maintenance completed.

1120 - Tube I (T-3) maintenance completed.

1154 - Tube V (EtoFat) pulled and serviced.

1200 - Qu.5616CF - Days Run: 163.1nm - ↗ 151.4nm (19h 35') - ↘ 11.7nm (4h 25')
Total: 1496.6nm (7tg 22h) - ↗ 1443.3nm (7tg 2h 45') - ↘ 53.3nm (19h 15')
491cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 180°; T=50; Battery 90%; Compressed Air 290Atü; CO₂ = 1.7%.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1223 - Tube V loaded and maintenance completed. CO₂-Warning at 1.7%. - Lunch Break until 1300. -

1351 - Tube VI (T-4 "Falke") maintenance completed.

1400 - Commencing of Trial Dive acc. Standing B.d.U.-Order No.507 & No.308; 145rpm.

1441 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1445 - Setting for T=20.

1502 - At Reception Depth.

1505 - S-Tiefe. Note: Compressed Air 260 Atü, i.e., it took 30 Atü to ascend from 2A-Meter to S-Tiefe. CO₂ = 2.1%.

1507 - Incoming F.T.: From U 89:
Attacked by aircraft and escort. Sinking. - Lohmann -

1509 - Incoming F.T.: From U 456:
Attacked by aircraft and escort. Sinking. - Teichert -

Cmdr.: For details, refer to the below B-Dienst Report.

1510 - Surfaced after 3h 10min. and 9.0nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 35min. and 20.7nm).

1516 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1520 - Charging batteries (83%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn.

1652 - Batteries charged: 1h 32min. for 17%. 225RPM/8kn.

1826 - Qu.5673CF - Course 227°.

1748 - F.T. from U 186:
Wabo and surface attack from destroyer. Sinking. - Hesemann -

2141 - Sundown. S7/6, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.

2303 – Incoming Radio Reports:
From O.K.W.:
a) Japanese troops crossed the Yangtze River near Baiyang, Hunan Province, China and attacked Chinese positions on the opposite shore.
b) 105 survivors of the "San Marco" Italian Naval Infantry Regiment, were evacuated from La Galite Island by motored torpedo boats.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) has been allocated KY 60, 90 and KZ 40 and 70 as attack area. Focal point off Port Elizabeth.
b) U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) did not report, despite repeated challenges. U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech), who had been detailed to render assistance; heard about 40 detonations (bombs) between 1220 and 1330 on 11.5. It must be assumed that U 528 was attacked a second time by planes and destroyed. Loss is probable.
B-Dienst-Report:
a) Just 17 months after the first conceptual meeting for an acoustic homing torpedo, the Mark 24 FIDO aerial torpedo had its first operational victory when a Liberator bomber of RAF Coastal Command’s 86 Squadron caught German submarine U-456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) on the surface in the mid-Atlantic, while operating on convoy HX.237. As the submarine dove, the bomber dropped one Mark 24 torpedo that guided itself to the submerged submarine and exploded, causing major damage. Later that same day when U-456 was forced to dive deep to avoid a depth charge attack by destroyer HMS Opportune, the previous damage proved too great and the submarine sank with all 49 hands.
b) An enemy submarine situation report received on 11.5. gave several of our patrols or supply groups in the North Atlantic, and it is becoming increasingly clear, that the enemy has excellent radar gear capable of picking up the submarines without their knowing it. In the case of these known dispositions not enough radio messages were sent to provide the enemy with sufficient material for his deductions.
c) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived in New York Harbor, anchoring off Tompkinsville, Staten Island.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 12 May 1943 - East of the Azores

0302 - Qu.5355CF - Course 208°.

0610 - Early Morning Dawn.

0731 - Qu.5613CF - Course 180°.

0732 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 16h.

0735 - Alarm for Training: T=10 after 40sec. (heavy swell).

0737 - A-Meter, 98rpm.

0750 - T=50. Commencing of Torpedo Maintenance.

0807 - Tube III (AtoFat) pulled. - Watch Change -

0847 - Tube III serviced and loaded.

- Step 1 of Op.-Order completed -


0938 - Tube IV (T-3) maintenance completed.

1029 - Tube II (T-3) maintenance completed.

1120 - Tube I (T-3) maintenance completed.

1154 - Tube V (EtoFat) pulled and serviced.

1200 - Qu.5616CF - Days Run: 163.1nm - ↗ 151.4nm (19h 35') - ↘ 11.7nm (4h 25')
Total: 1496.6nm (7tg 22h) - ↗ 1443.3nm (7tg 2h 45') - ↘ 53.3nm (19h 15')
491cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 180°; T=50; Battery 90%; Compressed Air 290Atü; CO₂ = 1.7%.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1223 - Tube V loaded and maintenance completed. CO₂-Warning at 1.7%. - Lunch Break until 1300. -

1351 - Tube VI (T-4 "Falke") maintenance completed.

1400 - Commencing of Trial Dive acc. Standing B.d.U.-Order No.507 & No.308; 145rpm.

1441 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1445 - Setting for T=20.

1502 - At Reception Depth.

1505 - S-Tiefe. Note: Compressed Air 260 Atü, i.e., it took 30 Atü to ascend from 2A-Meter to S-Tiefe. CO₂ = 2.1%.

1507 - Incoming F.T.: From U 89:
Attacked by aircraft and escort. Sinking. - Lohmann -

1509 - Incoming F.T.: From U 456:
Attacked by aircraft and escort. Sinking. - Teichert -

Cmdr.: For details, refer to the below B-Dienst Report.

1510 - Surfaced after 3h 10min. and 9.0nm since Etmal (Total: 7h 35min. and 20.7nm).

1516 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1520 - Charging batteries (83%): Stbd.Diesel, Charging/496RPM; Port.-Diesel, Propulsion/285RPM/8kn.

1652 - Batteries charged: 1h 32min. for 17%. 225RPM/8kn.

1826 - Qu.5673CF - Course 227°.

1748 - F.T. from U 186:
Wabo and surface attack from destroyer. Sinking. - Hesemann -

2141 - Sundown. S7/6, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.

2303 – Incoming Radio Reports:
From O.K.W.:
a) Japanese troops crossed the Yangtze River near Baiyang, Hunan Province, China and attacked Chinese positions on the opposite shore.
b) 105 survivors of the "San Marco" Italian Naval Infantry Regiment, were evacuated from La Galite Island by motored torpedo boats.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) has been allocated KY 60, 90 and KZ 40 and 70 as attack area. Focal point off Port Elizabeth.
b) U 528 (Oblt. Georg von Rabenau) did not report, despite repeated challenges. U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech), who had been detailed to render assistance; heard about 40 detonations (bombs) between 1220 and 1330 on 11.5. It must be assumed that U 528 was attacked a second time by planes and destroyed. Loss is probable.
B-Dienst-Report:
a) Just 17 months after the first conceptual meeting for an acoustic homing torpedo, the Mark 24 FIDO aerial torpedo had its first operational victory when a Liberator bomber of RAF Coastal Command’s 86 Squadron caught German submarine U-456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) on the surface in the mid-Atlantic, while operating on convoy HX.237. As the submarine dove, the bomber dropped one Mark 24 torpedo that guided itself to the submerged submarine and exploded, causing major damage. Later that same day when U-456 was forced to dive deep to avoid a depth charge attack by destroyer HMS Opportune, the previous damage proved too great and the submarine sank with all 49 hands.
b) An enemy submarine situation report received on 11.5. gave several of our patrols or supply groups in the North Atlantic, and it is becoming increasingly clear, that the enemy has excellent radar gear capable of picking up the submarines without their knowing it. In the case of these known dispositions not enough radio messages were sent to provide the enemy with sufficient material for his deductions.
c) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived in New York Harbor, anchoring off Tompkinsville, Staten Island.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 13 May 1943 - East of the Azores

0310 - Qu.5855CF -

0630 - Early Morning Dawn.

0749 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10h.

0819 - Qu.5877CF Center - "ALARM!" for Flying Boat, only medium speed. Was initially sighted at 0818 in 100°true, E=8800, on course NW. Turned towards the boat in 60°true and E=5800.

0822 - At A-Meter 1 Wabo and at 0823 another 2 Wabos - no damages.

Suspect the same airplane that was sighted on 11 May, at 1828, in Qu.6155CF.

0917 - At Reception Depth.

0919 - Surfaced after 1h and 2.8nm.

0920 - Boat ventilated.

0925 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1032 - Qu.8133CF bottom left - FuMB-Detection (also, Magic Eye) and shortly after a Flying Boat sighted in 280°true, E=12000. Boat remains surfaced.

This seems to be again the same airplane as sighted at 0819h and on 11 May.

1107 - Qu.8135CF top right - FuMB-Detection in 330°true, E=15000 (no Magic Eye).

1108 - Diving for Flying Boat identified as Sunderland, in 335°true, E=10600, on course SE.

1110 - At Reception Depth no bombs.

1138 - Surfaced after 30min. and 1.5nm.

1139 - Boat ventilated.

1200 - Qu.8135CF - Days Run: 162.0nm - ↗ 148.7nm (19h 20') - ↘ 13.3nm (4h 40')
Total: 1658.6nm (8d 22h) - ↗ 1592.0nm (7d 22h 05') - ↘ 66.6nm (23h 55')
489cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 227°; Battery 96%; Weather and Sea unchanged in 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1550 - Qu.8155CF –

1736 - Qu.8157CF bottom left - FuMB-Detection in 145°true, E=14300 (also, Magic Eye). Shortly afterwards, appears "our" Sunderland again in 145°true, on course 306°, E=10900.

1737 - Diving for Sunderland. At T=20 no bombs.

1817 - Surfaced after 40min. and 1.9nm.

1818 - Qu.8173CF - Boat ventilated. Shortly after surfacing, the boat is attacked by the Sunderland from 250°true, is already very close. The airplane must have been equally surprised to see us, as we them, because the 3-4 Wabos fall wide to port. Sunderland flies off on course SE, machine gun fire from the tail turret. Boat remains surfaced.

Boat sustained 2% hull damage; total of 4% for this patrol (230m x 96% => 220.8m)

Cmdr.: This sea area is certainly highly patrolled by air - usually an indicator for high value shipping traffic.

2155 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

2304 – Incoming Radio Reports:
From O.K.W.:
a) At 1100, the Axis Forces in Tunisia, accepted the terms of unconditional surrender. Besides 130,000 German and 120,000 Italian troops, General von Arnim and 25 further Axis Generals have been taken prisoner of war.
b) The Royal Navy has begun with the bombardment of Pantelleria.
c) 26 B-24s of USAAF 44th Bomb Group launched from Benina Airfield in Libya at 0400 hours. 20 of them reached their target, the Wiener Neustadt Air Frame Works.
From O.K.M.:
a) Italian torpedo boats stationed at Yalta, Ukraine, conducted their last sortie from this base.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) Situation report: From 4-7 May stalked E-W traffic off Durban but found nothing. No traffic in KP 39 either. Destroyer and corvette in KP 9123, course 220°. Probably shot down a Handley Page on 12.5. in KZ 4155. Coastwise traffic off Cape St. Lucia according to bearings obtained.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) reported that she had carried out minelaying task. Mines were laid in AM 8926 and 28.
c) U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) met Milkcow U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) to get medical attention for a sick man with a broken leg, who was subsequently transferred to U 461.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 13 May 1943 - East of the Azores

0310 - Qu.5855CF -

0630 - Early Morning Dawn.

0749 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10h.

0819 - Qu.5877CF Center - "ALARM!" for Flying Boat, only medium speed. Was initially sighted at 0818 in 100°true, E=8800, on course NW. Turned towards the boat in 60°true and E=5800.

0822 - At A-Meter 1 Wabo and at 0823 another 2 Wabos - no damages.

Suspect the same airplane that was sighted on 11 May, at 1828, in Qu.6155CF.

0917 - At Reception Depth.

0919 - Surfaced after 1h and 2.8nm.

0920 - Boat ventilated.

0925 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1032 - Qu.8133CF bottom left - FuMB-Detection (also, Magic Eye) and shortly after a Flying Boat sighted in 280°true, E=12000. Boat remains surfaced.

This seems to be again the same airplane as sighted at 0819h and on 11 May.

1107 - Qu.8135CF top right - FuMB-Detection in 330°true, E=15000 (no Magic Eye).

1108 - Diving for Flying Boat identified as Sunderland, in 335°true, E=10600, on course SE.

1110 - At Reception Depth no bombs.

1138 - Surfaced after 30min. and 1.5nm.

1139 - Boat ventilated.

1200 - Qu.8135CF - Days Run: 162.0nm - ↗ 148.7nm (19h 20') - ↘ 13.3nm (4h 40')
Total: 1658.6nm (8d 22h) - ↗ 1592.0nm (7d 22h 05') - ↘ 66.6nm (23h 55')
489cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 227°; Battery 96%; Weather and Sea unchanged in 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1550 - Qu.8155CF –

1736 - Qu.8157CF bottom left - FuMB-Detection in 145°true, E=14300 (also, Magic Eye). Shortly afterwards, appears "our" Sunderland again in 145°true, on course 306°, E=10900.

1737 - Diving for Sunderland. At T=20 no bombs.

1817 - Surfaced after 40min. and 1.9nm.

1818 - Qu.8173CF - Boat ventilated. Shortly after surfacing, the boat is attacked by the Sunderland from 250°true, is already very close. The airplane must have been equally surprised to see us, as we them, because the 3-4 Wabos fall wide to port. Sunderland flies off on course SE, machine gun fire from the tail turret. Boat remains surfaced.

Boat sustained 2% hull damage; total of 4% for this patrol (230m x 96% => 220.8m)

Cmdr.: This sea area is certainly highly patrolled by air - usually an indicator for high value shipping traffic.

2155 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

2304 – Incoming Radio Reports:
From O.K.W.:
a) At 1100, the Axis Forces in Tunisia, accepted the terms of unconditional surrender. Besides 130,000 German and 120,000 Italian troops, General von Arnim and 25 further Axis Generals have been taken prisoner of war.
b) The Royal Navy has begun with the bombardment of Pantelleria.
c) 26 B-24s of USAAF 44th Bomb Group launched from Benina Airfield in Libya at 0400 hours. 20 of them reached their target, the Wiener Neustadt Air Frame Works.
From O.K.M.:
a) Italian torpedo boats stationed at Yalta, Ukraine, conducted their last sortie from this base.
From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) Situation report: From 4-7 May stalked E-W traffic off Durban but found nothing. No traffic in KP 39 either. Destroyer and corvette in KP 9123, course 220°. Probably shot down a Handley Page on 12.5. in KZ 4155. Coastwise traffic off Cape St. Lucia according to bearings obtained.
b) U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) reported that she had carried out minelaying task. Mines were laid in AM 8926 and 28.
c) U 218 (VIID; Kptlt. Richard Becker) met Milkcow U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) to get medical attention for a sick man with a broken leg, who was subsequently transferred to U 461.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 14 May 1943 - Southeast of the Azores

0203 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached first patrol point acc. Op.-Orders, on 12 May, 0900.
On 13 May, 0819, Sunderalnd in Qu.8133CF bottom left, and at 1108 in Qu.8135CF top right, and again at 1736 in Qu.8157CF bottom left. On 13 May, 1817, in Qu.8173CF top right, shortly after surfacing attacked by Sunderland with Wabos and Gun Fire, minor damages. Suspect the same airplane each time. Continue outbound transit. 488cbm. S7/6, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

0353 - Qu.7655CF -

0700 - Early Morning Dawn.

0810 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 10h.

1036 - Incoming F.T.1030/14/5: From B.d.U.:
B-Dienst reports enemy convoy in Qu.1287DH, on course NNE, speed 6kn.

Cmdr.: As suspected, the strong enemy air patrol indicated that there must be a convoy or other high value shipping passing through this area.

1045 - Boat is operating on the convoy. Course 139°, 2xH.F.
Estimated contact with convoy at 1730 in Qu.1229DH.

1200 - Qu.7917CF - Days Run: 189.0nm - ↗ 187.1nm (23h 20') - ↘ 1.9nm (40')
Total: 1847.6nm (9tg 22h) - ↗ 1779.1nm (8tg 21h 25') - ↘ 68.5nm (1tg 00h 35')
487cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 140°; Battery 96%; Bold 9 each; Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1608 - Qu.7989DH center left - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 115°true, on course WNW, E=10500.

1611 - At A-Meter no bombs.

1618 - Course 90°, 1/3-Ahead.

1637 - At Reception Depth.

1643 - Surfaced after 35min. and 2.0nm.

1644 - Sunderland can be seen flying off in 35°true, on course ESE, E=6000. Boat remains surfaced.

1646 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1651 - Course 115°, 1/3-Ahead.

1834 - Qu.1226DH - FuMB-Detection twice in relative bearing 118° (no Magic Eye).

1837 - (Battle Class) Destroyer bearing 57°, E=14000, on course 31°, slow speed.

Cmdr.: After diving for the Sunderland, we almost missed the contact point with the convoy but found it now as calculated. Historically, Battle Class destroyers didn't see any action in WWII.

1845 - Boat is positioned toward the front of the port side of the convoy, which slowly comes into sight. Going on parallel course 31°. Convoy speed is determined as 6-7kn.

1855 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
"Gustav Gelb!" Sighted convoy 1030/14/5 in Qu.1229DH top right, course 31°, speed 6.5kn. Keeping contact with Battle Class Destroyer. S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1858 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Assume attack position and keep contact with convoy. Await further orders but if situation allows you are free to attack.

Shortly after sending the F.T., the (Battle Class) Destroyer goes on a search pattern and a second escort comes into sight. Boat has to keep distance to escorts by changing speed and course, E=11100.

2148 - A Sunderland crosses our stern at a distance of 6400m on course WNW, goes out of sight at E=12000.

All the while, the (Battle Class) Destroyer must smell that something is up, because she continuously goes on search patterns, while the other escort stoically stays its course.

Cmdr.: I decide to dive for a submerged attack while it is still dusk and before the Sunderland comes back around.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 14 May 1943 - Southeast of the Azores

0203 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached first patrol point acc. Op.-Orders, on 12 May, 0900.
On 13 May, 0819, Sunderalnd in Qu.8133CF bottom left, and at 1108 in Qu.8135CF top right, and again at 1736 in Qu.8157CF bottom left. On 13 May, 1817, in Qu.8173CF top right, shortly after surfacing attacked by Sunderland with Wabos and Gun Fire, minor damages. Suspect the same airplane each time. Continue outbound transit. 488cbm. S7/6, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

0353 - Qu.7655CF -

0700 - Early Morning Dawn.

0810 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 10h.

1036 - Incoming F.T.1030/14/5: From B.d.U.:
B-Dienst reports enemy convoy in Qu.1287DH, on course NNE, speed 6kn.

Cmdr.: As suspected, the strong enemy air patrol indicated that there must be a convoy or other high value shipping passing through this area.

1045 - Boat is operating on the convoy. Course 139°, 2xH.F.
Estimated contact with convoy at 1730 in Qu.1229DH.

1200 - Qu.7917CF - Days Run: 189.0nm - ↗ 187.1nm (23h 20') - ↘ 1.9nm (40')
Total: 1847.6nm (9tg 22h) - ↗ 1779.1nm (8tg 21h 25') - ↘ 68.5nm (1tg 00h 35')
487cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 140°; Battery 96%; Bold 9 each; Weather and Sea unchanged in 1 day and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1608 - Qu.7989DH center left - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 115°true, on course WNW, E=10500.

1611 - At A-Meter no bombs.

1618 - Course 90°, 1/3-Ahead.

1637 - At Reception Depth.

1643 - Surfaced after 35min. and 2.0nm.

1644 - Sunderland can be seen flying off in 35°true, on course ESE, E=6000. Boat remains surfaced.

1646 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1651 - Course 115°, 1/3-Ahead.

1834 - Qu.1226DH - FuMB-Detection twice in relative bearing 118° (no Magic Eye).

1837 - (Battle Class) Destroyer bearing 57°, E=14000, on course 31°, slow speed.

Cmdr.: After diving for the Sunderland, we almost missed the contact point with the convoy but found it now as calculated. Historically, Battle Class destroyers didn't see any action in WWII.

1845 - Boat is positioned toward the front of the port side of the convoy, which slowly comes into sight. Going on parallel course 31°. Convoy speed is determined as 6-7kn.

1855 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
"Gustav Gelb!" Sighted convoy 1030/14/5 in Qu.1229DH top right, course 31°, speed 6.5kn. Keeping contact with Battle Class Destroyer. S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 7.5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1858 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Assume attack position and keep contact with convoy. Await further orders but if situation allows you are free to attack.

Shortly after sending the F.T., the (Battle Class) Destroyer goes on a search pattern and a second escort comes into sight. Boat has to keep distance to escorts by changing speed and course, E=11100.

2148 - A Sunderland crosses our stern at a distance of 6400m on course WNW, goes out of sight at E=12000.

All the while, the (Battle Class) Destroyer must smell that something is up, because she continuously goes on search patterns, while the other escort stoically stays its course.

Cmdr.: I decide to dive for a submerged attack while it is still dusk and before the Sunderland comes back around.

- to be continued -




- continued from 14 May, 2148 -


2200 - Qu.8748CF - Diving for submerged attack, at E=11000, T=18.

2205 - Course 121°, which will be the attack course.

2211 - Sundown.

2222 - At E=4000 to Destroyer, rigging for Silent Running.

According to the sound contact, the storm must have divided the convoy into two parts, a faster section of 10 steamers in front and a slower section of 11 steamers behind. All in all, 9 escorts are heard.

2245 - The boat passes in between the forward port leading escort and the forward port side escort. No ASDIC is heard. Secured from Silent Running, 1/3-Ahead.

2258 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!"

2301 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Spread Shot with tubes I-II: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Angle of divergence 1.5°; Running depth 4m; Vt30; Own course 121°; Own speed 4kn ahead; Target ship: Row Carrier 5761ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 353°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

Both torpedoes are hits, No.1 midships, No.2 in the aft section!

The steamer explodes in a huge fireball which can be heard and felt in the whole boat, and sinks burning over its entire length within 2 minutes. Must have been loaded with some very hazardous cargo.

We have to withdraw backwards as to not endanger the boat from the explosions and also, not to get rammed by a HogIsland Freighter, that is evading the torpedoed Row Carrier towards our position.

2306 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube IV: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; Own course 121°; Own speed 5kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 314°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

2306 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 121°; Own speed 5kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 304°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

Right after the shot, turning boat hard to stbd., to bring the T-4 to bear.

2309 - Flooding tube VI. The AtoFat (Tube III) is a hit but fails to detonate - suspect too sharp of an angle for the contact fuse.

2311 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube VI: T-4 "Falke"/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt20; Own course 175°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red160°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 138°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

2312 - Tube IV (T-3), that was a miss on the Liberty Cargo, is a hit on another unidentified vessel, after 6 min., so, almost at the end of its run time.

2317 - Sound Operator reports sinking sounds from the direction of the tube III torpedo impact.

2319 - The T-4 "Falke" is a hit after 8 min. Assuming hit on the Liberty Cargo.

A Black Swan Sloop and a C&D Destroyer are circling around our shooting position.

2325 - Flooding tube V.

2326 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube V: EtoFat/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle green90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 210°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Target ship: Black Swan Frigate 1250ts, draught 3.7m.
Target course 265°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red80°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 284°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, the Sloop is turning away on a northerly heading, while the C&D-Destroyer is shooting star shells and searching for survivors.

The EtoFat is a miss after the end of the run.

2330 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

A Diana Typ Steamer 2600ts, loaded with tanks on the upper deck, is passing our port beam on course 31°, slow speed.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

- continued from 14 May, 2148 -


2200 - Qu.8748CF - Diving for submerged attack, at E=11000, T=18.

2205 - Course 121°, which will be the attack course.

2211 - Sundown.

2222 - At E=4000 to Destroyer, rigging for Silent Running.

According to the sound contact, the storm must have divided the convoy into two parts, a faster section of 10 steamers in front and a slower section of 11 steamers behind. All in all, 9 escorts are heard.

2245 - The boat passes in between the forward port leading escort and the forward port side escort. No ASDIC is heard. Secured from Silent Running, 1/3-Ahead.

2258 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!"

2301 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Spread Shot with tubes I-II: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Angle of divergence 1.5°; Running depth 4m; Vt30; Own course 121°; Own speed 4kn ahead; Target ship: Row Carrier 5761ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 353°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

Both torpedoes are hits, No.1 midships, No.2 in the aft section!

The steamer explodes in a huge fireball which can be heard and felt in the whole boat, and sinks burning over its entire length within 2 minutes. Must have been loaded with some very hazardous cargo.

We have to withdraw backwards as to not endanger the boat from the explosions and also, not to get rammed by a HogIsland Freighter, that is evading the torpedoed Row Carrier towards our position.

2306 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube IV: T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; Own course 121°; Own speed 5kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 314°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

2306 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 121°; Own speed 5kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 304°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

Right after the shot, turning boat hard to stbd., to bring the T-4 to bear.

2309 - Flooding tube VI. The AtoFat (Tube III) is a hit but fails to detonate - suspect too sharp of an angle for the contact fuse.

2311 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube VI: T-4 "Falke"/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt20; Own course 175°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Target ship: Liberty Cargo 5681ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 31°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red160°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 138°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

2312 - Tube IV (T-3), that was a miss on the Liberty Cargo, is a hit on another unidentified vessel, after 6 min., so, almost at the end of its run time.

2317 - Sound Operator reports sinking sounds from the direction of the tube III torpedo impact.

2319 - The T-4 "Falke" is a hit after 8 min. Assuming hit on the Liberty Cargo.

A Black Swan Sloop and a C&D Destroyer are circling around our shooting position.

2325 - Flooding tube V.

2326 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged Single Shot with tube V: EtoFat/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 4m; Vt30; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle green90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 210°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Target ship: Black Swan Frigate 1250ts, draught 3.7m.
Target course 265°; Target distance 1500m; Target angle red80°; Target speed 10kn; Firing angle α 284°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, the Sloop is turning away on a northerly heading, while the C&D-Destroyer is shooting star shells and searching for survivors.

The EtoFat is a miss after the end of the run.

2330 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

A Diana Typ Steamer 2600ts, loaded with tanks on the upper deck, is passing our port beam on course 31°, slow speed.

- to be continued -

- continued from 14 May, 2330 -


Incoming Radio Reports from 2300 and 2304:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese 3rd Division captured Gong'an, Hunan Province, China.
b) US aircraft bombed the Bluie East Five site in eastern Greenland, suspecting German usage of the site.
c) The Martin B-26 Marauder made its operational debut in northern Europe with a partially successful attack by US 322nd Bomb Group on the Velsen power station at Ijmuiden in the Netherlands.
d) The US 8th Airforce attacked Kiel. During the raid 3 Uboats are destroyed.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) After taking over potash cartridges and binoculars, U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) is to operate in the American area. Approach point CB 41.
b) U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) is again able to crash dive and is proceeding home at 6 knots.
c) U 186 (KrvKpt. Siegfried Hesemann) was directed to attack Convoy No. 39. She last reported on 12.5. from CE 2244: "intend to attack reported enemy forces". The boat was probably destroyed during this daylight attack. She is presumed lost.
d) U 89 (KrvKpt. Dietrich Lohmann) stalked Convoy No. 38 and on 12.5. sighted smoke plume and carrier borne plane in BD 6921. Since that time boat has not reported again despite challenge. She must be presumed lost - probably through air attack.

B-Dienst-Report:
a) According to a special Radio Intercept intelligence report the convoy "HX 238" was in BC 4851 at 2000 on 12.5. From that position she steered a course of 48° to BC 4338 and from that position was to change her course to 350°.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) departed New York bound for Casablanca, Morocco ferrying aircraft and troops.
c) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) transfered from Belfast to the Firth of Clyde, Scotland for calibration of her HF/DF radio detection gear.
d) In Britain, following more "Upkeep" bomb dropping training at the Wainfleet Bombing Range on the Wash (where a wooden mock up of the dam's towers had been constructed) at full night dress rehearsal was conducted on the Uppingham and Colchester reservoirs.
e) British Mosquito reconnaissance aircraft photographed a German rocket at Peenemünde, Germany; it was estimated to be 38 feet in length and 2 feet in diameter.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

- continued from 14 May, 2330 -


Incoming Radio Reports from 2300 and 2304:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese 3rd Division captured Gong'an, Hunan Province, China.
b) US aircraft bombed the Bluie East Five site in eastern Greenland, suspecting German usage of the site.
c) The Martin B-26 Marauder made its operational debut in northern Europe with a partially successful attack by US 322nd Bomb Group on the Velsen power station at Ijmuiden in the Netherlands.
d) The US 8th Airforce attacked Kiel. During the raid 3 Uboats are destroyed.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) After taking over potash cartridges and binoculars, U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) is to operate in the American area. Approach point CB 41.
b) U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) is again able to crash dive and is proceeding home at 6 knots.
c) U 186 (KrvKpt. Siegfried Hesemann) was directed to attack Convoy No. 39. She last reported on 12.5. from CE 2244: "intend to attack reported enemy forces". The boat was probably destroyed during this daylight attack. She is presumed lost.
d) U 89 (KrvKpt. Dietrich Lohmann) stalked Convoy No. 38 and on 12.5. sighted smoke plume and carrier borne plane in BD 6921. Since that time boat has not reported again despite challenge. She must be presumed lost - probably through air attack.

B-Dienst-Report:
a) According to a special Radio Intercept intelligence report the convoy "HX 238" was in BC 4851 at 2000 on 12.5. From that position she steered a course of 48° to BC 4338 and from that position was to change her course to 350°.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) departed New York bound for Casablanca, Morocco ferrying aircraft and troops.
c) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) transfered from Belfast to the Firth of Clyde, Scotland for calibration of her HF/DF radio detection gear.
d) In Britain, following more "Upkeep" bomb dropping training at the Wainfleet Bombing Range on the Wash (where a wooden mock up of the dam's towers had been constructed) at full night dress rehearsal was conducted on the Uppingham and Colchester reservoirs.
e) British Mosquito reconnaissance aircraft photographed a German rocket at Peenemünde, Germany; it was estimated to be 38 feet in length and 2 feet in diameter.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 15 May 1943 - Northwest of Madeira

0015 - T=50. Commencing torpedo reloading.

0127 - Torpedoes reloaded with previous loadout.

0132 - Course 121°. Sound contact with stationary steamer bearing 275°, E=15300. Suspect the vessel hit by the T-4 "Falke".

0138 - At Reception Depth.

0145 - Surfaced after 3h 45min. and 11.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

0147 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 80%.

0150 - Running after convoy on course 31° and 1/3-Ahead.

0229 - On course 0°. FuMB Detection in 23°true, E=16000.
At the same time, Granville steamer 2197ts sighted, bearing 32°, E=5300, stationary. Must be the steamer torpedoed with the T-4 "Falke". Has upper deck cargo in crates and a deck gun on the ships stern. Is also armed with a gun on the bow and at least 4 Flak guns.

0235 - At E=4800 diving for submerged attack.

0252 - T=18, H.F., course 15°.

0307 - Turning in toward steamer, approaching from the port side, course 105°.

0317 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube III.

0318 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle green90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 001°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo hits after 50 Sec.(1029m), but fails to detonate.

0321 - Retreating backwards and diving for torpedo reloading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0343 - T=30. Tube III reloaded with AtoFat (PiG7H/AZ).

0357 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube III.

0358 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 002°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo hits after 37 Sec.(761.4m), but fails to detonate. Flooding tube IV.

0359 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube IV: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 002°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit amidship after 32 Sec.(658.5m)!

A big hole can be seen where the torpedo hit but at first, no apparent signs of the ship sinking can be seen.

0407 - By now, the ship has a distict list to port and some of the crew can be seen trying to launch some boats in the heavy sea.

0408 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0409 - The steamer sinks with loud and big explosions.

0411 - Surfaced after 1h 36min. and 3.8nm.

Running to the sinking position. Nothing found except an empty life boat and some debris. The life boat has the name BARON RUTHVEN written on it. Running off on course 209°, 1/3-Ahead.

Note: All Fat-Attacks acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 306 and all Pi-2/MZ-Attacks acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 309.

0600 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
From 14.5., 2300 to 15.5., 0400, sunk from convoy 1030/14/5 in submerged attack, 3 steamers for 10,000ts., Qu.8748CF to 8749CF. Double salvo T-3, single shot T-3 and T-4 hits. One EtoFat a miss on a Black Swan Sloop. 3 AtoFat duds, 1 AtoFat a hit on Coup de grâce on a Granville Bulk Carrier that was torpedoed with the T-4. Last position of convoy 1030/14/5 on 14.5., 2330, Qu.8749CF top left, course 31°, speed 10kn, 20 steamers and 9 escorts in two groups due to storm. A single Sunderland over the convoy. Still have 3 T-3, 2 EtoFat and 1 T-4. 482cbm. S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. - RST -

0850 - Charging batteries (74%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

1105 - Batteries charged => 2h 15min. for 26%. 225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.1255DH - Days Run: 202.4nm - ↗ 185.6nm (18h 04') - ↘ 16.8nm (5h 56')
Total: 2050.0nm (10tg 22h) - ↗ 1964.7nm (9tg 15h 29') - ↘ 85.3nm (1tg 6h 31')
480cbm (7cbm in 24h); Course 211°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 15 May 1943 - Northwest of Madeira

0015 - T=50. Commencing torpedo reloading.

0127 - Torpedoes reloaded with previous loadout.

0132 - Course 121°. Sound contact with stationary steamer bearing 275°, E=15300. Suspect the vessel hit by the T-4 "Falke".

0138 - At Reception Depth.

0145 - Surfaced after 3h 45min. and 11.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

0147 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 80%.

0150 - Running after convoy on course 31° and 1/3-Ahead.

0229 - On course 0°. FuMB Detection in 23°true, E=16000.
At the same time, Granville steamer 2197ts sighted, bearing 32°, E=5300, stationary. Must be the steamer torpedoed with the T-4 "Falke". Has upper deck cargo in crates and a deck gun on the ships stern. Is also armed with a gun on the bow and at least 4 Flak guns.

0235 - At E=4800 diving for submerged attack.

0252 - T=18, H.F., course 15°.

0307 - Turning in toward steamer, approaching from the port side, course 105°.

0317 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube III.

0318 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle green90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 001°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo hits after 50 Sec.(1029m), but fails to detonate.

0321 - Retreating backwards and diving for torpedo reloading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0343 - T=30. Tube III reloaded with AtoFat (PiG7H/AZ).

0357 - S-Tiefe. "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube III.

0358 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube III: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 002°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo hits after 37 Sec.(761.4m), but fails to detonate. Flooding tube IV.

0359 - Qu.8749CF - Submerged "Coup de grâce" with tube IV: AtoFat/PiG7H (AZ); Running depth 4m; Vt40; FAT-Settings: Straight Run 2000m - Giro Angle red90° - Giro Run 1600m; Own course 105°; Own speed 2kn ahead; Target ship: Granville Bulk Carrier 2278ts, draught 6.0m.
Target heading 15°; Target distance 1000m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 0kn; Firing angle α 002°.
Weather/Sea: S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit amidship after 32 Sec.(658.5m)!

A big hole can be seen where the torpedo hit but at first, no apparent signs of the ship sinking can be seen.

0407 - By now, the ship has a distict list to port and some of the crew can be seen trying to launch some boats in the heavy sea.

0408 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0409 - The steamer sinks with loud and big explosions.

0411 - Surfaced after 1h 36min. and 3.8nm.

Running to the sinking position. Nothing found except an empty life boat and some debris. The life boat has the name BARON RUTHVEN written on it. Running off on course 209°, 1/3-Ahead.

Note: All Fat-Attacks acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 306 and all Pi-2/MZ-Attacks acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 309.

0600 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
From 14.5., 2300 to 15.5., 0400, sunk from convoy 1030/14/5 in submerged attack, 3 steamers for 10,000ts., Qu.8748CF to 8749CF. Double salvo T-3, single shot T-3 and T-4 hits. One EtoFat a miss on a Black Swan Sloop. 3 AtoFat duds, 1 AtoFat a hit on Coup de grâce on a Granville Bulk Carrier that was torpedoed with the T-4. Last position of convoy 1030/14/5 on 14.5., 2330, Qu.8749CF top left, course 31°, speed 10kn, 20 steamers and 9 escorts in two groups due to storm. A single Sunderland over the convoy. Still have 3 T-3, 2 EtoFat and 1 T-4. 482cbm. S7/6, medium heavy swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. - RST -

0850 - Charging batteries (74%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

1105 - Batteries charged => 2h 15min. for 26%. 225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.1255DH - Days Run: 202.4nm - ↗ 185.6nm (18h 04') - ↘ 16.8nm (5h 56')
Total: 2050.0nm (10tg 22h) - ↗ 1964.7nm (9tg 15h 29') - ↘ 85.3nm (1tg 6h 31')
480cbm (7cbm in 24h); Course 211°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 2 days and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

- to be continued -


- continued from 15 May, 1200 -


1213 - FuMB Detection (also, Magic Eye).

1214 - Qu.1255DH - Sunderland in 20°true, crossing our stern on course WNW, E=9500. Boat remains surfaced.

1243 - FuMB Detection in 15°true, E=14000 (no Magic Eye). Boat remains surfaced.

1317 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
B.d.U. Ref. 2555 A4.

To all Submarine Commanders:

In his efforts to rob the submarines of her most valuable characteristic (invisibility) the enemy is several lengths ahead of us by virtue of his radar location.
I am fully aware of the difficult position that this puts you in when fighting enemy escorts and anti-submarine forces.
You may rest assured that I have done, and shall continue to do everything within my powers as Commander-in-Chief to change this situation as rapidly as possible.
Work is being carried on both within the Navy and outside it to develop and improve your weapons and gear.
I expect you to continue your determined struggle with the enemy and by pitting your ingenuity, ability and toughness against his tricks and technical developments, finally to finish him off.
Commanders in the Mediterranean and Atlantic have proved that even today the enemy has weak spots everywhere and that in many cases the enemy resources are not nearly so efficient as they would appear at first sight, if the boat's Commander is determined to score a success in spite of everything.
I believe that I shall shortly be able to give you better weapons for this hard struggle of yours.

(Signed): DÖNITZ


1403 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: According to enemy radio intercept, attacked convoy is SL.129. Departed Freetown on 11 May. Rendezvous planned with MKS.13 on 24 May. 47 merchants and 9 escorts. Ships reported sunk are: SANSU, Br., 5,446ts, W. A. Prod; 9 passengers; FORTOL, Br., 2,629ts; BARON RUTHVEN, Br., 3,178ts, Iron Ore. One of the escorts is Black Swan Sloop, HMS Whimbrel (U 29).Congratulations! Continue acc. Op.-Orders. - B.d.U. -

Cmdr.: So, the name of of the ship on the life boat of the last ship sunk was correct.

1802 - Qu.1515DH bottom right - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 85°true, E=9000, on course West (No FuMB/Magic Eye detection).

1805 - At A-Meter no bombs.

1825 - T=50. Commencing torpedo loading.

1832 - Tube III reloaded with T-3/Pi39H.

1840 - At Reception Depth.

1844 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese troops surrounded Chinese troops near Baiyang, Hunan Province, China, inflicting heavy casualties.
b) Luftwaffe I./KG 55, flying He 111 bombers, departed from Sarabuz Russkiy Airfield in Krym, Russia for Stalino (now Donetsk), Ukraine. The transfer was in response to the Soviet counter-offensive toward Kharkov, Ukraine.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) British Admiral Andrew Cunningham announced that "the passage through the Mediterranean was clear", and convoys from Gibraltar to Alexandria, Egypt resumed.
b) During convoy action from 9-13 May against convoys HX.237 and SC.129, in favorable attack conditions, very strong and accurate defense and radar activity. Only 5 ships sunk and 3 own losses.

B.d.U-Report:
a) U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 753 (FrgKpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein), have been lost with all hands.
b) U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram; ex KrvtKpt. Klaus Scholtz) has been withdrawn from active service and will be used as a school boat.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In the estimated (German) submarine situation issued by the enemy on 13.5., 15 boats were reported as probably patrolling within 150 miles round 57° North and 40° West. At the time the Groups "Isar", "Inn" and "Lech" totaling 13 boats were lying in the area named. As only one radio message was sent from this area on 11.5, it appears that only location can have been used as a basis for this report.
At the same time about 10 boats were supposed to be in the area between 50-55° North and 27-30° West. However, at the time, only 2 tankers and one submarine were there. During the previous days several radio messages were sent.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) returned to Belfast, Northern Ireland from the Firth of Clyde, Scotland for 16 hours before departing again bound for Iceland.

1847 - Surfaced after 45min. and 2.2nm.

1848 - Boat ventilated.

1853 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2231 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

- continued from 15 May, 1200 -


1213 - FuMB Detection (also, Magic Eye).

1214 - Qu.1255DH - Sunderland in 20°true, crossing our stern on course WNW, E=9500. Boat remains surfaced.

1243 - FuMB Detection in 15°true, E=14000 (no Magic Eye). Boat remains surfaced.

1317 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
B.d.U. Ref. 2555 A4.

To all Submarine Commanders:

In his efforts to rob the submarines of her most valuable characteristic (invisibility) the enemy is several lengths ahead of us by virtue of his radar location.
I am fully aware of the difficult position that this puts you in when fighting enemy escorts and anti-submarine forces.
You may rest assured that I have done, and shall continue to do everything within my powers as Commander-in-Chief to change this situation as rapidly as possible.
Work is being carried on both within the Navy and outside it to develop and improve your weapons and gear.
I expect you to continue your determined struggle with the enemy and by pitting your ingenuity, ability and toughness against his tricks and technical developments, finally to finish him off.
Commanders in the Mediterranean and Atlantic have proved that even today the enemy has weak spots everywhere and that in many cases the enemy resources are not nearly so efficient as they would appear at first sight, if the boat's Commander is determined to score a success in spite of everything.
I believe that I shall shortly be able to give you better weapons for this hard struggle of yours.

(Signed): DÖNITZ


1403 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: According to enemy radio intercept, attacked convoy is SL.129. Departed Freetown on 11 May. Rendezvous planned with MKS.13 on 24 May. 47 merchants and 9 escorts. Ships reported sunk are: SANSU, Br., 5,446ts, W. A. Prod; 9 passengers; FORTOL, Br., 2,629ts; BARON RUTHVEN, Br., 3,178ts, Iron Ore. One of the escorts is Black Swan Sloop, HMS Whimbrel (U 29).Congratulations! Continue acc. Op.-Orders. - B.d.U. -

Cmdr.: So, the name of of the ship on the life boat of the last ship sunk was correct.

1802 - Qu.1515DH bottom right - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 85°true, E=9000, on course West (No FuMB/Magic Eye detection).

1805 - At A-Meter no bombs.

1825 - T=50. Commencing torpedo loading.

1832 - Tube III reloaded with T-3/Pi39H.

1840 - At Reception Depth.

1844 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Japanese troops surrounded Chinese troops near Baiyang, Hunan Province, China, inflicting heavy casualties.
b) Luftwaffe I./KG 55, flying He 111 bombers, departed from Sarabuz Russkiy Airfield in Krym, Russia for Stalino (now Donetsk), Ukraine. The transfer was in response to the Soviet counter-offensive toward Kharkov, Ukraine.

O.K.M.-Report:
a) British Admiral Andrew Cunningham announced that "the passage through the Mediterranean was clear", and convoys from Gibraltar to Alexandria, Egypt resumed.
b) During convoy action from 9-13 May against convoys HX.237 and SC.129, in favorable attack conditions, very strong and accurate defense and radar activity. Only 5 ships sunk and 3 own losses.

B.d.U-Report:
a) U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 753 (FrgKpt. Alfred Manhardt von Mannstein), have been lost with all hands.
b) U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram; ex KrvtKpt. Klaus Scholtz) has been withdrawn from active service and will be used as a school boat.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In the estimated (German) submarine situation issued by the enemy on 13.5., 15 boats were reported as probably patrolling within 150 miles round 57° North and 40° West. At the time the Groups "Isar", "Inn" and "Lech" totaling 13 boats were lying in the area named. As only one radio message was sent from this area on 11.5, it appears that only location can have been used as a basis for this report.
At the same time about 10 boats were supposed to be in the area between 50-55° North and 27-30° West. However, at the time, only 2 tankers and one submarine were there. During the previous days several radio messages were sent.
b) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) returned to Belfast, Northern Ireland from the Firth of Clyde, Scotland for 16 hours before departing again bound for Iceland.

1847 - Surfaced after 45min. and 2.2nm.

1848 - Boat ventilated.

1853 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2231 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115




Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 16 May 1943 - West of Madeira

0007 - Qu.1496DH center left - FuMB Detection (and Magic Eye) and shortly after a Sunderland in 24°true, E=8000, on course West. Crosses boats stern at a distance of 7500m. Boat remains surfaced.

0745 - Early Morning Dawn.

0855 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.4116DH - Days Run: 181.8nm - ↗ 179.6nm (23h 15') - ↘ 2.2nm (45')
Total: 2231.8nm (11tg 22h) - ↗ 2144.3nm (10tg 14h 44') - ↘ 87.5nm (1tg 7h 16')
477cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1212 - F.T. from U 463: To B.d.U.:
Surprise attack from aircraft. Hit by bombs. Sinking. - Wolfbauer -

Cmdr.: One of our invaluable "Milkcows" has been sunk!

