We are ready, and well aware of the Catalina's lack of speed. Besides that, Catalinas are absolutely deadly to a U-boat. The flying boat came in with guns blazing, but to our amazement, missed with every shot! However...the same could not be said about our brave, young gunners...the oldest of whom is a mere 19 years old. We scored some hits and watched as the Catalina flew out of gun range.
No sooner do I retire back to the command room, than one of the gunners bursts down the ladder and says "Captain, Captain...he went down! The Catalina went down!" and everybody in the command room and top deck cheered wildly as for the first time I can remember, a smile slowly creeped onto my face. This is our fourth aircraft victory. The hunters have become the hunted. I will plead with High Command that my crew be heavily decorated for their bravery. I don't care about receiving awards. My crew are the ones that deserve them.
