Leave is always over so fast.
But at least U-46 is looking in fine trim, and Cox has the boys lined up on the fore deck and accounted for. Even Dieter has made the parade on time.
We haven't ever made many changes to the crew roster (and Cox and the other seniors tells me that noone wants to be posted out - and I like to believe them)
Anyway those young faces have aged somewhat, and not just because of the sea.
They've seen and been through quite a bit already, but still ready and eager to go again.
It's my job to bring us all back, but also my priority to risk us all against the enemy.
"Well menschen...what are we waiting for! The nurses from the hospital where the First Officer was skiving have sent us cake. First watch up, cast off! Save some for them, but the last one below gets crumbs!"
And with a cheer they skidded down into their home from home, as the lines were cast off and pulled in.
Those not on harbour stations immediately came back up with cake in one hand and waving their Laughing Swordfish side cap with the other as the nurses waved and blew kisses back.
Nowadays Heidi stands on the end of the dock so she can see us for the longest time before we disappear down the Loire, even though she still hates to see any boat off. Now she has brave Josie, and a gaggle of feldgrau uniformed soldiers around her as well.
I grip the rim of the bridge tighter, and wave back for as long as I can. Then it's time for me to go below and just close the green curtain across my cabin space for a moment.
U-46 is going out again.
LS
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