1600 - SE4/3, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2236 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6.5h.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) During Operation Chastise, the RAF bombarded the Ruhr dams. During the attack, the dams of Möhne and Eder were destroyed, causing great floods with high civilian casualties, while the industrial targets remained intact.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth): "Tinhow", 5,232 GRT, sunk on 11th May in KP 4777. Since then in KP 53 only a small amount of neutral traffic. Moderate sea and air patrol.
b) U 584 - 614 and 383 have refueled from U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) for return passage. U 119 will proceed further for special operation Halifax.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 16 May 1943 - West of Madeira

0007 - Qu.1496DH center left - FuMB Detection (and Magic Eye) and shortly after a Sunderland in 24°true, E=8000, on course West. Crosses boats stern at a distance of 7500m. Boat remains surfaced.

0745 - Early Morning Dawn.

0855 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 10h.

1200 - Qu.4116DH - Days Run: 181.8nm - ↗ 179.6nm (23h 15') - ↘ 2.2nm (45')
Total: 2231.8nm (11tg 22h) - ↗ 2144.3nm (10tg 14h 44') - ↘ 87.5nm (1tg 7h 16')
477cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 14h.
Note: Possible salvo shots with 3 torpedoes are: I-II-III and II-III-IV.

1212 - F.T. from U 463: To B.d.U.:
Surprise attack from aircraft. Hit by bombs. Sinking. - Wolfbauer -

Cmdr.: One of our invaluable "Milkcows" has been sunk!

1600 - SE4/3, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2236 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6.5h.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) During Operation Chastise, the RAF bombarded the Ruhr dams. During the attack, the dams of Möhne and Eder were destroyed, causing great floods with high civilian casualties, while the industrial targets remained intact.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth): "Tinhow", 5,232 GRT, sunk on 11th May in KP 4777. Since then in KP 53 only a small amount of neutral traffic. Moderate sea and air patrol.
b) U 584 - 614 and 383 have refueled from U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) for return passage. U 119 will proceed further for special operation Halifax.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 17 May 1943 - West of Madeira

0810 - Early Morning Dawn.

0909 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 17h.

1130 - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting East.

1200 - Qu.6974DG - Days Run: 193.4nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 2425.2nm (12tg 22h) - ↗ 2337.7nm (11tg 14h 44') - ↘ 87.5nm (1tg 7h 16')
474cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; ESE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1501 - ENE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb –
F.T. from U 460: To B.d.U.:
Alarm for aircraft. Lost contact to convoy ONS.7. - Nagel -

1704 - F.T. from U 128: To B.d.U.:
Attacked by destroyer out of a rain squall. Sinking. - Steinert –

According to B-Dienst Report, U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert), was sunk by enemy aircraft and patrol boat, south of Recife, Brazil, in FJ 68 and FJ 59.

1838 - F.T. from U 528: To B.d.U.:
Boat attacked from aircraft and destroyer. Not able to dive. Scuttling the boat. - Rabenau -

1912 - F.T. from U 646: To B.d.U.:
Surprise attack from airplane. Direct approach. Casualties and sinking. - Wulff -

Cmdr.: Something is going on. Why all of these sudden and unexplainable sinkings of our boats?! It must have something to do with the B.d.U.-F.T. from 15 May 1317.

2101 - Qu.9289DG top left - Destroyer bearing 284°, E=5300, medium speed, on course North. Further FuMB Detections (no Magic Eye).
Turns out to be a Hunter/Escort Group of five destroyers traveling in line abreast, no detection.

2105 - Running off on course WNW, as attack conditions are unfavourable: Daylight and high sea and swell.

2115 - Continuing on course 211°, 2x225RPM/8kn.

2137 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Sunderland on 15.5. 1214 Qu.1255DH bottom right, 1802 Qu.1515DH bottom right, and on 16.5. 0007 Qu.1496DH center left, each time on westerly heading. On 17.5. 2101 Qu.9289DG top left Hunter Group 5 Destroyers abreast on northerly heading medium speed. 473cbm and 6 eels. Switching to Circuit Amerika-II. ENE7/6, medium swell, clear light haze, visibility 3nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op. Orders. - RST -

2244 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8h.

2305 – Incoming Radio Reports:

OKW-Report:
a) Our troops in the Balkans launch their 5th Offensive against Tito's partisans.
b) The Luftwaffe bombards Cardiff, Wales, with 89 airplanes.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann): Reported sighting at 1400 in KP 8441 a convoy of 6 ships with southerly course and slow speed. She fired 2 two fan torpedoes on 2 large vessels, together 12,000 GRT. Sinking hydrophoned but not observed owing to defence activity. Subsequently air patrol. Commanding Officer confirmed with certainty deterrent depth charges at the convoy 2 hours after attack.
b) According to an enemy U-boat situation report of the 15th May, the enemy surprisingly knew exactly the disposition of the Groups "Danube 1 and 2". The Groups are ordered to maintain radio silence except for important tactical messages.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Enemy U-boat sightings: AL 3828, AM 5111, AL 39, BE 51, BB 30, FC 78, FC37.
b) Enemy Aircraft in the Iceland area reported 3 U-boat sightings and a depth-charge attack, probably with hits. At 2105 on the 13th May a further aircraft attacked a U-boat with depth charges. Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Hvalfjörður, Iceland, where she stayed just one night.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 17 May 1943 - West of Madeira

0810 - Early Morning Dawn.

0909 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 17h.

1130 - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting East.

1200 - Qu.6974DG - Days Run: 193.4nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 2425.2nm (12tg 22h) - ↗ 2337.7nm (11tg 14h 44') - ↘ 87.5nm (1tg 7h 16')
474cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; ESE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1501 - ENE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb –
F.T. from U 460: To B.d.U.:
Alarm for aircraft. Lost contact to convoy ONS.7. - Nagel -

1704 - F.T. from U 128: To B.d.U.:
Attacked by destroyer out of a rain squall. Sinking. - Steinert –

According to B-Dienst Report, U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert), was sunk by enemy aircraft and patrol boat, south of Recife, Brazil, in FJ 68 and FJ 59.

1838 - F.T. from U 528: To B.d.U.:
Boat attacked from aircraft and destroyer. Not able to dive. Scuttling the boat. - Rabenau -

1912 - F.T. from U 646: To B.d.U.:
Surprise attack from airplane. Direct approach. Casualties and sinking. - Wulff -

Cmdr.: Something is going on. Why all of these sudden and unexplainable sinkings of our boats?! It must have something to do with the B.d.U.-F.T. from 15 May 1317.

2101 - Qu.9289DG top left - Destroyer bearing 284°, E=5300, medium speed, on course North. Further FuMB Detections (no Magic Eye).
Turns out to be a Hunter/Escort Group of five destroyers traveling in line abreast, no detection.

2105 - Running off on course WNW, as attack conditions are unfavourable: Daylight and high sea and swell.

2115 - Continuing on course 211°, 2x225RPM/8kn.

2137 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Sunderland on 15.5. 1214 Qu.1255DH bottom right, 1802 Qu.1515DH bottom right, and on 16.5. 0007 Qu.1496DH center left, each time on westerly heading. On 17.5. 2101 Qu.9289DG top left Hunter Group 5 Destroyers abreast on northerly heading medium speed. 473cbm and 6 eels. Switching to Circuit Amerika-II. ENE7/6, medium swell, clear light haze, visibility 3nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op. Orders. - RST -

2244 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8h.

2305 – Incoming Radio Reports:

OKW-Report:
a) Our troops in the Balkans launch their 5th Offensive against Tito's partisans.
b) The Luftwaffe bombards Cardiff, Wales, with 89 airplanes.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann): Reported sighting at 1400 in KP 8441 a convoy of 6 ships with southerly course and slow speed. She fired 2 two fan torpedoes on 2 large vessels, together 12,000 GRT. Sinking hydrophoned but not observed owing to defence activity. Subsequently air patrol. Commanding Officer confirmed with certainty deterrent depth charges at the convoy 2 hours after attack.
b) According to an enemy U-boat situation report of the 15th May, the enemy surprisingly knew exactly the disposition of the Groups "Danube 1 and 2". The Groups are ordered to maintain radio silence except for important tactical messages.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Enemy U-boat sightings: AL 3828, AM 5111, AL 39, BE 51, BB 30, FC 78, FC37.
b) Enemy Aircraft in the Iceland area reported 3 U-boat sightings and a depth-charge attack, probably with hits. At 2105 on the 13th May a further aircraft attacked a U-boat with depth charges. Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Hvalfjörður, Iceland, where she stayed just one night.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 18 May 1943 - West of the Canary Islands

- 2nd week at sea completed -


0700 - Qu.9577DG - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0813 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change -

0849 - Tube II serviced.

0924 - Sunrise.

0940 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H) - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1142 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1148 - Reception Depth. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1200 - Qu.9736DG - Days Run: 160.7nm - ↗ 147.7nm (19h) - ↘ 13.0nm (5h)
Total: 2585.9nm (13tg 22h) - ↗ 2485.4nm (12tg 9h 44') - ↘ 100.5nm (1tg 12h 16')
472cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 211°; T=20; CO₂ 1.7%; Battery 88.6%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & 308. 145rpm/3kn.

1345 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1403 - At Reception Depth (140m in 17min. at 96rpm).

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 6.5nm - since Etmal; Total 7h 10min. and 19.5nm.
CO₂ 2.0%; Compressed Air 280 Atü; Battery 82.9%; Weather and Sea unchanged.

1413 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled (3min. for 20 Atü). 2x225RPM/8kn.

2256 - Sundown. NNW7/6 medium swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2305 – Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Japanese Forces launch an offensive along the Yangtze River, about 400km northeast of the Nationalists Capitol of Chungking.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) while entering the Bay of Biscay shot down a Whitley at 1424h in BF 4543, after dropping four depth charges, none of which caused any damage. The crew of six were all killed.
b) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) was driven off during night attack on convoy, reported yesterday in KP 8541, by aircraft using searchlights. During the night aircraft were continuously located but none approached. During the day active sea and air reconnaissance up to 50 miles from the coast. U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) was detected by two aircraft carrying lights. She suspected cooperation of air cover with convoy of U 198. (Unlikely, since positions were too far apart). U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) is to operate in the area S. of Madagascar. Passage thence making long legs, sweeps under the coast. The attention of boats in the Capetown area is drawn to the fact that in Lourwence Marques and other harbors ships are delayed owing to U-boat warning and therefore, heavy traffic is to be expected off the harbors at times.
c) U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) has probably been lost - has been at sea for over 5 months. According to an intercepted message, a U-boat was bombed on the 15th May in DH 4365 by a British aircraft which scored two hits. According to dead reckoning, U 182 was in this position. She was asked for her position but did not report again after the attack. She must be considered lost.
d) U 214 (VIID; Oblt. Rupprecht Stock) has put out for minelaying operations off Dakar.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group departed Iceland and joined the escort of Convoy ON-184.
b) At 0730 hours, a Spitfire aircraft of No. 542 Squadron RAF flew across the Ruhr region and photographed the extent of the damage from the Dambuster Raid.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 18 May 1943 - West of the Canary Islands

- 2nd week at sea completed -


0700 - Qu.9577DG - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0813 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change -

0849 - Tube II serviced.

0924 - Sunrise.

0940 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H) - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1142 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1148 - Reception Depth. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1200 - Qu.9736DG - Days Run: 160.7nm - ↗ 147.7nm (19h) - ↘ 13.0nm (5h)
Total: 2585.9nm (13tg 22h) - ↗ 2485.4nm (12tg 9h 44') - ↘ 100.5nm (1tg 12h 16')
472cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 211°; T=20; CO₂ 1.7%; Battery 88.6%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & 308. 145rpm/3kn.

1345 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1403 - At Reception Depth (140m in 17min. at 96rpm).

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 6.5nm - since Etmal; Total 7h 10min. and 19.5nm.
CO₂ 2.0%; Compressed Air 280 Atü; Battery 82.9%; Weather and Sea unchanged.

1413 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled (3min. for 20 Atü). 2x225RPM/8kn.

2256 - Sundown. NNW7/6 medium swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2305 – Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Japanese Forces launch an offensive along the Yangtze River, about 400km northeast of the Nationalists Capitol of Chungking.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 648 (Oblt.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) while entering the Bay of Biscay shot down a Whitley at 1424h in BF 4543, after dropping four depth charges, none of which caused any damage. The crew of six were all killed.
b) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) was driven off during night attack on convoy, reported yesterday in KP 8541, by aircraft using searchlights. During the night aircraft were continuously located but none approached. During the day active sea and air reconnaissance up to 50 miles from the coast. U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) was detected by two aircraft carrying lights. She suspected cooperation of air cover with convoy of U 198. (Unlikely, since positions were too far apart). U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) is to operate in the area S. of Madagascar. Passage thence making long legs, sweeps under the coast. The attention of boats in the Capetown area is drawn to the fact that in Lourwence Marques and other harbors ships are delayed owing to U-boat warning and therefore, heavy traffic is to be expected off the harbors at times.
c) U 182 (IXD2; Kptlt. Asmus Nicolai Clausen) has probably been lost - has been at sea for over 5 months. According to an intercepted message, a U-boat was bombed on the 15th May in DH 4365 by a British aircraft which scored two hits. According to dead reckoning, U 182 was in this position. She was asked for her position but did not report again after the attack. She must be considered lost.
d) U 214 (VIID; Oblt. Rupprecht Stock) has put out for minelaying operations off Dakar.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group departed Iceland and joined the escort of Convoy ON-184.
b) At 0730 hours, a Spitfire aircraft of No. 542 Squadron RAF flew across the Ruhr region and photographed the extent of the damage from the Dambuster Raid.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 19 May 1943 - Southwest of the Canary Islands

0840 - Early Morning Dawn. Setting Full Moon in WSW.

0942 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.3695DS - Days Run: 177.2nm - ↗ 170.7nm (21h 50') - ↘ 6.5nm (2h 10')
Total: 2763.1nm (14tg 22h) - ↗ 2656.1nm (13tg 7h 34') - ↘ 107.0nm (1tg 14h 26')
470cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 82.9%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; NNW7/6 medium swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1212 - F.T. from U 954: To B.d.U.:
After Wabo attack by escort, heavy water entry, unable to dive. - Loewe -

Cmdr.: B.d.U.'s youngest son Peter, is Watch Officer on U 954.

1313 - F.T. from U 273: To B.d.U.:
Surprised by aircraft. Bombs. After section and 15 men gone. Sinking. - Rossmann -

1601 - Change of Watch - Wind and Sea subsiding.

1900 - WNW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2113 - Qu.3975DS - Crash Dive for training. T=10 after 39sec.

2116 - A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

2127 - At Reception Depth (60m in 10min. at 96rpm).

2133 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm.
SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2136 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2138 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. 185RPM/Small-Ahead/7kn.

2140 - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10kn.

2145 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13kn.

2150 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16kn.

2155 - 496RPM/A.K./18kn/30min.

2225 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2240 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2304 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1.5h.

2309 - New Course 180°.

2310 - Charging batteries (82.9%):
Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 19 May 1943 - Southwest of the Canary Islands

0840 - Early Morning Dawn. Setting Full Moon in WSW.

0942 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.3695DS - Days Run: 177.2nm - ↗ 170.7nm (21h 50') - ↘ 6.5nm (2h 10')
Total: 2763.1nm (14tg 22h) - ↗ 2656.1nm (13tg 7h 34') - ↘ 107.0nm (1tg 14h 26')
470cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 211°; Battery 82.9%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; NNW7/6 medium swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1212 - F.T. from U 954: To B.d.U.:
After Wabo attack by escort, heavy water entry, unable to dive. - Loewe -

Cmdr.: B.d.U.'s youngest son Peter, is Watch Officer on U 954.

1313 - F.T. from U 273: To B.d.U.:
Surprised by aircraft. Bombs. After section and 15 men gone. Sinking. - Rossmann -

1601 - Change of Watch - Wind and Sea subsiding.

1900 - WNW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2113 - Qu.3975DS - Crash Dive for training. T=10 after 39sec.

2116 - A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

2127 - At Reception Depth (60m in 10min. at 96rpm).

2133 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm.
SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2136 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2138 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. 185RPM/Small-Ahead/7kn.

2140 - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10kn.

2145 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13kn.

2150 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16kn.

2155 - 496RPM/A.K./18kn/30min.

2225 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2240 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2304 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 1.5h.

2309 - New Course 180°.

2310 - Charging batteries (82.9%):
Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 20 May 1943 - North of the Cape Verde Islands

0050 - Batteries charged (1h 40min. for 17.1%). 2x225RPM/8kn.

0900 - Early Morning Dawn.

0957 - Sunrise. SSW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1000 - Qu.6593DS - Crash Dive for training. T=10 after 39sec.

1003 - A-Meter.

1005 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1015 - At Reception Depth (60m in 10min. at 96rpm).

1020 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm.
SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1023 - Compressed Air Supply filled. Battery 97%. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.6833DS - Days Run: 198.0nm - ↗ 195.8nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.2nm (40')
Total: 2961.1nm (15tg 22h) - ↗ 2851.9nm (14tg 6h 54') - ↘ 109.2nm (1tg 15h 06')
468cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1957 - Qu.9236DS center right - "ALARM!" for carrier-based airplane approaching from 80°true. Is already very close (no FuMB Detection or Magic Eye). Turning hard to port and A.K. toward the approaching airplane. Machine Gun Fire. After the fly-over, crash diving to A-Meter.

2000 - At A-Meter, 2 bombs behind the boat - no damages.
Returning to general course at 96rpm/2kn.

2035 - A-20 and course 180°.

2137 - Reception Depth.

2142 - Surfaced after 1h 45min. and 4.6nm.

2143 - Boat ventilated.

2147 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2215 - Qu.9239DS bottom right - FuMB Detection in 36°true, E=10000 (no Magic Eye).

2216 - "ALARM!" for carrier-based airplane approaching from 33°true, E=5100, direct approach.

2218 - At A-Meter, 2 bombs behind the boat. No damages.

Cmdr.: The direct approach by both airplanes indicate, that even carrier-based airplanes seem to have some kind of radar installed. I therefore haven given the order to immediatly dive upon FuMB and/or Magic Eye Detection.

2239 - A-20.

2301 - Reception Depth.

2306 - Surfaced after 50min. and 2.4nm.

2307 - Boat ventilated.

2312 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2305 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Chinese have launched a counter-offensive along the Yantze river.

From O.K.M.:
a) The Italian Navy withdrew all its personnel from Yalta, Ukraine; all of the Italian torpedo boats were given to the German Navy in the region.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Yesterday, Battleship USS Alabama (BB-60) arrived at Scapa Flow.

2312 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

2314 - Charging batteries (91.4%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

2356 - Batteries charged => 42min. for 8.6%. 225RPM/8kn.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 20 May 1943 - North of the Cape Verde Islands

0050 - Batteries charged (1h 40min. for 17.1%). 2x225RPM/8kn.

0900 - Early Morning Dawn.

0957 - Sunrise. SSW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1000 - Qu.6593DS - Crash Dive for training. T=10 after 39sec.

1003 - A-Meter.

1005 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1015 - At Reception Depth (60m in 10min. at 96rpm).

1020 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm.
SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1023 - Compressed Air Supply filled. Battery 97%. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.6833DS - Days Run: 198.0nm - ↗ 195.8nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.2nm (40')
Total: 2961.1nm (15tg 22h) - ↗ 2851.9nm (14tg 6h 54') - ↘ 109.2nm (1tg 15h 06')
468cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 97%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SW1/1, clear light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

1957 - Qu.9236DS center right - "ALARM!" for carrier-based airplane approaching from 80°true. Is already very close (no FuMB Detection or Magic Eye). Turning hard to port and A.K. toward the approaching airplane. Machine Gun Fire. After the fly-over, crash diving to A-Meter.

2000 - At A-Meter, 2 bombs behind the boat - no damages.
Returning to general course at 96rpm/2kn.

2035 - A-20 and course 180°.

2137 - Reception Depth.

2142 - Surfaced after 1h 45min. and 4.6nm.

2143 - Boat ventilated.

2147 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2215 - Qu.9239DS bottom right - FuMB Detection in 36°true, E=10000 (no Magic Eye).

2216 - "ALARM!" for carrier-based airplane approaching from 33°true, E=5100, direct approach.

2218 - At A-Meter, 2 bombs behind the boat. No damages.

Cmdr.: The direct approach by both airplanes indicate, that even carrier-based airplanes seem to have some kind of radar installed. I therefore haven given the order to immediatly dive upon FuMB and/or Magic Eye Detection.

2239 - A-20.

2301 - Reception Depth.

2306 - Surfaced after 50min. and 2.4nm.

2307 - Boat ventilated.

2312 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2305 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Chinese have launched a counter-offensive along the Yantze river.

From O.K.M.:
a) The Italian Navy withdrew all its personnel from Yalta, Ukraine; all of the Italian torpedo boats were given to the German Navy in the region.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Yesterday, Battleship USS Alabama (BB-60) arrived at Scapa Flow.

2312 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

2314 - Charging batteries (91.4%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

2356 - Batteries charged => 42min. for 8.6%. 225RPM/8kn.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 21 May 1943 - Northwest of the Cape Verde Islands

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
20.5. 1957 Qu.9236DS center right and 2216 Qu.9239DS bottom right attack from carrier based airplane. Machine Gun fire and bombs. No damages. Continue outbound transit. 467cbm and 6 eels. SSW1/1, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

0910 - Early Morning Dawn. 3/4-Moon setting in WSW.

1014 - Sunrise. SSE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1200 - Qu.9836DS - Days Run: 181.6nm - ↗ 174.6nm (21h 25') - ↘ 7.0nm (2h 35')
Total: 3142.7nm (16tg 22h) - ↗ 3026.5nm (15tg 4h 19') - ↘ 116.2nm (1tg 17h 41')
466cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 100%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; E1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Fw190 Fighter bombers attacked targets on Malta.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) from 13th - 15th May in GR 5656 to 5627. Nothing sighted apart from 2 pilot vessels, with lights. Operations intended during the full moon period in JJ, then later return to Cape Town.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The Soviet GKO issued a secret order for the construction of a railroad from Komsomolsk, Khabarovsk Krai, eastern Russia to Sovetskaya Gavan 200 kilometers to the southeast, in preparation for a war against Japan.
b) The 8th Combined Air Corps was relocated to Liski, Voronezh Oblast, Russia. The air corps is attached to the Steppe Front.

2313 - Sundown. NNE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 21 May 1943 - Northwest of the Cape Verde Islands

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
20.5. 1957 Qu.9236DS center right and 2216 Qu.9239DS bottom right attack from carrier based airplane. Machine Gun fire and bombs. No damages. Continue outbound transit. 467cbm and 6 eels. SSW1/1, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb. - RST -

0910 - Early Morning Dawn. 3/4-Moon setting in WSW.

1014 - Sunrise. SSE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1200 - Qu.9836DS - Days Run: 181.6nm - ↗ 174.6nm (21h 25') - ↘ 7.0nm (2h 35')
Total: 3142.7nm (16tg 22h) - ↗ 3026.5nm (15tg 4h 19') - ↘ 116.2nm (1tg 17h 41')
466cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 100%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; E1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2304 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Fw190 Fighter bombers attacked targets on Malta.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) from 13th - 15th May in GR 5656 to 5627. Nothing sighted apart from 2 pilot vessels, with lights. Operations intended during the full moon period in JJ, then later return to Cape Town.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The Soviet GKO issued a secret order for the construction of a railroad from Komsomolsk, Khabarovsk Krai, eastern Russia to Sovetskaya Gavan 200 kilometers to the southeast, in preparation for a war against Japan.
b) The 8th Combined Air Corps was relocated to Liski, Voronezh Oblast, Russia. The air corps is attached to the Steppe Front.

2313 - Sundown. NNE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 22 May 1943 - West of the Cape Verde Islands

0920 - Early Morning Dawn.

1023 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.3869EH - Days Run: 196.0nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 3338.7nm (17tg 22h) - ↗ 3222.5nm (16tg 4h 19') - ↘ 116.2nm (1tg 17h 41')
464cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 100%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 13h.

1405 - Qu.3899EH - 2nd Op. Target completed.

1415 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1418 - T=30. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1511 - Tube I serviced.

1602 - Tube II serviced - Watch Change at 1607 -

1658 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H) - Break and dinner until 1800 -

1851 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1905 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1942 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1949 - Reception Depth.

2002 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & 308. 145rpm/3kn.

2045 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 145rpm.

2057 - Boat rises to T=17.

2058 - Boat is level at Reception Depth (140m in 13min. at 145rpm).

2105 - Surfaced after 6h 50min. and 18.8nm.
WNW6/5, light swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2106 - Boat ventilated. Battery 82.9%.

2109 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2125 - Course 161°. Boat heading toward supply boat ("Milkcow" U 460; Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor; until 29.5. in Qu.8756ES).

2319 - Sundown. SW6/5, light swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2330 - Qu.6347EH -


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 22 May 1943 - West of the Cape Verde Islands

0920 - Early Morning Dawn.

1023 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11h.

1200 - Qu.3869EH - Days Run: 196.0nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 3338.7nm (17tg 22h) - ↗ 3222.5nm (16tg 4h 19') - ↘ 116.2nm (1tg 17h 41')
464cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 180°; Battery 100%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 13h.

1405 - Qu.3899EH - 2nd Op. Target completed.

1415 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1418 - T=30. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1511 - Tube I serviced.

1602 - Tube II serviced - Watch Change at 1607 -

1658 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H) - Break and dinner until 1800 -

1851 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1905 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1942 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1949 - Reception Depth.

2002 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & 308. 145rpm/3kn.

2045 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 145rpm.

2057 - Boat rises to T=17.

2058 - Boat is level at Reception Depth (140m in 13min. at 145rpm).

2105 - Surfaced after 6h 50min. and 18.8nm.
WNW6/5, light swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2106 - Boat ventilated. Battery 82.9%.

2109 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2125 - Course 161°. Boat heading toward supply boat ("Milkcow" U 460; Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor; until 29.5. in Qu.8756ES).

2319 - Sundown. SW6/5, light swell, clear light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2330 - Qu.6347EH -


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 23 May 1943 - West of the Cape Verde Islands

0200 - Qu.6378EH - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached second patrol point acc. Op.Orders. Heading toward supply boat. 463cbm. 6 eels. SW6/5, clear, light haze, medium visibility,>1000mb. - RST -

0930 - Qu.6688EH - Early Morning Dawn.

1035 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 13.5h.

1104 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
O.K.M.-Report about overwhelming superiority of enemy Anti Submarine Warfare, with total air patrol cover and equipping of enemy aircraft with new radar technology and enemy escorts with new Wabo throwers.

1112 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all boats:
Acc. O.K.M.-Report as per B.d.U. F.T.1104/23/5, after 14 boats had been lost in the Atlantic in February, in March 13 and in April 12, the extent of the losses in the Atlantic in May has already reached the figure of 31 boats lost up to the 22nd May, and 2 further ones have probably been lost in the operation against HX 239.
Losses, even heavy losses, must be borne when they are accompanied by corresponding sinkings. But, in May in the Atlantic, the sinking of about 10,000 GRT had to be paid for by loss of a boat, while not long ago there was loss only with the sinking of about 100,000 GRT. The losses in May have, therefore, reached an impossible height. For one, they were lost during convoy operations and for another, during passage of the Bay of Biscay. Under the current circumstances, it is impossible to continue with convoy operations.
- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -

1200 - Qu.6929EH - Days Run: 156.6nm - ↗ 137.8nm (17h 10') - ↘ 18.8nm (6h 50')
Total: 3495.3nm (18tg 22h) - ↗ 3360.3nm (16tg 21h 29') - ↘ 135.0nm (2tg 0h 31')
463cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 161°; Battery 83%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 15h.

1824 - East7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2212 - Qu.7147EJ -

2305 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Yesterday, The Führer, Erhard Milch, Adolf Galland, Willy Messerschmitt and others previewed the Me 262 jet fighter at Lechfeld, München-Oberbayern. The Führer liked the jet and demanded it to be used as a bomber.
b) The heaviest air raid of the war thus far, was launched today by the RAF against Dortmund.

From B.d.U.:
a) Op.-Order No.55 about Flak-Uboats (U 441 & U 256), incl. Enclosure 1 to Operational Order No.55, detailing Instructions of Flak-Op. when attacked by A/C on surface, from 07 May 1943; to be used in conjunction with Operational Order Atlantic No. 54.

2316 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 23 May 1943 - West of the Cape Verde Islands

0200 - Qu.6378EH - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached second patrol point acc. Op.Orders. Heading toward supply boat. 463cbm. 6 eels. SW6/5, clear, light haze, medium visibility,>1000mb. - RST -

0930 - Qu.6688EH - Early Morning Dawn.

1035 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 13.5h.

1104 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
O.K.M.-Report about overwhelming superiority of enemy Anti Submarine Warfare, with total air patrol cover and equipping of enemy aircraft with new radar technology and enemy escorts with new Wabo throwers.

1112 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all boats:
Acc. O.K.M.-Report as per B.d.U. F.T.1104/23/5, after 14 boats had been lost in the Atlantic in February, in March 13 and in April 12, the extent of the losses in the Atlantic in May has already reached the figure of 31 boats lost up to the 22nd May, and 2 further ones have probably been lost in the operation against HX 239.
Losses, even heavy losses, must be borne when they are accompanied by corresponding sinkings. But, in May in the Atlantic, the sinking of about 10,000 GRT had to be paid for by loss of a boat, while not long ago there was loss only with the sinking of about 100,000 GRT. The losses in May have, therefore, reached an impossible height. For one, they were lost during convoy operations and for another, during passage of the Bay of Biscay. Under the current circumstances, it is impossible to continue with convoy operations.
- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -

1200 - Qu.6929EH - Days Run: 156.6nm - ↗ 137.8nm (17h 10') - ↘ 18.8nm (6h 50')
Total: 3495.3nm (18tg 22h) - ↗ 3360.3nm (16tg 21h 29') - ↘ 135.0nm (2tg 0h 31')
463cbm (1cbm in 24h); Course 161°; Battery 83%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 15h.

1824 - East7/6, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

2212 - Qu.7147EJ -

2305 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Yesterday, The Führer, Erhard Milch, Adolf Galland, Willy Messerschmitt and others previewed the Me 262 jet fighter at Lechfeld, München-Oberbayern. The Führer liked the jet and demanded it to be used as a bomber.
b) The heaviest air raid of the war thus far, was launched today by the RAF against Dortmund.

From B.d.U.:
a) Op.-Order No.55 about Flak-Uboats (U 441 & U 256), incl. Enclosure 1 to Operational Order No.55, detailing Instructions of Flak-Op. when attacked by A/C on surface, from 07 May 1943; to be used in conjunction with Operational Order Atlantic No. 54.

2316 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 24 May 1943 - Southwest of the Cape Verde Islands

0400 - Qu.7443EJ - SSW5/4, medium swell, overcast, light haze, limited visibility, ~1000mb.

0745 - Qu.7488EJ - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec.

1748 - A-Meter.

0800 - A-20.

0952 - Reception Depth. CO₂ 1.3%; Compressed Air Supply 260 Atü; Battery 80%.

1000 - Surfaced after 2h 15min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

1005 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1038 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6.5h.

1104 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all boats:

Orders were given on May 22nd as follows ("All Waves"):

(Message 1752):
The danger of being surprised by locating aircraft is very great, especially at night. The following orders are, therefore, given:
1) Procedure when approaching and returning from the Biscay area and approaching the area home North Atlantic as in Permanent Order No. 13.
2) Procedure in the operational area North Atlantic when cruising and stopping in position.
a) By night: One electric motor slow to half speed, other motor Diesel ready to start up. Boats ventilator switched off. Reason for this: To be able to confirm approaching aircraft by hydrophone. MG ready and manned.
b) By day: With higher cruising speed than before confirm that boat can be easily maneuvered and is able to dive.
c) If weather conditions are unfavorable by day and night proceed only underwater.
3) When contacting the enemy: Operations as before.

(Message 1769):
In almost every operation boats are seriously endangered by submerging in view of aircraft even when a safe depth cannot be reached before the bombs are released. It should be impressed on all Officers of the Watch that when the protective depth i.e. 80 to 100 m., can no longer be attained with certainty before bombs are released, i.e. always when the watch on the bridge is taken by surprise, it is best to remain surfaced and ward off the aircraft attack with Flak guns. We do not know how often loss has been caused by submerging too late. However, we do know that defense measures when surfaced have led to success in all cases reported.
Apart from this, the situation in the North Atlantic now forces a temporary shifting of operations to areas less endangered by aircraft. The following areas come into consideration: the Caribbean Sea, the area off Trinidad, the area off the Brazilian and West African coasts. It is, therefore, intended to operate primarily with VIIC boats in these areas, as far as permitted by the supply situation. If necessary, operational boats must also be sent in to supply other boats. With the boats at present in the North Atlantic, operations will be made against the traffic between USA and Gibraltar - as far as these boats are able to do this with their fuel. The North Atlantic cannot, however, be entirely denuded of boats. It is necessary, by means of single boats, to leave the enemy in ignorance as long as possible regarding alterations in tactics. For this operation in the North Atlantic boats are available now which cannot be sent elsewhere in view of their fuel supplies, and also boats coming from home waters for their first operations, which must be assigned the stay in the North Atlantic in spite of the difficult conditions. It is intended to attempt attacks on a convoy only under particularly favorable conditions, i.e. in the time of the new moon. The new moon period at the end of June is the first to come into consideration, since the boats at present in the North Atlantic are no longer operational enough. It will be necessary to assign several veteran boats for this as a support for the newer boats in the North Atlantic.
These decisions comprise a temporary deviation from the former principles for the conduct of U-boat warfare. This is necessary in order not to allow the U-boats to be beaten at a time when their weapons are inferior, by unnecessary losses while achieving very slight success. It is, however, clearly understood that the main operational area of U-boats is, as it always was, in the North Atlantic and that operations must be resumed there with every determination as soon as the U-boats are given the necessary weapons for this. Equipment with 2 cm., quadruples, which will begin as from June to an increasing degree will be the first step in this direction, equipment with Zaunkönig torpedoes (anti-destroyer) the second step, while improvement of location devices at the moment is still to be considered. It is, however, anticipated that after equipment with quadruples, i.e. from the Autumn, the battle of the North Atlantis will be completely resumed once more.
In the meantime it is essential that the morale of the men should not be affected by these temporary defensive measures, a task which requires full cooperation of the Commanding Officers, as well as the personal touch of the Commander in Chief of the Navy.

- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -


1200 - Qu.7729EJ - Days Run: 179.5nm - ↗ 173.4nm (21h 45') - ↘ 6.1nm (2h 15')
Total: 3674.8nm (19tg 22h) - ↗ 3533.7nm (17tg 19h 14') - ↘ 141.1nm (2tg 2h 46')
461cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 161°; Battery 80%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 8h.

1605 - Qu.7794EJ - WSW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.
Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec.

1608 - A-Meter.

1625 - A-20.

1807 - Reception Depth. CO₂ 1.3%; Compressed Air Supply 265 Atü; Battery 74.3%.

1815 - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 5.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged since 1600.

1816 - Boat ventilated.

1821 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2312 - Sundown. SW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb, shifting South.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[propbeanie]

I am really curious about this, Kapitän:
...
2) Procedure in the operational area North Atlantic when cruising and stopping in position.
a) By night: One electric motor slow to half speed, other motor Diesel ready to start up. Boats ventilator switched off. Reason for this: To be able to confirm approaching aircraft by hydrophone. MG ready and manned.
...
How did they accomplish that? Thank you! :salute:

[Kapitän]

I am really curious about this, Kapitän:

How did they accomplish that? Thank you! :salute:

Hello propbeanie,

Yes, very good question! I actually wondered about this as well.

Mind you, this is an English translation of the original B.d.U.-KTB in German, and I do not have the German original at hand.

Perhaps, it was translated into English incorrectly. On the other hand, within the context, what other means would the Uboat crews have, to listen for approaching a/c, than the hydrophone. So, I'm guessing, that this was actually possible.

However, I have no record of this ever being done or to what extend this method was successful.

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 24 May 1943 - Southwest of the Cape Verde Islands

0400 - Qu.7443EJ - SSW5/4, medium swell, overcast, light haze, limited visibility, ~1000mb.

0745 - Qu.7488EJ - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec.

1748 - A-Meter.

0800 - A-20.

0952 - Reception Depth. CO₂ 1.3%; Compressed Air Supply 260 Atü; Battery 80%.

1000 - Surfaced after 2h 15min. and 6.1nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged.

1005 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1038 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6.5h.

1104 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all boats:

Orders were given on May 22nd as follows ("All Waves"):

(Message 1752):
The danger of being surprised by locating aircraft is very great, especially at night. The following orders are, therefore, given:
1) Procedure when approaching and returning from the Biscay area and approaching the area home North Atlantic as in Permanent Order No. 13.
2) Procedure in the operational area North Atlantic when cruising and stopping in position.
a) By night: One electric motor slow to half speed, other motor Diesel ready to start up. Boats ventilator switched off. Reason for this: To be able to confirm approaching aircraft by hydrophone. MG ready and manned.
b) By day: With higher cruising speed than before confirm that boat can be easily maneuvered and is able to dive.
c) If weather conditions are unfavorable by day and night proceed only underwater.
3) When contacting the enemy: Operations as before.

(Message 1769):
In almost every operation boats are seriously endangered by submerging in view of aircraft even when a safe depth cannot be reached before the bombs are released. It should be impressed on all Officers of the Watch that when the protective depth i.e. 80 to 100 m., can no longer be attained with certainty before bombs are released, i.e. always when the watch on the bridge is taken by surprise, it is best to remain surfaced and ward off the aircraft attack with Flak guns. We do not know how often loss has been caused by submerging too late. However, we do know that defense measures when surfaced have led to success in all cases reported.
Apart from this, the situation in the North Atlantic now forces a temporary shifting of operations to areas less endangered by aircraft. The following areas come into consideration: the Caribbean Sea, the area off Trinidad, the area off the Brazilian and West African coasts. It is, therefore, intended to operate primarily with VIIC boats in these areas, as far as permitted by the supply situation. If necessary, operational boats must also be sent in to supply other boats. With the boats at present in the North Atlantic, operations will be made against the traffic between USA and Gibraltar - as far as these boats are able to do this with their fuel. The North Atlantic cannot, however, be entirely denuded of boats. It is necessary, by means of single boats, to leave the enemy in ignorance as long as possible regarding alterations in tactics. For this operation in the North Atlantic boats are available now which cannot be sent elsewhere in view of their fuel supplies, and also boats coming from home waters for their first operations, which must be assigned the stay in the North Atlantic in spite of the difficult conditions. It is intended to attempt attacks on a convoy only under particularly favorable conditions, i.e. in the time of the new moon. The new moon period at the end of June is the first to come into consideration, since the boats at present in the North Atlantic are no longer operational enough. It will be necessary to assign several veteran boats for this as a support for the newer boats in the North Atlantic.
These decisions comprise a temporary deviation from the former principles for the conduct of U-boat warfare. This is necessary in order not to allow the U-boats to be beaten at a time when their weapons are inferior, by unnecessary losses while achieving very slight success. It is, however, clearly understood that the main operational area of U-boats is, as it always was, in the North Atlantic and that operations must be resumed there with every determination as soon as the U-boats are given the necessary weapons for this. Equipment with 2 cm., quadruples, which will begin as from June to an increasing degree will be the first step in this direction, equipment with Zaunkönig torpedoes (anti-destroyer) the second step, while improvement of location devices at the moment is still to be considered. It is, however, anticipated that after equipment with quadruples, i.e. from the Autumn, the battle of the North Atlantis will be completely resumed once more.
In the meantime it is essential that the morale of the men should not be affected by these temporary defensive measures, a task which requires full cooperation of the Commanding Officers, as well as the personal touch of the Commander in Chief of the Navy.

- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -


1200 - Qu.7729EJ - Days Run: 179.5nm - ↗ 173.4nm (21h 45') - ↘ 6.1nm (2h 15')
Total: 3674.8nm (19tg 22h) - ↗ 3533.7nm (17tg 19h 14') - ↘ 141.1nm (2tg 2h 46')
461cbm (2cbm in 24h); Course 161°; Battery 80%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged in 8h.

1605 - Qu.7794EJ - WSW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.
Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec.

1608 - A-Meter.

1625 - A-20.

1807 - Reception Depth. CO₂ 1.3%; Compressed Air Supply 265 Atü; Battery 74.3%.

1815 - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 5.8nm.
Weather and Sea unchanged since 1600.

1816 - Boat ventilated.

1821 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2312 - Sundown. SW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb, shifting South.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 25 May 1943 - South of the Cape Verde Islands

- 3rd week at sea completed -


0035 - Qu.1271ES - SSW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb, shifting East.

0308 - Qu.1512ES - East6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

0700 - Qu.1557ES - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0707 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0758 - Tube I serviced.

0815 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0811 -

0849 - Tube II serviced.

0940 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H).

1031 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1042 - Sunrise.

1122 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1130 - Reception Depth. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1150 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1200 - Qu.1584ES - Days Run: 152.5nm - ↗ 133.2nm (16h 50') - ↘ 19.3nm (7h 10')
Total: 3827.3nm (20tg 22h) - ↗ 3666.9nm (18tg 12h 04') - ↘ 160.4nm (2tg 9h 56')
458cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; T=A+50; Battery 63%; CO₂ 1.8%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1216 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 145rpm.

1227 - At A-Meter, 96rpm.

1231 - Boat rises to T=18.5m.

1234 - Boat is level at Reception Depth (140m in 18min. at 145rpm and 96rpm). Battery 61.5%; Compressed Air Supply 285 Atü; CO₂ 1.8%.

1239 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all U-boat Commanders:

1) Our heavy U-boat losses in the last month are to be attributed primarily to the present superiority of enemy location gear and the surprise attacks from the air enabled by these. More than half of these losses have occurred by reason of their surprise tactics, on approach and return passage, as well as in the operational area in attack positions. The losses in attacks against convoys themselves were, however, slight except for one case in which conditions were particularly unfavorable. A part of these losses also occurred through air attack.
2) The present situation in regard to enemy aircraft and enemy location must be counterbalanced, through entailing other disadvantages, by special precautionary measures while proceeding and in waiting positions. Orders regarding this have been issued. I shall also come to further conclusions in the selection of operational area.
3) I am directing my whole attention to the improvement of our own location, anti-location means and Flak armament. This problem is being worked on everywhere with great concentration. Practical results will shortly be introduced for operations. Until then cruising and waiting must be carried out with skill and care, but actual attacks with the same tenacity as ever.

- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -


1240 - Surfaced after 40min. and 2.2nm since Etmal (Total: 5h 40min. and 15.7nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 9.5h.

1242 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1611 - SE1/1, partly cloudy, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1615 - Charging batteries (61.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

1930 - Batteries charged => 3h 15min. for 38.5%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/7kn

1935 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10kn.

1940 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13kn.

1945 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16kn.

1950 - 496RPM/A.K./18kn/30min.

2020 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2035 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2311 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1611 (7h).


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 25 May 1943 - South of the Cape Verde Islands

- 3rd week at sea completed -


0035 - Qu.1271ES - SSW6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb, shifting East.

0308 - Qu.1512ES - East6/5, medium swell, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

0700 - Qu.1557ES - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0707 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0758 - Tube I serviced.

0815 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0811 -

0849 - Tube II serviced.

0940 - Tube III serviced (tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H).

1031 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1042 - Sunrise.

1122 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1130 - Reception Depth. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1150 - CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1200 - Qu.1584ES - Days Run: 152.5nm - ↗ 133.2nm (16h 50') - ↘ 19.3nm (7h 10')
Total: 3827.3nm (20tg 22h) - ↗ 3666.9nm (18tg 12h 04') - ↘ 160.4nm (2tg 9h 56')
458cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; T=A+50; Battery 63%; CO₂ 1.8%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1216 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 145rpm.

1227 - At A-Meter, 96rpm.

1231 - Boat rises to T=18.5m.

1234 - Boat is level at Reception Depth (140m in 18min. at 145rpm and 96rpm). Battery 61.5%; Compressed Air Supply 285 Atü; CO₂ 1.8%.

1239 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To all U-boat Commanders:

1) Our heavy U-boat losses in the last month are to be attributed primarily to the present superiority of enemy location gear and the surprise attacks from the air enabled by these. More than half of these losses have occurred by reason of their surprise tactics, on approach and return passage, as well as in the operational area in attack positions. The losses in attacks against convoys themselves were, however, slight except for one case in which conditions were particularly unfavorable. A part of these losses also occurred through air attack.
2) The present situation in regard to enemy aircraft and enemy location must be counterbalanced, through entailing other disadvantages, by special precautionary measures while proceeding and in waiting positions. Orders regarding this have been issued. I shall also come to further conclusions in the selection of operational area.
3) I am directing my whole attention to the improvement of our own location, anti-location means and Flak armament. This problem is being worked on everywhere with great concentration. Practical results will shortly be introduced for operations. Until then cruising and waiting must be carried out with skill and care, but actual attacks with the same tenacity as ever.

- signed - B.d.U. & Grand Admiral Karl Dönitz -


1240 - Surfaced after 40min. and 2.2nm since Etmal (Total: 5h 40min. and 15.7nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 9.5h.

1242 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1611 - SE1/1, partly cloudy, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1615 - Charging batteries (61.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

1930 - Batteries charged => 3h 15min. for 38.5%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/7kn

1935 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10kn.

1940 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13kn.

1945 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16kn.

1950 - 496RPM/A.K./18kn/30min.

2020 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2035 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2311 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1611 (7h).


