We set a direct course for Panang and head home at a ripping 8 knots. Half way there, about 5,000 miles out, we get a message to report to Jakarta. Transfered Again?!
We received that radio message twice, so we changed course to Jakarta. The crossing of the Indian Ocean was completely uneventful, no contacts of any kind and on 24-11-44 we arrived at our new berth in Jakarta.
No cheering crowds, no band, but safe at home. I received diamonds to my Knight's Cross with Swords and Oak Leaves which made me one of the most decorated, living, German sailors in the War. My crew received 2 Iron Crosses 2nd Class and one first. Now for a long, long shower, a series of very stiff drinks and then a very long sleep in a bed that does not pitch and roll.
