U-50 under command of Kapt. Wilhelm Neckel takes to the sea for the first time.The date is 2nd Jan 1940 and they have been assigned to BF44,quite a lucrative spot judging by U-48's earlier experiences out in that sector.
They departed at 02:00 on a clear night with moderate wind speed.Plans were made for a quick trip through the channel but that rush of blood was promptly aborted in favour of the longer but safer trip between the Shetlands,then going in through the 'back door'.
May good fortune be on their side!