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 26 May 1943 - West of Freetown

0950 - Early Morning Dawn.

1049 - Sunrise. SE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1200 - Qu.4922ES - Days Run: 199.5nm - ↗ 197.3nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.2nm (40')
Total: 4026.8nm (21tg 22h) - ↗ 3864.2nm (19tg 11h 24') - ↘ 162.6nm (2tg 10h 36')
455cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1400 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Will be a Supply Boat 27.5., 1400. - RST -

2305 - Sundown. NNE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

To all U-boat Officers:

Most Secret

Order of the Day, from 24.May 1943.


The increasingly hard and bitter struggle against our victory leads me to emphasize to you the seriousness of our present situation and future. You know that we are fighting off successfully with the army and air force on all fronts the extremely strong attacks of the enemy, engagements being very heavy in some cases. This battle for the security of the homeland and occupied territories must be carried in in order to ensure food for our people and the manufacture of weapons and ammunition for the front. You must understand clearly that the present struggle only constitutes a stand against an enemy stronger in men and material but it does not suffice to bring about a speedy and definite victory.

You alone can, at the moment, make an offensive attack against the enemy and beat him. The U-boat must, by continuous sinking of ships with war material and the necessary supplies for the British Isles, force the enemy to continual losses which must slowly but steadily sap the strength of the strongest force. The German people have long felt that our boats constitute the keenest and most decisive weapon and that the outcome of the war depends on the success or failure of the Battle of the Atlantic.

Each one of you must be aware of his great responsibility and every Commanding Officer must be able to say that he has conducted operations with every effort and tenacity in order to attain our important goal. I know that operations for you out there at the moment are some of the hardest and most costly in losses, since the enemy's defence at the moment is superior in view of new technical methods. Believe me, I have done everything and will continue to do so, in order to introduce means to counter this enemy advance. The time will soon come in which you will be superior to the enemy with new and stronger weapons and will be able to triumph over your worst enemies, the aircraft and the destroyer.

In the meantime we must master the situation with the measures already ordered and with a partial change in operational areas. We will, therefore, not allow ourselves to be forced into the defensive and will not rest but, where there is an opportunity, continue to strike and fight on with still more fortitude and decision in order to make ourselves even stronger for the decisive Battle of the North Atlantic, which will be carried out shortly with improved weapons, in the area most vulnerable for the enemy.

We will then be the victors, - my faith in our boats and in you convinces me of this.

Heil Hitler,
Commander in Chief
Dönitz


From O.K.W.:
a) At Peenemünde, before Hermann Göring, Erhard Milch, and other top German leaders, a A-4 rocket (V-2) and a flying bomb (V-1) were tested. The A-4 rocket flew perfectly, while the flying bomb crashed only after a mile or two of flight.
b) Starting at about 0200 hours, 759 British heavy bombers attacked Düsseldorf.
c) The Red Army launched an offensive against our troops in the Kuban bridgehead between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 26 May 1943 - West of Freetown

0950 - Early Morning Dawn.

1049 - Sunrise. SE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1200 - Qu.4922ES - Days Run: 199.5nm - ↗ 197.3nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.2nm (40')
Total: 4026.8nm (21tg 22h) - ↗ 3864.2nm (19tg 11h 24') - ↘ 162.6nm (2tg 10h 36')
455cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1400 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Will be a Supply Boat 27.5., 1400. - RST -

2305 - Sundown. NNE1/1, partly cloudy, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

To all U-boat Officers:

Most Secret

Order of the Day, from 24.May 1943.


The increasingly hard and bitter struggle against our victory leads me to emphasize to you the seriousness of our present situation and future. You know that we are fighting off successfully with the army and air force on all fronts the extremely strong attacks of the enemy, engagements being very heavy in some cases. This battle for the security of the homeland and occupied territories must be carried in in order to ensure food for our people and the manufacture of weapons and ammunition for the front. You must understand clearly that the present struggle only constitutes a stand against an enemy stronger in men and material but it does not suffice to bring about a speedy and definite victory.

You alone can, at the moment, make an offensive attack against the enemy and beat him. The U-boat must, by continuous sinking of ships with war material and the necessary supplies for the British Isles, force the enemy to continual losses which must slowly but steadily sap the strength of the strongest force. The German people have long felt that our boats constitute the keenest and most decisive weapon and that the outcome of the war depends on the success or failure of the Battle of the Atlantic.

Each one of you must be aware of his great responsibility and every Commanding Officer must be able to say that he has conducted operations with every effort and tenacity in order to attain our important goal. I know that operations for you out there at the moment are some of the hardest and most costly in losses, since the enemy's defence at the moment is superior in view of new technical methods. Believe me, I have done everything and will continue to do so, in order to introduce means to counter this enemy advance. The time will soon come in which you will be superior to the enemy with new and stronger weapons and will be able to triumph over your worst enemies, the aircraft and the destroyer.

In the meantime we must master the situation with the measures already ordered and with a partial change in operational areas. We will, therefore, not allow ourselves to be forced into the defensive and will not rest but, where there is an opportunity, continue to strike and fight on with still more fortitude and decision in order to make ourselves even stronger for the decisive Battle of the North Atlantic, which will be carried out shortly with improved weapons, in the area most vulnerable for the enemy.

We will then be the victors, - my faith in our boats and in you convinces me of this.

Heil Hitler,
Commander in Chief
Dönitz


From O.K.W.:
a) At Peenemünde, before Hermann Göring, Erhard Milch, and other top German leaders, a A-4 rocket (V-2) and a flying bomb (V-1) were tested. The A-4 rocket flew perfectly, while the flying bomb crashed only after a mile or two of flight.
b) Starting at about 0200 hours, 759 British heavy bombers attacked Düsseldorf.
c) The Red Army launched an offensive against our troops in the Kuban bridgehead between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her task group arrived at Argentia, Newfoundland.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 27 May 1943 - Middle Atlantic

0000 - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting North: N4/3, partly cloudy, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

0950 - Early Morning Dawn. NW6/5, medium swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1052 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.8728ES - Days Run: 195.5nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 4222.3nm (22tg 22h) - ↗ 4059.7nm (20tg 11h 24') - ↘ 162.6nm (2tg 10h 36')
452cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged since Morning Dawn.

1335 - 4000m from the Supply Boat position, nothing can be seen.

1340 - Diving to Reception Depth.

1540 - No sound contact of supply boat. Surfaced after 2h and 5.2nm. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6h.

1541 - Boat ventilated.

1548 - Qu.8759ES - Course 270°.

Standing up and down in ordered supply area. Nothing seen of supply boat.

2309 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchaned in 13h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 27 May 1943 - Middle Atlantic

0000 - Wind and Sea increasing, shifting North: N4/3, partly cloudy, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

0950 - Early Morning Dawn. NW6/5, medium swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1052 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.8728ES - Days Run: 195.5nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 4222.3nm (22tg 22h) - ↗ 4059.7nm (20tg 11h 24') - ↘ 162.6nm (2tg 10h 36')
452cbm (3cbm in 24h); Course 161°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; Weather and Sea unchanged since Morning Dawn.

1335 - 4000m from the Supply Boat position, nothing can be seen.

1340 - Diving to Reception Depth.

1540 - No sound contact of supply boat. Surfaced after 2h and 5.2nm. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6h.

1541 - Boat ventilated.

1548 - Qu.8759ES - Course 270°.

Standing up and down in ordered supply area. Nothing seen of supply boat.

2309 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchaned in 13h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 28 May 1943 - Southwest of Freetown

0258 - Qu.8756ES - NW7/6, overcast, rain, poor visibility, <1000mb - Running off on course 90°.

0300 - Diving due to poor visibility. Submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

0755 - Qu.8765ES - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1057 - S-Tiefe. It has cleared up but there is still a medium swell. CO₂ is 2.2%.

1100 - Surfaced after 20.9nm and 8h.
NNW7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1101 - Boat ventilated. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.8844ES - Days Run: 120.5nm - ↗ 94.4nm (14h) - ↘ 26.1nm (10')
Total: 4342.8nm (23tg 22h) - ↗ 4154.1nm (21tg 01h 24') - ↘ 188.7nm (2tg 20h 36')
450.5cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 80%; Course 90°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb

1215 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Supply boat not found. 450cbm. NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb. Moving off to the East. - RST -

1230 - Qu.8845ES - Course 180°.

1320 - Qu.8848ES - Course 270°. Heading back to the supply area.

1729 - Qu.8759ES - E7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb - Course 340°.

1834 - Course 270°. No sight of supply boat.

2118 - Qu.8746ES - NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Yesterday, fourteen Mosquito bombers from RAF Marham, conducted a daylight raid on the Zeiss optical instrument plant at Jena, some 45 miles from Leipzig. Despite losing three aircraft over the target and two others written off whilst attempting to land on their return, the operation had caused some damage to the works.
b) The 15th US Airforce attacked the Oil Refineries in Livorno, Italy.

From. B.d.U.:

B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 42 from 27 May 1943:

a) Only a plot drawn up accurately with every report on the enemy and the enemy route marked in enables one to find a convoy quickly and operate successfully against it.
b) The first night of operations always promises the best chance of success. Therefore, try to fire as quickly as possible when the convoy is reached.
c) On moonlight nights the enemy appears to protect primarily the side away from the moon. Attacks from the moon side, therefore, are more likely to be successful in many cases, also in view of less danger of location.
d) Always try to escape on the surface from locating escort vessels, since the enemy usually breaks off the chase quickly and cannot leave the convoy for too long.
e) Try to ward off escort aircraft if possible at once, if Flak guns are ready for action, but above all before dark in order not to lose valuable chances of attack.
f) Only submerge in view of aircraft if the boat can with certainty reach at least 80-100 m. If there is any doubt remain surfaced and ward off attack. Train the crew for this and keep in mind the danger of being bombed at low diving depth.
g) Make every effort to eliminate the possibilities of surprise attacks while underway and in position. Either proceed with main engine running, in order to hear aircraft beforehand, or submerge in unfavorable weather conditions.
h) In some cases decoy depth charges were again dropped with great success. Do not be deceived by these but go to periscope depth as quickly as possible, if there are no hydrophone fixes, and investigate.
j) If the convoy frequency is very busy use alternative wave lengths.

2315 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 28 May 1943 - Southwest of Freetown

0258 - Qu.8756ES - NW7/6, overcast, rain, poor visibility, <1000mb - Running off on course 90°.

0300 - Diving due to poor visibility. Submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

0755 - Qu.8765ES - CO₂ Warning at 1.7%.

1057 - S-Tiefe. It has cleared up but there is still a medium swell. CO₂ is 2.2%.

1100 - Surfaced after 20.9nm and 8h.
NNW7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

1101 - Boat ventilated. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.8844ES - Days Run: 120.5nm - ↗ 94.4nm (14h) - ↘ 26.1nm (10')
Total: 4342.8nm (23tg 22h) - ↗ 4154.1nm (21tg 01h 24') - ↘ 188.7nm (2tg 20h 36')
450.5cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 80%; Course 90°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb

1215 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Supply boat not found. 450cbm. NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb. Moving off to the East. - RST -

1230 - Qu.8845ES - Course 180°.

1320 - Qu.8848ES - Course 270°. Heading back to the supply area.

1729 - Qu.8759ES - E7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb - Course 340°.

1834 - Course 270°. No sight of supply boat.

2118 - Qu.8746ES - NE7/6, medium swell, clear, light haze, medium visibility, >1000mb.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Yesterday, fourteen Mosquito bombers from RAF Marham, conducted a daylight raid on the Zeiss optical instrument plant at Jena, some 45 miles from Leipzig. Despite losing three aircraft over the target and two others written off whilst attempting to land on their return, the operation had caused some damage to the works.
b) The 15th US Airforce attacked the Oil Refineries in Livorno, Italy.

From. B.d.U.:

B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 42 from 27 May 1943:

a) Only a plot drawn up accurately with every report on the enemy and the enemy route marked in enables one to find a convoy quickly and operate successfully against it.
b) The first night of operations always promises the best chance of success. Therefore, try to fire as quickly as possible when the convoy is reached.
c) On moonlight nights the enemy appears to protect primarily the side away from the moon. Attacks from the moon side, therefore, are more likely to be successful in many cases, also in view of less danger of location.
d) Always try to escape on the surface from locating escort vessels, since the enemy usually breaks off the chase quickly and cannot leave the convoy for too long.
e) Try to ward off escort aircraft if possible at once, if Flak guns are ready for action, but above all before dark in order not to lose valuable chances of attack.
f) Only submerge in view of aircraft if the boat can with certainty reach at least 80-100 m. If there is any doubt remain surfaced and ward off attack. Train the crew for this and keep in mind the danger of being bombed at low diving depth.
g) Make every effort to eliminate the possibilities of surprise attacks while underway and in position. Either proceed with main engine running, in order to hear aircraft beforehand, or submerge in unfavorable weather conditions.
h) In some cases decoy depth charges were again dropped with great success. Do not be deceived by these but go to periscope depth as quickly as possible, if there are no hydrophone fixes, and investigate.
j) If the convoy frequency is very busy use alternative wave lengths.

2315 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 2h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 29 May 1943 - Middle Atlantic

0025 - Qu.7966ES -

0033 - As contact with the Supply Boat cannot be established and the weather report does not suggest any improvement of the seastate any time soon, decision is made to continue with the outbound transit. Running off on southerly heading. 2x225RPM/8kn.

0121 - Qu.7969ES - Course 169°.

0700 - Qu.2141FD - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Trial Dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0814 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0808 -

0848 - Tube II serviced.

0939 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1100 -

1109 - Sunrise.

1151 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H). CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 51min.). Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.2148FD - Days Run: 151.7nm - ↗ 138.7nm (19h) - ↘ 13.0nm (5h)
Total: 4494.5nm (24tg 22h) - ↗ 4292.8nm (21tg 20h 24') - ↘ 201.7nm (3tg 01h 36')
448.5cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 71.4%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=A-20; CO₂ =1.7%. - Lunch Break -

1257 - S-Tiefe. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1300 - Reception Depth. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1340 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1357 - Boat rises to T=19.5m. (17min. for 140m).

1400 - Weather and Sea appear to be unchanged. Battery 65.7%; Compressed Air Supply 265 Atü; CO₂ 2%.

1405 - Surfaced after 2h 05' and 6.2nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 05' and 19.2nm). - N6/5, medium swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1410 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Qu.2172FD - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

1710 - Batteries charged => 2h 55min. for 34.3%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/7kn.

2005 - Qu.2443FD - NW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec.

2007 - A-Meter.

2010 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

2019 - Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 97%.

2025 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm. - WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2028 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2030 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. - 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/6.8kn.

2030 - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10.6kn.

2035 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13.4kn.

2040 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16.5kn.

2045 - 496RPM/A.K./18.3kn/30min.

2115 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2130 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Major air raid by the RAF against Wuppertal with 1,900 tons of explosives. The British claim that half of the city has been destroyed. There were many civilian casualties.

From B.d.U.:
a) In order to make it difficult for enemy aircraft in the Biscay area to find U-boats and in order, in case of enemy air attacks, to be able to counter the enemy when surfaced, which has proved to be most practical , with heavy and successful gunfire, all boats returning in a position W. of 16° should continue the return passage together, through the Biscay area in Groups up to 4 boats.
b) U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) which is able to submerge and is proceeding with U 952 (Oblt. Oskar Curio) will be closely escorted on the 30th May by 5 Ju. 88 until met by escorts.
c) Since U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert; ex Heyse) did not arrive for refueling she must be considered lost.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 29 May 1943 - Middle Atlantic

0025 - Qu.7966ES -

0033 - As contact with the Supply Boat cannot be established and the weather report does not suggest any improvement of the seastate any time soon, decision is made to continue with the outbound transit. Running off on southerly heading. 2x225RPM/8kn.

0121 - Qu.7969ES - Course 169°.

0700 - Qu.2141FD - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Trial Dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0814 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0808 -

0848 - Tube II serviced.

0939 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1100 -

1109 - Sunrise.

1151 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H). CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 51min.). Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.2148FD - Days Run: 151.7nm - ↗ 138.7nm (19h) - ↘ 13.0nm (5h)
Total: 4494.5nm (24tg 22h) - ↗ 4292.8nm (21tg 20h 24') - ↘ 201.7nm (3tg 01h 36')
448.5cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 71.4%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=A-20; CO₂ =1.7%. - Lunch Break -

1257 - S-Tiefe. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1300 - Reception Depth. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1340 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1357 - Boat rises to T=19.5m. (17min. for 140m).

1400 - Weather and Sea appear to be unchanged. Battery 65.7%; Compressed Air Supply 265 Atü; CO₂ 2%.

1405 - Surfaced after 2h 05' and 6.2nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 05' and 19.2nm). - N6/5, medium swell, clear, good visibility, >1000mb.

1410 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Qu.2172FD - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/8kn.

1710 - Batteries charged => 2h 55min. for 34.3%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/7kn.

2005 - Qu.2443FD - NW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec.

2007 - A-Meter.

2010 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

2019 - Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 97%.

2025 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.1nm. - WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2028 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2030 - Test Run of main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No.510. - 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/6.8kn.

2030 - 285RPM/1/3-Ahead/10.6kn.

2035 - 375RPM/2xH.F./13.4kn.

2040 - 455RPM/Full-Ahead/16.5kn.

2045 - 496RPM/A.K./18.3kn/30min.

2115 - Reducing speed in speed settings of 5min. decrements.

2130 - 2x225RPM/8kn.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Major air raid by the RAF against Wuppertal with 1,900 tons of explosives. The British claim that half of the city has been destroyed. There were many civilian casualties.

From B.d.U.:
a) In order to make it difficult for enemy aircraft in the Biscay area to find U-boats and in order, in case of enemy air attacks, to be able to counter the enemy when surfaced, which has proved to be most practical , with heavy and successful gunfire, all boats returning in a position W. of 16° should continue the return passage together, through the Biscay area in Groups up to 4 boats.
b) U 707 (Oblt. Günther Gretschel) which is able to submerge and is proceeding with U 952 (Oblt. Oskar Curio) will be closely escorted on the 30th May by 5 Ju. 88 until met by escorts.
c) Since U 128 (Oblt. Hermann Steinert; ex Heyse) did not arrive for refueling she must be considered lost.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 30 May 1943 - Northeast of Brazil

0445 - Qu.2785FD - Crossing Equator -

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
After standing up and down for 3 days, supply boat still not found. Continued outbound transit. Switching to Circuit Afrika-I. 6 eels. 447 cbm. WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1006 - Incoming Radio Report: From B.d.U.:

The orders given, in view of the new situation, for the protection of boats against surprise aircraft attacks are summarized as follows in B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 13:

The danger of surprise by locating aircraft, particularly by night is great. The following basic principles should be observed by the boats: be as careful as possible while under way and at waiting positions - avoid losses. If the enemy is sighted then go into operation with courage and tenacity in spite of danger from aircraft, remain surfaced and ward off attacks of aircraft when necessary. It is, therefore, ordered that:
1) U-boats approaching and returning from the Biscay area up to 18° W and in the approach area home North Atlantic up to and including square AL, upper third, will proceed submerged as a general rule. They will surface only for charging the battery and ventilating the boat and only by day. Surface run by day is permissible only in very good visibility which excludes the possibility of surprise. Boats should proceed surfaced as a rule on incoming routes. Only submerge when danger of aircraft is acute. Boats will proceed out in the morning and in at evening, so that the incoming route is passed by day. See Standing Order 483, Section D 1.
2) Special instructions will follow regarding passage of several boats together.
3) Procedure in the operational area North Atlantic, i.e. AL, lower and middle third, AK, AD, AJ, BC, BD, north half BE, CG, CF east half, under way and when stopped in position.
a) By night: One main engine slow to half speed and the other Diesel engine ready to start up, boat's ventilator switched off. Reason: to detect aircraft approaching by means of hydrophone.
b) By day: With higher cruising speed than before confirm that the boats is maneuverable and able to dive.
c) If weather conditions are unfavorable, proceed only submerged by day and night.
4) Procedure in coastal area os America, the Caribbean, middle and South Atlantic according to situation and decision of the Commanding Officer.
5) When operating against the enemy no restrictions as to surface run, attack is the most important factor.
6) When proceeding on the surface always keep radar interception apparatus and Flak guns ready for action and manned.
7) B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 483, Section a) Fig. 2 and Section C) invalid at present. Carry out correction in pencil. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 13, dated April 1943 and admonitory radio message 2303/22/48/165/259/379/416/718/845 is therefore invalid and should be destroyed.
8) In message to O.K.M., O.K.W. is reporting that development of new FuMB-Technology and Accoustic Torpedoes is continuing with highest priority.

1025 - Early Morning Dawn. 1/4-Moon in the East.

1122 - Sunrise. SW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1149 - All engines stop. Manning flak guns (still outside of Ascension Island air cover zone) - Equator-Crossing Ceremony -

1200 - Qu.5194FD - Days Run: 187.9nm - ↗ 180.6nm (21h 35') - ↘ 7.3nm (2h 25')
Total: 4682.4 (25tg 22h) - ↗ 4473.4nm (22tg 17h 59') - ↘ 209.0nm (3tg 04h 01')
447cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1400 - Continuing outbound transit. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2000 - SE5/4, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2321 - Sundown.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 30 May 1943 - Northeast of Brazil

0445 - Qu.2785FD - Crossing Equator -

Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
After standing up and down for 3 days, supply boat still not found. Continued outbound transit. Switching to Circuit Afrika-I. 6 eels. 447 cbm. WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1006 - Incoming Radio Report: From B.d.U.:

The orders given, in view of the new situation, for the protection of boats against surprise aircraft attacks are summarized as follows in B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 13:

The danger of surprise by locating aircraft, particularly by night is great. The following basic principles should be observed by the boats: be as careful as possible while under way and at waiting positions - avoid losses. If the enemy is sighted then go into operation with courage and tenacity in spite of danger from aircraft, remain surfaced and ward off attacks of aircraft when necessary. It is, therefore, ordered that:
1) U-boats approaching and returning from the Biscay area up to 18° W and in the approach area home North Atlantic up to and including square AL, upper third, will proceed submerged as a general rule. They will surface only for charging the battery and ventilating the boat and only by day. Surface run by day is permissible only in very good visibility which excludes the possibility of surprise. Boats should proceed surfaced as a rule on incoming routes. Only submerge when danger of aircraft is acute. Boats will proceed out in the morning and in at evening, so that the incoming route is passed by day. See Standing Order 483, Section D 1.
2) Special instructions will follow regarding passage of several boats together.
3) Procedure in the operational area North Atlantic, i.e. AL, lower and middle third, AK, AD, AJ, BC, BD, north half BE, CG, CF east half, under way and when stopped in position.
a) By night: One main engine slow to half speed and the other Diesel engine ready to start up, boat's ventilator switched off. Reason: to detect aircraft approaching by means of hydrophone.
b) By day: With higher cruising speed than before confirm that the boats is maneuverable and able to dive.
c) If weather conditions are unfavorable, proceed only submerged by day and night.
4) Procedure in coastal area os America, the Caribbean, middle and South Atlantic according to situation and decision of the Commanding Officer.
5) When operating against the enemy no restrictions as to surface run, attack is the most important factor.
6) When proceeding on the surface always keep radar interception apparatus and Flak guns ready for action and manned.
7) B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 483, Section a) Fig. 2 and Section C) invalid at present. Carry out correction in pencil. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 13, dated April 1943 and admonitory radio message 2303/22/48/165/259/379/416/718/845 is therefore invalid and should be destroyed.
8) In message to O.K.M., O.K.W. is reporting that development of new FuMB-Technology and Accoustic Torpedoes is continuing with highest priority.

1025 - Early Morning Dawn. 1/4-Moon in the East.

1122 - Sunrise. SW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1149 - All engines stop. Manning flak guns (still outside of Ascension Island air cover zone) - Equator-Crossing Ceremony -

1200 - Qu.5194FD - Days Run: 187.9nm - ↗ 180.6nm (21h 35') - ↘ 7.3nm (2h 25')
Total: 4682.4 (25tg 22h) - ↗ 4473.4nm (22tg 17h 59') - ↘ 209.0nm (3tg 04h 01')
447cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1400 - Continuing outbound transit. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2000 - SE5/4, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2321 - Sundown.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 31 May 1943 - South Atlantic

0815 - Qu.8218FD - Reached the Air Cover Zone of Ascension Island.

1040 - Early Morning Dawn. 7/8 Moon in the East.

1133 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 15.5h.

1200 - Qu.8276FD - Days Run: 172.8nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 4855.2 (26tg 22h) - ↗ 4646.2nm (23tg 17h 59') - ↘ 209.0nm (3tg 04h 01')
445cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1313 - Qu.8279FD - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec. (w/o Diving Officer).

1316 - A-Meter.

1320 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1329 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 97%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1333 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1337 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1533 - Qu.8527FD - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 42 Sec. (w/o Diving Officer).

1535 - A-Meter.

1540 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1548 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (8min. for 60m). Battery 94%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1553 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.2nm. - SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1556 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The US 15th Airforce attacked German and Italian airports at Foggia and claim that many airplanes were destroyed on the ground.

From O.K.M.:
a) The Führer expressed extreme dismay at the withdrawal of our submarines from the American coast.
b) In Operation Gearbox II, HMS Cumberland joined HMS Cruiser Bermuda to relieve garrison at Spitzbergen, Norway, escorted by Destroyers HMS Eclipse and HMS Athabaskan (RCN) covered by Aircraft Carrier HMS Furious, Cruiser HMS Scylla, screened by Destroyers HMS Echo and HMS Middleton.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 563 (Oblt. Gustav Borchardt) was bombed by aircraft at 1650 in BF 4466. The boat was able to dive and requested air cover. Later she was attacked again and sent a distress message by radio. Boats in the vicinity were ordered to give assistance. Of these boats, U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) reported going to assist U 563. On the way, U 621 was also bombed and has only limited diving capacity.
It appears from a decoded aircraft message, that U 563 was sunk and the crew swimming in the water. U 621 broke off the search towards morning in view of fuel shortage. Our own aircraft could not be sent in owing to bad weather conditions, however, the first formation of Junkers, consisting of 8 airplanes, will be sent starting at 0700 on 1st June. The aircraft will take rubber boats with them, which can be dropped if necessary.
b) U 467 (Kptlt. Heinz Kummer) has not reported since putting out from Bergen. After receipt of a special intercept message of 29th May regarding an aircraft attack on a U-boat in AE 58 with a Mark 24 FIDO acoustic homing torpedo from a PBY-5A Catalina, the boat was ordered several times to give her position but did not reply. According to dead reckoning, she was in the proximity of the attack position. She must be considered lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her escorts departed Argentia, Newfoundland on a purely offensive anti-submarine patrol. This is Bogue's first Hunter-Killer sortie without concurrent convoy escort duty.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 31 May 1943 - South Atlantic

0815 - Qu.8218FD - Reached the Air Cover Zone of Ascension Island.

1040 - Early Morning Dawn. 7/8 Moon in the East.

1133 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 15.5h.

1200 - Qu.8276FD - Days Run: 172.8nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 4855.2 (26tg 22h) - ↗ 4646.2nm (23tg 17h 59') - ↘ 209.0nm (3tg 04h 01')
445cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1313 - Qu.8279FD - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec. (w/o Diving Officer).

1316 - A-Meter.

1320 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1329 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 97%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1333 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1337 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1533 - Qu.8527FD - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 42 Sec. (w/o Diving Officer).

1535 - A-Meter.

1540 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1548 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (8min. for 60m). Battery 94%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1553 - Surfaced after 20min. and 1.2nm. - SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1556 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The US 15th Airforce attacked German and Italian airports at Foggia and claim that many airplanes were destroyed on the ground.

From O.K.M.:
a) The Führer expressed extreme dismay at the withdrawal of our submarines from the American coast.
b) In Operation Gearbox II, HMS Cumberland joined HMS Cruiser Bermuda to relieve garrison at Spitzbergen, Norway, escorted by Destroyers HMS Eclipse and HMS Athabaskan (RCN) covered by Aircraft Carrier HMS Furious, Cruiser HMS Scylla, screened by Destroyers HMS Echo and HMS Middleton.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 563 (Oblt. Gustav Borchardt) was bombed by aircraft at 1650 in BF 4466. The boat was able to dive and requested air cover. Later she was attacked again and sent a distress message by radio. Boats in the vicinity were ordered to give assistance. Of these boats, U 621 (Oblt. Max Kruschka) reported going to assist U 563. On the way, U 621 was also bombed and has only limited diving capacity.
It appears from a decoded aircraft message, that U 563 was sunk and the crew swimming in the water. U 621 broke off the search towards morning in view of fuel shortage. Our own aircraft could not be sent in owing to bad weather conditions, however, the first formation of Junkers, consisting of 8 airplanes, will be sent starting at 0700 on 1st June. The aircraft will take rubber boats with them, which can be dropped if necessary.
b) U 467 (Kptlt. Heinz Kummer) has not reported since putting out from Bergen. After receipt of a special intercept message of 29th May regarding an aircraft attack on a U-boat in AE 58 with a Mark 24 FIDO acoustic homing torpedo from a PBY-5A Catalina, the boat was ordered several times to give her position but did not reply. According to dead reckoning, she was in the proximity of the attack position. She must be considered lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) and her escorts departed Argentia, Newfoundland on a purely offensive anti-submarine patrol. This is Bogue's first Hunter-Killer sortie without concurrent convoy escort duty.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 1 June 1943 - West of Ascension

- 4th week at sea completed -


0900 - Qu.1348FL -

1045 - Early Morning Dawn. 7/8-Moon setting in the East.

1139 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 20h.

1200 - Qu.1613FL - Days Run: 186.8nm - ↗ 184.4nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.4nm (40')
Total: 5042.0 (27tg 22h) - ↗ 4830.6nm (24tg 17h 19') - ↘ 211.4nm (3tg 04h 41')
442.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 94%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1306 - Qu.1616FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer).

1309 - A-Meter.

1310 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1319 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 94%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1323 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1327 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1606 - Qu.1657FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer).

1609 - A-Meter.

1610 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1619 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 93%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1623 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1626 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2026 - Qu.1925FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41+ Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

2029 - A-Meter.

2030 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

2039 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 91.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

2043 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

2046 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Russian Airforce attacked rear communications and airfields at Smolensk, Orel and Bryansk.
b) British Foreign Minister Anthony Eden announced that British casualties in first three years of war were 92,089 killed, 226,719 missing, 88,294 wounded, and 107,891 captured.
c) While serving time in prison for embezzlement, Fritz Kuhn, leader of the dissolved, pro-Nazi, German American Bund, has his American citizenship rewoked.

From B.d.U.:
a) In search of U 563 (Oblt. Gustav Borchardt), 23 Ju 88's carried out a search without result. Sea was force 5. Nothing was seen of the crew. In air battles the Ju's shot down 4 English aircraft, including 2 Wellington bombers and one large carrier aircraft (Douglas).
b) U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) was observed in CG 9472 during her passage through the Straits of Gibraltar. She was ordered to move away to the W and attempt to break through again after about 48 hours. The same goes for U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm).

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived in Casablanca Harbor, Morocco.
b) Alerted by US direction-finders, the Brazilian police raid the house of German-born Werner Waltemath discovering his Abwehr radio, microfilm and other espionage paraphernalia hidden in a cavity under the living room floor. He will receive a twenty-five-year prison sentence, while a fellow–expatriate, Hans-Christian von Kitze, whom he had recruited to his spy group will become a double agent for the British.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 1 June 1943 - West of Ascension

- 4th week at sea completed -


0900 - Qu.1348FL -

1045 - Early Morning Dawn. 7/8-Moon setting in the East.

1139 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 20h.

1200 - Qu.1613FL - Days Run: 186.8nm - ↗ 184.4nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.4nm (40')
Total: 5042.0 (27tg 22h) - ↗ 4830.6nm (24tg 17h 19') - ↘ 211.4nm (3tg 04h 41')
442.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 94%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1306 - Qu.1616FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer).

1309 - A-Meter.

1310 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1319 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 94%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1323 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1327 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1606 - Qu.1657FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer).

1609 - A-Meter.

1610 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1619 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 93%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1623 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1626 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2026 - Qu.1925FL - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41+ Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

2029 - A-Meter.

2030 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

2039 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 91.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

2043 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

2046 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

2306 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Russian Airforce attacked rear communications and airfields at Smolensk, Orel and Bryansk.
b) British Foreign Minister Anthony Eden announced that British casualties in first three years of war were 92,089 killed, 226,719 missing, 88,294 wounded, and 107,891 captured.
c) While serving time in prison for embezzlement, Fritz Kuhn, leader of the dissolved, pro-Nazi, German American Bund, has his American citizenship rewoked.

From B.d.U.:
a) In search of U 563 (Oblt. Gustav Borchardt), 23 Ju 88's carried out a search without result. Sea was force 5. Nothing was seen of the crew. In air battles the Ju's shot down 4 English aircraft, including 2 Wellington bombers and one large carrier aircraft (Douglas).
b) U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) was observed in CG 9472 during her passage through the Straits of Gibraltar. She was ordered to move away to the W and attempt to break through again after about 48 hours. The same goes for U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm).

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived in Casablanca Harbor, Morocco.
b) Alerted by US direction-finders, the Brazilian police raid the house of German-born Werner Waltemath discovering his Abwehr radio, microfilm and other espionage paraphernalia hidden in a cavity under the living room floor. He will receive a twenty-five-year prison sentence, while a fellow–expatriate, Hans-Christian von Kitze, whom he had recruited to his spy group will become a double agent for the British.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 2 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

0700 - Qu.4364FL - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Trial Dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0814 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0805 -

0848 - Tube II serviced.

0939 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1100 -

1148 - Sunrise. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1151 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1158 - At Reception Depth.

1200 - Qu.4391FL - Days Run: 158.3nm - ↗ 142.0nm (18h 09') - ↘ 16.3nm (5h 51')
Total: 5200.3 (28tg 22h) - ↗ 4972.6nm (25tg 11h 28') - ↘ 227.7nm (3tg 10h 32')
441cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; Course 169°; T=20; CO₂ = 1.8%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold. - Lunch Break -

1222 - A-20

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1341 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1345 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1402 - Reception Depth. (21min. for 140m). Battery 77%; Compressed Air Supply 275 Atü; CO₂ 2.1%.

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10' and 6.4nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 10' and 19.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 46h.

1414 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Japanese are in full retreat from the Yangtze River.
b) The Russian Airforce attacked Kiev and Roslavl, while the Luftwaffe attacked Kursk.

From O.K.M.:
a) USAAF 99th Fighter Squadron made its combat debut with its P-40L fighters, strafing Italian positions on Pantelleria island southwest of Sicily, Italy.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) situation report: nothing sighted in KZ 7558 - 24 - 16 - 15 - 19. Horizontal Radar location in KZ 1630, presumably aircraft. Return passage.
b) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) attacked the convoy, which she had already reported, on 1 June in KP 8779 and scored 2 hits. Boiler explosion probable. Effect not observed owing to heavy seas, as accurate depth keeping impossible.
c) U 667 (Kptlt. Heinrich-Andreas Schroeteler) beat off an attack by a Lockheed Hudson on 26.5. in AF 4915 and scored several hits on a Catalina on 29.5. in AE 6714 during an 80 minute action. No damage. No radar observed in either attack. 2 small sailing vessels observed on patrol in the Iceland Passage and 2 destroyers with deterrent D/c's.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 55.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 2 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

0700 - Qu.4364FL - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance and Trial Dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced.

0814 - Tube II pulled - Watch Change at 0805 -

0848 - Tube II serviced.

0939 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 1000 -

1051 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1100 -

1148 - Sunrise. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1151 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1158 - At Reception Depth.

1200 - Qu.4391FL - Days Run: 158.3nm - ↗ 142.0nm (18h 09') - ↘ 16.3nm (5h 51')
Total: 5200.3 (28tg 22h) - ↗ 4972.6nm (25tg 11h 28') - ↘ 227.7nm (3tg 10h 32')
441cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; Course 169°; T=20; CO₂ = 1.8%; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold. - Lunch Break -

1222 - A-20

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1341 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1345 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1402 - Reception Depth. (21min. for 140m). Battery 77%; Compressed Air Supply 275 Atü; CO₂ 2.1%.

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10' and 6.4nm - since Etmal (Total: 7h 10' and 19.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged in 46h.

1414 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The Japanese are in full retreat from the Yangtze River.
b) The Russian Airforce attacked Kiev and Roslavl, while the Luftwaffe attacked Kursk.

From O.K.M.:
a) USAAF 99th Fighter Squadron made its combat debut with its P-40L fighters, strafing Italian positions on Pantelleria island southwest of Sicily, Italy.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) situation report: nothing sighted in KZ 7558 - 24 - 16 - 15 - 19. Horizontal Radar location in KZ 1630, presumably aircraft. Return passage.
b) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) attacked the convoy, which she had already reported, on 1 June in KP 8779 and scored 2 hits. Boiler explosion probable. Effect not observed owing to heavy seas, as accurate depth keeping impossible.
c) U 667 (Kptlt. Heinrich-Andreas Schroeteler) beat off an attack by a Lockheed Hudson on 26.5. in AF 4915 and scored several hits on a Catalina on 29.5. in AE 6714 during an 80 minute action. No damage. No radar observed in either attack. 2 small sailing vessels observed on patrol in the Iceland Passage and 2 destroyers with deterrent D/c's.

2322 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 55.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 3 June 1943 - Southwest of Ascension

1100 - Qu.8173FL - Early Morning Dawn.

1123 - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 40 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

1126 - A-Meter.

1127 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1136 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 74.3%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1140 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1143 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1155 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 67.5h.

1200 - Qu.8176FL - Days Run: 177.1nm - ↗ 169.6nm (21h 33') - ↘ 7.5nm (2h 27')
Total: 5377.4 (29tg 22h) - ↗ 5142.2nm (26tg 9h 01') - ↘ 235.2nm (3tg 12h 59')
439.5cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1916 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) All Japanese resistance on Attu, Aleutian Islands ceased.
b) Operation Cottbus: German forces attacked partisans in Barysaw (Borisov), Byelorussia.
c) French Resistance saboteurs destroyed 300 tons of tires in the Michelin factory at Clermont-Ferrant.
d) The first fruits of victory reached British shops in the form of Algerian wine.

From B.d.U.:
a) It is intended that U 575 and U 731 shall proceed in company through Biscay. The following basic order has been issued. As far as possible 2-4 boats are to make the return passage through Biscay in company.
Commanding Officers will agree at the rendezvous on details of procedure for the return passage.
The basis is to be:
1) Proceed in accordance with B.d.U. Standing Order No. 13.
2) Remain surfaced as long as possible in good weather in order to cover ground.
3) In case of a surprise attack, remain on the surface. Fire from all guns.
4) Keep together at all costs.
b) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) reported: As convoys proceed close inshore, it is possible to haul ahead without maintaining close contact, if the boat remains at least 60 miles off the coast. Boat will not then be subject to interference by a/c, even though Radar locations constantly intercepted. The enemy is using a large number of a/c, which patrol the area ahead and to seaward of the convoy. At times 3 a/c were sighted at one time by day as far as 50 miles off the coast. Boat succeeded in getting away on the surface.
c) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) has carried out the minelaying operation off Halifax as ordered.
d) U 304 (Oblt. Heinz Koch) last made a short weather report on 24.5. from BD 23. On the same day she was ordered to an attack area in AK 4675, depth 70 miles. Since 1.6. the boat has several times been ordered to give her position and no answer has been received. As there are no clues, she must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Radio intercept from the RAF: The months of April and May have resultated in the destruction of the German Uboat Arm, with 43 Uboats sunk during the month of May alone. This became possible with the arrival of the Escort Carriers as of the month of March.

2316 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 3 June 1943 - Southwest of Ascension

1100 - Qu.8173FL - Early Morning Dawn.

1123 - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 40 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

1126 - A-Meter.

1127 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1136 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 74.3%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1140 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.1nm.

1143 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1155 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 67.5h.

1200 - Qu.8176FL - Days Run: 177.1nm - ↗ 169.6nm (21h 33') - ↘ 7.5nm (2h 27')
Total: 5377.4 (29tg 22h) - ↗ 5142.2nm (26tg 9h 01') - ↘ 235.2nm (3tg 12h 59')
439.5cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

1916 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) All Japanese resistance on Attu, Aleutian Islands ceased.
b) Operation Cottbus: German forces attacked partisans in Barysaw (Borisov), Byelorussia.
c) French Resistance saboteurs destroyed 300 tons of tires in the Michelin factory at Clermont-Ferrant.
d) The first fruits of victory reached British shops in the form of Algerian wine.

From B.d.U.:
a) It is intended that U 575 and U 731 shall proceed in company through Biscay. The following basic order has been issued. As far as possible 2-4 boats are to make the return passage through Biscay in company.
Commanding Officers will agree at the rendezvous on details of procedure for the return passage.
The basis is to be:
1) Proceed in accordance with B.d.U. Standing Order No. 13.
2) Remain surfaced as long as possible in good weather in order to cover ground.
3) In case of a surprise attack, remain on the surface. Fire from all guns.
4) Keep together at all costs.
b) U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) reported: As convoys proceed close inshore, it is possible to haul ahead without maintaining close contact, if the boat remains at least 60 miles off the coast. Boat will not then be subject to interference by a/c, even though Radar locations constantly intercepted. The enemy is using a large number of a/c, which patrol the area ahead and to seaward of the convoy. At times 3 a/c were sighted at one time by day as far as 50 miles off the coast. Boat succeeded in getting away on the surface.
c) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) has carried out the minelaying operation off Halifax as ordered.
d) U 304 (Oblt. Heinz Koch) last made a short weather report on 24.5. from BD 23. On the same day she was ordered to an attack area in AK 4675, depth 70 miles. Since 1.6. the boat has several times been ordered to give her position and no answer has been received. As there are no clues, she must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Radio intercept from the RAF: The months of April and May have resultated in the destruction of the German Uboat Arm, with 43 Uboats sunk during the month of May alone. This became possible with the arrival of the Escort Carriers as of the month of March.

2316 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 4 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

1105 - Qu.2198FS - Early Morning Dawn.

1133 - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

1137 - A-Meter.

1138 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1147 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 74.3%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1150 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.0nm.

1153 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1159 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 19.5h.

1200 - Qu.2432FS - Days Run: 187.6nm - ↗ 186.6nm (23h 43') - ↘ 1.0nm (17')
Total: 5565.0 (30tg 22h) - ↗ 5328.8nm (27tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
437.5cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Chinese 79th Corps launched a frontal attack against Japanese troops in the Hubei-Hunan border region in China, on the southern side of the Yangtze River; Japanese positions were pushed back, but the Chinese suffered very heavy casualties.
b) The Luftwaffe attacked the large Russian Tank factory in Gorki.
c) The British House of Commons refused to lift the economic blockade against occupied Europe.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) sighted aircraft on her return passage in FM 73 course 230°, in FL 62 course 150° and in FL 37 course 110°. She believed that there was routine air reconnaissance from Ascension for traffic from S. America to Africa. No radar observed. The boat sank the Greek "Boris" 5,166 GRT on 3.6 in FL 3816. Ship was carrying wood, minerals and mixed goods from Santos to Freetown.
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) has requested a rendezvous with U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) to transship a stoker, who is suspected of having a disease of the lungs. Rendezvous was ordered for 1200/7/6 in GR 4885.
c) U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) are to move away to the W., if they have not succeeded in breaking through the Straits of Gibraltar and a fresh attempt seems too difficult.
d) U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) reports experience with conning tower casing; with sea 4, diving times, depth keeping and spray normal. No disturbance in quadruple mounting.
e) U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) successfully beat off an attack by a Mosquito in BF 37.
f) U 418 (Oblt. Gerhard Lange) and U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) were on their way home and, according to careful reckoning, should have made their arrival reports several days ago. The boats last reported on 23.5. from AK 9438 and 21.5. from BD 59 respectively. There are no clues as to cause of loss, but it was probably due to the very strong air activity in Biscay.

B-Dienst Report:
a) A Luxembourg national working at Peenemünde, Germany, reported to the United Kingdom the presence of a 10-meter-long rocket with 150- to 250-kilometer range which was fueled by "bottles containing gas".

2314 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 4 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

1105 - Qu.2198FS - Early Morning Dawn.

1133 - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

1137 - A-Meter.

1138 - Setting for T=20 at 96rpm.

1147 - Leveled-off at Reception Depth (9min. for 60m). Battery 74.3%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü.

1150 - Surfaced after 17min. and 1.0nm.

1153 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x225RPM/8kn.

1159 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 3 days and 19.5h.

1200 - Qu.2432FS - Days Run: 187.6nm - ↗ 186.6nm (23h 43') - ↘ 1.0nm (17')
Total: 5565.0 (30tg 22h) - ↗ 5328.8nm (27tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
437.5cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Chinese 79th Corps launched a frontal attack against Japanese troops in the Hubei-Hunan border region in China, on the southern side of the Yangtze River; Japanese positions were pushed back, but the Chinese suffered very heavy casualties.
b) The Luftwaffe attacked the large Russian Tank factory in Gorki.
c) The British House of Commons refused to lift the economic blockade against occupied Europe.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) sighted aircraft on her return passage in FM 73 course 230°, in FL 62 course 150° and in FL 37 course 110°. She believed that there was routine air reconnaissance from Ascension for traffic from S. America to Africa. No radar observed. The boat sank the Greek "Boris" 5,166 GRT on 3.6 in FL 3816. Ship was carrying wood, minerals and mixed goods from Santos to Freetown.
b) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) has requested a rendezvous with U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) to transship a stoker, who is suspected of having a disease of the lungs. Rendezvous was ordered for 1200/7/6 in GR 4885.
c) U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) are to move away to the W., if they have not succeeded in breaking through the Straits of Gibraltar and a fresh attempt seems too difficult.
d) U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) reports experience with conning tower casing; with sea 4, diving times, depth keeping and spray normal. No disturbance in quadruple mounting.
e) U 455 (Oblt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) successfully beat off an attack by a Mosquito in BF 37.
f) U 418 (Oblt. Gerhard Lange) and U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) were on their way home and, according to careful reckoning, should have made their arrival reports several days ago. The boats last reported on 23.5. from AK 9438 and 21.5. from BD 59 respectively. There are no clues as to cause of loss, but it was probably due to the very strong air activity in Biscay.

