[Nerazzurri]

15th November 1939

Today U-30 returned to it's home port, here in the city. Family and friends were present to welcome home their loved ones from another patrol. There was even some local support from people who have taken this boat and her crew to heart. Also in the air was not a little anxiety, over the recent 'neutral ship' affair.

When the crew, led by recently promoted Oberleutnant Hoffmann, alighted the boat, they looked a weary bunch; happy nonetheless to be home. It has to be said U-30 herself looked in better shape than the last time she berthed - maybe Oberleutnant is growing longer in the tooth?

I approached the Oberleutnant, as he walked towards me eating an apple handed to him by a wellwisher, and queeried him regarding the 'neutrality issue'. He calmly said "We have not harmed any ship that was not carrying materials which could be used against the Fatherland in the course of the war!"

On the question of the crewman, Bernard, he was less forthcoming. When asked if indeed this sailor was on his crew, he choked on his apple, befor spitting out the words "NO COMMENT". With that, Oberleutnant Hoffmann left the quayside to embark on some well earned shore leave.

Well earned indeed - U-30 accounted for 10 merchant ships on her tour of duty, totalling 37,548 tons. Truly a remarkable feat, because the boat carries only 14 torpedoes. It appears the brave crew are becoming more accomplished with every mission.

We can only hope this trend continues from the Oberleutnant and his men. It is indeed hard to believe they were posted here as recently as September, straight from the Naval Academy. We wish them well.


**STOP PRESS** - 'Neutral' ships were British registered. Hitler demands apology from Churchill. Hoffmann vindicated.

Oberleutnant Hoffmann accumulated tonnage/patrols 66,366/2