B-Dienst Report:
a) A Luxembourg national working at Peenemünde, Germany, reported to the United Kingdom the presence of a 10-meter-long rocket with 150- to 250-kilometer range which was fueled by "bottles containing gas".

2314 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 5 June 1943 - East of Brazil

0946 - F.T. from Spitzbergen Weather Station: To Naval Command:
Were attacked today by Norwegian troops. Escaped to the mountains. Portable Radio loosing power. No supplies.
- Hazlenut Weather Station - Kross Fjord - Svalbard -

1110 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5551FS - Days Run: 180.7nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 5745.7 (31tg 22h) - ↗ 5509.5nm (28tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
436cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb.

1206 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 20h.

1247 - Qu.5554FS - Control Point 3 reached.

1307 - Supply Ship (Merchant Raider) in sight straight ahead, E=10500.

1347 - Course 180° - Small Ahead.

1607 - F.T. from F.d.U. Norwegen: To all Northern Boats:
Go to Spitzbergen and rescue staff of the weather station Hazlenut in the Cross-Fjord.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From B.d.U.:
a) The following information has been given to the boats, based on general experiences and reports:
I. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 12:
1) The enemy is prepared to resort to any means in the battle against U-boats.
It is suspected that explosives are fixed to lifeboats, cases, rafts, barrels etc. which fire when a U-boat approaches. Boats should therefore be suspicious when such objects are sighted, especially on the usual approach routes and in the usual operations areas in the N. Atlantic. Rafts and lifeboats should only be approached to determine the name of the ship, if they are found in a position where a ship has definitely sunk, or, in remote areas if, after close scrutiny, they are clearly seen to be harmless.
2) Boats should not approach the wreckage after an aircraft has been shot down. There is great danger from depth-charges which may roll out of the bomb racks, as has been proved in one case.
II. To boats with Radar:
Boat's own Radar set should be used to detect enemy aircraft in the former Biscay, if boats have to proceed on the surface. Aircraft are picked up at a range of at least 10 kilometers at a minimum height of 500 meters. Radar interception by enemy aircraft need not be expected for the present.
b) U 440 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff) has not reported since she left Nazaire on 26.5. She was probably destroyed by aircraft in Biscay. There is no further information.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In an American U-boat situation report of 4.6 up to 20 boats were reported within 300 miles around AJ 54. One radio message was made from this area from AJ 2960 on 3.6. Actually, there were only two boats there. This situation report seems to show that the enemy definitely suspects a considerable number of U-boats in the sea area between Newfoundland and Greenland. This time, information which he usually obtains from aircraft sightings and radio D/F is lacking. It remains to be seen whether he will soon discover the present absence of U-boats in the North Atlantic.
Again, several boats are believed to be within 150 miles around AK 3520, S-W bound, according to accurate radio D/F.

2323 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days, 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 5 June 1943 - East of Brazil

0946 - F.T. from Spitzbergen Weather Station: To Naval Command:
Were attacked today by Norwegian troops. Escaped to the mountains. Portable Radio loosing power. No supplies.
- Hazlenut Weather Station - Kross Fjord - Svalbard -

1110 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5551FS - Days Run: 180.7nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 5745.7 (31tg 22h) - ↗ 5509.5nm (28tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
436cbm (1.5cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; Course 169°; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb.

1206 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 4 days and 20h.

1247 - Qu.5554FS - Control Point 3 reached.

1307 - Supply Ship (Merchant Raider) in sight straight ahead, E=10500.

1347 - Course 180° - Small Ahead.

1607 - F.T. from F.d.U. Norwegen: To all Northern Boats:
Go to Spitzbergen and rescue staff of the weather station Hazlenut in the Cross-Fjord.

2307 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From B.d.U.:
a) The following information has been given to the boats, based on general experiences and reports:
I. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 12:
1) The enemy is prepared to resort to any means in the battle against U-boats.
It is suspected that explosives are fixed to lifeboats, cases, rafts, barrels etc. which fire when a U-boat approaches. Boats should therefore be suspicious when such objects are sighted, especially on the usual approach routes and in the usual operations areas in the N. Atlantic. Rafts and lifeboats should only be approached to determine the name of the ship, if they are found in a position where a ship has definitely sunk, or, in remote areas if, after close scrutiny, they are clearly seen to be harmless.
2) Boats should not approach the wreckage after an aircraft has been shot down. There is great danger from depth-charges which may roll out of the bomb racks, as has been proved in one case.
II. To boats with Radar:
Boat's own Radar set should be used to detect enemy aircraft in the former Biscay, if boats have to proceed on the surface. Aircraft are picked up at a range of at least 10 kilometers at a minimum height of 500 meters. Radar interception by enemy aircraft need not be expected for the present.
b) U 440 (Oblt. Werner Schwaff) has not reported since she left Nazaire on 26.5. She was probably destroyed by aircraft in Biscay. There is no further information.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In an American U-boat situation report of 4.6 up to 20 boats were reported within 300 miles around AJ 54. One radio message was made from this area from AJ 2960 on 3.6. Actually, there were only two boats there. This situation report seems to show that the enemy definitely suspects a considerable number of U-boats in the sea area between Newfoundland and Greenland. This time, information which he usually obtains from aircraft sightings and radio D/F is lacking. It remains to be seen whether he will soon discover the present absence of U-boats in the North Atlantic.
Again, several boats are believed to be within 150 miles around AK 3520, S-W bound, according to accurate radio D/F.

2323 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 5 days, 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 6 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

1125 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5582FS - Days Run: 15.7nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 5761.4 (32tg 22h) - ↗ 5525.2nm (29tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
435cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; At Merchant Raider; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 5days, 20h)

Cmdr.: As there is no improvement of the sea state, I decide to dive for Torpedo Maintenance.

1300 - Giving Flag Signal to Merchant Raider. Diving without forward speed. T=10 after 2min.

1302 - 96rpm.

1309 - T=50. Course 180°. 65rpm.

1310 - Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

1401 - Tube I serviced.

1452 - Tube II serviced.

1543 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until Watch Change -

1656 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1747 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H). CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1800 - Dinner -

1845 - 96rpm. Setting for T=20.

1851 - At Reception Depth. Battery 68.6%; CO₂ 1.9%.

1900 - Qu.5585FS - Surfaced after 6h and 11.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1901 - Boat ventilated.

1910 - Running back to Merchant Raider.

2012 - Decision to attempt supplying at the Leeward side of the Merchant Raider.

2115 - Fuel hose connection done by crane. Supplying of provisions by rope connection. Charging batteries.

Messages transferred by Merchant Raider (see Annex I to KTB).

Had to interrupt supply process due to slight ramming caused by heavy swell - no damage.

2145 - Decision to break-off supply process and battery charging due to heavy sea state.

2150 - Running off on easterly heading.

2332 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115



Annex I to KTB:


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The new French Committee of National Liberation made a radio broadcast from Algiers, French Algeria, pledging to abolish the "arbitrary powers" imposed by the French government in Vichy and to restore "all French liberties, the laws of the Republic and the Republican regime".

O.K.M.-Report:
b) The USAAF made its first operational sortie with the North American A-36 Invader (also known as Apache) when the 27th Fighter Bomber Group based at Rasel Ma in French Morocco participated in a mass fighter-bomber assault on the Italian Island of Pantelleria.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) situation: Miss at inward-bound freighter on 3.6. in GR 5319, end-of-run detonation after 7 minutes. At dusk on 5.6. convoy coming from Saldanha Bay sighted, consisting of about 12 ships with destroyers and corvettes. Deterrent depth-charges. Shadowed by hydrophone bearing as far as GR 2536, in fog, with visibility about 200 meters. Then, while she was preparing for a surface attack, the fog lifted and she found herself in the center of the convoy. Heavy gunfire from all ships. Boat shook off pursuing vessels. She was bombed by a flying boat. No damage.
b) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) sank the British "Durma", 2,304 GRT, in KP 5989, course 2500, speed 7 knots, and in KP 9754 the American "William King", 6,800 GRT, main course 2800, speed 10 knots. She took the Chief Engineer of the first ship on board and the Captain of the second.
c) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) is steering for CD 4855 to deliver her remaining fuel to "Milkcow" U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke).
d) U 214 (VIID; Oblt. Rupprecht Stock) reported minelaying operation in Dakar carried out.
e) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) was attacked by an aircraft with bombs and aircraft armament at 1050 in AE 8542 and severely damaged. Watertight stern, No. 1. and No. 3. main ballast tanks and all external fuel tanks damaged. Strong trace of oil, 7 wounded, 4 of them seriously, including the C.O. Boat dived after the third attack. She reported at 0100 course 200, and requested assistance. Boats in the vicinity were ordered to make for U 450. She herself was to continue on her passage to W. France. Unfortunately there is no boat with a M.O. nearby.

For distribution of M.O.'s:
The orders given to boats for beating off aircraft in surprise attacks will necessarily mean that bridge personnel will be wounded more often. C-in-C Navy therefore gave orders some time ago that by the beginning of July every second boat to leave port should, if possible, carry a M.O. So far 29 Medical Officers were appointed to IXd2 boats and tankers according to plan and a further 17 were available for other boats. There are at present 16 M.O.'s at sea. The special training of new M.O.'s is now so far advanced that from now on every other boat to leave port in June will have a M.O. on board. Boats leaving W. France will also carry M.O.'s in accordance with orders, provided the officers asked for are appointed in time.

B-Dienst Report:
a) U-boat sightings by the enemy: GR 2530, and 5 others from the Iceland area including 3 D/c attacks (U 450). An English a/c also reported a surfaced U-boat in 36° 30' N and unknown longitude (U 594 - 409?) The a/c returned to its base owing to engine damage and because the navigator was wounded. 2 other a/c reported a D/c attack.
b) 4 enemy Gibraltar a/c were ordered at 1715 to return to their base at once, and not to attack U-boats (Probably own S/m's in the vicinity).

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 6 June 1943 - South-Atlantic

1125 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5582FS - Days Run: 15.7nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 5761.4 (32tg 22h) - ↗ 5525.2nm (29tg 8h 44') - ↘ 236.2nm (3tg 13h 16')
435cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 74.3%; At Merchant Raider; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 5days, 20h)

Cmdr.: As there is no improvement of the sea state, I decide to dive for Torpedo Maintenance.

1300 - Giving Flag Signal to Merchant Raider. Diving without forward speed. T=10 after 2min.

1302 - 96rpm.

1309 - T=50. Course 180°. 65rpm.

1310 - Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

1401 - Tube I serviced.

1452 - Tube II serviced.

1543 - Tube III serviced (Tubes I-III are T-3/Pi39H). - Break until Watch Change -

1656 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1747 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H). CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 48min.).

1800 - Dinner -

1845 - 96rpm. Setting for T=20.

1851 - At Reception Depth. Battery 68.6%; CO₂ 1.9%.

1900 - Qu.5585FS - Surfaced after 6h and 11.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1901 - Boat ventilated.

1910 - Running back to Merchant Raider.

2012 - Decision to attempt supplying at the Leeward side of the Merchant Raider.

2115 - Fuel hose connection done by crane. Supplying of provisions by rope connection. Charging batteries.

Messages transferred by Merchant Raider (see Annex I to KTB).

Had to interrupt supply process due to slight ramming caused by heavy swell - no damage.

2145 - Decision to break-off supply process and battery charging due to heavy sea state.

2150 - Running off on easterly heading.

2332 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 6 days and 7.5h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115



Annex I to KTB:


O.K.W.-Report:
a) The new French Committee of National Liberation made a radio broadcast from Algiers, French Algeria, pledging to abolish the "arbitrary powers" imposed by the French government in Vichy and to restore "all French liberties, the laws of the Republic and the Republican regime".

O.K.M.-Report:
b) The USAAF made its first operational sortie with the North American A-36 Invader (also known as Apache) when the 27th Fighter Bomber Group based at Rasel Ma in French Morocco participated in a mass fighter-bomber assault on the Italian Island of Pantelleria.

B.d.U.-Report:
a) U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae) situation: Miss at inward-bound freighter on 3.6. in GR 5319, end-of-run detonation after 7 minutes. At dusk on 5.6. convoy coming from Saldanha Bay sighted, consisting of about 12 ships with destroyers and corvettes. Deterrent depth-charges. Shadowed by hydrophone bearing as far as GR 2536, in fog, with visibility about 200 meters. Then, while she was preparing for a surface attack, the fog lifted and she found herself in the center of the convoy. Heavy gunfire from all ships. Boat shook off pursuing vessels. She was bombed by a flying boat. No damage.
b) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) sank the British "Durma", 2,304 GRT, in KP 5989, course 2500, speed 7 knots, and in KP 9754 the American "William King", 6,800 GRT, main course 2800, speed 10 knots. She took the Chief Engineer of the first ship on board and the Captain of the second.
c) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) is steering for CD 4855 to deliver her remaining fuel to "Milkcow" U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke).
d) U 214 (VIID; Oblt. Rupprecht Stock) reported minelaying operation in Dakar carried out.
e) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) was attacked by an aircraft with bombs and aircraft armament at 1050 in AE 8542 and severely damaged. Watertight stern, No. 1. and No. 3. main ballast tanks and all external fuel tanks damaged. Strong trace of oil, 7 wounded, 4 of them seriously, including the C.O. Boat dived after the third attack. She reported at 0100 course 200, and requested assistance. Boats in the vicinity were ordered to make for U 450. She herself was to continue on her passage to W. France. Unfortunately there is no boat with a M.O. nearby.

For distribution of M.O.'s:
The orders given to boats for beating off aircraft in surprise attacks will necessarily mean that bridge personnel will be wounded more often. C-in-C Navy therefore gave orders some time ago that by the beginning of July every second boat to leave port should, if possible, carry a M.O. So far 29 Medical Officers were appointed to IXd2 boats and tankers according to plan and a further 17 were available for other boats. There are at present 16 M.O.'s at sea. The special training of new M.O.'s is now so far advanced that from now on every other boat to leave port in June will have a M.O. on board. Boats leaving W. France will also carry M.O.'s in accordance with orders, provided the officers asked for are appointed in time.

B-Dienst Report:
a) U-boat sightings by the enemy: GR 2530, and 5 others from the Iceland area including 3 D/c attacks (U 450). An English a/c also reported a surfaced U-boat in 36° 30' N and unknown longitude (U 594 - 409?) The a/c returned to its base owing to engine damage and because the navigator was wounded. 2 other a/c reported a D/c attack.
b) 4 enemy Gibraltar a/c were ordered at 1715 to return to their base at once, and not to attack U-boats (Probably own S/m's in the vicinity).



Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 7 June 1943 - East of Brazil -

0708 - Qu.5573FS - Supply Ship in sight. Diving for Trial Dive.

0715 - A-Meter. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 and No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

0751 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0752 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

0809 - Reception Depth. (17min. for 140m). Battery 67.2%; CO₂ 1.2%.

0818 - Surfaced after 1h 10' and 3.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0819 - Boat ventilated. 2xSmall-Ahead.

1140 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5548FS - Days Run: 110.9nm - ↗ 95.1nm (16h 50') -
↘ 15.8nm (7h 10')
Total: 5872.3 (33tg 22h) - ↗ 5620.3nm (30tg 1h 34') - ↘ 252.0nm (3tg 20h 26')
434cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 67.2%; At Supply Ship; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 6days, 20h)

1234 - Sunrise.

1335 - Supply Ship in sight, bearing 17°, E=14000.

1500 until 1750 - Second attempt supplying at the Leeward side of Supply Ship.

S u p p l y :

1.) Meeting was good (including Recognition Signal exchange).
2.) Fuel oil transfer according to plan and smoothly (76 cbm in 2.5 hours; 510 cbm/100%) Batteries charged (2h 48' for 32.8%).
3.) Provisions transfer considerably complicated and delayed because in addition to inflatable boat as cargo boat only 1 small boat from the supplier as towing boat (Launch of the motorboat and torpedo loading not tried because of the poor sea state).
4.) Signal personnel at tanker at a strength of 1:1 was sufficient but is not enough for group supply.
5.) Beyond fuel and provisions the supplier was not fitted out for supply (hardly any spare parts etc.).
6.) The kindness of the supply ship Captain to the last crew member was exemplary.
7.) Supply was great for morale of own boat and for the raider crew.
8.) Sea conditions throughout were consistently poor with high winds and swell.

Messages transferred by Supply Ship:

From B.d.U.:
a) Because of the successes reported by U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) the following boats in the same sea area have been given freedom of action: U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) to the E to square KQ inclusive, U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) to the N including U 198's attack area and U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) in addition the same attack area as U 196. U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) is proceeding E and is to haul out far to the S, so that she can use Bachstelze.
b) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) was in AK 3218 course 225, at 2000. Boat was bombed by day and the C.O. reports that she cannot be controlled much longer. So far no other boat has reported that she is proceeding to U 450's assistance, U 341, which is about 550 miles away has been detailed to do so at maximum speed. U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) has also been ordered there to give medical assistance. She can reach the position at earliest in 5 days time. Towards 0500 U 669 (Oblt.d.R. Kurt Köhl) reported her position in AL 3214. She must therefore be near U 450. U 450 has again been instructed that if it is necessary to abandon ship, the crew is to stay together at all costs and if possible starshell are to be fired every hour.
c) U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) last reported on 1.6. from AJ 6335. Since 2.6. she has several times been ordered to report her position and the weather, but has not replied. She must therefore be presumed lost. There are no attack or sighting reports for this area and the cause of her loss is unexplained. It is not impossible that American S/m's which were operating at this time were responsible, although our own boats had been warned of their presence.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British S.S. "Alva" (1,584 GRT) ran into the minefield laid off Halifax by U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) and sank.
b) British Cruiser HMS Cumberland sailed from Iceland to Spitzbergen, Norway.

1800 - Casting off Supply Ship and operating on Ship Contact Report 1500/7/6, at 1500 in Qu.5743FS, course ENO, slow speed.

2239 - Qu.5575FS - Ship sighted bearing 347°, E=11000. It is ship contact report 1500/7/6. Sighted as caculated by dead reckoning. On course 58°, speed 6-7kn.

Going on parallel course ahead of the stbd.-side of the steamer. Is an English Clan Type Transport of 2359ts, draught 6.9m. Has upper deck cargo in crates and a deck gun on the stern.

2250 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Message for Widder: Ship contact report 1500/7/6 sighted in Qu.5574FS center. Course 58°, speed 6-7kn. Will keep contact. Free to engage when coming into sight. - RST -

2350 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 7 June 1943 - East of Brazil -

0708 - Qu.5573FS - Supply Ship in sight. Diving for Trial Dive.

0715 - A-Meter. Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 and No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

0751 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0752 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

0809 - Reception Depth. (17min. for 140m). Battery 67.2%; CO₂ 1.2%.

0818 - Surfaced after 1h 10' and 3.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0819 - Boat ventilated. 2xSmall-Ahead.

1140 - Early Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5548FS - Days Run: 110.9nm - ↗ 95.1nm (16h 50') -
↘ 15.8nm (7h 10')
Total: 5872.3 (33tg 22h) - ↗ 5620.3nm (30tg 1h 34') - ↘ 252.0nm (3tg 20h 26')
434cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 67.2%; At Supply Ship; 3xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 6days, 20h)

1234 - Sunrise.

1335 - Supply Ship in sight, bearing 17°, E=14000.

1500 until 1750 - Second attempt supplying at the Leeward side of Supply Ship.

S u p p l y :

1.) Meeting was good (including Recognition Signal exchange).
2.) Fuel oil transfer according to plan and smoothly (76 cbm in 2.5 hours; 510 cbm/100%) Batteries charged (2h 48' for 32.8%).
3.) Provisions transfer considerably complicated and delayed because in addition to inflatable boat as cargo boat only 1 small boat from the supplier as towing boat (Launch of the motorboat and torpedo loading not tried because of the poor sea state).
4.) Signal personnel at tanker at a strength of 1:1 was sufficient but is not enough for group supply.
5.) Beyond fuel and provisions the supplier was not fitted out for supply (hardly any spare parts etc.).
6.) The kindness of the supply ship Captain to the last crew member was exemplary.
7.) Supply was great for morale of own boat and for the raider crew.
8.) Sea conditions throughout were consistently poor with high winds and swell.

Messages transferred by Supply Ship:

From B.d.U.:
a) Because of the successes reported by U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) the following boats in the same sea area have been given freedom of action: U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) to the E to square KQ inclusive, U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) to the N including U 198's attack area and U 178 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) in addition the same attack area as U 196. U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) is proceeding E and is to haul out far to the S, so that she can use Bachstelze.
b) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) was in AK 3218 course 225, at 2000. Boat was bombed by day and the C.O. reports that she cannot be controlled much longer. So far no other boat has reported that she is proceeding to U 450's assistance, U 341, which is about 550 miles away has been detailed to do so at maximum speed. U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) has also been ordered there to give medical assistance. She can reach the position at earliest in 5 days time. Towards 0500 U 669 (Oblt.d.R. Kurt Köhl) reported her position in AL 3214. She must therefore be near U 450. U 450 has again been instructed that if it is necessary to abandon ship, the crew is to stay together at all costs and if possible starshell are to be fired every hour.
c) U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) last reported on 1.6. from AJ 6335. Since 2.6. she has several times been ordered to report her position and the weather, but has not replied. She must therefore be presumed lost. There are no attack or sighting reports for this area and the cause of her loss is unexplained. It is not impossible that American S/m's which were operating at this time were responsible, although our own boats had been warned of their presence.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British S.S. "Alva" (1,584 GRT) ran into the minefield laid off Halifax by U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) and sank.
b) British Cruiser HMS Cumberland sailed from Iceland to Spitzbergen, Norway.

1800 - Casting off Supply Ship and operating on Ship Contact Report 1500/7/6, at 1500 in Qu.5743FS, course ENO, slow speed.

2239 - Qu.5575FS - Ship sighted bearing 347°, E=11000. It is ship contact report 1500/7/6. Sighted as caculated by dead reckoning. On course 58°, speed 6-7kn.

Going on parallel course ahead of the stbd.-side of the steamer. Is an English Clan Type Transport of 2359ts, draught 6.9m. Has upper deck cargo in crates and a deck gun on the stern.

2250 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Message for Widder: Ship contact report 1500/7/6 sighted in Qu.5574FS center. Course 58°, speed 6-7kn. Will keep contact. Free to engage when coming into sight. - RST -

2350 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 8 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

- 5th week at sea completed -


0134 - Supply Ship comes into sight bearing 35°.

0230 - Widder still doesn't attack the steamer. Distance is now 7800m, visibility is 8900m.

0251 - Turning boat toward the stbd. beam of the steamer.

0253 - Qu.5555FS - Diving for submerged attack acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 309, 310 & 311 (Pi39H) => Order No. 302 for T-1 and T-2.

0300 - "Battle Stations!".

0303 - Flooding tube III.

0320 - Qu.5555FS - Submerged Single Shot with tube III (B-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 5m; Vt30.
Target ship: Clan Type Transport 2359ts, draught 6.9m.
Target course 58°; Target distance 600m; Target angle green90°; Target speed 8.9kn; Firing angle α 352°.
Own course 329°; Own speed 1.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit in the forecastle after 44 Sec.!

With speed settting 8.5 kn (actual speed of 7.5kn + 1), the hit would have been midships.

A big hole can be seen in the waterline of the forecastle. The steamer continues on with a distinct list to stbd, zig-zagging on a northerly heading. Two spotlights are searching the water.

0350 - The steamer seems to be lying stationary, but at 0400 continues on, on course ENE, speed 3-4 knots. The steamers dips into the sea washing over the forecastle, but always pops back up like a cork. The spotlights are now dimmed.

0405 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0424 - Qu.5555FS top right - Over 1h after being torpedoed, the steamer finally sinks.

0433 - Surfaced after 1h 40min. and 4.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0434 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%. Running toward the sinking position.

Besides some debries and an oil patch, found one dead body. Pulled the body aboard and searched for identification. Afterwards, submitted the body to the sea.

0505 - Running back to Supply Ship.

0610 - Giving Recognition Signal and report about the sinking and giving personel details of dead person found, for sending to the Red Cross.

0615 - Leaving Supply Ship on course ESE and continued with outbound transit.

1200 - Qu.5912FS - Days Run: 139.3nm - ↗ 134.9nm (22h 20') -
↘ 4.4nm (1h 40')
Total: 6011.6 (34tg 22h) - ↗ 5755.2nm (30tg 23h 54') - ↘ 256.4nm (3tg 22h 06')
508cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 2xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 7days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1300 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 21h.

2045 - Qu.6748FS -

2356 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 8 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

- 5th week at sea completed -


0134 - Supply Ship comes into sight bearing 35°.

0230 - Widder still doesn't attack the steamer. Distance is now 7800m, visibility is 8900m.

0251 - Turning boat toward the stbd. beam of the steamer.

0253 - Qu.5555FS - Diving for submerged attack acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 309, 310 & 311 (Pi39H) => Order No. 302 for T-1 and T-2.

0300 - "Battle Stations!".

0303 - Flooding tube III.

0320 - Qu.5555FS - Submerged Single Shot with tube III (B-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 5m; Vt30.
Target ship: Clan Type Transport 2359ts, draught 6.9m.
Target course 58°; Target distance 600m; Target angle green90°; Target speed 8.9kn; Firing angle α 352°.
Own course 329°; Own speed 1.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit in the forecastle after 44 Sec.!

With speed settting 8.5 kn (actual speed of 7.5kn + 1), the hit would have been midships.

A big hole can be seen in the waterline of the forecastle. The steamer continues on with a distinct list to stbd, zig-zagging on a northerly heading. Two spotlights are searching the water.

0350 - The steamer seems to be lying stationary, but at 0400 continues on, on course ENE, speed 3-4 knots. The steamers dips into the sea washing over the forecastle, but always pops back up like a cork. The spotlights are now dimmed.

0405 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0424 - Qu.5555FS top right - Over 1h after being torpedoed, the steamer finally sinks.

0433 - Surfaced after 1h 40min. and 4.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0434 - Boat ventilated. Battery 97%. Running toward the sinking position.

Besides some debries and an oil patch, found one dead body. Pulled the body aboard and searched for identification. Afterwards, submitted the body to the sea.

0505 - Running back to Supply Ship.

0610 - Giving Recognition Signal and report about the sinking and giving personel details of dead person found, for sending to the Red Cross.

0615 - Leaving Supply Ship on course ESE and continued with outbound transit.

1200 - Qu.5912FS - Days Run: 139.3nm - ↗ 134.9nm (22h 20') -
↘ 4.4nm (1h 40')
Total: 6011.6 (34tg 22h) - ↗ 5755.2nm (30tg 23h 54') - ↘ 256.4nm (3tg 22h 06')
508cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 2xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 5.7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 7days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1300 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 7 days and 21h.

2045 - Qu.6748FS -

2356 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 9 June 1943 - West of St.Helena -

0520 - Qu.9215FS -

0619 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Taken over from Supply Ship 76cbm and provisions. On 8.6., 0424, sunk English steamer 2359ts in Qu.5555FS. Have 507cbm and 5 eels. Weather and Sea unchanged for over a week: SSE6/5, cöear, visibility 7nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. - RST -

0944 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Tito was wounded by a German air attack.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 177, 197, 178, 196, 198 and 181 will supply from a ship from 20.6. in KS 77. Boats are to leave their attack areas in time for this. U 115 is making for Cape Town area.
b) U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar.
c) U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) reported beating off an attack by eight carrier aircraft (identified as Martlet, Lysander (!) and Mustang) from USS Bogue escorting convoy GUS 9, with their powerful new quadruple flak gun and claiming one shot down and four damaged. The boat suffering only minor damage but seven men are wounded, forcing her to return to base. Boat is able to dive to 40 meters. She will remain where she is for another 3 days and is then to make her return passage in company with 2 other boats.
d) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) now only needs medical assistance. U 341 (Oblt. Dietrich Epp) will remain with her until U 592 (M.O. boat; Kptlt. Carl Borm) arrives.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In an enemy U-boat situation report of 2.6., the enemy believes X U-boats to be N of 40° N and W of 40° W, and a further 20 boats patrolling between 57° N 43° W and 47°? N 35° W.
On 5.6., a large number of boats was believed possibly to be within 150 miles around 50° N 30° W. During the last few days there have not been more than 3-4 boats in the N. Atlantic and it seems possible that the enemy has been deceived by our planned radio traffic and suspects a large number of boats in the N. Atlantic, because of the many outgoing messages on radio services which cover the N. Atlantic area.

1200 - Qu.9269FS - Days Run: 188.5nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6200.1 (35tg 22h) - ↗ 5943.7nm (31tg 23h 54') - ↘ 256.4nm (3tg 22h 06')
507cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 2xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 8days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1254 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 21h.

1812 - Qu.9397FS - Smoke plume bearing 244°, E=13000. Identified as an English Playmaster Cargo of 2325ts, draught 7.0m; On course 232°, at top speed of 11kn.

2015 - At E=10000, going on parallel course and speed. Boat is postionend on the forward luff-side. In due course, approaching the steamers course track, while keeping distance of 10000-12000m.

2140 - Diving for submerged attack. S-Tiefe. Both periscopes in use.

2146 - Staying in position about 500m across the port beam of the steamer course track.

2154 - Steamer comes into sight at E=5800, has a deck gun on the stern and a twin-flak on either side of the aft bridge; also, upper deck cargo in boxes. Retracting B-Periscope. "Battle Stations!".

2207 - Flooding tube II.

2210 - Qu.9618FS bottom center - Submerged Single Shot with tube II (A-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 8m (1m below target draught); Vt30.
Target ship: English Playmaster Cargo of 2333ts, draught 7.0m.
Target course 232°; Target distance 500m*; Target angle red90°; Target speed 11.0kn; Firing angle α 008°.
Own course 322°; Own speed 2.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit midships underneath the steamer after 35 Sec.! => 35 Sec. x 15.43m/s (30kn) => 540m*.

2219 - Steamer immediately looses headway after the torpedo impact and sinks on an even keel and loud underwater explosions.

2221 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

2230 - Surfaced after 50min. and 1.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged. Boat ventilated.

Running to the sinking position. Nothing found but some debris and an empty Carley float (no markings found).

2300 - Running off on course 115°.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 9 June 1943 - West of St.Helena -

0520 - Qu.9215FS -

0619 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Taken over from Supply Ship 76cbm and provisions. On 8.6., 0424, sunk English steamer 2359ts in Qu.5555FS. Have 507cbm and 5 eels. Weather and Sea unchanged for over a week: SSE6/5, cöear, visibility 7nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. - RST -

0944 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Tito was wounded by a German air attack.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 177, 197, 178, 196, 198 and 181 will supply from a ship from 20.6. in KS 77. Boats are to leave their attack areas in time for this. U 115 is making for Cape Town area.
b) U 409 (Oblt. Hanns-Ferdinand Massmann) has passed through the Straits of Gibraltar.
c) U 758 (Kptlt. Helmut Manseck) reported beating off an attack by eight carrier aircraft (identified as Martlet, Lysander (!) and Mustang) from USS Bogue escorting convoy GUS 9, with their powerful new quadruple flak gun and claiming one shot down and four damaged. The boat suffering only minor damage but seven men are wounded, forcing her to return to base. Boat is able to dive to 40 meters. She will remain where she is for another 3 days and is then to make her return passage in company with 2 other boats.
d) U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme) now only needs medical assistance. U 341 (Oblt. Dietrich Epp) will remain with her until U 592 (M.O. boat; Kptlt. Carl Borm) arrives.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In an enemy U-boat situation report of 2.6., the enemy believes X U-boats to be N of 40° N and W of 40° W, and a further 20 boats patrolling between 57° N 43° W and 47°? N 35° W.
On 5.6., a large number of boats was believed possibly to be within 150 miles around 50° N 30° W. During the last few days there have not been more than 3-4 boats in the N. Atlantic and it seems possible that the enemy has been deceived by our planned radio traffic and suspects a large number of boats in the N. Atlantic, because of the many outgoing messages on radio services which cover the N. Atlantic area.

1200 - Qu.9269FS - Days Run: 188.5nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6200.1 (35tg 22h) - ↗ 5943.7nm (31tg 23h 54') - ↘ 256.4nm (3tg 22h 06')
507cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 2xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; SSE6/5, clear, visibility 7nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 8days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1254 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 8 days and 21h.

1812 - Qu.9397FS - Smoke plume bearing 244°, E=13000. Identified as an English Playmaster Cargo of 2325ts, draught 7.0m; On course 232°, at top speed of 11kn.

2015 - At E=10000, going on parallel course and speed. Boat is postionend on the forward luff-side. In due course, approaching the steamers course track, while keeping distance of 10000-12000m.

2140 - Diving for submerged attack. S-Tiefe. Both periscopes in use.

2146 - Staying in position about 500m across the port beam of the steamer course track.

2154 - Steamer comes into sight at E=5800, has a deck gun on the stern and a twin-flak on either side of the aft bridge; also, upper deck cargo in boxes. Retracting B-Periscope. "Battle Stations!".

2207 - Flooding tube II.

2210 - Qu.9618FS bottom center - Submerged Single Shot with tube II (A-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 8m (1m below target draught); Vt30.
Target ship: English Playmaster Cargo of 2333ts, draught 7.0m.
Target course 232°; Target distance 500m*; Target angle red90°; Target speed 11.0kn; Firing angle α 008°.
Own course 322°; Own speed 2.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit midships underneath the steamer after 35 Sec.! => 35 Sec. x 15.43m/s (30kn) => 540m*.

2219 - Steamer immediately looses headway after the torpedo impact and sinks on an even keel and loud underwater explosions.

2221 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

2230 - Surfaced after 50min. and 1.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged. Boat ventilated.

Running to the sinking position. Nothing found but some debris and an empty Carley float (no markings found).

2300 - Running off on course 115°.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 10 June 1943 - WSW of St.Helena -

0003 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 9 days and 8h.

0437 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) USAAF and RAF began a coordinated air offensive with the RAF over Europe, conducting area bombing at night and the USAAF flying precision bombing raids by day. The British Assistant Chief of the Air Staff noted that the primary objective of bombing campaign was "the destruction of German air-frame, engine and component factories and the ball-bearing industry on which the strength of the German fighter force depend" and the secondary objective was "the general disorganization of those industrial areas associated with the above industries".

From O.K.M.:
a)To all Mediterranean boats: Our Luftwaffe is reporting movements of major enemy naval forces towards the Italian islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa. All boats are ordered to proceed to the WSW of these islands and to attack enemy forces.
b) HMS Cumberland arrived at Spitzbergen, Norway for support operation "Gearbox".

From B.d.U.:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) situation report: Waited for convoys in KP 35 and 36 from 27.5. to 5.6. and found nothing. 3 Portuguese vessels and one ship without name on the 50 meter line and 40 miles to seaward a large hospital ship, course NE off Lourenco Marques since 6.6. in sight of pilot boats. 1000-tonner sunk there P.M. 7.6. One smoke cloud sighted on 6.6. and one on 8.6., and the gunboat "Alfonso" on 9.6. Otherwise nothing.
b) Aircraft reported a convoy of 27 transports with strong escort in BE 9242, course south. No operation is intended against the convoy but boats in the vicinity are to make use of any chances to attack.
c) "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has delivered her remaining fuel to U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan), except for 18 cbm which she has kept back for U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich).
Cmdr.: This is the Milkcow we couldn't find for resupply.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Admiralty introduced Naval Cypher No. 5, replacing No. 3 and No. 4, intended to finally ending our ability to read British naval orders.
b) According to an English U-boat situation report, 4 boats are believed to be between Madeira and the Azores, 4 or 5 patrolling within 200 miles around 43° N, 41° W and 5 or 6 patrolling within 200 miles around 33° N, 43° W.
c) "S.S.Highland Court" struck a mine, probably in the minefield laid by U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke), in BB 7583 and sank.

0722 - Qu.7475FT -

0808 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
On 9 June, 2211h, sunk single English Playmaster Cargo of 2333ts, on course 232°, 11kn, Qu.9618FS bottom center. Still have 4 eels and 504cbm. SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continuing outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.7731FT - Days Run: 192.5nm - ↗ 191.1nm (23h 10') -
↘ 1.4nm (50')
Total: 6392.6nm (36tg 22h) - ↗ 6134.8nm (32tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
503cbm (4cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold;
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 9days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1312 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 9 days and 21h.

2357 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 10 June 1943 - WSW of St.Helena -

0003 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 9 days and 8h.

0437 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) USAAF and RAF began a coordinated air offensive with the RAF over Europe, conducting area bombing at night and the USAAF flying precision bombing raids by day. The British Assistant Chief of the Air Staff noted that the primary objective of bombing campaign was "the destruction of German air-frame, engine and component factories and the ball-bearing industry on which the strength of the German fighter force depend" and the secondary objective was "the general disorganization of those industrial areas associated with the above industries".

From O.K.M.:
a)To all Mediterranean boats: Our Luftwaffe is reporting movements of major enemy naval forces towards the Italian islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa. All boats are ordered to proceed to the WSW of these islands and to attack enemy forces.
b) HMS Cumberland arrived at Spitzbergen, Norway for support operation "Gearbox".

From B.d.U.:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) situation report: Waited for convoys in KP 35 and 36 from 27.5. to 5.6. and found nothing. 3 Portuguese vessels and one ship without name on the 50 meter line and 40 miles to seaward a large hospital ship, course NE off Lourenco Marques since 6.6. in sight of pilot boats. 1000-tonner sunk there P.M. 7.6. One smoke cloud sighted on 6.6. and one on 8.6., and the gunboat "Alfonso" on 9.6. Otherwise nothing.
b) Aircraft reported a convoy of 27 transports with strong escort in BE 9242, course south. No operation is intended against the convoy but boats in the vicinity are to make use of any chances to attack.
c) "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) has delivered her remaining fuel to U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan), except for 18 cbm which she has kept back for U 92 (Kptlt. Adolf Oelrich).
Cmdr.: This is the Milkcow we couldn't find for resupply.

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Admiralty introduced Naval Cypher No. 5, replacing No. 3 and No. 4, intended to finally ending our ability to read British naval orders.
b) According to an English U-boat situation report, 4 boats are believed to be between Madeira and the Azores, 4 or 5 patrolling within 200 miles around 43° N, 41° W and 5 or 6 patrolling within 200 miles around 33° N, 43° W.
c) "S.S.Highland Court" struck a mine, probably in the minefield laid by U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke), in BB 7583 and sank.

0722 - Qu.7475FT -

0808 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
On 9 June, 2211h, sunk single English Playmaster Cargo of 2333ts, on course 232°, 11kn, Qu.9618FS bottom center. Still have 4 eels and 504cbm. SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continuing outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.7731FT - Days Run: 192.5nm - ↗ 191.1nm (23h 10') -
↘ 1.4nm (50')
Total: 6392.6nm (36tg 22h) - ↗ 6134.8nm (32tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
503cbm (4cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold;
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 9days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1312 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 9 days and 21h.

2357 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 11 June 1943 - Southwest of St.Helena -

0710 - Qu.3115GE - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.3161GE - Days Run: 187.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6580.2nm (37tg 22h) - ↗ 6322.4nm (33tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
500cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold;
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 10days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1304 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10 days and 21h.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The US 8th Airforce attacked our naval base in Wilhelmshaven and the RAF attacked Münster and Düsseldorf, while Major Werner Streib of 1./NJG 1, flying a Heinkel He 219 Uho V9 A-0/R2 night fighter aircraft from Venlo, Netherlands, shot down five Avro Lancaster bombers in a single sortie. The bombers were heading toward Düsseldorf.

From O.K.M.:
a) Allied forces invaded Pantelleria, in Operation Corkscrew.

From B.d.U.:
a) Capetown boats will not be able to supply from tanker "Schliemann" in KS 7744 before 22 June. Boats are to keep radio silence and are forbidden to attack after passing longitude of 55° E.
b) Boats have again been reminded that the sinking of Irish ships is to be avoided at all costs. Steamers often make a lot of smoke and have indistinct neutrality markings. Bad handling of the ships often gives the impression of zigzags as with enemy ships.

2346 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 11 June 1943 - Southwest of St.Helena -

0710 - Qu.3115GE - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.3161GE - Days Run: 187.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6580.2nm (37tg 22h) - ↗ 6322.4nm (33tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
500cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold;
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 10days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1304 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10 days and 21h.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The US 8th Airforce attacked our naval base in Wilhelmshaven and the RAF attacked Münster and Düsseldorf, while Major Werner Streib of 1./NJG 1, flying a Heinkel He 219 Uho V9 A-0/R2 night fighter aircraft from Venlo, Netherlands, shot down five Avro Lancaster bombers in a single sortie. The bombers were heading toward Düsseldorf.

From O.K.M.:
a) Allied forces invaded Pantelleria, in Operation Corkscrew.

From B.d.U.:
a) Capetown boats will not be able to supply from tanker "Schliemann" in KS 7744 before 22 June. Boats are to keep radio silence and are forbidden to attack after passing longitude of 55° E.
b) Boats have again been reminded that the sinking of Irish ships is to be avoided at all costs. Steamers often make a lot of smoke and have indistinct neutrality markings. Bad handling of the ships often gives the impression of zigzags as with enemy ships.

2346 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 12 June 1943 - SSW of St.Helena -

0215 - Qu.3388GE - Course 119°.

0803 - Qu.1418GF -

1200 - Qu.1456GF - Days Run: 188.0nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6768.2nm (38tg 22h) - ↗ 6510.4nm (34tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
488cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 11days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1258 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11 days and 21h.

1353 - Qu.1468GF - Course 110°.

1636 - Qu.1572GF - Course 119°.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The RAF launched a heavy raid on Bochum in the Ruhr region. In retaliation, our Luftwaffe launched a night attack on Plymouth.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 653's group (Kptlt. Gerhard Feiler), on outward passage, reported several a/c shadowing in BF 7346. Boats were ordered to dive together at an opportune moment at their own discretion.
b) U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) reports constant air activity of carrier-borne a/c over her supply rendezvous with U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) - (DH 4455). Supply rendezvous has been transferred 100 miles to the south.
c) U 645 (Oblt.d.R. Otto Ferro) was attacked by a Liberator for 40 minutes at her rendezvous with U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme), BD 3666. The aircraft dropped bombs 30 meters in her wake. The boat hit the aircraft, which flew off making smoke. According to a Radio Intelligence Report, this aircraft called for assistance, so it was probably shot down. An hour later U 645 was again attacked, without result. Rendezvous for U 450, U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) and U 645 was then transferred to BD 3391.
d) U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen; ex Schewe) refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) on 19.5. and then returned to the operations area off Freetown. On 7.6. she was ordered to make a situation report and did not reply. She must be presumed lost. Nothing is known of the cause of loss.

2334 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 12 June 1943 - SSW of St.Helena -

0215 - Qu.3388GE - Course 119°.

0803 - Qu.1418GF -

1200 - Qu.1456GF - Days Run: 188.0nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 6768.2nm (38tg 22h) - ↗ 6510.4nm (34tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
488cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 11days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1258 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 11 days and 21h.

1353 - Qu.1468GF - Course 110°.

1636 - Qu.1572GF - Course 119°.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The RAF launched a heavy raid on Bochum in the Ruhr region. In retaliation, our Luftwaffe launched a night attack on Plymouth.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 653's group (Kptlt. Gerhard Feiler), on outward passage, reported several a/c shadowing in BF 7346. Boats were ordered to dive together at an opportune moment at their own discretion.
b) U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) reports constant air activity of carrier-borne a/c over her supply rendezvous with U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) - (DH 4455). Supply rendezvous has been transferred 100 miles to the south.
c) U 645 (Oblt.d.R. Otto Ferro) was attacked by a Liberator for 40 minutes at her rendezvous with U 450 (Oblt. Kurt Böhme), BD 3666. The aircraft dropped bombs 30 meters in her wake. The boat hit the aircraft, which flew off making smoke. According to a Radio Intelligence Report, this aircraft called for assistance, so it was probably shot down. An hour later U 645 was again attacked, without result. Rendezvous for U 450, U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) and U 645 was then transferred to BD 3391.
d) U 105 (Kptlt. Jürgen Nissen; ex Schewe) refueled from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) on 19.5. and then returned to the operations area off Freetown. On 7.6. she was ordered to make a situation report and did not reply. She must be presumed lost. Nothing is known of the cause of loss.

2334 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 13 June 1943 - South of St.Helena -

0220 - Qu.1919GF - Course 110°.

0502 - Qu.1953GF - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.2784GF - Days Run: 188.2nm - ↗ (24h) - Course 119°
Total: 6956.4nm (39tg 22h) - ↗ 6698.6nm (35tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
487cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 12days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1247 - Qu.2785GF - Course 110°.

1253 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12 days and 21h.

1530 - Qu.2798GF - Course 119°.

2316 - Qu.5261GF - Course 110°.

2324 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 13 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 13 June 1943 - South of St.Helena -

0220 - Qu.1919GF - Course 110°.

0502 - Qu.1953GF - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.2784GF - Days Run: 188.2nm - ↗ (24h) - Course 119°
Total: 6956.4nm (39tg 22h) - ↗ 6698.6nm (35tg 23h 04') - ↘ 257.8nm (3tg 22h 56')
487cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 95%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather and Sea unchanged in 12days, 20h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1247 - Qu.2785GF - Course 110°.

1253 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 12 days and 21h.

1530 - Qu.2798GF - Course 119°.

2316 - Qu.5261GF - Course 110°.

2324 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 13 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 14 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0200 - Qu.5344GF - Course 119°.

0805 - Qu.5394GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

0807 - A-Meter; Boat sinks to A+16, can only be brought back to A-Meter running E-Motors at 145rpm.

0818 - Boat back at A-Meter; Setting for T=50 with 96rpm.

0826 - At T=50.

0830 - Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0921 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 0935 -

1026 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1117 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1124 - At Reception Depth.

1200 - Qu.5399GF - Days Run: 167.9nm - ↗ 157.5nm (20h 05') - ↘ 10.4nm (3h 55')
Total: 7124.3nm (40tg 22h) - ↗ 6856.1nm (36tg 19h 09') - ↘ 268.2nm (4tg 02h 51')
Course 119°; T=20; 485cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 85.7%; Compressed Air 290Atü; CO₂ 1.6%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1255 - Sunrise. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 and No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1305 - A-Meter.

1344 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1345 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1402 - Reception Depth.

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10' and 6.5nm (Total: 6h 05' and 16.9nm). - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1411 - Boat ventilated.

1417 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1420 - Charging batteries (80%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/9kn.

1600 - Batteries charged => 1h 40min. for 20%. 2x245RPM/8kn.

1750 - Qu.6425GF - 119°.

2015 - Qu.6438GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

2018 - A-Meter.

2020 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

2029 - At Reception Depth.

2035 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2038 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 97%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

2321 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 14 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 14 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0200 - Qu.5344GF - Course 119°.

0805 - Qu.5394GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 41 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

0807 - A-Meter; Boat sinks to A+16, can only be brought back to A-Meter running E-Motors at 145rpm.

0818 - Boat back at A-Meter; Setting for T=50 with 96rpm.

0826 - At T=50.

0830 - Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0921 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 0935 -

1026 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1117 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1124 - At Reception Depth.

1200 - Qu.5399GF - Days Run: 167.9nm - ↗ 157.5nm (20h 05') - ↘ 10.4nm (3h 55')
Total: 7124.3nm (40tg 22h) - ↗ 6856.1nm (36tg 19h 09') - ↘ 268.2nm (4tg 02h 51')
Course 119°; T=20; 485cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 85.7%; Compressed Air 290Atü; CO₂ 1.6%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.

1255 - Sunrise. CO₂ Warning at 1.7% (after 4h 50min.).

1300 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Order No.507 and No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1305 - A-Meter.

1344 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1345 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1402 - Reception Depth.

1410 - Surfaced after 2h 10' and 6.5nm (Total: 6h 05' and 16.9nm). - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1411 - Boat ventilated.

1417 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1420 - Charging batteries (80%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/9kn.

1600 - Batteries charged => 1h 40min. for 20%. 2x245RPM/8kn.

1750 - Qu.6425GF - 119°.

2015 - Qu.6438GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer).

2018 - A-Meter.

2020 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

2029 - At Reception Depth.

2035 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2038 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 97%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

2321 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 14 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 15 June 1943 - SSE of St.Helena -

- 6th week at sea completed -


0342 - Qu.6583GF - Course 110°.

0624 - Qu.6596GF - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.6926GF - Days Run: 181.2nm - ↗ 173.5nm (21h 30') - ↘ 7.7nm (2h 30')
Total: 7305.5nm (41tg 22h) - ↗ 7029.6nm (37tg 16h 39') - ↘ 275.9nm (4tg 05h 21')
Course 119°; 483cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 14days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1248 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 14days and 21h.

1255 - Qu.6934GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer).

1258 - A-Meter.

1300 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1309 - At Reception Depth. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü.

1315 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1318 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 97%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1418 - Qu.6938GF - Course 110°.

1640 - Qu.4742GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer).

1643 - A-Meter.

1645 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1654 - At Reception Depth. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü.

1700 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1703 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95.5%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1713 - Qu.4742GG - Course 119°.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The world's first turbojet reconnaissance bomber, the Arado Ar 234V-1 Blitz (GK-IV), made its maiden flight at Rheine, Germany, with Flugkapitän Selle in the cockpit.
b) The Merchant Raider "Michel", has sunk the Norwegian Freighter "Hoegh Silverdawn", 7.715ts, with a cargo of Meat, Military Equipment & Vehicles, and Aircraft Fuel, off the west coast of Australia.

From O.K.M.:
a) On 14 June, Italian transport submarine Aquila VI (ex Luigi Torelli) departed Bordeaux for Singapore, with a cargo of mercury, steal, 800 Mauser MG 151/20 aircraft cannons, a 500-kilogram SG 500 bomb, torpedoes, and two Würzburg radar sets on board. Her passengers included Colonel Kinjo Satake (trained with latest German telecommunications technology), Heinrich Foders (Telefunken radar engineer with Würzburg anti-aircraft radar blueprints), and a number of German radar and shipbuilding engineers.

From B.d.U.:
a) On 13 June, U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) reported that it heard bombs and depth charges on 12.6. in DF 4455. The supply operation intended in this square from U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) was then transferred 100 miles to the south. So far, U 118 has not arrived there and has not replied to calls. It must be assumed that she was lost in the attack on 12.6.
Carrier-borne a/c have several times been sighted on the American-Gibraltar route and it seems likely that a/c carriers are permanently stationed here and patrol the convoy routes, while the a/c, which are equipped with excellent location gear, carry out anti-S/m hunts. This may have been the cause of U 118's loss. All boats have again been reminded that a/c must always be expected even in the most remote areas.
b) The present unfavorable fuel situation makes it necessary to use some IXC boats as tankers. Boats with one or two machine guns can be considered, and they are to get the new quadruple mounting turret upon their return.
c) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces' decision to allow Ju'88's to fly only in groups, owing to their small striking power, has had the result that the enemy's heavy fighters also only appear in groups. This new situation is only a disadvantage for incoming and outgoing boats, as they cannot get the better of several attacking a/c even if a number of boats are firing at once. Experience during the next few days will show whether or not it is best for boats to proceed in groups.
d) After the recent loss of several incoming and outgoing boats due to enemy a/c in Biscay, the following order has been given to the boats on 14 June: With immediate effect, groups of U-boats will proceed through Biscay mainly submerged and will surface only to charge batteries. Instructions for procedure when surprised by aircraft are unaffected by this order.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The British Cruiser HMS Cumberland arrived at Thurso, Scotland.
b) On 14 June, the RAF's 2nd Tactical Air Force was formed to train close support aircraft squadrons for tactical operations during Operation Overlord.

2311 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 15 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 15 June 1943 - SSE of St.Helena -

- 6th week at sea completed -


0342 - Qu.6583GF - Course 110°.

0624 - Qu.6596GF - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.6926GF - Days Run: 181.2nm - ↗ 173.5nm (21h 30') - ↘ 7.7nm (2h 30')
Total: 7305.5nm (41tg 22h) - ↗ 7029.6nm (37tg 16h 39') - ↘ 275.9nm (4tg 05h 21')
Course 119°; 483cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 97%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 14days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1248 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 14days and 21h.

1255 - Qu.6934GF - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer).

1258 - A-Meter.

1300 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1309 - At Reception Depth. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü.

1315 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1318 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 97%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1418 - Qu.6938GF - Course 110°.

1640 - Qu.4742GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer).

1643 - A-Meter.

1645 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1654 - At Reception Depth. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü.

1700 - Surfaced after 20' and 1.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1703 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; Battery 95.5%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1713 - Qu.4742GG - Course 119°.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) The world's first turbojet reconnaissance bomber, the Arado Ar 234V-1 Blitz (GK-IV), made its maiden flight at Rheine, Germany, with Flugkapitän Selle in the cockpit.
b) The Merchant Raider "Michel", has sunk the Norwegian Freighter "Hoegh Silverdawn", 7.715ts, with a cargo of Meat, Military Equipment & Vehicles, and Aircraft Fuel, off the west coast of Australia.

From O.K.M.:
a) On 14 June, Italian transport submarine Aquila VI (ex Luigi Torelli) departed Bordeaux for Singapore, with a cargo of mercury, steal, 800 Mauser MG 151/20 aircraft cannons, a 500-kilogram SG 500 bomb, torpedoes, and two Würzburg radar sets on board. Her passengers included Colonel Kinjo Satake (trained with latest German telecommunications technology), Heinrich Foders (Telefunken radar engineer with Würzburg anti-aircraft radar blueprints), and a number of German radar and shipbuilding engineers.

From B.d.U.:
a) On 13 June, U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) reported that it heard bombs and depth charges on 12.6. in DF 4455. The supply operation intended in this square from U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) was then transferred 100 miles to the south. So far, U 118 has not arrived there and has not replied to calls. It must be assumed that she was lost in the attack on 12.6.
Carrier-borne a/c have several times been sighted on the American-Gibraltar route and it seems likely that a/c carriers are permanently stationed here and patrol the convoy routes, while the a/c, which are equipped with excellent location gear, carry out anti-S/m hunts. This may have been the cause of U 118's loss. All boats have again been reminded that a/c must always be expected even in the most remote areas.
b) The present unfavorable fuel situation makes it necessary to use some IXC boats as tankers. Boats with one or two machine guns can be considered, and they are to get the new quadruple mounting turret upon their return.
c) G.O.C. Atlantic Air Forces' decision to allow Ju'88's to fly only in groups, owing to their small striking power, has had the result that the enemy's heavy fighters also only appear in groups. This new situation is only a disadvantage for incoming and outgoing boats, as they cannot get the better of several attacking a/c even if a number of boats are firing at once. Experience during the next few days will show whether or not it is best for boats to proceed in groups.
d) After the recent loss of several incoming and outgoing boats due to enemy a/c in Biscay, the following order has been given to the boats on 14 June: With immediate effect, groups of U-boats will proceed through Biscay mainly submerged and will surface only to charge batteries. Instructions for procedure when surprised by aircraft are unaffected by this order.

B-Dienst Report:
a) The British Cruiser HMS Cumberland arrived at Thurso, Scotland.
b) On 14 June, the RAF's 2nd Tactical Air Force was formed to train close support aircraft squadrons for tactical operations during Operation Overlord.

2311 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 15 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 16 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0247 - Qu.4879GG - Course 110°.

0527 - Qu.7223GG - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.7351GG - Days Run: 187.5nm - ↗ 185.1nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.4nm (40')
Total: 7493.0nm (42tg 22h) - ↗ 7214.7nm (38tg 15h 59') - ↘ 278.3nm (4tg 06h 01')
Course 119°; 481cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 95.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 15days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1245 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 15days and 21h.

1306 - Qu.7355GG - Course 110°.

1546 - Qu.7368GG - Course 119°.

1830 - Qu.8172GG bottom center - Crossed Prime Meridian.

2300 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 16 days and 8h.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Major General John Hester announced the date for the New Georgia invasion to be 30 Jun 1943. On the same day, a group of Japanese dive bombers and fighters unsuccessfully attacked American positions and shipping in the Russell Islands, Solomon Islands, loosing 93 of 94 airplanes.

From B.d.U.:
Standing Order No. 14

A. Purpose:
Possibility of mutual aid in the event of bomb damage sustained in aircraft attacks. Intensified anti-aircraft defence in surprise attacks.
B. Execution and general directions:
1) 2-3 boats working together W. of 18° W., under Command of senior Commander.
2) Distance apart 3 to 500 meters in surface passage. Broad quarterline formation. Passage through Biscay area according to Standing Order No. 13, in other words, principally submerged. Surface only during the day to recharge batteries. If strong enemy air activity makes this impossible, recharge batteries at night.
3) When on recharging passage, submerge as directed by senior Commander; on prompt sighting of aircraft , on radar location, also in action at a favorable moment, likewise on continuous air contact.
4) Remain on the surface during surprise attacks, offensive action with all armament available. Boat to first sight aircraft is to fire short burst in the direction of the attacking aircraft.
5) On each surface passage, the senior Commander decides mean course, time and place of surfacing, for possible submerged passage. Submerged mean course, low speed, position comparison important.
6) Submerged passage of S.O.'s boat at 40 meters, accompanying boat at 60 meters. Contact possible with good hydrophone gear.
7) Communications on surface by semaphore, submerged sonic telegraphy, executive command for submerging, also crash diving to be given by signaling with red flag.
8) Sonic telegraphy signals:
SS = submerge to periscope depth
AA = surface
1 NN = surface in one hour
GG = am proceeding on mean course, mean speed at ordered depth
HH = strange hydrophone bearing, no more sonic traffic
2 DD = surface in 2 hours
LL = am proceeding at high speed for 2 minutes for hydrophone bearing
3 EB = surface in 3 hours
PP = proceed at high speed for hydrophone bearing.
Only AA is to be repeated, in this case the order is to be executed on the second long dash from the S.O.'s boat.
9) The S.O. is to set out the necessary orders for the entire passage before the boats assemble and to give them to the various boats.
Details of measures to be adopted to follow.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 16 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0247 - Qu.4879GG - Course 110°.

0527 - Qu.7223GG - Course 119°.

1200 - Qu.7351GG - Days Run: 187.5nm - ↗ 185.1nm (23h 20') - ↘ 2.4nm (40')
Total: 7493.0nm (42tg 22h) - ↗ 7214.7nm (38tg 15h 59') - ↘ 278.3nm (4tg 06h 01')
Course 119°; 481cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 95.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 15days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1245 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 15days and 21h.

1306 - Qu.7355GG - Course 110°.

1546 - Qu.7368GG - Course 119°.

1830 - Qu.8172GG bottom center - Crossed Prime Meridian.

2300 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 16 days and 8h.

2308 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Major General John Hester announced the date for the New Georgia invasion to be 30 Jun 1943. On the same day, a group of Japanese dive bombers and fighters unsuccessfully attacked American positions and shipping in the Russell Islands, Solomon Islands, loosing 93 of 94 airplanes.

From B.d.U.:
Standing Order No. 14

A. Purpose:
Possibility of mutual aid in the event of bomb damage sustained in aircraft attacks. Intensified anti-aircraft defence in surprise attacks.
B. Execution and general directions:
1) 2-3 boats working together W. of 18° W., under Command of senior Commander.
2) Distance apart 3 to 500 meters in surface passage. Broad quarterline formation. Passage through Biscay area according to Standing Order No. 13, in other words, principally submerged. Surface only during the day to recharge batteries. If strong enemy air activity makes this impossible, recharge batteries at night.
3) When on recharging passage, submerge as directed by senior Commander; on prompt sighting of aircraft , on radar location, also in action at a favorable moment, likewise on continuous air contact.
4) Remain on the surface during surprise attacks, offensive action with all armament available. Boat to first sight aircraft is to fire short burst in the direction of the attacking aircraft.
5) On each surface passage, the senior Commander decides mean course, time and place of surfacing, for possible submerged passage. Submerged mean course, low speed, position comparison important.
6) Submerged passage of S.O.'s boat at 40 meters, accompanying boat at 60 meters. Contact possible with good hydrophone gear.
7) Communications on surface by semaphore, submerged sonic telegraphy, executive command for submerging, also crash diving to be given by signaling with red flag.
8) Sonic telegraphy signals:
SS = submerge to periscope depth
AA = surface
1 NN = surface in one hour
GG = am proceeding on mean course, mean speed at ordered depth
HH = strange hydrophone bearing, no more sonic traffic
2 DD = surface in 2 hours
LL = am proceeding at high speed for 2 minutes for hydrophone bearing
3 EB = surface in 3 hours
PP = proceed at high speed for hydrophone bearing.
Only AA is to be repeated, in this case the order is to be executed on the second long dash from the S.O.'s boat.
9) The S.O. is to set out the necessary orders for the entire passage before the boats assemble and to give them to the various boats.
Details of measures to be adopted to follow.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 17 June 1943 - Southeast of St.Helena -

0121 - Qu.8436GG - Course 110°.

0401 - Qu.8519GG - Course 119°.

1140 - Qu.8672GG - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.8672GG - Days Run: 191.1nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 7684.1nm (43tg 22h) - ↗ 7405.8nm (39tg 15h 59') - ↘ 278.3nm (4tg 06h 01')
Course 110°; 478cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 95.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 16days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1240 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 16days and 21h.

1313 - Qu.8684GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 33(!) Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 55 Sec.; A-Meter after 2min, 37 Sec.

1316 - Setting for T=50; 96rpm.

1325 - Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1416 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H).

1507 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1558 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1610 - Setting for T=20.

1616 - At Reception Depth.

1619 - S-Tiefe. Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 88.5%.

1623 - Surfaced after 3h 10' and 8.5nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1624 - Boat ventilated; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1628 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1630 - Qu.8685GG - Course 119°.

1830 - Qu.8697GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 37(!) Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer); A-Meter after 2min, 43 Sec.

1825 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1911 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1915 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1934 - Reception Depth.

1937 - S-Tiefe. Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 83%; CO₂ 1.2%.

1940 - Qu.8698GG - Surfaced after 1h 10' and 4.1nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1942 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; 2x245RPM/8kn.

2300 - Sundown. Full Moon in ESE. Weather and Sea unchanged in 17 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Thursday, 17 June 1943 - Southeast of St.Helena -

0121 - Qu.8436GG - Course 110°.

0401 - Qu.8519GG - Course 119°.

1140 - Qu.8672GG - Course 110°.

1200 - Qu.8672GG - Days Run: 191.1nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 7684.1nm (43tg 22h) - ↗ 7405.8nm (39tg 15h 59') - ↘ 278.3nm (4tg 06h 01')
Course 110°; 478cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 95.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 16days and 20h). - Morning Dawn -

1240 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 16days and 21h.

1313 - Qu.8684GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 33(!) Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 55 Sec.; A-Meter after 2min, 37 Sec.

1316 - Setting for T=50; 96rpm.

1325 - Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1416 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H).

1507 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1558 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1610 - Setting for T=20.

1616 - At Reception Depth.

1619 - S-Tiefe. Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 88.5%.

1623 - Surfaced after 3h 10' and 8.5nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1624 - Boat ventilated; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1628 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1630 - Qu.8685GG - Course 119°.

1830 - Qu.8697GG - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 37(!) Sec. (2nd Watch with Diving Officer); A-Meter after 2min, 43 Sec.

1825 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1911 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1915 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1934 - Reception Depth.

1937 - S-Tiefe. Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; Battery 83%; CO₂ 1.2%.

1940 - Qu.8698GG - Surfaced after 1h 10' and 4.1nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1942 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled; 2x245RPM/8kn.

2300 - Sundown. Full Moon in ESE. Weather and Sea unchanged in 17 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 18 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0250 - Qu.9753GG - Course 110°.

0532 - Qu.9766GG - Course 119°.

1140 - Qu.9886GG - Morning Dawn - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 61 Sec.; A-Meter after 1min, 50 Sec.

1145 - Setting for A-20 with 96rpm.

1155 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.9894GG - Days Run: 165.8nm - ↗ 152.1nm (19h 20') - ↘ 13.7nm (4h 40')
Total: 7849.9nm (44tg 22h) - ↗ 7557.9nm (40tg 11h 19') - ↘ 292.0nm (4tg 10h 41')
Course 119°; 475cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 81.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=60; Compressed Air Supply 295Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

1245 - Sunrise.

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1308 - T=20.

1315 - Surfaced after 1h 15' and 3.3nm since Etmal (Total: 1h 35min. and 4.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged.

1316 - Boat ventilated; Battery 80%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1321 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Qu.9898GG - Course 110°.

1658 - Qu.2112GQ - Course 119°.

2251 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 18 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Friday, 18 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0250 - Qu.9753GG - Course 110°.

0532 - Qu.9766GG - Course 119°.

1140 - Qu.9886GG - Morning Dawn - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 38 Sec. (3rd Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 61 Sec.; A-Meter after 1min, 50 Sec.

1145 - Setting for A-20 with 96rpm.

1155 - Submerged cruise at A-20.

1200 - Qu.9894GG - Days Run: 165.8nm - ↗ 152.1nm (19h 20') - ↘ 13.7nm (4h 40')
Total: 7849.9nm (44tg 22h) - ↗ 7557.9nm (40tg 11h 19') - ↘ 292.0nm (4tg 10h 41')
Course 119°; 475cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 81.5%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=60; Compressed Air Supply 295Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

1245 - Sunrise.

1300 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1308 - T=20.

1315 - Surfaced after 1h 15' and 3.3nm since Etmal (Total: 1h 35min. and 4.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged.

1316 - Boat ventilated; Battery 80%; 2x245RPM/8kn.

1321 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1415 - Qu.9898GG - Course 110°.

1658 - Qu.2112GQ - Course 119°.

2251 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 18 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 19 June 1943 - West of South-Africa -

0030 - Qu.GQ2165 - Course 117°.

1240 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.2535GQ - Days Run: 182.1nm - ↗ 178.8nm (22h 45') - ↘ 3.3nm (1h 15')
Total: 8032.0nm (45tg 22h) - ↗ 7736.7nm (41tg 10h 04') - ↘ 295.3nm (4tg 11h 56')
Course 117°; 472cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 80.0%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 18days and 21h).

1245 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 18 days and 22h.

2244 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 19 days and 8h.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 18 June, two men of Italian Air Force Assault Engineer Battalion penetrated into Benina airfield in Libya and destroyed two B-24 and two Wellington aircraft; both men were captured after the mission.
b) The RAF attacked the Schneider armaments factories in Le Creusot.

From O.K.M.:
a) On 17 June, the Merchant Raider "Michel", sunk the Norwegian Tanker Ferncastle, 9.940ts, with a cargo of Fuel, off the west coast of Australia.

From B.d.U.:
a) To all boats:
B.d.U.-Order from 17 June:
The following is ordered as an addition to Standing Order No. 11:
Para. 3) If it is not possible to take ship's officers prisoner, take other white members of crew on board, in as far as accommodation and further duties allow. Reason: Interrogation of prisoners for military purposes.
Para. 4) When an isolated destroyer, corvette or escort vessel has been sunk, try to take prisoners, if this is possible without endangering the boat. Questioning of prisoners by P/W/ transit camp can reveal the most valuable information on enemy U-boat defence procedure, apparatus and armament. The same applies to shot down aircraft crews. Be careful of aircraft wreckage, however. (See Standing Order No. 12).
b) Report from U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae): Heavy westerly storm S. of 34° S. (south of Madagascar) since 10.6. (southwest of Cape Town). No armament/weapons/attack or "Bachsteltze" activity.
c) U 417 (Oblt. Wolfgang Schreiner) has not reported since putting out of Kiel. Repeated requests for a position report remained unanswered. It is possible that the boat was intercepted and destroyed by the regular air reconnaissance in the Iceland Passage. There are no further details.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In a letter written to Winston Churchill on 17 June, President Franklin Roosevelt expressed his conviction that General Charles de Gaulle poses "a very dangerous threat" to the Allied war.
b) On 18 June, the word RADAR, from Radio Detection and Ranging, was made the official British name for the technology.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 19 June 1943 - West of South-Africa -

0030 - Qu.GQ2165 - Course 117°.

1240 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.2535GQ - Days Run: 182.1nm - ↗ 178.8nm (22h 45') - ↘ 3.3nm (1h 15')
Total: 8032.0nm (45tg 22h) - ↗ 7736.7nm (41tg 10h 04') - ↘ 295.3nm (4tg 11h 56')
Course 117°; 472cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 80.0%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 18days and 21h).

1245 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 18 days and 22h.

2244 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 19 days and 8h.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 18 June, two men of Italian Air Force Assault Engineer Battalion penetrated into Benina airfield in Libya and destroyed two B-24 and two Wellington aircraft; both men were captured after the mission.
b) The RAF attacked the Schneider armaments factories in Le Creusot.

From O.K.M.:
a) On 17 June, the Merchant Raider "Michel", sunk the Norwegian Tanker Ferncastle, 9.940ts, with a cargo of Fuel, off the west coast of Australia.

From B.d.U.:
a) To all boats:
B.d.U.-Order from 17 June:
The following is ordered as an addition to Standing Order No. 11:
Para. 3) If it is not possible to take ship's officers prisoner, take other white members of crew on board, in as far as accommodation and further duties allow. Reason: Interrogation of prisoners for military purposes.
Para. 4) When an isolated destroyer, corvette or escort vessel has been sunk, try to take prisoners, if this is possible without endangering the boat. Questioning of prisoners by P/W/ transit camp can reveal the most valuable information on enemy U-boat defence procedure, apparatus and armament. The same applies to shot down aircraft crews. Be careful of aircraft wreckage, however. (See Standing Order No. 12).
b) Report from U 177 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Gysae): Heavy westerly storm S. of 34° S. (south of Madagascar) since 10.6. (southwest of Cape Town). No armament/weapons/attack or "Bachsteltze" activity.
c) U 417 (Oblt. Wolfgang Schreiner) has not reported since putting out of Kiel. Repeated requests for a position report remained unanswered. It is possible that the boat was intercepted and destroyed by the regular air reconnaissance in the Iceland Passage. There are no further details.

B-Dienst Report:
a) In a letter written to Winston Churchill on 17 June, President Franklin Roosevelt expressed his conviction that General Charles de Gaulle poses "a very dangerous threat" to the Allied war.
b) On 18 June, the word RADAR, from Radio Detection and Ranging, was made the official British name for the technology.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 20 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0222 - Qu.3478GQ - 19nm south of the underwater mountain in Qu.3449GQ (31°40'S, 8°20'E) - Reached the Air Cover Zone, about 670nm off Cape Town.

Cmdr.: "All hands be on the Quivive!"

1140 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.3841GQ - Days Run: 189.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 8221.6nm (46tg 22h) - ↗ 7926.3nm (42tg 10h 04') - ↘ 295.3nm (4tg 11h 56')
Course 117°; 470cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 80.0%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 19days and 21h).

1240 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 19 days and 22h.

1928 - Qu.3894GQ - Course 119°.

2231 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 20 days and 8h.

2313 - Qu.6311GQ - Course 117°.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Sunday, 20 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

0222 - Qu.3478GQ - 19nm south of the underwater mountain in Qu.3449GQ (31°40'S, 8°20'E) - Reached the Air Cover Zone, about 670nm off Cape Town.

Cmdr.: "All hands be on the Quivive!"

1140 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.3841GQ - Days Run: 189.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 8221.6nm (46tg 22h) - ↗ 7926.3nm (42tg 10h 04') - ↘ 295.3nm (4tg 11h 56')
Course 117°; 470cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 80.0%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 19days and 21h).

1240 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 19 days and 22h.

1928 - Qu.3894GQ - Course 119°.

2231 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 20 days and 8h.

2313 - Qu.6311GQ - Course 117°.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 21 June 1943 - West of Cape Town -

0700 - Qu.6364GQ - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 0810 -

0901 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

0956 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1000 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1041 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1045 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1100 - Reception Depth. Submerged cruise.

1150 - CO₂ - Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.6369GQ - Days Run: 163.9nm - ↗ 150.2nm (19h) - ↘ 13.7nm (5h)
Total: 8385.5nm (47tg 22h) - ↗ 8076.5nm (43tg 05h 04') - ↘ 309.0nm (4tg 16h 56')
Course 117°; 468cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 68.6%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=20; CO₂ 1.7%.

1235 - Sunrise.

1257 - S-Tiefe. Battery 65.7%; CO₂ 1.9%

1300 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 2.7nm since Etmal (Total: 6h and 16.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged.

1301 - Boat ventilated.

1305 - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/10kn.

1555 - Qu.4172GR - Batteries charged => 2h 50min. for 34.3%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/8kn.

2221 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 21 days and 8h.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Heavy air raid by the RAF on Krefeld, Ruhr. 44 terror bombers were shot down.

From B.d.U.:
a) Additonal Order, from 20 June: The following has been added to B.d.U. Standing Order No. 13: Life jackets are to be available to the entire crew in the air endangered areas according to para.1).
b) Report from "Milkcow" U 462 Oblt. Bruno Vowe: On outbound transit was attacked and damaged by 5 Mosquito aircraft in BF 8153. One aircraft possibly shot down. One man killed (Mtr.Gfr. Ferdinand Brunnbaur) and several seriously wounded. Have begun return passage.

B-Dienst Report:
a) On 20 June, the RAF initiated shuttle bombing, where planes departed home fields to bomb Germany, re-armed in Africa, then bomb Italian targets en route back to Britain. The first of these raids targeted Friedrichshafen, Germany.
b) On 20 June, Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Norfolk, Virginia, with survivors of U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan), sunk on 12 June, west of the Canary Islands, by eight Avenger aircraft of USS Bogue (43 dead and 16 survivors). Task Group 21.12 was dissolved and made eligible for European-African-Middle Eastern Area Engagement Star E207. This sortie was one of six Bogue sortie's singled out in a Presidntial Unit Citation.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Monday, 21 June 1943 - West of Cape Town -

0700 - Qu.6364GQ - Diving for Torpedo Maintenance.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0756 - Tube I serviced (T-3/Pi39H). - Break until 0810 -

0901 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

0956 - Tube VI serviced (T-4/Pi39H).

1000 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 & No.308. 145rpm/3kn.

1041 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1045 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1100 - Reception Depth. Submerged cruise.

1150 - CO₂ - Warning at 1.7%.

1200 - Qu.6369GQ - Days Run: 163.9nm - ↗ 150.2nm (19h) - ↘ 13.7nm (5h)
Total: 8385.5nm (47tg 22h) - ↗ 8076.5nm (43tg 05h 04') - ↘ 309.0nm (4tg 16h 56')
Course 117°; 468cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 68.6%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold; T=20; CO₂ 1.7%.

1235 - Sunrise.

1257 - S-Tiefe. Battery 65.7%; CO₂ 1.9%

1300 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h and 2.7nm since Etmal (Total: 6h and 16.4nm). Weather and Sea unchanged.

1301 - Boat ventilated.

1305 - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/10kn.

1555 - Qu.4172GR - Batteries charged => 2h 50min. for 34.3%. 2xSmall-Ahead/185RPM/8kn.

2221 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 21 days and 8h.

2309 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) Heavy air raid by the RAF on Krefeld, Ruhr. 44 terror bombers were shot down.

From B.d.U.:
a) Additonal Order, from 20 June: The following has been added to B.d.U. Standing Order No. 13: Life jackets are to be available to the entire crew in the air endangered areas according to para.1).
b) Report from "Milkcow" U 462 Oblt. Bruno Vowe: On outbound transit was attacked and damaged by 5 Mosquito aircraft in BF 8153. One aircraft possibly shot down. One man killed (Mtr.Gfr. Ferdinand Brunnbaur) and several seriously wounded. Have begun return passage.

B-Dienst Report:
a) On 20 June, the RAF initiated shuttle bombing, where planes departed home fields to bomb Germany, re-armed in Africa, then bomb Italian targets en route back to Britain. The first of these raids targeted Friedrichshafen, Germany.
b) On 20 June, Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Bogue (CVE-9) arrived at Norfolk, Virginia, with survivors of U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan), sunk on 12 June, west of the Canary Islands, by eight Avenger aircraft of USS Bogue (43 dead and 16 survivors). Task Group 21.12 was dissolved and made eligible for European-African-Middle Eastern Area Engagement Star E207. This sortie was one of six Bogue sortie's singled out in a Presidntial Unit Citation.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 22 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

- 7th week at sea completed -


0250 - Qu.4543GR - Course 119°.

0635 - Qu.4559GR - Course 90°. Reached the Shipping Lane Cape Town - Buenos Aires - Cape Town, within the Surface Patrol Area off Cape Town.

0950 - Qu.4569GR - Course 80°.

1130 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.4648GR - Days Run: 191.7nm - ↗ 189.0nm (23h) - 2.7nm (1h)
Total: 8577.2nm (48tg 22h) - ↗ 8265.5nm (44tg 04h 04') - ↘ 311.7nm (4tg 17h 56')
Course 80°; 465cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 21days and 21h).

1209 - Qu.4648GR - "Surface Vessel!". Steamer bearing 93°, E=7500 (4.6nm). A large fast tanker of 9165ts, on opposite course 254°, speed 19kn. Boat going on parallel course and A.K.

1229 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 21days and 22h.

1230 - Broke off chase due to high speed of tanker. Returned to original course 80°; 2x245RPM/8kn.

Cmdr.: Right after reaching the shipping lane, we run into a large tanker. Too bad, we were too far off for an attack and that the steamer was too fast for us to be able to maneuver into attack position.

1315 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached Steamer Route Cape Town - South America and at 1209 sighted Tanker 9165ts, on course 254°, speed 19kn, Qu.4648GR. Broke off pursuit due to high speed of tanker. Still have 4 eels and 465cbm. Weather and Sea unchanged in over 3 weeks: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1330 - Qu.4649GR - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 58 Sec.; A-Meter after 2min, 37 Sec.

1335 - Setting for A-20 with 96rpm.

1344 - T=20. Battery 97%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

1350 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20 min. and 1.3nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1353 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x245RPM, 8kn.

2210 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 22 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Tuesday, 22 June 1943 - South-Atlantic -

- 7th week at sea completed -


0250 - Qu.4543GR - Course 119°.

0635 - Qu.4559GR - Course 90°. Reached the Shipping Lane Cape Town - Buenos Aires - Cape Town, within the Surface Patrol Area off Cape Town.

0950 - Qu.4569GR - Course 80°.

1130 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.4648GR - Days Run: 191.7nm - ↗ 189.0nm (23h) - 2.7nm (1h)
Total: 8577.2nm (48tg 22h) - ↗ 8265.5nm (44tg 04h 04') - ↘ 311.7nm (4tg 17h 56')
Course 80°; 465cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 21days and 21h).

1209 - Qu.4648GR - "Surface Vessel!". Steamer bearing 93°, E=7500 (4.6nm). A large fast tanker of 9165ts, on opposite course 254°, speed 19kn. Boat going on parallel course and A.K.

1229 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 21days and 22h.

1230 - Broke off chase due to high speed of tanker. Returned to original course 80°; 2x245RPM/8kn.

Cmdr.: Right after reaching the shipping lane, we run into a large tanker. Too bad, we were too far off for an attack and that the steamer was too fast for us to be able to maneuver into attack position.

1315 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached Steamer Route Cape Town - South America and at 1209 sighted Tanker 9165ts, on course 254°, speed 19kn, Qu.4648GR. Broke off pursuit due to high speed of tanker. Still have 4 eels and 465cbm. Weather and Sea unchanged in over 3 weeks: SSE6/5, medium swell, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1330 - Qu.4649GR - Crash dive for training. T=10 after 39 Sec. (1st Watch with Diving Officer); T=20 after 58 Sec.; A-Meter after 2min, 37 Sec.

1335 - Setting for A-20 with 96rpm.

1344 - T=20. Battery 97%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

1350 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 20 min. and 1.3nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1353 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x245RPM, 8kn.

2210 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 22 days and 8h.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

0036 - Qu.5443GR top right - FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) in 62°true. Shortly after Sunderland sighted, E=5000, direct approach, machine gun fire, going to A.K. 3 bombs behind the boat.

0037 - After the fly-over, "ALARM!". At T=35, 3 bombs and at A-Meter another two.

It is assessed that the boat sustained 5% hull damage (7% accumulation since leaving BDX): 7% => 93% of 230m = 213.9m safe max. diving depth).

0105 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

0253 - At Reception Depth. Battery 94.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.3%.

0257 - Qu.5427GR - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 20min. and 6.8nm. Weather and Sea unchanged; Visibility 4.8nm.

0258 - Boat ventilated.

0303 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

0336 - Qu.5428GR - FuMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 40°true, E=15500. One minute later an airplane in 15°true, on course WSW, E=8000, crosses the boats port beam at a distance of 6200m. Boat remains surfaced.

0428 - Qu.5429GR center right - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 303°true, E=6200, direct approach, no FuMB-Warning (also, no Magic Eye). At T=18, 3 bombs off to Stbd., and at A-10 another one - no damages.

0501 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

0647 - At Reception Depth. Battery 87%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

0653 - Qu.5437GR - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 25min. and 6.5nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

0658 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

0813 - Qu.5436GR - Right after the watch change, FUMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 30°true, E=11000. Boat remains surfaced.

0858 - Qu.5514GR - FUMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 287°true, E=13500 - is located in Qu.5436 center right.

0900 - Still dark. Airplane sighted in 315°true, E=6000 on course East, passes our port beam at at distance of 4600m (doesn't seem to have radar installed). Boat remains surfaced.

1200 - Qu.5523GR - Days Run: 198.2nm - ↗ 183.6nm (18h 55') - ↘ 14.6nm (5h 05')
Total: 8775.4nm (49tg 22h) - ↗ 8449.1nm (44tg 22h 59') - ↘ 326.3nm (4tg 23h 01')
Course 80°; 462cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 87%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 22days and 21h) - Morning Dawn -

1230 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 22days and 22h.

1502 - Qu.5377GR bottom center - FuMB-Warning (Magic Eye), shortly after a twin-engine A/C (Avro Anson?) is sighted in 121°true, E=3600, direct approach; turning with A.K. toward the approaching airplane, machine gun fire from but no bombs.

1503 - After the fly-over "ALARM!". Just before closing the C/T-hatch, another airplane (Consolidated) is sighted in 97°true, E=6000. At T=25 about 4 Wabos to Stbd., concussions. At A-Meter another 2 Wabos - no damages.

1507 - Boat remains submerged, going on course 75°.

Cmdr.: The last 10 1/2 hours we did not encounter any airplanes, and now about 38nm off Cape Town, we are attacked by two at the same time. Unfortunately, our presence is now known and this shipping lane will be closed.


- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

0036 - Qu.5443GR top right - FuMB Detection (Magic Eye) in 62°true. Shortly after Sunderland sighted, E=5000, direct approach, machine gun fire, going to A.K. 3 bombs behind the boat.

0037 - After the fly-over, "ALARM!". At T=35, 3 bombs and at A-Meter another two.

It is assessed that the boat sustained 5% hull damage (7% accumulation since leaving BDX): 7% => 93% of 230m = 213.9m safe max. diving depth).

0105 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

0253 - At Reception Depth. Battery 94.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.3%.

0257 - Qu.5427GR - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 20min. and 6.8nm. Weather and Sea unchanged; Visibility 4.8nm.

0258 - Boat ventilated.

0303 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

0336 - Qu.5428GR - FuMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 40°true, E=15500. One minute later an airplane in 15°true, on course WSW, E=8000, crosses the boats port beam at a distance of 6200m. Boat remains surfaced.

0428 - Qu.5429GR center right - "ALARM!" for Sunderland in 303°true, E=6200, direct approach, no FuMB-Warning (also, no Magic Eye). At T=18, 3 bombs off to Stbd., and at A-10 another one - no damages.

0501 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

0647 - At Reception Depth. Battery 87%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

0653 - Qu.5437GR - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 2h 25min. and 6.5nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

0658 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F.

0813 - Qu.5436GR - Right after the watch change, FUMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 30°true, E=11000. Boat remains surfaced.

0858 - Qu.5514GR - FUMB-Warning (no Magic Eye) in 287°true, E=13500 - is located in Qu.5436 center right.

0900 - Still dark. Airplane sighted in 315°true, E=6000 on course East, passes our port beam at at distance of 4600m (doesn't seem to have radar installed). Boat remains surfaced.

1200 - Qu.5523GR - Days Run: 198.2nm - ↗ 183.6nm (18h 55') - ↘ 14.6nm (5h 05')
Total: 8775.4nm (49tg 22h) - ↗ 8449.1nm (44tg 22h 59') - ↘ 326.3nm (4tg 23h 01')
Course 80°; 462cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 87%; 1xT-3, 2xEtoFat, 1xT-4; 9xBold.
SSE6/5, clear, visibility 6.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 22days and 21h) - Morning Dawn -

1230 - Sunrise. Weather & Sea unchanged in 22days and 22h.

1502 - Qu.5377GR bottom center - FuMB-Warning (Magic Eye), shortly after a twin-engine A/C (Avro Anson?) is sighted in 121°true, E=3600, direct approach; turning with A.K. toward the approaching airplane, machine gun fire from but no bombs.

1503 - After the fly-over "ALARM!". Just before closing the C/T-hatch, another airplane (Consolidated) is sighted in 97°true, E=6000. At T=25 about 4 Wabos to Stbd., concussions. At A-Meter another 2 Wabos - no damages.

1507 - Boat remains submerged, going on course 75°.

Cmdr.: The last 10 1/2 hours we did not encounter any airplanes, and now about 38nm off Cape Town, we are attacked by two at the same time. Unfortunately, our presence is now known and this shipping lane will be closed.


- to be continued -


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

- continued from 23 June, 1507 -


1533 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

1625 - S-Tiefe. Battery 84%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.2%.

1628 - Surfaced after 1h 25min. and 3.9nm. Weather and Sea unchanged; Water Depth 245m.

1629 - Boat ventilated.

1632 - Qu.5378GR bottom left - FuMB-Warning in 131°true, E=13500 and at 1633 also, by Magic Eye.

1634 - Compressed Air Supply is filled, two airplanes are sighted approaching the boat, one in 131°true, E=10000 and another in 102°true, E=7000 - "ALARM!".

1636 - At A-Meter 1 bomb and again 2 at 1638 and another 2 at 1640, each time further astern - no damages.

1653 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm, on course 80°.

1741 - At Reception Depth. Battery 81.5%; Compressed Air Supply 260Atü; CO₂ 1.2%.

1744 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged; Water Depth 211m.

1750 - Boat ventilated. 2xH.F.

1757 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1801 - Qu.5378GR center bottom right - Dinner has just been served, FuMB-Warning in 310°true, E=9000.

1802 - Magic Eye Warning in 40°true, E=11700, shortly after a airplane is sighted in 40°true, E=11600, direct approach - "ALARM!".

1805 - At A-10, 2 Wabos and at A-Meter another 2 Wabos; in due course until 1810, 3 x 2 Wabos - no damages.

1821 - At A-20, 96rpm.

1842 - Submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

2011 - S-Tiefe. Battery 77%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

2012 - Qu.5379GR - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 5.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2013 - Boat ventilated.

2018 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2020 - Charging batteries (77%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/11kn.

2022 - FuMB-Warning in 210°true, E=15600 (no Magic Eye).

2024 - Airplane sighted in 185°true, E=6000, on course NE.

2025 - Interrupting charging process - "ALARM!".

2028 - At A-Meter no bombs.

Cmdr.: Apparently, this airplane was not equipped with radar. A bit strange that no Hunter Group has been dispatched to search for us ... I haven't quite finished my thought, when the listening room is reporting turbine screw noises approacing from the East ...

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

- continued from 23 June, 1507 -


1533 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm.

1625 - S-Tiefe. Battery 84%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.2%.

1628 - Surfaced after 1h 25min. and 3.9nm. Weather and Sea unchanged; Water Depth 245m.

1629 - Boat ventilated.

1632 - Qu.5378GR bottom left - FuMB-Warning in 131°true, E=13500 and at 1633 also, by Magic Eye.

1634 - Compressed Air Supply is filled, two airplanes are sighted approaching the boat, one in 131°true, E=10000 and another in 102°true, E=7000 - "ALARM!".

1636 - At A-Meter 1 bomb and again 2 at 1638 and another 2 at 1640, each time further astern - no damages.

1653 - Submerged cruise at A-20, 96rpm, on course 80°.

1741 - At Reception Depth. Battery 81.5%; Compressed Air Supply 260Atü; CO₂ 1.2%.

1744 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged; Water Depth 211m.

1750 - Boat ventilated. 2xH.F.

1757 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

1801 - Qu.5378GR center bottom right - Dinner has just been served, FuMB-Warning in 310°true, E=9000.

1802 - Magic Eye Warning in 40°true, E=11700, shortly after a airplane is sighted in 40°true, E=11600, direct approach - "ALARM!".

1805 - At A-10, 2 Wabos and at A-Meter another 2 Wabos; in due course until 1810, 3 x 2 Wabos - no damages.

1821 - At A-20, 96rpm.

1842 - Submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

2011 - S-Tiefe. Battery 77%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

2012 - Qu.5379GR - Surfaced after 2h 10min. and 5.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2013 - Boat ventilated.

2018 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

2020 - Charging batteries (77%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 375RPM/11kn.

2022 - FuMB-Warning in 210°true, E=15600 (no Magic Eye).

2024 - Airplane sighted in 185°true, E=6000, on course NE.

2025 - Interrupting charging process - "ALARM!".

2028 - At A-Meter no bombs.

Cmdr.: Apparently, this airplane was not equipped with radar. A bit strange that no Hunter Group has been dispatched to search for us ... I haven't quite finished my thought, when the listening room is reporting turbine screw noises approacing from the East ...

- to be continued -




Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

- continued from 23 June, 2028 -


2049 - Sound contact warship bearing 345°, E=14500, is approaching our position at high speed. Boat is at A-20, setting for Reception Depth with 1/3-Ahead.

2057 - T=20.

2059 - S-Tiefe. Water Depth 162m, about 20nm off Cape Town.
Nothing can be seen through the A-Periscope.

2106 - Adding the B-Periscope.

2109 - An airplane can be seen on opposite course West to our port beam, dropping Deterrent-Wabos and again at 2111. Rigging for Silent Running.

2113 - Retracting B-Periscope. The approaching surface vessel is identified as a Flower Corvette, passes our port beam on opposite course WSW, at a distance of 1000m. A second airplane is sighted to our stbd. beam on course West.

2118 - Retracting A-Periscope to prevent a mirroring effect in the low setting sun and going to T=18.

2121 - Wabos in the distance and at 2122 the Flower Corvette is dropping Wabos at our last diving position. This means, that the airplane at 2024 did in fact detect the boat but instead of dropping bombs, must have marked our diving position with some kind of sonar buoy and/or smoke flares, in order to setup for a surprise attack on the boat.

2126 - Wabos at our diving position.

2143 - Boat is about 19nm off Cape Town. The Corvette is still sniffing around our diving position and Wabos are continuing to be dropped in the area.
The listening room is reporting a second warship contact bearing 301°, E=12800, also, approaching our position, comes into sight and is identified as a Black Swan Sloop, also heading toward our last diving position.

2158 - 13nm off Cape Town, a third sound contact is heard, bearing 339°, E=14600.

2224 - A Consolidated with a search light can be seen 1500m to our Stbd.beam on course West, is dropping Wabos 3-times at our last diving position, about 10000m astern.

2236 - Sundown. Switching B-Periscope.

2251 - Secured from Silent Running. Battery 71.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

2255 - Qu.5387GR - Surfaced after 2h 30' and 6.8nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged in 23days and 8h. Water Depth 136m.
FuMB-Signal in 263°true, E=12800, which is at the diving position, suspect it originated from one of the two patrol vessels there.

2302 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries (71.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

2303 - Third FuMB-Warning in 255°true, E=11000 (no Magic Eye). Diving to S-Tiefe, however, boat is sinking to T=20.
Sound contact with the two patrol vessels at our last diving position, the third sound contact was therefore a airplane.

2308 - Wabos are continued to being dropped at our last diving position.

2310 - Back to S-Tiefe, a Consolidated on course East 1500m to our Stbd. beam (suspect the same A/C returning to Cape Town). Nothing else can be seen.

2318 - Surfaced after 15' and 0.7nm. Water Depth 124m.
Getting closer to land, wind and sea are subsiding: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb.

2320 - Charging batteries (71.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

2330 - Batteries charged to 75% (10min. for 3.5%).

2344 - An Armed Trawler is protecting the harbor entry, bearing 317°, E=8400, on course ENE, slow speed. Reducing own speed to Port, 185RPM/5kn.

2349 - Qu.5387GR - Water Depth 100m - After somewhat of a quite spell, a Liberator appears without prior warning in 30°true, E=4700, direct approach, search light. Both Flak guns manned. The A/C drops bombs behind the boat - no damage. After the fly-over, our Flak shoots down the Liberator. However, none of the patrol vessels react to it. Boat remains surfaced and Flak guns manned.

Loud explosions and fires can be seen and heard in and around Cape Town harbor.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 23 June 1943 - Off South-Africa -

- continued from 23 June, 2028 -


2049 - Sound contact warship bearing 345°, E=14500, is approaching our position at high speed. Boat is at A-20, setting for Reception Depth with 1/3-Ahead.

2057 - T=20.

2059 - S-Tiefe. Water Depth 162m, about 20nm off Cape Town.
Nothing can be seen through the A-Periscope.

2106 - Adding the B-Periscope.

2109 - An airplane can be seen on opposite course West to our port beam, dropping Deterrent-Wabos and again at 2111. Rigging for Silent Running.

2113 - Retracting B-Periscope. The approaching surface vessel is identified as a Flower Corvette, passes our port beam on opposite course WSW, at a distance of 1000m. A second airplane is sighted to our stbd. beam on course West.

2118 - Retracting A-Periscope to prevent a mirroring effect in the low setting sun and going to T=18.

2121 - Wabos in the distance and at 2122 the Flower Corvette is dropping Wabos at our last diving position. This means, that the airplane at 2024 did in fact detect the boat but instead of dropping bombs, must have marked our diving position with some kind of sonar buoy and/or smoke flares, in order to setup for a surprise attack on the boat.

2126 - Wabos at our diving position.

2143 - Boat is about 19nm off Cape Town. The Corvette is still sniffing around our diving position and Wabos are continuing to be dropped in the area.
The listening room is reporting a second warship contact bearing 301°, E=12800, also, approaching our position, comes into sight and is identified as a Black Swan Sloop, also heading toward our last diving position.

2158 - 13nm off Cape Town, a third sound contact is heard, bearing 339°, E=14600.

2224 - A Consolidated with a search light can be seen 1500m to our Stbd.beam on course West, is dropping Wabos 3-times at our last diving position, about 10000m astern.

2236 - Sundown. Switching B-Periscope.

2251 - Secured from Silent Running. Battery 71.5%; Compressed Air Supply 280Atü; CO₂ 1.4%.

2255 - Qu.5387GR - Surfaced after 2h 30' and 6.8nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged in 23days and 8h. Water Depth 136m.
FuMB-Signal in 263°true, E=12800, which is at the diving position, suspect it originated from one of the two patrol vessels there.

2302 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. Charging batteries (71.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

2303 - Third FuMB-Warning in 255°true, E=11000 (no Magic Eye). Diving to S-Tiefe, however, boat is sinking to T=20.
Sound contact with the two patrol vessels at our last diving position, the third sound contact was therefore a airplane.

2308 - Wabos are continued to being dropped at our last diving position.

2310 - Back to S-Tiefe, a Consolidated on course East 1500m to our Stbd. beam (suspect the same A/C returning to Cape Town). Nothing else can be seen.

2318 - Surfaced after 15' and 0.7nm. Water Depth 124m.
Getting closer to land, wind and sea are subsiding: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb.

2320 - Charging batteries (71.5%): Stbd.-Charging, 496RPM; Port-Propulsion, 285RPM/7kn.

2330 - Batteries charged to 75% (10min. for 3.5%).

2344 - An Armed Trawler is protecting the harbor entry, bearing 317°, E=8400, on course ENE, slow speed. Reducing own speed to Port, 185RPM/5kn.

2349 - Qu.5387GR - Water Depth 100m - After somewhat of a quite spell, a Liberator appears without prior warning in 30°true, E=4700, direct approach, search light. Both Flak guns manned. The A/C drops bombs behind the boat - no damage. After the fly-over, our Flak shoots down the Liberator. However, none of the patrol vessels react to it. Boat remains surfaced and Flak guns manned.

Loud explosions and fires can be seen and heard in and around Cape Town harbor.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

0015 - FuMB-Signal in 95°true, E=15000, 1nm off the coast, Lions Head; Water Depth 86m.
6000m to our port beam, the Armed Trawler is running at slow speed on parallel course.

The loud explosions continue until about 0025.

0032 - There is a shadow with two tall masts in front of Lions Head, in the area of the 0015 FuMB-Signal, suddenly, is out of sight again. Water Depth 77m. Turning off the FuMO29.

Cmdr.: The is an eerie stillness, nothing is seen or heard, the Armed Trawler 6000m to port is quiet. All lights and beacon fires are extinguished. We have to be very careful, not to run into some kind of trap.

0044 - The two tall masts appear again, must have been hidden by a haze cloud/fog bank. The vessel is identified as a Black Swan Sloop, is lying stopped, E=8000.

0053 - FuMB Warning coming from the direction of the Sloop, E=9000.

0056 - Interrupting charging process at 85% batteries charged. Decks awash.

0101 - An armed Australian steamer putting out to sea on course 260°, bearing 326°, E=8000. Turning toward the steamer.

0107 - Without prior FuMB or Magic Eye warning, the boat is attacked by a land-based A/C, direct approach from ENE, the bombs fall wide to port - no damages.
After the fly-over, diving to S-Tiefe. The steamer is changing course to 229°, other than that, everything stays calm.

0121 - Boat is in attack position, 7.5nm off Cape Town. "Battle Stations!".

0124 - Flooding tube I.

0126 - Qu.5385GR bottom center - Submerged Single Shot with tube I (B-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 8.7m (1m below target draught); Vt30.
Target ship: Australian Highspeed Cargo Star of 3923ts, draught 7.7m.
Target course 229°; Target distance 450m*; Target angle red90°; Target speed 11.0kn; Firing angle α 000°.
Own course 318°; Own speed 1.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb; Water Depth 69m.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit midships underneath the forecastle/bridge after 29 Sec.! => 35 Sec. x 15.43m/s (30kn) => 447.5m*.

0134 - The steamer is loosing speed and turning to stbd, has barrels as upper deck cargo. An airplane is dropping Wabos at our diving position.

0139 - The steamer sinks by the stem and seems to hit the ocean floor with the bow, causing the stern to stand upright in the air until 0144, when it finally turns to the side and slowly and quietly glides beneath the waves.

0145 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0150 - Running off in direction of Cape Town, in order to inspect the harbor. Several fires are still burning in and around the harbor. Wabos are being dropped off in the distance.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

0015 - FuMB-Signal in 95°true, E=15000, 1nm off the coast, Lions Head; Water Depth 86m.
6000m to our port beam, the Armed Trawler is running at slow speed on parallel course.

The loud explosions continue until about 0025.

0032 - There is a shadow with two tall masts in front of Lions Head, in the area of the 0015 FuMB-Signal, suddenly, is out of sight again. Water Depth 77m. Turning off the FuMO29.

Cmdr.: The is an eerie stillness, nothing is seen or heard, the Armed Trawler 6000m to port is quiet. All lights and beacon fires are extinguished. We have to be very careful, not to run into some kind of trap.

0044 - The two tall masts appear again, must have been hidden by a haze cloud/fog bank. The vessel is identified as a Black Swan Sloop, is lying stopped, E=8000.

0053 - FuMB Warning coming from the direction of the Sloop, E=9000.

0056 - Interrupting charging process at 85% batteries charged. Decks awash.

0101 - An armed Australian steamer putting out to sea on course 260°, bearing 326°, E=8000. Turning toward the steamer.

0107 - Without prior FuMB or Magic Eye warning, the boat is attacked by a land-based A/C, direct approach from ENE, the bombs fall wide to port - no damages.
After the fly-over, diving to S-Tiefe. The steamer is changing course to 229°, other than that, everything stays calm.

0121 - Boat is in attack position, 7.5nm off Cape Town. "Battle Stations!".

0124 - Flooding tube I.

0126 - Qu.5385GR bottom center - Submerged Single Shot with tube I (B-Periscope): T-3/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 8.7m (1m below target draught); Vt30.
Target ship: Australian Highspeed Cargo Star of 3923ts, draught 7.7m.
Target course 229°; Target distance 450m*; Target angle red90°; Target speed 11.0kn; Firing angle α 000°.
Own course 318°; Own speed 1.6kn ahead.
Weather/Sea: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb; Water Depth 69m.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

=> Torpedo is a hit midships underneath the forecastle/bridge after 29 Sec.! => 35 Sec. x 15.43m/s (30kn) => 447.5m*.

0134 - The steamer is loosing speed and turning to stbd, has barrels as upper deck cargo. An airplane is dropping Wabos at our diving position.

0139 - The steamer sinks by the stem and seems to hit the ocean floor with the bow, causing the stern to stand upright in the air until 0144, when it finally turns to the side and slowly and quietly glides beneath the waves.

0145 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0150 - Running off in direction of Cape Town, in order to inspect the harbor. Several fires are still burning in and around the harbor. Wabos are being dropped off in the distance.

- to be continued -


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0150 -

0217 - The #1 Black Swan Sloop lying beneath Lions Head is approaching our position at high speed. Rigging for Silent Running and turning away to the North.

0222 - The Sloop is going on a search pattern and a second Black Swan Sloop is approaching from direction of Cape Town. New course 345°. "Battle Stations!".

0226 - Flooding tube V (EtoFat) and turning away from the second Sloop on course 315°. All the while, a Hunt-I Destroyer is lying stopped between Lions Head and Robben Island.

0236 - Both Sloops are dropping Wabos at our diving position, after the last A/C attack. A Large Ore Carrier of 7330ts and a 2-Mast Schooner are leaving Cape Town and running close to shore on a southerly heading.

0238 - On course 270°. Closing tube V.

0254 - The Ore Carrier changes courses from SSW-West-SSW around a mean course of SW, speed 7-8kn. A 2-Mast Motor Schooner is entering Cape Town harbor. Both Sloops continue to drop Wabos at our last diving position until 0315. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0325 - Both Sloops turn back toward Cape Town and the Ore Carrier turns around and heads back to Cape Town at high speed, as well.

0335 - Secured from Silent Running, as the boat is not quite outside the sonar field of the #1 Sloop. A mistake! The Sloop immediately turns around and heads toward our position at high speed. Going to course 315° and showing our stern. Rigging for Silent Running, as the Sloop begins to go on a search pattern.

0350 - The Sloop stops in relative bearing 172°, E=2800, and remains stationary, searching the water surface with searchlights.

0425 - On course 270°. We are outside the Sloop's Sound Sensor field, which is still stationary 5100m astern. Secured from Silent Running. Nonetheless, again the Sloop heads toward our position at high speed and goes on search pattern at 0427. Again, rigging for Silent Running.

0430 - The Sloop turns around for no apparent reason and runs off at high speed on course ENE, towards Robben Island.

0437 - Secured from Silent Running and Surfacing after 9.0nm and 3h 30min.; CO₂ 1.5%; Battery 83%.

0438 - Boat ventilated; Weather and Sea unchanged.

0440 - FuMB-Signals coming from direction of the Sloop.

0443 - Qu.5385GR center right - Shortly after a Magic Eye Warning, "ALARM!" for a twin-engine A/C, direct approache from NE, is already very close; 1 bomb wide to port; At first manning Flak guns but after the fly-over crash diving; Water Depth is 95m.

0445 - At A-Meter no damages. Depth under keel 10m.

0451 - Setting for Reception Depth at 96rpm.

0501 - T=20. Battery 80%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

0513 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1.6nm and 30min.

0514 - Weather and Sea unchanged. Water Depth 105m. Boat ventilated. Sloop sighted in relative bearing 180°, coming up at high speed with AOB 0°, E=7100.

0518 - Running off at high speed. Compressed Air Supply filled. At E=6200, the Sloop turns away again and runs off at high speed towards Robben Island.

0523 - The Sloop is out of sight at 4.9nm. Reducing speed.
FuMB-Warning in 250°true, E=14500 and again at 0524 in 91°true, E=12000. Suspect ASW surface vessels. Boat remains surfaced. Water Depth 124m.

0532 - Qu.5384GR center - A/C in SW, is already very close, crosses our stern on course NE and distance of less than 1000m. Received FuMB-Warning from direction of the airplane, after it goes out of sight.

Cmdr.: Very strange: The fact that we received a FuMB-Warning after the airplane has flown off, indicates that it is equipped with radar gear. Still, it didn't attack the boat.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0150 -

0217 - The #1 Black Swan Sloop lying beneath Lions Head is approaching our position at high speed. Rigging for Silent Running and turning away to the North.

0222 - The Sloop is going on a search pattern and a second Black Swan Sloop is approaching from direction of Cape Town. New course 345°. "Battle Stations!".

0226 - Flooding tube V (EtoFat) and turning away from the second Sloop on course 315°. All the while, a Hunt-I Destroyer is lying stopped between Lions Head and Robben Island.

0236 - Both Sloops are dropping Wabos at our diving position, after the last A/C attack. A Large Ore Carrier of 7330ts and a 2-Mast Schooner are leaving Cape Town and running close to shore on a southerly heading.

0238 - On course 270°. Closing tube V.

0254 - The Ore Carrier changes courses from SSW-West-SSW around a mean course of SW, speed 7-8kn. A 2-Mast Motor Schooner is entering Cape Town harbor. Both Sloops continue to drop Wabos at our last diving position until 0315. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

0325 - Both Sloops turn back toward Cape Town and the Ore Carrier turns around and heads back to Cape Town at high speed, as well.

0335 - Secured from Silent Running, as the boat is not quite outside the sonar field of the #1 Sloop. A mistake! The Sloop immediately turns around and heads toward our position at high speed. Going to course 315° and showing our stern. Rigging for Silent Running, as the Sloop begins to go on a search pattern.

0350 - The Sloop stops in relative bearing 172°, E=2800, and remains stationary, searching the water surface with searchlights.

0425 - On course 270°. We are outside the Sloop's Sound Sensor field, which is still stationary 5100m astern. Secured from Silent Running. Nonetheless, again the Sloop heads toward our position at high speed and goes on search pattern at 0427. Again, rigging for Silent Running.

0430 - The Sloop turns around for no apparent reason and runs off at high speed on course ENE, towards Robben Island.

0437 - Secured from Silent Running and Surfacing after 9.0nm and 3h 30min.; CO₂ 1.5%; Battery 83%.

0438 - Boat ventilated; Weather and Sea unchanged.

0440 - FuMB-Signals coming from direction of the Sloop.

0443 - Qu.5385GR center right - Shortly after a Magic Eye Warning, "ALARM!" for a twin-engine A/C, direct approache from NE, is already very close; 1 bomb wide to port; At first manning Flak guns but after the fly-over crash diving; Water Depth is 95m.

0445 - At A-Meter no damages. Depth under keel 10m.

0451 - Setting for Reception Depth at 96rpm.

0501 - T=20. Battery 80%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.1%.

0513 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1.6nm and 30min.

0514 - Weather and Sea unchanged. Water Depth 105m. Boat ventilated. Sloop sighted in relative bearing 180°, coming up at high speed with AOB 0°, E=7100.

0518 - Running off at high speed. Compressed Air Supply filled. At E=6200, the Sloop turns away again and runs off at high speed towards Robben Island.

0523 - The Sloop is out of sight at 4.9nm. Reducing speed.
FuMB-Warning in 250°true, E=14500 and again at 0524 in 91°true, E=12000. Suspect ASW surface vessels. Boat remains surfaced. Water Depth 124m.

0532 - Qu.5384GR center - A/C in SW, is already very close, crosses our stern on course NE and distance of less than 1000m. Received FuMB-Warning from direction of the airplane, after it goes out of sight.

Cmdr.: Very strange: The fact that we received a FuMB-Warning after the airplane has flown off, indicates that it is equipped with radar gear. Still, it didn't attack the boat.

- to be continued -


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0532 -


0540 - Qu.5384GR - On course 180°. Water Depth 131m.

0548 - A Sloop in relative bearing 70°, E=7700, approaching the boat at high speed at AOB 0°. Trying to evade on course 157° and A.K.

0550 - Qu.5384GR bottom center - The Sloop is coming up quickly. Diving at a distance of 6100m. T=10 after 70 Sec.

0553 - S-Tiefe, course 180°, rigging for Silent Running.
The Sloop is approaching the position where the boat was at T=10.

Cmdr.: Apparently a trap, the A/C not attacking but signaling our position to the Sloop.

0603 - The Sloop is 900m astern, drops 10 Wabos, and in due course another 40 Wabos in 4 runs astern until 0624. Each time the boat is in the Sloop's baffles, increasing speed to A.K. and thus, managing to gain distance to the Sloop.

0624 - Distance to the Sloop is 3000m. Sound contact with steamer bearing 300°, E=15500, on course 238°, speed 7kn.

0628 - The Sloop drops another 24 Wabos in 3 runs astern until 0640, E=4300.

0649 - The Sloop lies stopped 5000m astern, searching the water surface with searchlights.

0700 - Qu.5387GR center - Water Depth 124m. Distance to Sloop is 6000m. Secured from silent running. AGAIN, about 2min. after securing from silent running, the Sloop runs at high speed toward our position. Rigging for Silent Running again.

0708 - Sloop is 3200m astern, on a search pattern.

0714 - At a distance of 1500m, the Sloop starts firing with surface weapons at our periscope.

0717 - ASDIC! Water Depth is 118m. Diving to Reception Depth.

0718 - Boat is located by ASDIC. Secured from Silent Running, ejecting Bold (8 remaining), and diving deeper with A.K. At T=30, the first series of 12 Wabos, strong concussions, broken glass.

0722 - Rigging for Silent Running. At A+30, depth under keel is 10m. L.I. reports that the boat sustained another 2% hull damage (9% accumulation since leaving BDX): 9% => 91% of 230m = 209.3m safe max. diving depth).

From 0715 until 0745, another 40 Wabos in 4 runs, each time further astern (attacking the Bold?).

0745 - Sound contact with steamer bearing 267°, E=16000, on course 239°, speed 7-8kn. Setting for A+20.

From 0746 until 0752, another 20 Wabos in 2 runs astern. Distance is 3000m.

0755 - Setting for A-Meter.

0757 - 12 Wabos 3300m astern.

0805 - A-Meter. Lost sound contact with Sloop (again, lying still?). Steamer sound contact 0624 now located in Qu.5621GR bottom left, on course 205°. Setting for Reception Depth.

0815 - T=20.

0818 - At S-Tiefe, the Sloop is seen lying stopped 3900m astern. Steamer sound contact 0745 comes into sight, is a Clan-Type-Transport of 2350ts.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0532 -


0540 - Qu.5384GR - On course 180°. Water Depth 131m.

0548 - A Sloop in relative bearing 70°, E=7700, approaching the boat at high speed at AOB 0°. Trying to evade on course 157° and A.K.

0550 - Qu.5384GR bottom center - The Sloop is coming up quickly. Diving at a distance of 6100m. T=10 after 70 Sec.

0553 - S-Tiefe, course 180°, rigging for Silent Running.
The Sloop is approaching the position where the boat was at T=10.

Cmdr.: Apparently a trap, the A/C not attacking but signaling our position to the Sloop.

0603 - The Sloop is 900m astern, drops 10 Wabos, and in due course another 40 Wabos in 4 runs astern until 0624. Each time the boat is in the Sloop's baffles, increasing speed to A.K. and thus, managing to gain distance to the Sloop.

0624 - Distance to the Sloop is 3000m. Sound contact with steamer bearing 300°, E=15500, on course 238°, speed 7kn.

0628 - The Sloop drops another 24 Wabos in 3 runs astern until 0640, E=4300.

0649 - The Sloop lies stopped 5000m astern, searching the water surface with searchlights.

0700 - Qu.5387GR center - Water Depth 124m. Distance to Sloop is 6000m. Secured from silent running. AGAIN, about 2min. after securing from silent running, the Sloop runs at high speed toward our position. Rigging for Silent Running again.

0708 - Sloop is 3200m astern, on a search pattern.

0714 - At a distance of 1500m, the Sloop starts firing with surface weapons at our periscope.

0717 - ASDIC! Water Depth is 118m. Diving to Reception Depth.

0718 - Boat is located by ASDIC. Secured from Silent Running, ejecting Bold (8 remaining), and diving deeper with A.K. At T=30, the first series of 12 Wabos, strong concussions, broken glass.

0722 - Rigging for Silent Running. At A+30, depth under keel is 10m. L.I. reports that the boat sustained another 2% hull damage (9% accumulation since leaving BDX): 9% => 91% of 230m = 209.3m safe max. diving depth).

From 0715 until 0745, another 40 Wabos in 4 runs, each time further astern (attacking the Bold?).

0745 - Sound contact with steamer bearing 267°, E=16000, on course 239°, speed 7-8kn. Setting for A+20.

From 0746 until 0752, another 20 Wabos in 2 runs astern. Distance is 3000m.

0755 - Setting for A-Meter.

0757 - 12 Wabos 3300m astern.

0805 - A-Meter. Lost sound contact with Sloop (again, lying still?). Steamer sound contact 0624 now located in Qu.5621GR bottom left, on course 205°. Setting for Reception Depth.

0815 - T=20.

0818 - At S-Tiefe, the Sloop is seen lying stopped 3900m astern. Steamer sound contact 0745 comes into sight, is a Clan-Type-Transport of 2350ts.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0818 -


0837 - Steamer sound contact bearing 259°, course 242°, speed 10kn, E=14500, located in Qu.5388GR center bottom left.

0852 - Qu.5387GR bottom center - The Clan-Type-Transport is now bearing 300°, on course 239°, speed 10kn, E=6000. The distance is too great for an attack and the boat cannot secure from Silent Running and increase speed, as the Sloop is still too close, about 5300m astern.

0855 - Steamer sound contact bearing 257°, course 242°, speed 10kn, E=16900.

0910 - Sound contact 0837 comes into sight, is identified as a Granville Class Dry Bulk Carrier of 2197ts.

Cmdr.: Apparently, the steamers are now leaving Capetown in intervals of 20-50min.

0928 - The Granville Class Carrier is crossing our stern at a distance of 1200m, has a deck gun on the stern, and flying a Australian flag.

0929 - Boat is maneuvering into attack position, when a Flying Boat is sighted right over the boat on course SW.

0931 - Sound contact 0855 is identified as a Large Ore Carrier of 7333ts, draught 5.8m, max. speed 17kn. Seems to be the same one, that turned around and back to Capetown at 0325, after sinking the High Speed Cargo Star at 0144.

0938 - "Battle Stations!".

0943 - Qu.5621GR center top right - Flooding tube VI.
Submerged Single Shot with tube VI (B-Periscope): T-4 "Falke"/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 6.8m (1m below target draught); Vt20.
Target ship: Australian Large Ore Carrier of 7333ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 242°; Target distance 2000m*; Target angle green90°; Target speed 9.0kn; Firing angle α 000°.
Own course 152°; Own speed 1.6kn astern.
Weather/Sea: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb; Water Depth 125m.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, flooding Tube V (EtoFat).

=> Torpedo is a hit underneath the aft section after 3min. and 27 Sec.! => 207 Sec. x 10.29m/s (20kn) => 2130.03m*.

Steamer turns away to port on a southerly heading and then turns eastward, settles in the water and comes to a stop. Steamer is armed and has upper deck cargo in crates.

Cmdr.: Looks like the steamer is trying to escape back to Capetown again.

0955 - The stern settles more and more in the water, lifting the bow out of the water. The Sloop picks up speed but doesn't approach. Closing tube V.

0958 - The steamer sinks by the stern, the bow standing straight up in the air as the stern hits the ocean floor

1001 - The Steamer silently slips beneath the waves. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

1004 - Running off on westerly heading. All of a sudden, underwater explosions can be heard from direction of the sunk steamer.

1035 - On course 225°. Battery 71.4%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.7%.

0513 - Surfaced after 5h and 12.7nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged. Water Depth 153m.

1053 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead. Course 180°.

1057 - FuMB-Detection in 35°true, E=10800. Boat remains surfaced, suspect FuMB signal is coming from the Sloop.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 0818 -


0837 - Steamer sound contact bearing 259°, course 242°, speed 10kn, E=14500, located in Qu.5388GR center bottom left.

0852 - Qu.5387GR bottom center - The Clan-Type-Transport is now bearing 300°, on course 239°, speed 10kn, E=6000. The distance is too great for an attack and the boat cannot secure from Silent Running and increase speed, as the Sloop is still too close, about 5300m astern.

0855 - Steamer sound contact bearing 257°, course 242°, speed 10kn, E=16900.

0910 - Sound contact 0837 comes into sight, is identified as a Granville Class Dry Bulk Carrier of 2197ts.

Cmdr.: Apparently, the steamers are now leaving Capetown in intervals of 20-50min.

0928 - The Granville Class Carrier is crossing our stern at a distance of 1200m, has a deck gun on the stern, and flying a Australian flag.

0929 - Boat is maneuvering into attack position, when a Flying Boat is sighted right over the boat on course SW.

0931 - Sound contact 0855 is identified as a Large Ore Carrier of 7333ts, draught 5.8m, max. speed 17kn. Seems to be the same one, that turned around and back to Capetown at 0325, after sinking the High Speed Cargo Star at 0144.

0938 - "Battle Stations!".

0943 - Qu.5621GR center top right - Flooding tube VI.
Submerged Single Shot with tube VI (B-Periscope): T-4 "Falke"/Pi39H (MZ); Running depth 6.8m (1m below target draught); Vt20.
Target ship: Australian Large Ore Carrier of 7333ts, draught 5.8m.
Target course 242°; Target distance 2000m*; Target angle green90°; Target speed 9.0kn; Firing angle α 000°.
Own course 152°; Own speed 1.6kn astern.
Weather/Sea: SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb; Water Depth 125m.
Shooter: KvtKpt. & Cmdr. RST.

After the shot, flooding Tube V (EtoFat).

=> Torpedo is a hit underneath the aft section after 3min. and 27 Sec.! => 207 Sec. x 10.29m/s (20kn) => 2130.03m*.

Steamer turns away to port on a southerly heading and then turns eastward, settles in the water and comes to a stop. Steamer is armed and has upper deck cargo in crates.

Cmdr.: Looks like the steamer is trying to escape back to Capetown again.

0955 - The stern settles more and more in the water, lifting the bow out of the water. The Sloop picks up speed but doesn't approach. Closing tube V.

0958 - The steamer sinks by the stern, the bow standing straight up in the air as the stern hits the ocean floor

1001 - The Steamer silently slips beneath the waves. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

1004 - Running off on westerly heading. All of a sudden, underwater explosions can be heard from direction of the sunk steamer.

1035 - On course 225°. Battery 71.4%; Compressed Air Supply 290Atü; CO₂ 1.7%.

0513 - Surfaced after 5h and 12.7nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged. Water Depth 153m.

1053 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead. Course 180°.

1057 - FuMB-Detection in 35°true, E=10800. Boat remains surfaced, suspect FuMB signal is coming from the Sloop.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 1057 -


1155 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
24 June sunk 2 steamers off Capetown: 0139 Australian High Speed Cargo 3923ts, Qu.5385GR bottom center. 0958 Australian Large Ore Carrier 7333ts, Qu.5621GR center top right, with Falke. Steamers leaving Capetown in intervals of 20-50min., on course 240°, via Qu.5388GR center until Qu.5621GR center left, and then continue on course SSW. Medium air patrol: 23 June, 2349 shot down 1 Liberator in QU.5385GR top right. On 24 June, 0443 attack from twin engine airplane in Qu.5385GR center right, 2% hull damage, no further damages. Entry between Capetown and Robben Island is patrolled by 1 Hunt-I and 1 Armed Trawler. Area off Capetown is patrolled by several Black Swan Sloops. During ASW chase on 24 June from 0600 to 0800, received 158 Wabos, 2% hull damage, total hull damage 9%. No further damages. Still have 2 EtoFat and 461cbm. SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.5627GR - Days Run: 119.7nm - ↗ 75.9nm (7h 30') - ↘ 43.8nm (16h 30')
Total: 8895.1nm (50tg 22h) - ↗ 8525.0nm (45tg 6h 29') - ↘ 370.1nm (5tg 15h 31')
Course 180°; 461cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 71.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

Diving for submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

1202 - Deterrent-Wabos are being dropped about 6 times in the distance until 1258. As there is no sound contact with warships, suspect being dropped by A/C.

1305 - Sunrise - After lunch break, going to T=50 for torpedo maintenance and loading. Sound contact steamer bearing 43°, on course SSW, speed 10kn, E=37400; Suspect steamers leaving Capetown along the ascertained shipping lane.

1309 - At T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance and loading.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1416 - Tube VI loaded (EtoFat/Pi39H).
Sound contact bearing 145, fast on course SSW, along the steamer route course 202°. Setting for Reception Depth.

1423 - T=20.

1425 - S-Tiefe. Just before surfacing, a Catalina is sighted in the B-Periscope bearing 151°, on course 202°, along the shipping lane, E=8000; Goes out of sight at 1430 in relative bearing 55°.

1432 - Qu.5651GR top center - Surfaced after 2h 32min. and 6.6nm.

1437 - On course 270°. 2xH.F. going to investigate the sound contacts.

1441 - Steamer sighted bearing 38°, E=13300; Is identified as a Large Ore Carrier of 7330ts, on course 200°, speed 10kn.

1445 - When going on course 245° to intercept, a Hansa-Type Cargo of 3291ts is sighted, and between the two another steamer, all appear to be going on course 200°, speed 10kn.

Cmdr.: It appears as though, that the steamers leaving Capetown have assembled to a small convoy.

1451 - On course 235°; Full-Ahead, 16kn.

1454 - Qu.5643GR top center right - FuMB-Detecion in 240°true, E=16500.

1455 - Airplane in direction of the FuMB-Detection, E=6000, direct approach. It's too late to dive. Evading with A.K. hard to port, presenting our beam. The airplane drops 3 bombs behind the boat and flies off on course NE, no damages.

1457 - The 3rd steamer comes into sight, a Vostok Cargo of 7200ts, running 4000m to the stbd. beam of the Hansa Cargo. Boat is continuing on course 235° and Full-Ahead, 16kn.

1503 - Qu.5643GR center right - Again airplane (Consolidated) in 225°true on course NE, E=9000 (no FuMB or Magic Eye Detection). "ALARM!". At T=25, 2 bombs, lights go out temporarily. At T=75, another 3 bombs.

Pressure Hull sustained 2% damage (Total 11% => 89% of 230m => 204.7m safe diving depth).

1512 - Sound contact with 4 steamers. Setting for Reception Depth.

1521 - T=20. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, Battery 65.7%.

1523 - At S-Tiefe the Large Ore Carrier can be seen 7600m to our stbd. beam, and behind the Hansa Carrier, E=7400.

1526 - Surfaced after 23min. and 1.2nm. Going to parallel course 200°, 1/3-Ahead.

1530 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F. The Vostock Carrier comes into sight and 3000m behind her another Hansa Carrier.

1535 - Full-Ahead.

1540 - Qu.5643GR top center right - Magic Eye Detection and right afterwards a Catalina in 52°true, E=6300, direct approach out of the sun. Evading with A.K. hard to port, presenting our beam.

1541 - The Catalina flies over the boat without attacking it. 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen. After the fly-over, "ALARM!". At E=2900, the Catalina turns around and approaches again. At T=35, 3 bombs, little concussions.

1545 - At A-Meter 2 more bombs and 1 more at 1546 - that was all of the 6 bombs she had. No damages.

1548 - Sound contact with to surface vessels bearing 225°, E=38000 and 235°, E=32500. Setting for Reception Depth.

1558 - T=20. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, Battery 63%, CO₂ 1.1%.

1600 - At S-Tiefe, only the Hansa Carrier 4400m behind the Large Ore Carrier can be seen. Turning boat around hard to stbd. to course 290°, and operating on sound contacts 1548.

1610 - Surfaced after 29min. and 1.5nm.

1613 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1618 - Qu.5646GR top center - FuMB-Detection in 204°true and right after a airplane on course NNE, E=11500.

1619 - "ALARM!". At T=45, 1 Wabo.

1622 - At A-Meter, 4 bombs and at 1623 1 more bomb. No damages.

1627 - 2 more bombs - no damages.

1628 - Sound contact 1548 now bearing 80°, E=29000 and 62°, E=28000. Setting for Reception Depth. 2 more bombs - seems to be more than one airplane.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 1057 -


1155 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
24 June sunk 2 steamers off Capetown: 0139 Australian High Speed Cargo 3923ts, Qu.5385GR bottom center. 0958 Australian Large Ore Carrier 7333ts, Qu.5621GR center top right, with Falke. Steamers leaving Capetown in intervals of 20-50min., on course 240°, via Qu.5388GR center until Qu.5621GR center left, and then continue on course SSW. Medium air patrol: 23 June, 2349 shot down 1 Liberator in QU.5385GR top right. On 24 June, 0443 attack from twin engine airplane in Qu.5385GR center right, 2% hull damage, no further damages. Entry between Capetown and Robben Island is patrolled by 1 Hunt-I and 1 Armed Trawler. Area off Capetown is patrolled by several Black Swan Sloops. During ASW chase on 24 June from 0600 to 0800, received 158 Wabos, 2% hull damage, total hull damage 9%. No further damages. Still have 2 EtoFat and 461cbm. SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. Continue outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.5627GR - Days Run: 119.7nm - ↗ 75.9nm (7h 30') - ↘ 43.8nm (16h 30')
Total: 8895.1nm (50tg 22h) - ↗ 8525.0nm (45tg 6h 29') - ↘ 370.1nm (5tg 15h 31')
Course 180°; 461cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 71.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

Diving for submerged cruise at Reception Depth.

1202 - Deterrent-Wabos are being dropped about 6 times in the distance until 1258. As there is no sound contact with warships, suspect being dropped by A/C.

1305 - Sunrise - After lunch break, going to T=50 for torpedo maintenance and loading. Sound contact steamer bearing 43°, on course SSW, speed 10kn, E=37400; Suspect steamers leaving Capetown along the ascertained shipping lane.

1309 - At T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance and loading.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1416 - Tube VI loaded (EtoFat/Pi39H).
Sound contact bearing 145, fast on course SSW, along the steamer route course 202°. Setting for Reception Depth.

1423 - T=20.

1425 - S-Tiefe. Just before surfacing, a Catalina is sighted in the B-Periscope bearing 151°, on course 202°, along the shipping lane, E=8000; Goes out of sight at 1430 in relative bearing 55°.

1432 - Qu.5651GR top center - Surfaced after 2h 32min. and 6.6nm.

1437 - On course 270°. 2xH.F. going to investigate the sound contacts.

1441 - Steamer sighted bearing 38°, E=13300; Is identified as a Large Ore Carrier of 7330ts, on course 200°, speed 10kn.

1445 - When going on course 245° to intercept, a Hansa-Type Cargo of 3291ts is sighted, and between the two another steamer, all appear to be going on course 200°, speed 10kn.

Cmdr.: It appears as though, that the steamers leaving Capetown have assembled to a small convoy.

1451 - On course 235°; Full-Ahead, 16kn.

1454 - Qu.5643GR top center right - FuMB-Detecion in 240°true, E=16500.

1455 - Airplane in direction of the FuMB-Detection, E=6000, direct approach. It's too late to dive. Evading with A.K. hard to port, presenting our beam. The airplane drops 3 bombs behind the boat and flies off on course NE, no damages.

1457 - The 3rd steamer comes into sight, a Vostok Cargo of 7200ts, running 4000m to the stbd. beam of the Hansa Cargo. Boat is continuing on course 235° and Full-Ahead, 16kn.

1503 - Qu.5643GR center right - Again airplane (Consolidated) in 225°true on course NE, E=9000 (no FuMB or Magic Eye Detection). "ALARM!". At T=25, 2 bombs, lights go out temporarily. At T=75, another 3 bombs.

Pressure Hull sustained 2% damage (Total 11% => 89% of 230m => 204.7m safe diving depth).

1512 - Sound contact with 4 steamers. Setting for Reception Depth.

1521 - T=20. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, Battery 65.7%.

1523 - At S-Tiefe the Large Ore Carrier can be seen 7600m to our stbd. beam, and behind the Hansa Carrier, E=7400.

1526 - Surfaced after 23min. and 1.2nm. Going to parallel course 200°, 1/3-Ahead.

1530 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2xH.F. The Vostock Carrier comes into sight and 3000m behind her another Hansa Carrier.

1535 - Full-Ahead.

1540 - Qu.5643GR top center right - Magic Eye Detection and right afterwards a Catalina in 52°true, E=6300, direct approach out of the sun. Evading with A.K. hard to port, presenting our beam.

1541 - The Catalina flies over the boat without attacking it. 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen. After the fly-over, "ALARM!". At E=2900, the Catalina turns around and approaches again. At T=35, 3 bombs, little concussions.

1545 - At A-Meter 2 more bombs and 1 more at 1546 - that was all of the 6 bombs she had. No damages.

1548 - Sound contact with to surface vessels bearing 225°, E=38000 and 235°, E=32500. Setting for Reception Depth.

1558 - T=20. Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, Battery 63%, CO₂ 1.1%.

1600 - At S-Tiefe, only the Hansa Carrier 4400m behind the Large Ore Carrier can be seen. Turning boat around hard to stbd. to course 290°, and operating on sound contacts 1548.

1610 - Surfaced after 29min. and 1.5nm.

1613 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 1/3-Ahead.

1618 - Qu.5646GR top center - FuMB-Detection in 204°true and right after a airplane on course NNE, E=11500.

1619 - "ALARM!". At T=45, 1 Wabo.

1622 - At A-Meter, 4 bombs and at 1623 1 more bomb. No damages.

1627 - 2 more bombs - no damages.

1628 - Sound contact 1548 now bearing 80°, E=29000 and 62°, E=28000. Setting for Reception Depth. 2 more bombs - seems to be more than one airplane.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 1628 -


1635 - T=20. Sound contact warship bearing 76°, E=17500.

1639 - S-Tiefe. In the A-Periscope a smoke plume can be seen bearing 80°; The II.W.O. is scanning the sky with the B-Periscope.

1643 - One by one, 6 sound contacts with warships approaching from general direction North, distance between 12500m and 17500m. Turning boat hard to port, in order to evade to East.

1653 - 7th sound contact warship. The first warship comes into sight (Hunt-III-Destroyer) and one by one the others as well, E=7000, all on course South. 1/3-Ahead and turning boat back around hard to stbd., in order to evade to west.

1658 - On course 270°. The 8th sound contact warship and at 1659, #9. Rigging for Silent Running.

1707 - #10 sound contact with warship.

1708 - A Sunderland and a Catalina drop 12 Wabos at our last diving position and fly off again in opposite directions at 1715.

The enemy has assembled a U-Hunt Group of 10 (!) escorts and at least 4 airplanes in search for us, the escorts are sniffing around our last diving position but not dropping any Wabos. Luckily, they are not conducting a "Swamp-Action".

The search group consists of: 3 Black Swan Sloops, 2 Hunt-I Destroyers, and 1 each Hunt-III, A&B, E&F and G&H Destroyer and 1 River Class Frigate.

1730 - The Search Group has split up with 5 searching around and diving position and 5 a bit more towards our direction.

1749 - A Catalina appears from SW and drops 3 bombs and the diving position, circles once and flies off on course NE.

1754 until 1800 - 3 airplanes that appear to be 2 Sunderlands and another twin-engine airplane, drop 16 bombs at our diving position. After they fly off, it seems as though, that one of the Hunt-I Destroyers is burning and lying low in the water by the stern. E=7000. Apparently, she was hit by one of the bombs dropped by the airplanes.

1843 - A Sunderland and another airplane continue to drop 13 Wabos at the diving position.

1849 - After dropping another 6 Wabos, the Sunderland flies off on course SW.

1851 - Another 1 Wabo can be heard and at 1853 2 more.

1854 - An airplane at the diving postition 11000m astern, flies off on course NE.

1912 - Retracting the A-Periscope and continuing to observe the situation with the B-Periscope.

1926 - 3 Wabos are dropped at the diving position by A/C and again 1 at 1929 and 1 at 1932.

1959 - An airplane (Consolidated) can be seen in 193°true, E=6000, on course 68° and disappears in 108°true, E=7000, in Qu,5646GR center top.

2008 - With the change of watch, secured from Silent Running.

2112 - CO₂-Warning at 1.7%.

2132 - Catalina in 217°true, E=6800, on course 47°, turns to course 85° when positioned 2000m abeam to port and is out of sight in 100°true, E=8000. About 1min. later, 6 Wabos are being dropped at the diving position, about 23000m astern, where the destroyers are still searching for us.

2136 - 2 Wabos at the diving position and 3 Wabos at 2138; a airplane can be seen flying off on course NE.

2149 - Surfaced after 5h 30min. and 14.9nm. Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, Battery 51.4%, Weather and Sea unchanged.

2153 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2200 - Charging batteries (51.4%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 185RPM/5kn.

2201 - Manning the 2cm-Flak Gun.

2210 - 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 8kn.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 1628 -


1635 - T=20. Sound contact warship bearing 76°, E=17500.

1639 - S-Tiefe. In the A-Periscope a smoke plume can be seen bearing 80°; The II.W.O. is scanning the sky with the B-Periscope.

1643 - One by one, 6 sound contacts with warships approaching from general direction North, distance between 12500m and 17500m. Turning boat hard to port, in order to evade to East.

1653 - 7th sound contact warship. The first warship comes into sight (Hunt-III-Destroyer) and one by one the others as well, E=7000, all on course South. 1/3-Ahead and turning boat back around hard to stbd., in order to evade to west.

1658 - On course 270°. The 8th sound contact warship and at 1659, #9. Rigging for Silent Running.

1707 - #10 sound contact with warship.

1708 - A Sunderland and a Catalina drop 12 Wabos at our last diving position and fly off again in opposite directions at 1715.

The enemy has assembled a U-Hunt Group of 10 (!) escorts and at least 4 airplanes in search for us, the escorts are sniffing around our last diving position but not dropping any Wabos. Luckily, they are not conducting a "Swamp-Action".

The search group consists of: 3 Black Swan Sloops, 2 Hunt-I Destroyers, and 1 each Hunt-III, A&B, E&F and G&H Destroyer and 1 River Class Frigate.

1730 - The Search Group has split up with 5 searching around and diving position and 5 a bit more towards our direction.

1749 - A Catalina appears from SW and drops 3 bombs and the diving position, circles once and flies off on course NE.

1754 until 1800 - 3 airplanes that appear to be 2 Sunderlands and another twin-engine airplane, drop 16 bombs at our diving position. After they fly off, it seems as though, that one of the Hunt-I Destroyers is burning and lying low in the water by the stern. E=7000. Apparently, she was hit by one of the bombs dropped by the airplanes.

1843 - A Sunderland and another airplane continue to drop 13 Wabos at the diving position.

1849 - After dropping another 6 Wabos, the Sunderland flies off on course SW.

1851 - Another 1 Wabo can be heard and at 1853 2 more.

1854 - An airplane at the diving postition 11000m astern, flies off on course NE.

1912 - Retracting the A-Periscope and continuing to observe the situation with the B-Periscope.

1926 - 3 Wabos are dropped at the diving position by A/C and again 1 at 1929 and 1 at 1932.

1959 - An airplane (Consolidated) can be seen in 193°true, E=6000, on course 68° and disappears in 108°true, E=7000, in Qu,5646GR center top.

2008 - With the change of watch, secured from Silent Running.

2112 - CO₂-Warning at 1.7%.

2132 - Catalina in 217°true, E=6800, on course 47°, turns to course 85° when positioned 2000m abeam to port and is out of sight in 100°true, E=8000. About 1min. later, 6 Wabos are being dropped at the diving position, about 23000m astern, where the destroyers are still searching for us.

2136 - 2 Wabos at the diving position and 3 Wabos at 2138; a airplane can be seen flying off on course NE.

2149 - Surfaced after 5h 30min. and 14.9nm. Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, Battery 51.4%, Weather and Sea unchanged.

2153 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2200 - Charging batteries (51.4%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 185RPM/5kn.

2201 - Manning the 2cm-Flak Gun.

2210 - 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 8kn.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 2210 -


2215 - Qu.5644GR top center - Wellington bomber in 240°true, E=5000, direct approach (No FuMB and Magic Eye detection). Going to A.K. A/C is attacking with machine guns only. After the fly-over, the 2cm-C/30 shoots down the airplane, which is catching fire and crashing into the sea off to stbd., the flames lingering on the water for about 1min. Boat stays surfaced and continues battery charging, Port Diesel Half-Ahead, 375RPM, 10kn.

2256 - Qu.5566GR center top - Magic Eye detection, shortly after a airplane (Hudson or Ventura) in 64°true, direct approach. Going to A.K. and hard to stbd., "Open Fire!". The airplane drops 2 bombs that too short and flies off on course SW, "Cease Fire!".

2258 - Now a Catalina is approaching from 85°true, E=4200 (no FuMB/Magic Eye detection). Going to A.K. and hard to stbd., "Open Fire!". During the first approach spot light, but no bombs are dropped (perhaps, due to the accurate Flak fire). 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen.

2259 - Sundown. After the fly-over, "Cease Fire!", interrupting charging process and "ALARM!". Catalina is turning around and approaching from 275°true, E=2600. During the diving process no bombs.

2301 - At T=75, 3 Wabos, no damages. On course 13°.

2316 - On course 270°. Setting for Reception Depth.

2325 - T=20. Battery 64.3%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2332 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 33min. and 1.7nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2336 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2337 - Charging batteries (64.3%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

2339 - Right after manning the 2cm-Flak Gun, FuMB-Detection and right after a Catalina in 187°true, E=6000, direct approach, spot light. "Open Fire!". During the first approach no bombs are dropped, 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen.

2342 - After Magic Eye detection, a second airplane appears and drops 3 Wabos wide to port and behind the boat.

2343 - "ALARM!". During the diving process no bombs. At T=55, 2 Wabos.

2346 - At A-Meter, another 2+1 Wabos. No damages.

2354 - Setting for Reception Depth.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 24 June 1943 - Off Cape Town -

- continued from 24 June, 2210 -


2215 - Qu.5644GR top center - Wellington bomber in 240°true, E=5000, direct approach (No FuMB and Magic Eye detection). Going to A.K. A/C is attacking with machine guns only. After the fly-over, the 2cm-C/30 shoots down the airplane, which is catching fire and crashing into the sea off to stbd., the flames lingering on the water for about 1min. Boat stays surfaced and continues battery charging, Port Diesel Half-Ahead, 375RPM, 10kn.

2256 - Qu.5566GR center top - Magic Eye detection, shortly after a airplane (Hudson or Ventura) in 64°true, direct approach. Going to A.K. and hard to stbd., "Open Fire!". The airplane drops 2 bombs that too short and flies off on course SW, "Cease Fire!".

2258 - Now a Catalina is approaching from 85°true, E=4200 (no FuMB/Magic Eye detection). Going to A.K. and hard to stbd., "Open Fire!". During the first approach spot light, but no bombs are dropped (perhaps, due to the accurate Flak fire). 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen.

2259 - Sundown. After the fly-over, "Cease Fire!", interrupting charging process and "ALARM!". Catalina is turning around and approaching from 275°true, E=2600. During the diving process no bombs.

2301 - At T=75, 3 Wabos, no damages. On course 13°.

2316 - On course 270°. Setting for Reception Depth.

2325 - T=20. Battery 64.3%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2332 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 33min. and 1.7nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2336 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

2337 - Charging batteries (64.3%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

2339 - Right after manning the 2cm-Flak Gun, FuMB-Detection and right after a Catalina in 187°true, E=6000, direct approach, spot light. "Open Fire!". During the first approach no bombs are dropped, 3 bombs underneath each wing can clearly be seen.

2342 - After Magic Eye detection, a second airplane appears and drops 3 Wabos wide to port and behind the boat.

2343 - "ALARM!". During the diving process no bombs. At T=55, 2 Wabos.

2346 - At A-Meter, another 2+1 Wabos. No damages.

2354 - Setting for Reception Depth.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 25 June 1943 - West of the Cape of Good Hope -

0003 - T=20. Battery 62.9%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.2%.

0053 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0057 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

0058 - Charging batteries (62.9%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0115 - Qu.5562GR bottom right - FuMB-Detection in 87°true, E=8700. Interrupting charging process (65.7%). Shortly after an airplane approaching from 87°true, is already fairly close. Going to A.K. and hard to port. The airplane (Hudson or Ventura) is dropping 3 bombs behind the boat and flies off on course SW.

Pressure Hull sustained 2% damage (Total 13% => 87% of 230m => 200.1m safe diving depth).

0118 - Boat stays surfaced. On course 270°. 2xH.F.-Ahead

0140 - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0147 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 375RPM/10kn.

0157 - Qu.5561GR bottom right - Hudson or Bolo in 164°true, is already fairly close, flying over the boat without attacking (no FuMB/Magic Eye detection). The airplane is approaching the boat again from NW. Interrupting charging process (70.0%) and going to A.K. 2 bombs fall wide to stbd., no damages. The airplane flies off on course ENE, and is out of sight at E=4000. Suspect that the A/C had no radar fitted, which may explain not sighting the boat at first and the inaccurate bomb attack.

0212 - Boat stays surfaced. Charging batteries (70.0%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0228 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 375RPM/10kn.

0230 - Batteries charged 75% (74.3% acc. gauge).

0415 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0445 - Qu.5551GR - bottom right - Batteries fully charged: 2h 33min. for 30%). 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn. On course 180°.

0505 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Continued from F.T.1155/24: Steamers leaving Cape Town run from Qu.5621GR center left, on course 200° to Qu.5646GR centr left. From 24.6., 1500 until 25.6., 0200, U-Hunt with A/C and up to 10 escorts. Damage to hull, safe diving depth 200m. On 24.6., 2215, shot down one Wellington bomber in Qu.5644GR top right. Still have 2 EtoFat and 460cbm. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1058 - Qu.5851GR - On course 130°.

1200 - Qu.5855GR - Days Run: 163.6nm - ↗ 147.8nm (13h 23') - ↘ 15.8nm (10h 37')
Total: 9058.7nm (51tg 22h) - ↗ 8672.8nm (45tg 19h 52') - ↘ 385.9nm (6tg 02h 08')
Course 130°; 459cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 37h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1209 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 22 June, 60 British Lancaster bombers attacked factories at Friedrichshafen. The enemy had planned to attack a factory producing radar parts, but in actuality it is manufacturing parts for V-2 rockets.
b) Riots fueled by racial tension are finally under control in Detroit, Michigan, after three days of violence committed by both whites and African-Americans. During this period, 34 were killed (9 whites, 25 African-Americans), about 500 were wounded (about 75% African-Americans), more than 1,800 were arrested (about 80% African-Americans), and US$2,000,000 worth of damage were done to property.

From B.d.U.:
After an evaluation of the latest experiences on the Biscay passage, the boats receive the following directions in Standing Order No. 13, issued on 22 June 1943.
A. The procedure of U-boats in approach and operational areas depends to a great extent on the appearance, behavior and numerical deployment of the enemy U-boat chaser planes equipped with radar apparatus. Attacking tactics, time and place of the enemy operational concentration constantly changes and this, as soon as known, necessitates an alteration in the tactics of the U-boats and a continuous unavoidable amendment of the orders accordingly.
As far as possible, a certain report of enemy air force dispositions in the North Atlantic will be transmitted regularly.
B. The greatest danger to the U-boat lies in the surprise attack of aircraft locating by radar. Danger of surprise consists:
By day: In medium to heavy cloud, low-lying cloud, medium to poor visibility.
By night: In clear peaceful weather, bright moon light, phosphorescence on the sea.
Unfavorable for an attacking aircraft is: clear cloudless weather with good visibility or thick fog by day; further: changeable, stormy nights, in which the rough confirmation of the boat is possible with the radar apparatus, but the location of its exact position, speed and course and a therefore precise placing of the bombs, is greatly complicated.
C. The following principles are laid down:
Proceed with greatest caution on passage and in the waiting position in the operations area. Avoid losses.
If operations on a decided target are being carried out, then act with dash and determination, in spite of threatening aircraft activity, remain on the surface and beat off aircraft if necessary.
See also Standing Order No. 181, Section C and Appendix 1.
It is ordered in this connection:
1) a) On the out and return passage in the Biscay area as far as 18 W and outward passage Home Waters to North Atlantic as far as upper third of Naval Grid AL, boats must proceed principally submerged. Surface only to recharge batteries and ventilation of the boat generally only by day.
If daylight passage appears inadvisable owing to especially strong air activity, unfavorable visibility and defence conditions, proceed at night (See Section B).
If the visibility is sufficiently good to make surprise impossible, surface passage by day is permissible. Then, however, proceed at high speed, to gain distance.
1) b) On putting in routes, boats are to proceed on the surface. Submerge only in the event of acute danger from the air. Boats put out in the morning and put in the evening, so that the approach routes are passed during the daytime.
See Standing Order No. 483, Section D, para. 1).

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 25 June 1943 - West of the Cape of Good Hope -

0003 - T=20. Battery 62.9%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.2%.

0053 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 1h 10min. and 3.4nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

0057 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled.

0058 - Charging batteries (62.9%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0115 - Qu.5562GR bottom right - FuMB-Detection in 87°true, E=8700. Interrupting charging process (65.7%). Shortly after an airplane approaching from 87°true, is already fairly close. Going to A.K. and hard to port. The airplane (Hudson or Ventura) is dropping 3 bombs behind the boat and flies off on course SW.

Pressure Hull sustained 2% damage (Total 13% => 87% of 230m => 200.1m safe diving depth).

0118 - Boat stays surfaced. On course 270°. 2xH.F.-Ahead

0140 - Charging batteries (65.7%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0147 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 375RPM/10kn.

0157 - Qu.5561GR bottom right - Hudson or Bolo in 164°true, is already fairly close, flying over the boat without attacking (no FuMB/Magic Eye detection). The airplane is approaching the boat again from NW. Interrupting charging process (70.0%) and going to A.K. 2 bombs fall wide to stbd., no damages. The airplane flies off on course ENE, and is out of sight at E=4000. Suspect that the A/C had no radar fitted, which may explain not sighting the boat at first and the inaccurate bomb attack.

0212 - Boat stays surfaced. Charging batteries (70.0%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0228 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 375RPM/10kn.

0230 - Batteries charged 75% (74.3% acc. gauge).

0415 - Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

0445 - Qu.5551GR - bottom right - Batteries fully charged: 2h 33min. for 30%). 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn. On course 180°.

0505 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Continued from F.T.1155/24: Steamers leaving Cape Town run from Qu.5621GR center left, on course 200° to Qu.5646GR centr left. From 24.6., 1500 until 25.6., 0200, U-Hunt with A/C and up to 10 escorts. Damage to hull, safe diving depth 200m. On 24.6., 2215, shot down one Wellington bomber in Qu.5644GR top right. Still have 2 EtoFat and 460cbm. Continue outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1058 - Qu.5851GR - On course 130°.

1200 - Qu.5855GR - Days Run: 163.6nm - ↗ 147.8nm (13h 23') - ↘ 15.8nm (10h 37')
Total: 9058.7nm (51tg 22h) - ↗ 8672.8nm (45tg 19h 52') - ↘ 385.9nm (6tg 02h 08')
Course 130°; 459cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 37h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1209 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 22 June, 60 British Lancaster bombers attacked factories at Friedrichshafen. The enemy had planned to attack a factory producing radar parts, but in actuality it is manufacturing parts for V-2 rockets.
b) Riots fueled by racial tension are finally under control in Detroit, Michigan, after three days of violence committed by both whites and African-Americans. During this period, 34 were killed (9 whites, 25 African-Americans), about 500 were wounded (about 75% African-Americans), more than 1,800 were arrested (about 80% African-Americans), and US$2,000,000 worth of damage were done to property.

From B.d.U.:
After an evaluation of the latest experiences on the Biscay passage, the boats receive the following directions in Standing Order No. 13, issued on 22 June 1943.
A. The procedure of U-boats in approach and operational areas depends to a great extent on the appearance, behavior and numerical deployment of the enemy U-boat chaser planes equipped with radar apparatus. Attacking tactics, time and place of the enemy operational concentration constantly changes and this, as soon as known, necessitates an alteration in the tactics of the U-boats and a continuous unavoidable amendment of the orders accordingly.
As far as possible, a certain report of enemy air force dispositions in the North Atlantic will be transmitted regularly.
B. The greatest danger to the U-boat lies in the surprise attack of aircraft locating by radar. Danger of surprise consists:
By day: In medium to heavy cloud, low-lying cloud, medium to poor visibility.
By night: In clear peaceful weather, bright moon light, phosphorescence on the sea.
Unfavorable for an attacking aircraft is: clear cloudless weather with good visibility or thick fog by day; further: changeable, stormy nights, in which the rough confirmation of the boat is possible with the radar apparatus, but the location of its exact position, speed and course and a therefore precise placing of the bombs, is greatly complicated.
C. The following principles are laid down:
Proceed with greatest caution on passage and in the waiting position in the operations area. Avoid losses.
If operations on a decided target are being carried out, then act with dash and determination, in spite of threatening aircraft activity, remain on the surface and beat off aircraft if necessary.
See also Standing Order No. 181, Section C and Appendix 1.
It is ordered in this connection:
1) a) On the out and return passage in the Biscay area as far as 18 W and outward passage Home Waters to North Atlantic as far as upper third of Naval Grid AL, boats must proceed principally submerged. Surface only to recharge batteries and ventilation of the boat generally only by day.
If daylight passage appears inadvisable owing to especially strong air activity, unfavorable visibility and defence conditions, proceed at night (See Section B).
If the visibility is sufficiently good to make surprise impossible, surface passage by day is permissible. Then, however, proceed at high speed, to gain distance.
1) b) On putting in routes, boats are to proceed on the surface. Submerge only in the event of acute danger from the air. Boats put out in the morning and put in the evening, so that the approach routes are passed during the daytime.
See Standing Order No. 483, Section D, para. 1).

- to be continued -


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 25 June 1943 - West of the Cape of Good Hope -

- continued from 25 June, 1209 -


1215 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 24 June, RAF bombers attacked Elberfeld in the Ruhr region.
b) Commanding officer of the 4th Group of the Nachtjagdgeschwader 5 wing, Heinrich Prinz zu Sayn-Wittgenstein flew the Bf 110 nightfighter for the first time, discovered technical issues, and returned to flying his usual Ju 88 aircraft, in which he shot down four British Lancaster bombers. His victories now stand at 35.

From B.d.U.:
a) To all boats: Status report about development of new boat type XXI and Walter boats.
b) As a result of the last traffic report the Cape Town boats at present refueling from the tanker "Schliemann" are ordered on 23 June to take up position in the following operational areas: U 178: western half, U 196: eastern half of KE. Center point : narrows of Mozambique channel. U 198: northern half, U 197 southern half of area off Durban, depth 800 sea miles. U 177: area round KQ 92, depth 400 sea miles. (S. of Madagascar), U 181: area round KG 83, depth 400 sea miles (Mauritius Islands). U 115: Continue to supply point acc. Op.-Orders. All boats will be informed of the presumed traffic situation in their areas.

1323 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 38.5h.

1827 - Qu.8315GR top center left - Magic Eye Detection. Shortly after, a Catalina in 297°true, E=9000, is positioned in Qu.8311GR bottom left, on course SSW and turns toward the boat in 275°true and E=9000.

1829 - "ALARM!". At T=55, 2 bombs and at A-Meter 1 more. No damages. Suspect that the A/C was not fitted with radar, but sighted the boats keel water.

1842 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1851 - T=20. Battery 97.0%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

1859 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.6nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1902 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn.

2002 - Qu.8319GR top center left - FuMB-Detection in 28°true, E=13000. Giving order to dive.

2003 - Right during the watch change, airplane (is a Wellington) in 28°true, E=9000, direct approach out of the sun. "ALARM!". During the diving process no bombs.

2005 - 1 Wabo and 3 more until 2010 - no damages.

2017 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2026 - T=20. Battery 97.0%, Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2032 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.5nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2036 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn and at 2041 - 2xH.F.

2050 - Qu.8319GR bottom right - Airplane in 005°true, E=5300, direct approach out of the sun, it's a Hudson or Ventura (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection). Evading with A.K. hard to port. 1 bomb is dropped wide to port - no damages. Airplane flies off on course SSW, boat going back to general course.

2057 - Qu.8319GR bottom right - Airplane in 255°true, E=6700, direct approach, it's a Wellington (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection). Evading with A.K. hard to stbd., machine-gun fire.

2058 - After the fly-over, "ALARM!". Airplane turns around at E=3400. At T=40, 2 Wabos behind the boat - no damages.

2101 - At A-Meter another 2 Wabos - no damages. Boat going back to general course.

2112 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2121 - T=20. Battery 94.0%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2128 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.6nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2132 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn.

2133 - Qu.8351GR top left - Airplane in 21°true, E=8100, direct approach, it's a Sunderland (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection).

2134 - "ALARM!". At T=35, 1 Wabo wide to Stbd. - no damages.

2138 - At A-Meter, 2 Wabos and again at 2139, 3 Wabos, and another 2 Wabos at 2141 - no damages.

2215 - At A-20. Setting for Reception Depth.

2222 - T=20. Battery 91.4%, Compressed Air Supply 270Atü, CO₂ 1.2%.

2228 - S-Tiefe. A Sunderland can be seen in 250°true, E=9800, on course 24°, is out of sight in 336°true, E=9700 (position is in Qu.8327GR bottom left).

2234 - Surfaced after 1h and 2.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2235 - Boat ventilated.

2244 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn, and at 2250, 2xH.F.

2302 - Qu.8351GR bottom right - FuMB-Detection in 215°true, E=14500. Giving the order to dive. Before closing the Conning Tower Hatch, can see a approaching in 215°true, E=8300.

At T=25, 1 Wabo behind the boat and at T=45, 1 more Wabo - no damages.

At A-10, 6 Wabos - no damges. Boat sinks to A+20 and can only be brought back up to A-Meter with 135rpm.

2307 - Sundown.

2333 - Back to Reception Depth. Battery 90%, Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2341 - S-Tiefe. A airplane can be seen in 175°true, crosses the bow of the boat at short distance on course NNE.

2347 - Surfaced after 45' and 2.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2350 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn, and at 2255, 2xH.F.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 25 June 1943 - West of the Cape of Good Hope -

- continued from 25 June, 1209 -


1215 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 24 June, RAF bombers attacked Elberfeld in the Ruhr region.
b) Commanding officer of the 4th Group of the Nachtjagdgeschwader 5 wing, Heinrich Prinz zu Sayn-Wittgenstein flew the Bf 110 nightfighter for the first time, discovered technical issues, and returned to flying his usual Ju 88 aircraft, in which he shot down four British Lancaster bombers. His victories now stand at 35.

From B.d.U.:
a) To all boats: Status report about development of new boat type XXI and Walter boats.
b) As a result of the last traffic report the Cape Town boats at present refueling from the tanker "Schliemann" are ordered on 23 June to take up position in the following operational areas: U 178: western half, U 196: eastern half of KE. Center point : narrows of Mozambique channel. U 198: northern half, U 197 southern half of area off Durban, depth 800 sea miles. U 177: area round KQ 92, depth 400 sea miles. (S. of Madagascar), U 181: area round KG 83, depth 400 sea miles (Mauritius Islands). U 115: Continue to supply point acc. Op.-Orders. All boats will be informed of the presumed traffic situation in their areas.

1323 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 38.5h.

1827 - Qu.8315GR top center left - Magic Eye Detection. Shortly after, a Catalina in 297°true, E=9000, is positioned in Qu.8311GR bottom left, on course SSW and turns toward the boat in 275°true and E=9000.

1829 - "ALARM!". At T=55, 2 bombs and at A-Meter 1 more. No damages. Suspect that the A/C was not fitted with radar, but sighted the boats keel water.

1842 - Setting for Reception Depth.

1851 - T=20. Battery 97.0%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

1859 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.6nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

1902 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn.

2002 - Qu.8319GR top center left - FuMB-Detection in 28°true, E=13000. Giving order to dive.

2003 - Right during the watch change, airplane (is a Wellington) in 28°true, E=9000, direct approach out of the sun. "ALARM!". During the diving process no bombs.

2005 - 1 Wabo and 3 more until 2010 - no damages.

2017 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2026 - T=20. Battery 97.0%, Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2032 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.5nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2036 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn and at 2041 - 2xH.F.

2050 - Qu.8319GR bottom right - Airplane in 005°true, E=5300, direct approach out of the sun, it's a Hudson or Ventura (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection). Evading with A.K. hard to port. 1 bomb is dropped wide to port - no damages. Airplane flies off on course SSW, boat going back to general course.

2057 - Qu.8319GR bottom right - Airplane in 255°true, E=6700, direct approach, it's a Wellington (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection). Evading with A.K. hard to stbd., machine-gun fire.

2058 - After the fly-over, "ALARM!". Airplane turns around at E=3400. At T=40, 2 Wabos behind the boat - no damages.

2101 - At A-Meter another 2 Wabos - no damages. Boat going back to general course.

2112 - Setting for Reception Depth.

2121 - T=20. Battery 94.0%, Compressed Air Supply 285Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2128 - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 30min. and 1.6nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2132 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn.

2133 - Qu.8351GR top left - Airplane in 21°true, E=8100, direct approach, it's a Sunderland (No FuMB/Magic Eye Detection).

2134 - "ALARM!". At T=35, 1 Wabo wide to Stbd. - no damages.

2138 - At A-Meter, 2 Wabos and again at 2139, 3 Wabos, and another 2 Wabos at 2141 - no damages.

2215 - At A-20. Setting for Reception Depth.

2222 - T=20. Battery 91.4%, Compressed Air Supply 270Atü, CO₂ 1.2%.

2228 - S-Tiefe. A Sunderland can be seen in 250°true, E=9800, on course 24°, is out of sight in 336°true, E=9700 (position is in Qu.8327GR bottom left).

2234 - Surfaced after 1h and 2.9nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2235 - Boat ventilated.

2244 - Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn, and at 2250, 2xH.F.

2302 - Qu.8351GR bottom right - FuMB-Detection in 215°true, E=14500. Giving the order to dive. Before closing the Conning Tower Hatch, can see a approaching in 215°true, E=8300.

At T=25, 1 Wabo behind the boat and at T=45, 1 more Wabo - no damages.

At A-10, 6 Wabos - no damges. Boat sinks to A+20 and can only be brought back up to A-Meter with 135rpm.

2307 - Sundown.

2333 - Back to Reception Depth. Battery 90%, Compressed Air Supply 290Atü, CO₂ 1.1%.

2341 - S-Tiefe. A airplane can be seen in 175°true, crosses the bow of the boat at short distance on course NNE.

2347 - Surfaced after 45' and 2.2nm. - Weather and Sea unchanged.

2350 - Boat ventilated and Compressed Air Supply filled. 2x1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn, and at 2255, 2xH.F.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)
Saturday, 26 June 1943 - South of the Cape of Good Hope -
0935 - Qu.9491GR - Course 113°.

1100 - Qu.9496GR - Course 123°; 1/3-Ahead.

1050 - Qu.9496GR - Reached Control Point No.4 (17km from actual position in Qu.9577GR top left).

Cmdr.: We seem to have cleared the enemy air cover zone.

1141 - Qu.9577GR top left - Course 87°; 235RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.9577GR - Days Run: 254.3nm - ↗ 244.5nm (20h 45') - ↘ 9.8nm (3h 15')
Total: 9313.0nm (52tg 22h) - ↗ 8917.3nm (46tg 16h 37') - ↘ 395.7nm (6tg 05h 23')
Course 87°; 455cbm (4cbm in 24h); Battery 90%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 61h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1245 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached Control Point 4. Going to supply point acc. Op.-Orders and F.T.1215/25/4307. Much air south of Capetown to Qu.8355GR, Sunderland, Catalina, Wellington and Hudson/Ventura, partially no radar detection, spotlights at night. Still have 2 EtoFat and 455cbm. SSE4/3, clear, scattered clouds, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1303 - Qu.9578GR center top - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1309 - T=48. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1331 - Sunrise.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1409 -

1500 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1510 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

1553 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1555 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1611 - Reception Depth. Battery 83%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü, CO₂ 1.5%.

1615 - Qu.9576GR bottom center - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 12' and 9.1nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1620 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries (83.0%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

1755 - Batteries fully charged: 1h 35min. for 17%.

1800 - Testing main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510. Running diesels up and back down in 5min. intervals:
- 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn/10.0kn
- 2xH.F., 375RPM, 13kn/13.3kn
- Full-Ahead, 455RPM, 16.5kn/16.4kn
- A.K., 496RPM, 18.2kn, from 1815 until 1845.

1900 - 235RPM/8kn.

2255 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)


Saturday, 26 June 1943 - South of the Cape of Good Hope -

0935 - Qu.9491GR - Course 113°.

1100 - Qu.9496GR - Course 123°; 1/3-Ahead.

1050 - Qu.9496GR - Reached Control Point No.4 (17km from actual position in Qu.9577GR top left).

Cmdr.: We seem to have cleared the enemy air cover zone.

1141 - Qu.9577GR top left - Course 87°; 235RPM/8kn.

1200 - Qu.9577GR - Days Run: 254.3nm - ↗ 244.5nm (20h 45') - ↘ 9.8nm (3h 15')
Total: 9313.0nm (52tg 22h) - ↗ 8917.3nm (46tg 16h 37') - ↘ 395.7nm (6tg 05h 23')
Course 87°; 455cbm (4cbm in 24h); Battery 90%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 61h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1245 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached Control Point 4. Going to supply point acc. Op.-Orders and F.T.1215/25/4307. Much air south of Capetown to Qu.8355GR, Sunderland, Catalina, Wellington and Hudson/Ventura, partially no radar detection, spotlights at night. Still have 2 EtoFat and 455cbm. SSE4/3, clear, scattered clouds, visibility 4-5nm, >1000mb. - RST -

1303 - Qu.9578GR center top - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1309 - T=48. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1331 - Sunrise.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1409 -

1500 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1510 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

1553 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1555 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1611 - Reception Depth. Battery 83%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü, CO₂ 1.5%.

1615 - Qu.9576GR bottom center - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 12' and 9.1nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1620 - Boat ventilated. Charging batteries (83.0%): Stbd.-Diesel Charging 496RPM; Port-Diesel Propulsion 285RPM/8kn.

1755 - Batteries fully charged: 1h 35min. for 17%.

1800 - Testing main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510. Running diesels up and back down in 5min. intervals:
- 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn/10.0kn
- 2xH.F., 375RPM, 13kn/13.3kn
- Full-Ahead, 455RPM, 16.5kn/16.4kn
- A.K., 496RPM, 18.2kn, from 1815 until 1845.

1900 - 235RPM/8kn.

2255 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 27 June 1943 - South of the Alguhas Bank -

0808 - Qu.7444KY -

1200 - Qu.7545KY - Days Run: 183.9nm - ↗ 174.8nm (20h 48') - ↘ 9.1nm (3h 12')
Total: 9496.9nm (53tg 22h) - ↗ 9092.1nm (47tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 452cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 3d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1210 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Despite the Möhne reservoir dam and the Edersee reservoir dam still damaged from the 17 May 1943 British raid, total water output was restored to full capacity by today, achieved by the implementation of the emergency pumping scheme inaugurated the previous year.

From B.d.U.:
a) If numerically possible, U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) is to be escorted by Ju 88 from 8° W, as of 26 June. Destroyer escort is also anticipated. The boat is carrying Japanese Officers, also, valuable apparatus and gold.

To U 115: As there is still no reports from supply group U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke) and "Schliemann", all southward bound boats are duty bound to proceed at economical cruising speed in order to have more freedom of movement in the event of enemy contact. RST: Switch to Circuit Afrika-II, on 28 June, 1400h. - BdU -

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Chiefs of Staff circulated the "German Long-Range Rocket: Evidence Received from All Sources" report, with details of our V-Weapons potentially capable of carrying 2 to 8 tons of high explosives.

1320 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2245 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 27 June 1943 - South of the Alguhas Bank -

0808 - Qu.7444KY -

1200 - Qu.7545KY - Days Run: 183.9nm - ↗ 174.8nm (20h 48') - ↘ 9.1nm (3h 12')
Total: 9496.9nm (53tg 22h) - ↗ 9092.1nm (47tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 452cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 3d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1210 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Despite the Möhne reservoir dam and the Edersee reservoir dam still damaged from the 17 May 1943 British raid, total water output was restored to full capacity by today, achieved by the implementation of the emergency pumping scheme inaugurated the previous year.

From B.d.U.:
a) If numerically possible, U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) is to be escorted by Ju 88 from 8° W, as of 26 June. Destroyer escort is also anticipated. The boat is carrying Japanese Officers, also, valuable apparatus and gold.

To U 115: As there is still no reports from supply group U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke) and "Schliemann", all southward bound boats are duty bound to proceed at economical cruising speed in order to have more freedom of movement in the event of enemy contact. RST: Switch to Circuit Afrika-II, on 28 June, 1400h. - BdU -

B-Dienst Report:
a) British Chiefs of Staff circulated the "German Long-Range Rocket: Evidence Received from All Sources" report, with details of our V-Weapons potentially capable of carrying 2 to 8 tons of high explosives.

1320 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2245 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 28 June 1943 - South of Port Elizabeth -

0130 - Qu.8642KY -

1200 - Qu.9619KY - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 9690.5nm (54tg 22h) - ↗ 9285.7nm (48tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 449.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 4d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1310 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1405 - Qu.9639KY - Switching to circuit Afrika-II, acc. B.d.U.-F.T.1210/27/4306.

2235 - Qu.7165KZ - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 28 June 1943 - South of Port Elizabeth -

0130 - Qu.8642KY -

1200 - Qu.9619KY - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 9690.5nm (54tg 22h) - ↗ 9285.7nm (48tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 449.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 4d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1310 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1405 - Qu.9639KY - Switching to circuit Afrika-II, acc. B.d.U.-F.T.1210/27/4306.

2235 - Qu.7165KZ - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 29 June 1943 - South of East London -

- 8th week at sea completed -


1010 - F.T. from F.d.U.-Nordmeer: To B.d.U.:
Status report about U.-Base on Franz-Josef-Island.

1200 - Qu.7342KZ - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 9884.1nm (55tg 22h) - ↗ 9479.3nm (49tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 447cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 5d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1259 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2225 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) US Marines have landed at Lae on Nassau, New Guinea and the US 158th Regimental Combat Team and the US 6th Engineer Combat Company at Kiriwini Island, Trobriand Islands.
b) On 28 June, Köln was bombed by British terror bombers, heavily damaging the cathedral and inflicting heavy civilian casualties.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) reported aircraft attack from high altitude in BE9955 (west of Finisterre).
b) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) and U 449 (Oblt. Hermann Otto) were returning together via the Biscay area. The last certain position was BE 9256, dated 23.6. Since that date there have been no messages. On 25.6. there was particularly heavy English air activity, and an English unit was located in BF 8110. It is impossible to say whether this ties up with the destruction of the boats. It may have referred to an English U-boat which scored 2 lucky hits with a quadruple spread. The boats have not reported again. U 119 and U 449 (on her first war patrol) must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to an agent's report on 28 June, several steamers sailing in ballast may be expected to leave Freetown for Pernambuco, between 29. and 30.6. The boats have been instructed accordingly.
b) On 28 June, a Royal Air Force reconnaissance aircraft conclusively identified our long-range rocket launch sites at Peenemünde.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 29 June 1943 - South of East London -

- 8th week at sea completed -


1010 - F.T. from F.d.U.-Nordmeer: To B.d.U.:
Status report about U.-Base on Franz-Josef-Island.

1200 - Qu.7342KZ - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 9884.1nm (55tg 22h) - ↗ 9479.3nm (49tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 447cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 5d 13h) - Early Morning Dawn -

1259 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2225 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) US Marines have landed at Lae on Nassau, New Guinea and the US 158th Regimental Combat Team and the US 6th Engineer Combat Company at Kiriwini Island, Trobriand Islands.
b) On 28 June, Köln was bombed by British terror bombers, heavily damaging the cathedral and inflicting heavy civilian casualties.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) reported aircraft attack from high altitude in BE9955 (west of Finisterre).
b) U 119 (XB; Kptlt. Horst-Tessen von Kameke) and U 449 (Oblt. Hermann Otto) were returning together via the Biscay area. The last certain position was BE 9256, dated 23.6. Since that date there have been no messages. On 25.6. there was particularly heavy English air activity, and an English unit was located in BF 8110. It is impossible to say whether this ties up with the destruction of the boats. It may have referred to an English U-boat which scored 2 lucky hits with a quadruple spread. The boats have not reported again. U 119 and U 449 (on her first war patrol) must be presumed lost.

B-Dienst Report:
a) According to an agent's report on 28 June, several steamers sailing in ballast may be expected to leave Freetown for Pernambuco, between 29. and 30.6. The boats have been instructed accordingly.
b) On 28 June, a Royal Air Force reconnaissance aircraft conclusively identified our long-range rocket launch sites at Peenemünde.


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 30 June 1943 - South of Durban -

0310 - Qu.8187KZ -

1110 - F.T. from O.K.M.:
a) C-in-C has ordered the fragmentation of the Uboats force, in order to force dissipation of the enemy ASW forces. Re-fueling to be done in the South-Atlantic.
b) Because of the loss of U 194 (Kptlt. Hermann Hesse) and U 200 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Heinrich Schonder) and previous experiences, C-in-C has ordered with immediate effect, that no boat is to put out without quadruple mounted guns. A temporary postponement of operational orders for 3 to 4 weeks and a hold up in German shipyards must be taken into account.
The intention of sending several boats through the Channel, i.e. under strong escort at night and lying on the bottom during the day, is postponed for the time being as:
1) The prevailing moon quarter is unsuitable for such an undertaking.
2) The necessary forces are not available for the escort groups at such short notice. Further, the first attempt should not be made with a IXd2 (U 847; Kptlt. Herbert Kuppisch). The first breakthrough will probably take place during the next new moon period.
3) C-in-C has also ordered that the 4 boats, U 387, 277, 307 and 713 at present outward bound in the North Sea are to be temporarily placed at the disposal of S.O. U-boats Norway. S.O. U-boats Norway is planning the execution of several minelaying operations in the Kara Sea.

1145 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.8226KZ - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10077.7nm (56tg 22h) - ↗ 9672.9nm (50tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 444.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 6d 13h)

1247 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1300 - Qu.8234KZ - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1305 - T=49. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1409 -

1500 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1505 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

1547 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1550 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1606 - Reception Depth.
Battery 91.4%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü(!), CO₂ 1.5%.

Cmdr.: L.I. reports that the Compressed Air Supply Gauge is faulty. Seems to be stuck at full. Repair is ongoing.

1610 - Qu.8235KZ - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 10' and 9.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 30 June 1943 - South of Durban -

0310 - Qu.8187KZ -

1110 - F.T. from O.K.M.:
a) C-in-C has ordered the fragmentation of the Uboats force, in order to force dissipation of the enemy ASW forces. Re-fueling to be done in the South-Atlantic.
b) Because of the loss of U 194 (Kptlt. Hermann Hesse) and U 200 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Heinrich Schonder) and previous experiences, C-in-C has ordered with immediate effect, that no boat is to put out without quadruple mounted guns. A temporary postponement of operational orders for 3 to 4 weeks and a hold up in German shipyards must be taken into account.
The intention of sending several boats through the Channel, i.e. under strong escort at night and lying on the bottom during the day, is postponed for the time being as:
1) The prevailing moon quarter is unsuitable for such an undertaking.
2) The necessary forces are not available for the escort groups at such short notice. Further, the first attempt should not be made with a IXd2 (U 847; Kptlt. Herbert Kuppisch). The first breakthrough will probably take place during the next new moon period.
3) C-in-C has also ordered that the 4 boats, U 387, 277, 307 and 713 at present outward bound in the North Sea are to be temporarily placed at the disposal of S.O. U-boats Norway. S.O. U-boats Norway is planning the execution of several minelaying operations in the Kara Sea.

1145 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.8226KZ - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10077.7nm (56tg 22h) - ↗ 9672.9nm (50tg 13h 25') - ↘ 404.8nm (6tg 08h 35')
Course 87°; 444.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 6d 13h)

1247 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1300 - Qu.8234KZ - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

1305 - T=49. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

1400 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 1409 -

1500 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

1505 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

1547 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1550 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1606 - Reception Depth.
Battery 91.4%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü(!), CO₂ 1.5%.

Cmdr.: L.I. reports that the Compressed Air Supply Gauge is faulty. Seems to be stuck at full. Repair is ongoing.

1610 - Qu.8235KZ - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 10' and 9.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged.

- to be continued -




Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 30 June 1943 - South of Durban -

- continued from 30 June, 1610 -


1615 - Boat ventilated. Testing main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510. Running diesels up and back down in 5min. intervals:
- 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn/10.0kn
- 2xH.F., 375RPM, 13.3kn/13.3kn
- Full-Ahead, 455RPM, 16.4kn/16.4kn
- A.K., 496RPM, 18.2kn, from 1630 until 1700.

1715 - 235RPM/8kn.

1840 - Qu.8315KZ -

2218 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) US occupation troops arrived early at Nono, New Georgia, Solomon Islands and will join the US Marine Corps 4th Raider Battalion on the planned attack on Viru Harbor; nearby on the island of Vangunu, Companies N and Q of the US Marine Corps 4th Raider Battalion and 2nd Battalion of US Army 103rd Infantry Regiment landed unopposed near Oloana Bay; they will capture Wickham Anchorage by the end of the day. On Rendova Island, elements of the US Army 172nd Infantry Regiment, US Army 103nd Infantry Regiment, US Navy 24th Naval Construction Battalion, and US Navy 9th Defense Battalion landed against light resistance; Japanese aircraft attempted to disrupt landing operations, but they were intercepted by aircraft of US Marine Fighter Squadrons 121, 122, 213, and 221.
b) The Wehrmacht authorised the issue of the 21 cm Nebelwerfer 42 rocket launcher.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) was attacked by carrier borne aircraft in BF 7564. The boat reported strong air escort. It is to be picked up by our destroyers in BF 7643 and escorted to Bordeaux.
b) U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) received freedom of action. Attacks are forbidden, however, S. of the communicating line from KS 33 to LQ 58, owing to Eastbound tanker "Schliemann".
c) U 188 (Kptlt. Siegfried Lüdden) is the first Monsoon boat to put out from Lorient, following U 115. - See Monsoon Appendix. -

B-Dienst Report:
a) The United States Marine Corps reported the active duty strength of 21,384 officers and 287,139 enlisted, for a total of 308,523 personnel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 30 June 1943 - South of Durban -

- continued from 30 June, 1610 -


1615 - Boat ventilated. Testing main diesels acc. B.d.U.-Standing Order No. 510. Running diesels up and back down in 5min. intervals:
- 1/3-Ahead, 285RPM, 10kn/10.0kn
- 2xH.F., 375RPM, 13.3kn/13.3kn
- Full-Ahead, 455RPM, 16.4kn/16.4kn
- A.K., 496RPM, 18.2kn, from 1630 until 1700.

1715 - 235RPM/8kn.

1840 - Qu.8315KZ -

2218 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) US occupation troops arrived early at Nono, New Georgia, Solomon Islands and will join the US Marine Corps 4th Raider Battalion on the planned attack on Viru Harbor; nearby on the island of Vangunu, Companies N and Q of the US Marine Corps 4th Raider Battalion and 2nd Battalion of US Army 103rd Infantry Regiment landed unopposed near Oloana Bay; they will capture Wickham Anchorage by the end of the day. On Rendova Island, elements of the US Army 172nd Infantry Regiment, US Army 103nd Infantry Regiment, US Navy 24th Naval Construction Battalion, and US Navy 9th Defense Battalion landed against light resistance; Japanese aircraft attempted to disrupt landing operations, but they were intercepted by aircraft of US Marine Fighter Squadrons 121, 122, 213, and 221.
b) The Wehrmacht authorised the issue of the 21 cm Nebelwerfer 42 rocket launcher.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 180 (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg) was attacked by carrier borne aircraft in BF 7564. The boat reported strong air escort. It is to be picked up by our destroyers in BF 7643 and escorted to Bordeaux.
b) U 511 (Kptlt. Fritz Schneewind) received freedom of action. Attacks are forbidden, however, S. of the communicating line from KS 33 to LQ 58, owing to Eastbound tanker "Schliemann".
c) U 188 (Kptlt. Siegfried Lüdden) is the first Monsoon boat to put out from Lorient, following U 115. - See Monsoon Appendix. -

B-Dienst Report:
a) The United States Marine Corps reported the active duty strength of 21,384 officers and 287,139 enlisted, for a total of 308,523 personnel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 1 July 1943 - South of Maputo -

1138 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.9133KZ - Days Run: 184.2nm - ↗ 175.2nm (20h 50') - ↘ 9.0nm (3h 10')
Total: 10261.9nm (57tg 22h) - ↗ 9848.1nm (51tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 442cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 7d 13h)

1240 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2209 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2317 - Qu.6977KZ -

+++++++


Monsoon Appendix.



C-in-C German Navy
2. Sk1./B.d.U. Op.
Nr. Ckdos. 3495 A1
10.June 1943.


Operational Order "Monsoon"
for


U 188, U 532, U 168, U 509, U 183, U 514, U 506, U 533, U 516 and for U 115, U 200 and U 847.

(Only the general regulations apply for the latter boats)


I. Duties:
1) Blitz attack on enemy merchant shipping and enemy surface forces in the Arabian Sea area.
Time: Termination of South West Monsoon.
2) On the outward and return passage roughly according to the general directions in Operational Order Atlantic No. 54.
3) Procedure according to Commander's Hand Book, Standing War Orders, Standing Orders and General instructions Operational Order No. 54.

II. Intelligence of the Enemy:
4) See appendix 1.

III. Intelligence of our own surface forces:
5) Warships.
The appearance of our own warships (also auxiliary cruisers) is not to be expected in the entire outward passage and operational area. Japanese surface forces and U-boats may be encountered. Appropriate statements on this matter, however, will be made by wireless when necessary.
6) Store and supply ship's blockade runners.
See Instructions Operational Order No. 54 paragraph 12 and Appendix 1. Supply is planned from German supply ships putting out from Japan. Announcement by W/T.

IV. Execution:
A) General Scheme.
7) The boat must be equipped with special care with regard to the heavy long term strain to be imposed upon it. Spare parts, machine equipment are to be carried in adequate supply, a cabin on the upper deck is to be set aside as store room.
Maximum supply of provisions must be provided.
8) The boats are to sail in the period from 25th June to 4th July. They are to make for FD 20 at economical cruising speed. The first fuel replenishment will take place here. Supply boat "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe). Enemy air reconnaissance must be expected in this area within a 300 sea mile circumference of Ascension Island.
9) Progress is to be made on the shortest routes but with adequate distance )about 300 to 400 sea miles from the South African coast outside the enemy short range aircraft area, to KS 50. Here, the second replenishment of supplies is to take place from German merchant ships sailing from Japan. For details of supply and procedure at the supply point see paragraph 16 and 20.
10) After replenishment of supplies, boats will proceed to the operational areas allocated to them. Central points MP 60, MF 30, MH 70 and LC 30.
Boats must expect to be in their respective operations areas for about one month. Course for operations, change of operations area will be sent by W/T.
11) After exhaustion of supplies etc., and on instructions to return, via new supply point in KS or KT. Replenishment from German ship, then return passage to Lorient.
12) Measures to be adopted in the event of nonappearance by German Supply Ships.
On nonappearance of ship for second replenishment (according to paragraph 9) according to situation:
a) Occupation of Cape area as operations area, subsequent return passage with further supply by U-boat tanker or
b) Passage to Penang, refuel and short rest, operations in Arabian Sea, refuel on the return passage.
(Directions for approach to Penang, see Appendix 3)
13) On the nonappearance of the supply ship for 3rd replenishment (see paragraph 11) passage to Penang. Mutual assistance with fuel. There refuel for return passage. Small number of torpedoes available.
Further Plans.
14) Some boats will be allowed to undergo short overhaul and supply (also with torpedoes) according to the need of boat and personnel. Further operations in India area subsequent return passage.
B) Permission to attack and general procedure.
15) On the outward passage up to 200 sea miles off the supply point in KS 50: Wireless discipline according to Signals Directive Operations Order No. 54. Permissions to attack according to general directive of Operations Order Atlantic No. 54 and Standing War Orders No. 101 and 105. Exploit every chance to the utmost also convoys. In the case of north bound convoys in the Atlantic orders for the breaking off of operations will be given by the Command.
16) Within a 200 sea miles circumference of the supply area in KS and KT. Wireless and attack ban. Remember that surface craft are considerably more vulnerable than U-boat tankers. Boats are free to attack if the supply ship is in danger or if the latter has been sighted by an enemy merchant ship.
17) The 100% success of this undertaking can only be assured if the boats attacks are carried out swiftly and unexpectedly at the focal points, in a time limit determined by keyword order.
In addition, on passage to Operations area in Arabian Sea:
(After replenishment of supplies in KS 50)
a) Until arrival in operations area definitely remain unseen and unlocated.
b) Strict wireless silence.
Only transmit if it is confirmed with certainty that the boat is observed and recognized as German by the enemy. Even in this case, the Commander must question whether according to circumstance (the course on which the sighting took place, the certainty of recognition etc) the enemy's reaction can be anticipated in which case the breaking of wireless silence is justified and correct.
c) General ban on attacks on merchant ships and war-ships until keyword is given. Attack is only allowed on:
Battleships
A/c carriers
Troop transport ships of more than 15,000 GRT.
if a hit is certain
18) a) In operations area: Permission to attack on the key-word order "Hinein" with appropriate number which gives the date of the attack when divided by 7. Start of attack 1800 German Summer Time. Example: Hinein 196 means: Permission to attack at 1800 German Summer Time on 28th.
b) As long as the traffic and defence situation is clarified and the boat has been observed by the enemy, send situation report. Clear reports, so that, if necessary, the Command can redistribute the operational areas.
c) Sensible use of torpedoes. Economical considered use of torpedoes in busy traffic. If there is not much traffic do not economize, fire fans. Fully exploit the effectiveness of magnetic firing torpedoes especially for finishing shots. Do not over rate the enemy defence. It has never been used against U-boats and is therefore inexperienced and inferior.
C) Supply.
19) First supply in FD 20 from U 462. Replenishment with fuel, taking on of provisions for 3 to 4 weeks.
20) Second and third supply from German tanker "Brake". Special recognition signal for merchant ships to be met in ES, will be ordered by W/T.
Full replenishment of fuel supplies from "Brake". Suitable U-boat provisions are apparently not available in adequate supply there, so that if necessary provisioning will have to take place from U-boat tankers on the return passage.

V. Communications Instructions:
See appendix 2. (T.N. page 541)

VI. Miscellaneous:
There will be a doctor on every boat.

+++++++


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 1 July 1943 - South of Maputo -

1138 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.9133KZ - Days Run: 184.2nm - ↗ 175.2nm (20h 50') - ↘ 9.0nm (3h 10')
Total: 10261.9nm (57tg 22h) - ↗ 9848.1nm (51tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 442cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 7d 13h)

1240 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2209 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2317 - Qu.6977KZ -

+++++++


Monsoon Appendix.



C-in-C German Navy
2. Sk1./B.d.U. Op.
Nr. Ckdos. 3495 A1
10.June 1943.


Operational Order "Monsoon"
for


U 188, U 532, U 168, U 509, U 183, U 514, U 506, U 533, U 516 and for U 115, U 200 and U 847.

(Only the general regulations apply for the latter boats)


I. Duties:
1) Blitz attack on enemy merchant shipping and enemy surface forces in the Arabian Sea area.
Time: Termination of South West Monsoon.
2) On the outward and return passage roughly according to the general directions in Operational Order Atlantic No. 54.
3) Procedure according to Commander's Hand Book, Standing War Orders, Standing Orders and General instructions Operational Order No. 54.

II. Intelligence of the Enemy:
4) See appendix 1.

III. Intelligence of our own surface forces:
5) Warships.
The appearance of our own warships (also auxiliary cruisers) is not to be expected in the entire outward passage and operational area. Japanese surface forces and U-boats may be encountered. Appropriate statements on this matter, however, will be made by wireless when necessary.
6) Store and supply ship's blockade runners.
See Instructions Operational Order No. 54 paragraph 12 and Appendix 1. Supply is planned from German supply ships putting out from Japan. Announcement by W/T.

IV. Execution:
A) General Scheme.
7) The boat must be equipped with special care with regard to the heavy long term strain to be imposed upon it. Spare parts, machine equipment are to be carried in adequate supply, a cabin on the upper deck is to be set aside as store room.
Maximum supply of provisions must be provided.
8) The boats are to sail in the period from 25th June to 4th July. They are to make for FD 20 at economical cruising speed. The first fuel replenishment will take place here. Supply boat "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe). Enemy air reconnaissance must be expected in this area within a 300 sea mile circumference of Ascension Island.
9) Progress is to be made on the shortest routes but with adequate distance )about 300 to 400 sea miles from the South African coast outside the enemy short range aircraft area, to KS 50. Here, the second replenishment of supplies is to take place from German merchant ships sailing from Japan. For details of supply and procedure at the supply point see paragraph 16 and 20.
10) After replenishment of supplies, boats will proceed to the operational areas allocated to them. Central points MP 60, MF 30, MH 70 and LC 30.
Boats must expect to be in their respective operations areas for about one month. Course for operations, change of operations area will be sent by W/T.
11) After exhaustion of supplies etc., and on instructions to return, via new supply point in KS or KT. Replenishment from German ship, then return passage to Lorient.
12) Measures to be adopted in the event of nonappearance by German Supply Ships.
On nonappearance of ship for second replenishment (according to paragraph 9) according to situation:
a) Occupation of Cape area as operations area, subsequent return passage with further supply by U-boat tanker or
b) Passage to Penang, refuel and short rest, operations in Arabian Sea, refuel on the return passage.
(Directions for approach to Penang, see Appendix 3)
13) On the nonappearance of the supply ship for 3rd replenishment (see paragraph 11) passage to Penang. Mutual assistance with fuel. There refuel for return passage. Small number of torpedoes available.
Further Plans.
14) Some boats will be allowed to undergo short overhaul and supply (also with torpedoes) according to the need of boat and personnel. Further operations in India area subsequent return passage.
B) Permission to attack and general procedure.
15) On the outward passage up to 200 sea miles off the supply point in KS 50: Wireless discipline according to Signals Directive Operations Order No. 54. Permissions to attack according to general directive of Operations Order Atlantic No. 54 and Standing War Orders No. 101 and 105. Exploit every chance to the utmost also convoys. In the case of north bound convoys in the Atlantic orders for the breaking off of operations will be given by the Command.
16) Within a 200 sea miles circumference of the supply area in KS and KT. Wireless and attack ban. Remember that surface craft are considerably more vulnerable than U-boat tankers. Boats are free to attack if the supply ship is in danger or if the latter has been sighted by an enemy merchant ship.
17) The 100% success of this undertaking can only be assured if the boats attacks are carried out swiftly and unexpectedly at the focal points, in a time limit determined by keyword order.
In addition, on passage to Operations area in Arabian Sea:
(After replenishment of supplies in KS 50)
a) Until arrival in operations area definitely remain unseen and unlocated.
b) Strict wireless silence.
Only transmit if it is confirmed with certainty that the boat is observed and recognized as German by the enemy. Even in this case, the Commander must question whether according to circumstance (the course on which the sighting took place, the certainty of recognition etc) the enemy's reaction can be anticipated in which case the breaking of wireless silence is justified and correct.
c) General ban on attacks on merchant ships and war-ships until keyword is given. Attack is only allowed on:
Battleships
A/c carriers
Troop transport ships of more than 15,000 GRT.
if a hit is certain
18) a) In operations area: Permission to attack on the key-word order "Hinein" with appropriate number which gives the date of the attack when divided by 7. Start of attack 1800 German Summer Time. Example: Hinein 196 means: Permission to attack at 1800 German Summer Time on 28th.
b) As long as the traffic and defence situation is clarified and the boat has been observed by the enemy, send situation report. Clear reports, so that, if necessary, the Command can redistribute the operational areas.
c) Sensible use of torpedoes. Economical considered use of torpedoes in busy traffic. If there is not much traffic do not economize, fire fans. Fully exploit the effectiveness of magnetic firing torpedoes especially for finishing shots. Do not over rate the enemy defence. It has never been used against U-boats and is therefore inexperienced and inferior.
C) Supply.
19) First supply in FD 20 from U 462. Replenishment with fuel, taking on of provisions for 3 to 4 weeks.
20) Second and third supply from German tanker "Brake". Special recognition signal for merchant ships to be met in ES, will be ordered by W/T.
Full replenishment of fuel supplies from "Brake". Suitable U-boat provisions are apparently not available in adequate supply there, so that if necessary provisioning will have to take place from U-boat tankers on the return passage.

V. Communications Instructions:
See appendix 2. (T.N. page 541)

VI. Miscellaneous:
There will be a doctor on every boat.

+++++++


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 2 July 1943 - South of the Straight of Mozambique -

1126 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.4784JA - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10455.5nm (58tg 22h) - ↗ 10041.7nm (52tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 439.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 8d 13h)

1228 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

+++++++


Appendix 2 to Operations Order "Monsoon"


V. Communications Instructions:
21) Wireless traffic to be cleared in accordance with Standing War Orders - Communications Regulations (N.B. U-boats).
Wireless discipline see paragraph 15 - 17 of this operational order.
22) A special U-boat (wave-length) system "India", is to be inaugurated for communication between home (stations) and units operating in the Indian Ocean.
The order for this, included in the appendix is drafted as a Standing Operational Order B.d.U. (Comm. Regs.). When this system is put into force, the draft is to be inserted in the Communications Regulations for U-boats as a Standing War Order. The number will be given. If alterations are necessary boats will be informed by W/T.
23) There is as yet little experience of wireless traffic for the operations area. The cooperation of the boats, therefore, is expected.
a) Exploitation of every chance of reliable interception.
The use of a special very long wave high-power transmitter is probable.
The operating of special short wave program times is proposed.
b) Most extensive use of Wireless system "B" (Standing War Order 206 App. 2) and alternative frequencies for the sending of news.
As far as can be seen, wireless system "B" is particularly suitable for the operational area, especially if home reception is bad on the ordered system.
c) Wireless relay service and the exploitation of possibilities of U-boats group system (Standing War Order 207), is to be particularly observed especially in combined operations. Always attempt to contact the Command on the home wave lengths.
d) Experience of reception conditions in the operations area are of special importance to the control station for the clearing of wireless services. Observations on this point are therefore to be added to other messages. Improvement is only possible in this way.
The keeping of a S/S list for all short and very long waves observed (also on outward and return passage) is very important especially in the operations area as the later evaluation by scientific departments is of great value in the improvement of all U-boat wave bands.
24) Cypher and recognition signal tables and line indicators for the frequency tables for maximum period, also excepts from the frequency tables A - D January 1942 issue are to be taken.
25) For change of recognition signals outside Europe, area according to Recognition Signal Directive paragraph 110, also except from Recognition Signal Directions Overseas edition (Standing Operational Order 222) suitable for call sign exchange with the tanker "Brake".
(See also paragraph 20 of this Operational Order)
The carrying out of call sign exchange with Japanese Naval Forces or aircraft likewise on approaching Penang will be ordered by W/T.
26) When operating in shallow water, preparations must be made for the destruction of cypher material, place red printed matter so that the water can reach it. (See Standing War Order 231 Section B)

+++++++


- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 2 July 1943 - South of the Straight of Mozambique -

1126 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.4784JA - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10455.5nm (58tg 22h) - ↗ 10041.7nm (52tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 439.5cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 8d 13h)

1228 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

+++++++


Appendix 2 to Operations Order "Monsoon"


V. Communications Instructions:
21) Wireless traffic to be cleared in accordance with Standing War Orders - Communications Regulations (N.B. U-boats).
Wireless discipline see paragraph 15 - 17 of this operational order.
22) A special U-boat (wave-length) system "India", is to be inaugurated for communication between home (stations) and units operating in the Indian Ocean.
The order for this, included in the appendix is drafted as a Standing Operational Order B.d.U. (Comm. Regs.). When this system is put into force, the draft is to be inserted in the Communications Regulations for U-boats as a Standing War Order. The number will be given. If alterations are necessary boats will be informed by W/T.
23) There is as yet little experience of wireless traffic for the operations area. The cooperation of the boats, therefore, is expected.
a) Exploitation of every chance of reliable interception.
The use of a special very long wave high-power transmitter is probable.
The operating of special short wave program times is proposed.
b) Most extensive use of Wireless system "B" (Standing War Order 206 App. 2) and alternative frequencies for the sending of news.
As far as can be seen, wireless system "B" is particularly suitable for the operational area, especially if home reception is bad on the ordered system.
c) Wireless relay service and the exploitation of possibilities of U-boats group system (Standing War Order 207), is to be particularly observed especially in combined operations. Always attempt to contact the Command on the home wave lengths.
d) Experience of reception conditions in the operations area are of special importance to the control station for the clearing of wireless services. Observations on this point are therefore to be added to other messages. Improvement is only possible in this way.
The keeping of a S/S list for all short and very long waves observed (also on outward and return passage) is very important especially in the operations area as the later evaluation by scientific departments is of great value in the improvement of all U-boat wave bands.
24) Cypher and recognition signal tables and line indicators for the frequency tables for maximum period, also excepts from the frequency tables A - D January 1942 issue are to be taken.
25) For change of recognition signals outside Europe, area according to Recognition Signal Directive paragraph 110, also except from Recognition Signal Directions Overseas edition (Standing Operational Order 222) suitable for call sign exchange with the tanker "Brake".
(See also paragraph 20 of this Operational Order)
The carrying out of call sign exchange with Japanese Naval Forces or aircraft likewise on approaching Penang will be ordered by W/T.
26) When operating in shallow water, preparations must be made for the destruction of cypher material, place red printed matter so that the water can reach it. (See Standing War Order 231 Section B)

+++++++


- to be continued -


Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 2 July 1943 - South of the Straight of Mozambique -

- continued from 2 July, 1228 -


2158 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 1 July, The Führer addressed the generals slated to command Operation Citadel.
b) Also, on 1 July, the Luftwaffe formed the Fernaufklärungsgruppe 5 special long range reconnaissance unit.
c) The Italian 1st Air Force Assault Regiment "Amedeo d'Aosta" was effectively disbanded; as of this date, it consists only of a small number of officers.
d) The US 15th Air Force attacked 3 airfields in southern Italy.
e) US-Troops have landed on New Georgia, Solomon Islands, with troops of US Army 43rd Division moving from Rendova to New Georgia, covered by gunfire from US Marines 9th Defense Battalion and US Army 192nd Field Artillery aimed at Munda Airfield. Major General Noboru Sasaki assumed sole command of all Japanese garrisons on New Georgia. Japanese bombers attempted to interfere by attacking supply dumps on Rendova, causing heavy casualties.
f) Japanese physicist Yoshio Nishina met his with army liaison officer Major General Nobuji and reported that he expected to be successful with the nuclear research project. He noted that 10 kilograms of uranium-235 of at least 50% purity to create an atomic bomb, but he needed a large cyclotron to conduct experiments to confirm this theory. Nobuji promised further funding.

From O.K.M.:
a) Kriegsmarinewerft Kiel facilities in Kiel, was sold on 1 July, forming a new company named Howaldtswerke Aktiengesellschaft Werft Kiel.

From B.d.U.:
a) "Milkcow" U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke) has refueled U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) and U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) on 1 July. Boat is sold out and returning.
b) "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe): Bomb hit in the forecastle. No. 9 diving tank damaged, No. 3, 7 and 8 blown. Return passage off the Spanish coast. U 462 is escorted by U 160 (Oblt. Gerd von Pommer-Esche).
c) From 6th July U 382 (Oblt. Leopold Koch) will refuel to capacity from "Milkcow" U 487 (Oblt.d.R. Helmut Metz) in CF 6882.
d) U 154 (Oblt. Oskar-Heinz Kusch) reports: 0244 unsuccessful bombing attack on U 126 (Oblt. Siegfried Kietz; ex Bauer), contact lost. Independent passage from BF 4775.
e) U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) and U 341 (Oblt. Dietrich Epp) have been ordered to proceed in company through Biscay. U 592 will suggest a rendezvous.
f) Our own aircraft sighted at 1100 one heavy and one light cruiser in BF 4847, course 320° (To be taken with a pinch of salt. Probably only destroyers).

B-Dienst Report:
a) Enemy reported sighting of U 180's group (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg), escorted by 2 destroyers on 1 July, were also sighted in BF 7620.
b) Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10; Essex-class) completed repairs on 1 July, and began air operations out of Norfolk, Virginia, United States.
c) Greek guerrillas were placed under direct operational control of Allied Middle Eastern Command.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Friday, 2 July 1943 - South of the Straight of Mozambique -

- continued from 2 July, 1228 -


2158 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2311 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) On 1 July, The Führer addressed the generals slated to command Operation Citadel.
b) Also, on 1 July, the Luftwaffe formed the Fernaufklärungsgruppe 5 special long range reconnaissance unit.
c) The Italian 1st Air Force Assault Regiment "Amedeo d'Aosta" was effectively disbanded; as of this date, it consists only of a small number of officers.
d) The US 15th Air Force attacked 3 airfields in southern Italy.
e) US-Troops have landed on New Georgia, Solomon Islands, with troops of US Army 43rd Division moving from Rendova to New Georgia, covered by gunfire from US Marines 9th Defense Battalion and US Army 192nd Field Artillery aimed at Munda Airfield. Major General Noboru Sasaki assumed sole command of all Japanese garrisons on New Georgia. Japanese bombers attempted to interfere by attacking supply dumps on Rendova, causing heavy casualties.
f) Japanese physicist Yoshio Nishina met his with army liaison officer Major General Nobuji and reported that he expected to be successful with the nuclear research project. He noted that 10 kilograms of uranium-235 of at least 50% purity to create an atomic bomb, but he needed a large cyclotron to conduct experiments to confirm this theory. Nobuji promised further funding.

From O.K.M.:
a) Kriegsmarinewerft Kiel facilities in Kiel, was sold on 1 July, forming a new company named Howaldtswerke Aktiengesellschaft Werft Kiel.

From B.d.U.:
a) "Milkcow" U 488 (Oblt.d.R. Erwin Bartke) has refueled U 634 (Oblt. Eberhard Dahlhaus) and U 257 (Kptlt. Heinz Rahe) on 1 July. Boat is sold out and returning.
b) "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe): Bomb hit in the forecastle. No. 9 diving tank damaged, No. 3, 7 and 8 blown. Return passage off the Spanish coast. U 462 is escorted by U 160 (Oblt. Gerd von Pommer-Esche).
c) From 6th July U 382 (Oblt. Leopold Koch) will refuel to capacity from "Milkcow" U 487 (Oblt.d.R. Helmut Metz) in CF 6882.
d) U 154 (Oblt. Oskar-Heinz Kusch) reports: 0244 unsuccessful bombing attack on U 126 (Oblt. Siegfried Kietz; ex Bauer), contact lost. Independent passage from BF 4775.
e) U 592 (Kptlt. Carl Borm) and U 341 (Oblt. Dietrich Epp) have been ordered to proceed in company through Biscay. U 592 will suggest a rendezvous.
f) Our own aircraft sighted at 1100 one heavy and one light cruiser in BF 4847, course 320° (To be taken with a pinch of salt. Probably only destroyers).

B-Dienst Report:
a) Enemy reported sighting of U 180's group (IXD1; Fregkpt. Werner Musenberg), escorted by 2 destroyers on 1 July, were also sighted in BF 7620.
b) Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10; Essex-class) completed repairs on 1 July, and began air operations out of Norfolk, Virginia, United States.
c) Greek guerrillas were placed under direct operational control of Allied Middle Eastern Command.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 3 July 1943 - Indian Ocean -

1115 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.4967JA - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10649.1nm (59tg 22h) - ↗ 10235.3nm (53tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 437cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 9d 13h)

1216 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1707 - Qu.5749JA -

2148 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) RAF Terror bombers conducted heavy night attacks on Cologne, causing heavy damages and high civilian casualties.
b) Operation Citadelle, aimed at encircling and destroying Soviet forces in the Orel-Belgorod salient in Russia, has been postponed by 1 day due to heavy Russian air attacks on our staging areas.
c) US Troops link-up with Australian Troops on New Guinea.
Japanese bombers attacked supply dumps on Rendova, Solomon Islands, but failed to cause significant damage. To the north on New Georgia, troops of the 172nd Infantry Regiment of the US Army 43rd Division were landed on Zanana beach.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Saturday, 3 July 1943 - Indian Ocean -

1115 - Early Morning Dawn -

1200 - Qu.4967JA - Days Run: 193.6nm - ↗ (24h)
Total: 10649.1nm (59tg 22h) - ↗ 10235.3nm (53tg 10h 15') - ↘ 413.8nm (6tg 11h 45')
Course 87°; 437cbm (2.5cbm in 24h); Battery 91.4%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
SSE4/3, clear, visibility 4.5nm, >1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 9d 13h)

1216 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged.

1707 - Qu.5749JA -

2148 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) RAF Terror bombers conducted heavy night attacks on Cologne, causing heavy damages and high civilian casualties.
b) Operation Citadelle, aimed at encircling and destroying Soviet forces in the Orel-Belgorod salient in Russia, has been postponed by 1 day due to heavy Russian air attacks on our staging areas.
c) US Troops link-up with Australian Troops on New Guinea.
Japanese bombers attacked supply dumps on Rendova, Solomon Islands, but failed to cause significant damage. To the north on New Georgia, troops of the 172nd Infantry Regiment of the US Army 43rd Division were landed on Zanana beach.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 4 July 1943 - South of Madagascar -

0008 - ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb -

0700 - Qu.5856JA - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0758 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 0813 -

0905 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

0910 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

0948 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0950 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1006 - Reception Depth.
Battery 82.9%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü(!), CO₂ 1.5%.

Cmdr.: The L.I. reports that the malfunction of the Pressurized Air Gauge might stem from the Compressor itself. The investigation is ongoing.

1009 - S-Tiefe.

1010 - Qu.5864JA - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 10' and 9.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10h.

1017 - Boat ventilated. 2x235rpm/7-8kn.

1108 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5866JA - Days Run: 172.8nm - ↗ 163.8nm (20h 50') -↘ 9.0nm (3h 10')
Total: 10821.9nm (60tg 22h) - ↗ 10399.1nm (54tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 436cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 12h)

1209 - Sunrise.

2143 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 22h.

+++++++


Appendix to Communications Instructions


Operations Order "Monsoon"


Draft
Standing War Order B. d. U. No. . . . . . . . . . . . .
- Communications Directions -

U-boat Wireless system India.


I. General:
1. Purpose:
The Indian wireless system is intended for wireless traffic between the Command and U-boat operating in the Indian Ocean.
2. Beginning and termination of the system:
This will be ordered by the Command in a wireless message. (In exceptional circumstances by a sailing or operational order.)
3. Set-up of the system:
a) The Indian system consists of 2 short waves and one very long wave. The same messages with the same serial number will be sent on both short and very long wave.
b) The two parallel short waves will ensure favorable reception and transmission conditions for boats in all areas covered by this system.
c) According to Order 200 paragraph 15, a special short wave transmission can be operated at program times as supplement to the very long wave program times. Boats operating on the Indian system may only use this short wave for the transmission of reports by special permission.
d) The Indian system short waves occasionally available may be used as a transmission frequency by all boats at sea.

II. Waves and Traffic times.
4. Shortwaves:
a) India A

Control . . . . . . . . . W/T name . . . . . . . . Checking reception . . . . . . . . .


from . . . . to . . . . wave . . . . = . . . K/cs

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Sunday, 4 July 1943 - South of Madagascar -

0008 - ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb -

0700 - Qu.5856JA - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive.

0705 - T=50. Beginning torpedo maintenance.

0758 - Tube V serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H). - Break until 0813 -

0905 - Tube VI serviced (EtoFat/Pi39H).

0910 - Beginning of Trial Dive acc. B.d.U. Standing Orders No.507 and No.308. 145rpm.

0948 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

0950 - Setting for T=20 with 96rpm.

1006 - Reception Depth.
Battery 82.9%, Compressed Air Supply 300Atü(!), CO₂ 1.5%.

Cmdr.: The L.I. reports that the malfunction of the Pressurized Air Gauge might stem from the Compressor itself. The investigation is ongoing.

1009 - S-Tiefe.

1010 - Qu.5864JA - Surfaced from S-Tiefe after 3h 10' and 9.0nm. Weather and Sea unchanged in 10h.

1017 - Boat ventilated. 2x235rpm/7-8kn.

1108 - Morning Dawn.

1200 - Qu.5866JA - Days Run: 172.8nm - ↗ 163.8nm (20h 50') -↘ 9.0nm (3h 10')
Total: 10821.9nm (60tg 22h) - ↗ 10399.1nm (54tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 436cbm (1cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 12h)

1209 - Sunrise.

2143 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 22h.

+++++++


Appendix to Communications Instructions


Operations Order "Monsoon"


Draft
Standing War Order B. d. U. No. . . . . . . . . . . . .
- Communications Directions -

U-boat Wireless system India.


I. General:
1. Purpose:
The Indian wireless system is intended for wireless traffic between the Command and U-boat operating in the Indian Ocean.
2. Beginning and termination of the system:
This will be ordered by the Command in a wireless message. (In exceptional circumstances by a sailing or operational order.)
3. Set-up of the system:
a) The Indian system consists of 2 short waves and one very long wave. The same messages with the same serial number will be sent on both short and very long wave.
b) The two parallel short waves will ensure favorable reception and transmission conditions for boats in all areas covered by this system.
c) According to Order 200 paragraph 15, a special short wave transmission can be operated at program times as supplement to the very long wave program times. Boats operating on the Indian system may only use this short wave for the transmission of reports by special permission.
d) The Indian system short waves occasionally available may be used as a transmission frequency by all boats at sea.

II. Waves and Traffic times.
4. Shortwaves:
a) India A

Control . . . . . . . . . W/T name . . . . . . . . Checking reception . . . . . . . . .


from . . . . to . . . . wave . . . . = . . . K/cs

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 5 July 1943 - Northeast of Prince Edward Islands -

0050 - Qu.6742JA - Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

1100 - Morning Dawn.

1159 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.6819JA - Days Run: 186.0nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11007.9nm (61tg 22h) - ↗ 10585.1nm (55tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 434cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 36h)

1414 & 1417 - F.T. from Navy Attaché in Tokyo: To O.K.M.:
Report on Op. of Japanese Uboats I-30 and I-8 in the Atlantic.

1545 - Qu.6829JA -

2135 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 46h.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) On 4 July, Operation Citadelle (Battle of Kursk) was launched on a over 320-km long front, with the 9th Army advancing 10 km in the North and 4th Pz.-Army 40 km in the South.
b) Naval battle in the Gulf of Kula, north of New Georgia, between US and Japanese Forces. The US Navy looses the Light Cruiser USS Helena (CL 50; Captain Charles Purcell Cecil), when she was hit by three torpedoes from Japanese warships. The US Navy claims that 8-9 Japanese ships have been sunk in this battle.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 271 (Oblt.d.R. Curt Barleben) has been ordered to return, with 34 cbm fuel, and will rendezvous with the damaged U 420 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Reese). U 667 (Kptlt. Heinrich-Andreas Schroeteler) will then be the only boat remaining in the N. Atlantic.
b) U 230 (Kptlt. Paul Siegmann; I.W.O. Ltnt. Herbert A. Werner) and U 566 (Kptlt. Hans Hornkohl) sailed for mining operations Chesapeake and Norfolk* respectively.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived at Norfolk* Operating Base, Virginia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Monday, 5 July 1943 - Northeast of Prince Edward Islands -

0050 - Qu.6742JA - Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

1100 - Morning Dawn.

1159 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.6819JA - Days Run: 186.0nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11007.9nm (61tg 22h) - ↗ 10585.1nm (55tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 434cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 36h)

1414 & 1417 - F.T. from Navy Attaché in Tokyo: To O.K.M.:
Report on Op. of Japanese Uboats I-30 and I-8 in the Atlantic.

1545 - Qu.6829JA -

2135 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 46h.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

O.K.W.-Report:
a) On 4 July, Operation Citadelle (Battle of Kursk) was launched on a over 320-km long front, with the 9th Army advancing 10 km in the North and 4th Pz.-Army 40 km in the South.
b) Naval battle in the Gulf of Kula, north of New Georgia, between US and Japanese Forces. The US Navy looses the Light Cruiser USS Helena (CL 50; Captain Charles Purcell Cecil), when she was hit by three torpedoes from Japanese warships. The US Navy claims that 8-9 Japanese ships have been sunk in this battle.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 271 (Oblt.d.R. Curt Barleben) has been ordered to return, with 34 cbm fuel, and will rendezvous with the damaged U 420 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Reese). U 667 (Kptlt. Heinrich-Andreas Schroeteler) will then be the only boat remaining in the N. Atlantic.
b) U 230 (Kptlt. Paul Siegmann; I.W.O. Ltnt. Herbert A. Werner) and U 566 (Kptlt. Hans Hornkohl) sailed for mining operations Chesapeake and Norfolk* respectively.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Auxiliary Aircraft Carrier USS Card (CVE-11) arrived at Norfolk* Operating Base, Virginia.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 6 July 1943 - Indian Ocean -

- 9th week at sea completed -


0638 - Qu.4714JB -

1045 - Morning Dawn.

1149 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.6819JA - Days Run: 186.0nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11193.9nm (62tg 22h) - ↗ 10771.1nm (56tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 432cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 60h)

2127 - Qu.4822JB - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 70h.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Report about progress of Operation Citadelle (Battle of Kursk). In the north of the Kursk salient, on Central Front, the Russians launched a counter-attack, throwing in three tank corps. But it foundered on former Soviet minefields which the our 9th Army had reinforced, and the Soviets instead took up fixed positions to act as a breakwater against a renewed German assault. In the South, the advance of our 4th Pz.-Army continued.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) is to have freedom of action S. of 16° S. and W. of 70° E.
b) The following will supply from "Milkcow" U 487 , from 1000/9/7 in DF 6882: U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) for return passage at most economical speed., U 598, 406, 604, 662 and 591 35 cbm each and provisions for 7 days.
c) All boats proceeding S. have again been reminded of the order for most economical fuel consumption outside the areas particularly endangered by aircraft. There is so little traffic in all the operational areas that the desired success can only be achieved after a long period in the operations area. Only few boats can supply on return passage owing to the shortage of tankers.
d) At 0800/8/7 U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) will hand over to U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) in CG 5715 cipher memoranda Triton-M, Officers and General, for July and August.

B-Dienst Report:
a) US General Dwight D. Eisenhower arrived at Malta by B-17 aircraft.
b) Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10; Essex-class) exited Chesapeake Bay, United States, on her way to the Pacific Ocean.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Tuesday, 6 July 1943 - Indian Ocean -

- 9th week at sea completed -


0638 - Qu.4714JB -

1045 - Morning Dawn.

1149 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.6819JA - Days Run: 186.0nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11193.9nm (62tg 22h) - ↗ 10771.1nm (56tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 432cbm (2cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 60h)

2127 - Qu.4822JB - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 70h.

2312 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) Report about progress of Operation Citadelle (Battle of Kursk). In the north of the Kursk salient, on Central Front, the Russians launched a counter-attack, throwing in three tank corps. But it foundered on former Soviet minefields which the our 9th Army had reinforced, and the Soviets instead took up fixed positions to act as a breakwater against a renewed German assault. In the South, the advance of our 4th Pz.-Army continued.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 181 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wolfgang Lüth) is to have freedom of action S. of 16° S. and W. of 70° E.
b) The following will supply from "Milkcow" U 487 , from 1000/9/7 in DF 6882: U 195 (IXD1; KrvKpt. Heinz Buchholz) for return passage at most economical speed., U 598, 406, 604, 662 and 591 35 cbm each and provisions for 7 days.
c) All boats proceeding S. have again been reminded of the order for most economical fuel consumption outside the areas particularly endangered by aircraft. There is so little traffic in all the operational areas that the desired success can only be achieved after a long period in the operations area. Only few boats can supply on return passage owing to the shortage of tankers.
d) At 0800/8/7 U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) will hand over to U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) in CG 5715 cipher memoranda Triton-M, Officers and General, for July and August.

B-Dienst Report:
a) US General Dwight D. Eisenhower arrived at Malta by B-17 aircraft.
b) Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10; Essex-class) exited Chesapeake Bay, United States, on her way to the Pacific Ocean.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -

0823 - Qu.4689JB - Large Tanker 12858ts, bearing 309°, on course 253°, 17kn. No prior radar contact.

Decision not to attack. Reasons:
1. Unfavourable sea state (6 medium swell);
2. Problems with compressor;
3. Unclear ship identification;
4. Only 2 EtoFat for devensive action remaining.

Cmdr.: Torpedoing our own supply ship would be a fatal mistake!

Passing tanker at distance of 3000m to our port beam on opposite course.

0839 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Tanker 12000ts in Qu.4689JB, 258°, 17kn. No attack due to sea state 6, unclear compressor and uncertain ship ID. 430cbm. 2 EtoFat. ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb. Heading toward supply ship. - RST -

1030 - Morning Dawn.

1140 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.4699JB - Days Run: 185.8nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11379.7nm (63tg 22h) - ↗ 10956.9nm (57tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 429cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 3d 12h)

1949 - Qu.5496JB - Radar contact bearing 0°, E=6000; Shadow ahead, stationary.

1954 - Vessel is identified as Merchant Raider IX "Michel" (Ship 28; Kapitän zur See Günther Gumprich). Giving Recognition Signal, answered and confirmed.

Decision to attempt supplying at the Leeward side of Supply Ship. Water Depth 20m. Fuel hose connection done by crane. Supplying of provisions by rope connection. Charging batteries.

Messages transferred by Supply Ship (see Annex II to KTB).

2124 - Sundown.

2305 - Setting in darkness - Provisioning completed. Leaving Supply Ship (for details of Supply refer to Annex I to KTB).


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -

0823 - Qu.4689JB - Large Tanker 12858ts, bearing 309°, on course 253°, 17kn. No prior radar contact.

Decision not to attack. Reasons:
1. Unfavourable sea state (6 medium swell);
2. Problems with compressor;
3. Unclear ship identification;
4. Only 2 EtoFat for devensive action remaining.

Cmdr.: Torpedoing our own supply ship would be a fatal mistake!

Passing tanker at distance of 3000m to our port beam on opposite course.

0839 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Tanker 12000ts in Qu.4689JB, 258°, 17kn. No attack due to sea state 6, unclear compressor and uncertain ship ID. 430cbm. 2 EtoFat. ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb. Heading toward supply ship. - RST -

1030 - Morning Dawn.

1140 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.4699JB - Days Run: 185.8nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11379.7nm (63tg 22h) - ↗ 10956.9nm (57tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 87°; 429cbm (3cbm in 24h); Battery 82.9%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 3d 12h)

1949 - Qu.5496JB - Radar contact bearing 0°, E=6000; Shadow ahead, stationary.

1954 - Vessel is identified as Merchant Raider IX "Michel" (Ship 28; Kapitän zur See Günther Gumprich). Giving Recognition Signal, answered and confirmed.

Decision to attempt supplying at the Leeward side of Supply Ship. Water Depth 20m. Fuel hose connection done by crane. Supplying of provisions by rope connection. Charging batteries.

Messages transferred by Supply Ship (see Annex II to KTB).

2124 - Sundown.

2305 - Setting in darkness - Provisioning completed. Leaving Supply Ship (for details of Supply refer to Annex I to KTB).


RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -


Annex 1


S u p p l y :

1.) Meeting was good (including Recognition Signal exchange).
2.) Fuel oil transfer according to plan and smoothly (83 cbm taken on in 3h).
3.) Provisions transfer considerably complicated because in addition to inflatable boat as cargo boat only 1 small boat from the supplier as towing boat (Launch of the motorboat and torpedo loading not tried because of the poor sea state). Doctors visit done.
4.) Signal personnel at tanker at a strength of 1:1 was sufficient but is not enough for group supply.
5.) Beyond fuel and provisions the supplier was not fitted out for supply (hardly any spare parts etc., i.e., Repair of compressor not possible).
6.) The kindness of the supply ship Captain to the last crew member was exemplary.
7.) Supply was great for morale of own boat and for the raider crew.
8.) Weather and Sea conditions throughout were consistently poor with high winds, overcast and swell.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -


Annex 1


S u p p l y :

1.) Meeting was good (including Recognition Signal exchange).
2.) Fuel oil transfer according to plan and smoothly (83 cbm taken on in 3h).
3.) Provisions transfer considerably complicated because in addition to inflatable boat as cargo boat only 1 small boat from the supplier as towing boat (Launch of the motorboat and torpedo loading not tried because of the poor sea state). Doctors visit done.
4.) Signal personnel at tanker at a strength of 1:1 was sufficient but is not enough for group supply.
5.) Beyond fuel and provisions the supplier was not fitted out for supply (hardly any spare parts etc., i.e., Repair of compressor not possible).
6.) The kindness of the supply ship Captain to the last crew member was exemplary.
7.) Supply was great for morale of own boat and for the raider crew.
8.) Weather and Sea conditions throughout were consistently poor with high winds, overcast and swell.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -

Annex 2


Radio Messages transferred by Supply Ship:


From O.K.W.:
a) At Wolfsschanze, rocket research team leaders Wernher von Braun, Walter Dornberger and Ernst Steinhoff (brother of Kptlt. Friedrich Steinhoff) presented The Führer, Albert Speer, Wilhelm Keitel, and Alfred Jodl their research, including a film of a V-2 rocket launch, and successfully convinced The Führer to give rocket research and production a high priority.
b) The first Ta 152A prototype aircraft - an improved version of the excellent Fw 190D fighter - took flight.
c) During the Battle of Kursk, Soviet Il-2M aircraft attacked tanks of the German 9th Panzer Division. Our Luftwaffe responded with attacks of He 111 tactical bombers, flying 178 sorties, and Lt.Erich Hartmann (II/JG52) shot down 7 enemy airplanes, totalling 22 kills since the start of the battle.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) sank the Greek "Hydraios" 4,476 GRT on 6.7. in KP 3810 and the British "Leana" 4,742 GRT by gunfire on 7.7. Captain captured. Both ships were steering a course of 240°.
b) U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) has freedom of action to the W. as far as the coast in U 178's (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) area (Mozambique Channel).
c) U 185 (IXC/40; Kptlt. August Maus) attacked a convoy (BT-18 from Bahia, Brazil to Trinidad), course 290, 10 knots in FC 7179 (about 125-175 miles east of Fortaleza, Brazil). During the first attack one tanker and one freighter, each 8,000 GRT, were left burning and sinking, and a Pi 2 hit was scored on 7,000 tonner. In the second attack in FB 9396 one freighter and one ammunition ship each of 6,000 GRT were sunk. The boat dived after gunfire. Air escort with the convoy by day, untrained escort vessels only by night, so far no Radar.
d) U 373 (Kptlt. Paul-Karl Loeser) sailed for mining operation Port Lyautey (Rabat, Morocco).

B-Dienst Report:
a) A rubber dinghy with 2 English airmen was reported by the enmey in BF 7741 (WNW off Fisterra). Boats were instructed to take them prisoner if sighted.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[KaleunMarco]

we were patrolling in Area 6, March 1945, when we got a SJ contact.
it turned out to be an IJN uboat.
we detected her from far enough away and we were close enough to her track to easily close and compute a firing solution. stern tubes.

https://i.ibb.co/Jz7txrr/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-43-767.png (https://ibb.co/NLjC1WW)
https://i.ibb.co/WzLBSnJ/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-45-546.png (https://ibb.co/Ydxfv2s)
https://i.ibb.co/BgwWK25/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-46-716.png (https://ibb.co/rZv8f2R)
https://i.ibb.co/YTQVnkb/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-50-386.png (https://ibb.co/2YhpVt5)
https://i.ibb.co/cTSCWQg/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-50-02-146.png (https://ibb.co/mzVXn4D)

[Kapitän]

we were patrolling in Area 6, March 1945, when we got a SJ contact.
it turned out to be an IJN uboat.
we detected her from far enough away and we were close enough to her track to easily close and compute a firing solution. stern tubes.

https://i.ibb.co/Jz7txrr/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-43-767.png (https://ibb.co/NLjC1WW)
https://i.ibb.co/WzLBSnJ/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-45-546.png (https://ibb.co/Ydxfv2s)
https://i.ibb.co/BgwWK25/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-46-716.png (https://ibb.co/rZv8f2R)
https://i.ibb.co/YTQVnkb/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-49-50-386.png (https://ibb.co/2YhpVt5)
https://i.ibb.co/cTSCWQg/SH4-Img-2023-08-28-17-50-02-146.png (https://ibb.co/mzVXn4D)


Okay, Wow! As Cmdr of a US Sub, yes?

[Kapitän]

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Wednesday, 7 July 1943 - North of Iles Crozet -

Annex 2


Radio Messages transferred by Supply Ship:


From O.K.W.:
a) At Wolfsschanze, rocket research team leaders Wernher von Braun, Walter Dornberger and Ernst Steinhoff (brother of Kptlt. Friedrich Steinhoff) presented The Führer, Albert Speer, Wilhelm Keitel, and Alfred Jodl their research, including a film of a V-2 rocket launch, and successfully convinced The Führer to give rocket research and production a high priority.
b) The first Ta 152A prototype aircraft - an improved version of the excellent Fw 190D fighter - took flight.
c) During the Battle of Kursk, Soviet Il-2M aircraft attacked tanks of the German 9th Panzer Division. Our Luftwaffe responded with attacks of He 111 tactical bombers, flying 178 sorties, and Lt.Erich Hartmann (II/JG52) shot down 7 enemy airplanes, totalling 22 kills since the start of the battle.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 198 (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) sank the Greek "Hydraios" 4,476 GRT on 6.7. in KP 3810 and the British "Leana" 4,742 GRT by gunfire on 7.7. Captain captured. Both ships were steering a course of 240°.
b) U 196 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Eitel-Friedrich Kentrat) has freedom of action to the W. as far as the coast in U 178's (IXD2; KrvKpt. Wilhelm Dommes) area (Mozambique Channel).
c) U 185 (IXC/40; Kptlt. August Maus) attacked a convoy (BT-18 from Bahia, Brazil to Trinidad), course 290, 10 knots in FC 7179 (about 125-175 miles east of Fortaleza, Brazil). During the first attack one tanker and one freighter, each 8,000 GRT, were left burning and sinking, and a Pi 2 hit was scored on 7,000 tonner. In the second attack in FB 9396 one freighter and one ammunition ship each of 6,000 GRT were sunk. The boat dived after gunfire. Air escort with the convoy by day, untrained escort vessels only by night, so far no Radar.
d) U 373 (Kptlt. Paul-Karl Loeser) sailed for mining operation Port Lyautey (Rabat, Morocco).

B-Dienst Report:
a) A rubber dinghy with 2 English airmen was reported by the enmey in BF 7741 (WNW off Fisterra). Boats were instructed to take them prisoner if sighted.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...


+++++++


U 115
- KTB -
First War Patrol
(17th war patrol overall)

Thursday, 8 July 1943 - Indian Ocean -

0527 - Incoming Radio Reports:

From O.K.W.:
a) In the Battle of Kursk, Walter Model's armour made three thrusts into the centre of the Soviet defences along the Central Front, the villages of Teploye, Olkhovatka and Ponyri in Russia. At Teploye, the main objective was Hill 272. Fierce fighting developed and swarms of Stuka's dropped 550-pound bombs on the anti-tank positions. The hill changed hands three times.

From B.d.U.:
a) U 197 (IXD2; Kptlt. Robert Bartels) has freedom of action to the N. in U 198's (IXD2; Kpt.z.S. Werner Hartmann) area.
b) U 455 (Kptlt. Hans-Martin Scheibe) took over cipher memorandum Triton from U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) as ordered.
c) U 154 (Oblt. Oskar-Heinz Kusch) and U 126 (Oblt. Siegfried Kietz; ex Bauer) were on return passage in company through Biscay. U 154 reported on 2.7.: "Lost contact with U 126 after she had been bombed.". U 154 has meanwhile entered port without sighting U 126 again. She must be presumed lost.
d) U 267 (Kptlt. Otto Tinschert) reported at 1853 from CG 2212: "Unable to dive, am proceeding inshore.".
This boat may have been picked up by escort forces of a N.-bound Gibraltar convoy and bombed. She has been ordered to put into El Ferrol if she cannot restore her diving efficiency. If she returns directly air escort and destroyers will be provided. There are no U-boats in the vicinity to give immediate assistance. U 267 had not reported again by morning.

B-Dienst Report:
a) Escort Carrier USS Casablanca (CVE-55) was commissioned into service.

1025 - Morning Dawn.

1139 - Sunrise.

1200 - Qu.5267JB - Days Run: 180.9nm - ↗ 24h
Total: 11560.6nm (64tg 22h) - ↗ 11137.8nm (58tg 07h 05') - ↘ 422.8nm (6tg 14h 55')
Course 41°; 508cbm (4cbm in 24h); Battery 100%; 2xEtoFat; 8xBold.
ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb (Weather & Sea unchanged in 4d 12h)

1218 - Incoming F.T.: From U 514:
Rocket attack by Liberator. Sinking. - Auffermann -

2130 - Sundown.

2305 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Supply done acc. Op.-Order. Compressor still not clear. 507cbm. 2EtoFat. ESE7/6, overcast, light haze, visibility ~3.5nm, ~1000mb. Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders. - RST -

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[KaleunMarco]

Okay, Wow! As Cmdr of a US Sub, yes?

Yes.

well, i would hope so...if i am torpedoing an IJN uboat. :haha: