Tell us what you are upto in your current campaign

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Wednesday, 8 October 1941 - West of Ireland -

0305 - Qu.2255BE -

0400 - Wind and Sea shifting to the West, the haze is lifting.

0600 - Morning Dawn. West7/6, clear, visibility 8-9sm, >1000mb.

0711 - Sunrise.

1010 - Qu.9855AL -

1200 - Qu.9828AL - Days Run: 188.0sm - ↗ 183.3 (22h 20') - ↘ 4.7sm (1h 40').
193.4cbm (5.3cbm/24h). 6200Ah. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 0°.

1715 - Qu.9555AL -

1827 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since Morning Dawn.

Cmdr.: Some of the boats operating on the south-bound convoy make brief contact but loose it again in bad weather and with setting darkness.

Boat continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Thursday, 9 October 1941 - West of the Porcupine Bank -

0020 - Qu.9255AL -

0600 - Morning Dawn. Weather unchanged in 24h.

0714 - Sunrise.

0730 - Qu.6855AL -

1200 - Qu.6585AL - Days Run: 197.0sm - (↗ 24h).
189.0cbm (4.4cbm/24h). 6200Ah. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 0°.

1435 - Qu.6555AL -

1821 - Sundown. Weather unchanged in 36h.

2140 - Qu.6255AL -

Cmdr.: The operation against the south-bound convoy is continuing. The air reconnaissance committed to the task had no successes on account of the very unfavorable weather conditions. The last certain enemy position, which was in BE 7976 at 0100 hours on the 9th October. U 126 (Kptlt. Ernst Bauer) made contact for a short time with one of the groups of 4 steamers protected by destroyers. It lost them when darkness fell.

According to a still unconfirmed report, 44 men of a German U-boat crew have been landed in Gibraltar. They are said to belong to a large U-boat which was sunk by a trawler. It is not out of the question that this is U 111 (Kleinschmidt).

Boat continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Thursday, 9 October 1941 - West of the Porcupine Bank -

0020 - Qu.9255AL -

0600 - Morning Dawn. Weather unchanged in 24h.

0714 - Sunrise.

0730 - Qu.6855AL -

1200 - Qu.6585AL - Days Run: 197.0sm - (↗ 24h).
189.0cbm (4.4cbm/24h). 6200Ah. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 0°.

1435 - Qu.6555AL -

1821 - Sundown. Weather unchanged in 36h.

2140 - Qu.6255AL -

Cmdr.: The operation against the south-bound convoy is continuing. The air reconnaissance committed to the task had no successes on account of the very unfavorable weather conditions. The last certain enemy position, which was in BE 7976 at 0100 hours on the 9th October. U 126 (Kptlt. Ernst Bauer) made contact for a short time with one of the groups of 4 steamers protected by destroyers. It lost them when darkness fell.

According to a still unconfirmed report, 44 men of a German U-boat crew have been landed in Gibraltar. They are said to belong to a large U-boat which was sunk by a trawler. It is not out of the question that this is U 111 (Kleinschmidt).

Boat continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Friday, 10 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

- First week at sea completed -

0115 - Qu.3988AL - Reached ordered patrol grid. K.F.-Ahead.

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached ordered patrol area. Sighted two neutral steamers as reported on 6 Oct. No contact to south-bound convoy. 185.5cbm. 9 internal eels. W7/6, clear visibility 8-9sm, >1000mb. -RST -

0254 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Short signal message received. Next status and weather report in 24h.

0331 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
A German boat entered Salamis for the first time.

0545 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive acc. Standing Order 507.

0550 - T=49. 65rpm, 1.6kn. Breakfast.

0700 - Beginning of servicing bow torpedoes.

0711 - Sunrise.

0725 - Qu.3955AL -

1000 - Servicing of bow tubes completed. 1/2 hour break.

1030 - Beginning of servicing stern torpedoes.

1123 - O₂=19%.

1200 - Qu.3952AL - Days Run: 144.2sm - ↗ 135.3 (17h 45') - ↘ 8.9sm (6h 15').
185.5cbm (3.5cbm/24h). 5900Ah. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 0°. T=49. O₂=19%.

Servicing of stern tubes completed. Lunch Break.

1300 - Beginning of trial dive. 135rpm.

1319 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1336 - At reception depth.

1340 - Surfaced after 7h 55' and 13.1sm.
Weather unchanged in 56h.

1343 - Boat ventilated. Battery 5600Ah.

1403 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
An aircraft made contact with a south-bound convoy at 1305h and sent beacon signals. According to the pilot it must be assumed that the position of the convoy at 1330 was in the northern half of CF 3810. That means the convoy has proceeded from the last reported position on a more easterly course, and at a greater speed than was supposed.
The boats, which were in various sectors and had been assigned to attack the convoy, are west of it at a distance of 100 miles or more.

1405 - Incoming F.T.: From U 331:
Have been hit in gunnery action against three British landing craft off Sidi Barrani. Have sustained losses and damage. Returning to base. - Tiesenhausen -

(U 331, Oblt.z.S. Hans-Diedrich Freiherr von Tiesenhausen, fought a gun duel with 3 British landing craft off Sidi Barrani and damaged HMS TLC-18, A 18, but was itself damaged at the conning tower by some 40mm shells. Two men of the gun crew were wounded, one of them mortally, Bootsmann Hans Gerstenich. She entered Salamis on 11 October.)

1501 - Incoming F.T.: From U 126:
Have sunk the British Nailsea Manor, 4926ts. - Bauer -

1602 - Incoming F.T.: From U 126:
About F.T. 1501/10: Nailsea Manor, was from convoy OS-7. - Bauer -

1602 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
Sunk a large floating crane with artillery. - Kraus -

Cmdr.: In any case, a very important vessel to the enemy.

1605 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Latest bearings of the south-bound convoy give a further position in CF 3819 at 1515h. The boats have been advised to reckon that the mean course of the convoy is 120° and the speed of advance is 5 to 6.5 knots. If the convoy has not been picked up by 0900 on the 11th October, the boats are to continue the search after the key-word has been passed. Our own air reconnaissance will be in the area of the convoy from 1000.

1639 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 67 (Kptlt. Günther Müller-Stöckheim) and U 111 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Kleinschmidt) are asked to report position.

1702 - New course 180°.

1829 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

2215 - Qu.3955AL -

Boat continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Friday, 10 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

- First week at sea completed -

0115 - Qu.3988AL - Reached ordered patrol grid. K.F.-Ahead.

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Reached ordered patrol area. Sighted two neutral steamers as reported on 6 Oct. No contact to south-bound convoy. 185.5cbm. 9 internal eels. W7/6, clear visibility 8-9sm, >1000mb. -RST -

0254 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Short signal message received. Next status and weather report in 24h.

0331 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
A German boat entered Salamis for the first time.

0545 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive acc. Standing Order 507.

0550 - T=49. 65rpm, 1.6kn. Breakfast.

0700 - Beginning of servicing bow torpedoes.

0711 - Sunrise.

0725 - Qu.3955AL -

1000 - Servicing of bow tubes completed. 1/2 hour break.

1030 - Beginning of servicing stern torpedoes.

1123 - O₂=19%.

1200 - Qu.3952AL - Days Run: 144.2sm - ↗ 135.3 (17h 45') - ↘ 8.9sm (6h 15').
185.5cbm (3.5cbm/24h). 5900Ah. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 0°. T=49. O₂=19%.

Servicing of stern tubes completed. Lunch Break.

1300 - Beginning of trial dive. 135rpm.

1319 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter.

1336 - At reception depth.

1340 - Surfaced after 7h 55' and 13.1sm.
Weather unchanged in 56h.

1343 - Boat ventilated. Battery 5600Ah.

1403 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
An aircraft made contact with a south-bound convoy at 1305h and sent beacon signals. According to the pilot it must be assumed that the position of the convoy at 1330 was in the northern half of CF 3810. That means the convoy has proceeded from the last reported position on a more easterly course, and at a greater speed than was supposed.
The boats, which were in various sectors and had been assigned to attack the convoy, are west of it at a distance of 100 miles or more.

1405 - Incoming F.T.: From U 331:
Have been hit in gunnery action against three British landing craft off Sidi Barrani. Have sustained losses and damage. Returning to base. - Tiesenhausen -

(U 331, Oblt.z.S. Hans-Diedrich Freiherr von Tiesenhausen, fought a gun duel with 3 British landing craft off Sidi Barrani and damaged HMS TLC-18, A 18, but was itself damaged at the conning tower by some 40mm shells. Two men of the gun crew were wounded, one of them mortally, Bootsmann Hans Gerstenich. She entered Salamis on 11 October.)

1501 - Incoming F.T.: From U 126:
Have sunk the British Nailsea Manor, 4926ts. - Bauer -

1602 - Incoming F.T.: From U 126:
About F.T. 1501/10: Nailsea Manor, was from convoy OS-7. - Bauer -

1602 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
Sunk a large floating crane with artillery. - Kraus -

Cmdr.: In any case, a very important vessel to the enemy.

1605 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Latest bearings of the south-bound convoy give a further position in CF 3819 at 1515h. The boats have been advised to reckon that the mean course of the convoy is 120° and the speed of advance is 5 to 6.5 knots. If the convoy has not been picked up by 0900 on the 11th October, the boats are to continue the search after the key-word has been passed. Our own air reconnaissance will be in the area of the convoy from 1000.

1639 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 67 (Kptlt. Günther Müller-Stöckheim) and U 111 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Kleinschmidt) are asked to report position.

1702 - New course 180°.

1829 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

2215 - Qu.3955AL -

Boat continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Saturday, 11 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Patrolled ordered patrol area for 24h. No shipping found. No enemy air patrols since leaving base. 183.7cbm. 9 internal eels. W7/6, clear visibility 8-9sm, >1000mb. -RST -

0211 - Incoming F.T.: From U 67:
U 67 reported that it was in the same square as the south-bound convoy, it has therefore apparently operated on it.

U 111 did not report.
Cmdr.: There must be some connection between this and yesterday's radio intercept report about the destruction of a U-boat, and part of the crew being taken prisoner. It must be considered lost.

0246 - Incoming F.T.: From F.d.U.M.:
For Commanders eyes only: Special orders for boats operating in the Mediterranean.

0219 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Message received. Continue to patrol ordered patrol grid.

0335 - New course 0°.

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
For Commanders eyes only:
RST: Big convoy HX155 expected in operational area this month. By 24 Oct., take up position on most ESE point of line AM 17 to AL 36, and go on search course WNW. Be aware of own units in the area.

0600 - Morning Dawn.
Charging Batteries at 5700Ah:
Port Engine, Propulsion, 285RPM, 7kn;
Stbd. Engine, Charging, 496RPM.

0716 - Sunrise. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

0808 - Qu.3955AL - New course 90°.

0850 - Batteries charged => 2h 50' for 4300Ah.
K.F.-Ahead, 205RPM.

1200 - Qu.3964AL - Days Run: 135.5sm - ↗ 132.3 (22h 20') - ↘ 3.2sm (1h 40').
182.0cbm (3.5cbm/24h). 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 90°.
Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1829 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Saturday, 11 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

0200 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Patrolled ordered patrol area for 24h. No shipping found. No enemy air patrols since leaving base. 183.7cbm. 9 internal eels. W7/6, clear visibility 8-9sm, >1000mb. -RST -

0211 - Incoming F.T.: From U 67:
U 67 reported that it was in the same square as the south-bound convoy, it has therefore apparently operated on it.

U 111 did not report.
Cmdr.: There must be some connection between this and yesterday's radio intercept report about the destruction of a U-boat, and part of the crew being taken prisoner. It must be considered lost.

0246 - Incoming F.T.: From F.d.U.M.:
For Commanders eyes only: Special orders for boats operating in the Mediterranean.

0219 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Message received. Continue to patrol ordered patrol grid.

0335 - New course 0°.

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
For Commanders eyes only:
RST: Big convoy HX155 expected in operational area this month. By 24 Oct., take up position on most ESE point of line AM 17 to AL 36, and go on search course WNW. Be aware of own units in the area.

0600 - Morning Dawn.
Charging Batteries at 5700Ah:
Port Engine, Propulsion, 285RPM, 7kn;
Stbd. Engine, Charging, 496RPM.

0716 - Sunrise. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

0808 - Qu.3955AL - New course 90°.

0850 - Batteries charged => 2h 50' for 4300Ah.
K.F.-Ahead, 205RPM.

1200 - Qu.3964AL - Days Run: 135.5sm - ↗ 132.3 (22h 20') - ↘ 3.2sm (1h 40').
182.0cbm (3.5cbm/24h). 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 90°.
Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1829 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Sunday, 12 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

0555 - Qu.0355AL - Morning Dawn.

0707 - Sunrise. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1200 - Qu.0364AL - Days Run: 129.6sm (↗ 24h).
180.2cbm (1.8cbm/24h). 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 90°. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1402 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
Have sank the Portuguese steamer "Cortereal", 2044ts, according prize rules, as it was loaded with contraband goods. - Kraus -

1815 - Sundown. 7/8-Moon rising in the East.
Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Sunday, 12 October 1941 - West of the Rockall Bank -

0555 - Qu.0355AL - Morning Dawn.

0707 - Sunrise. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1200 - Qu.0364AL - Days Run: 129.6sm (↗ 24h).
180.2cbm (1.8cbm/24h). 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). On course 90°. Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

1402 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
Have sank the Portuguese steamer "Cortereal", 2044ts, according prize rules, as it was loaded with contraband goods. - Kraus -

1815 - Sundown. 7/8-Moon rising in the East.
Weather unchanged since 8 Oct., 0600h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Monday, 13 October 1941 - Rockall Bank -

0000 - It's becoming overcast. Wind and Sea weakening somewhat: West6/5, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb.

0140 - Water depth 64m.

0305 - Qu.1955AM - New course 63°.

0605 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive acc. Standing Order 507.

0607 - At Reception Depth. 65rpm, 1.6kn. Breakfast.

0701 - Sunrise. T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

0803 - O₂=20%.

1000 - Bow tubes serviced. Break until 1030h.

1143 - O₂=19%.

1200 - Qu.1937AM - Days Run: 107.7sm - ↗ 100.3 (18h 05') - ↘ 7.4sm (5h 55').
179.3cbm (0.9cbm/24h). 9500Ah. O₂=19%. On course 63°. T=50. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto).

Stern tubes serviced. Lunch Break.

1300 - Beginning of trial dive acc. Standing Order 507. 135rpm.

1318 - 2A-Meter. Boat and safe and secure, reacts well at 135rpm.

1336 - At Reception Depth.

1340 - Surfaced after 7h 35' and 10.4sm.
Weather unchanged since 0000h.

1343 - Boat ventilated. Battery 9300Ah. K.F.-Ahead, 205RPM.

1815 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 0000h.

1955 - Qu.1799AM - Reached enemy air cover zone around England. New course 297°.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Monday, 13 October 1941 - Rockall Bank -

0000 - It's becoming overcast. Wind and Sea weakening somewhat: West6/5, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb.

0140 - Water depth 64m.

0305 - Qu.1955AM - New course 63°.

0605 - Diving for torpedo maintenance and trial dive acc. Standing Order 507.

0607 - At Reception Depth. 65rpm, 1.6kn. Breakfast.

0701 - Sunrise. T=50. Beginning of torpedo maintenance.

0803 - O₂=20%.

1000 - Bow tubes serviced. Break until 1030h.

1143 - O₂=19%.

1200 - Qu.1937AM - Days Run: 107.7sm - ↗ 100.3 (18h 05') - ↘ 7.4sm (5h 55').
179.3cbm (0.9cbm/24h). 9500Ah. O₂=19%. On course 63°. T=50. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto).

Stern tubes serviced. Lunch Break.

1300 - Beginning of trial dive acc. Standing Order 507. 135rpm.

1318 - 2A-Meter. Boat and safe and secure, reacts well at 135rpm.

1336 - At Reception Depth.

1340 - Surfaced after 7h 35' and 10.4sm.
Weather unchanged since 0000h.

1343 - Boat ventilated. Battery 9300Ah. K.F.-Ahead, 205RPM.

1815 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 0000h.

1955 - Qu.1799AM - Reached enemy air cover zone around England. New course 297°.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Tuesday, 14 October 1941 - Rockall Bank -

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
For Commanders eyes only:
RST: About F.T.0501/11:
Own units currently in Qu.3698AL, on course NNE.

0600 - Morning Dawn.

0704 - Qu.1755AM - Sunrise.
Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

1001 - Incoming F.T.: From U 206:
Have sunk the British Corvette HMS Fleur de Lys (K 122), in front of the Straits of Gibraltar. - Opitz -

1200 - Qu.1719AM - Days Run: 132.3sm - ↗ 129.3 (22h 20') - ↘ 3.0sm (1h 40').
177.6cbm (1.7cbm/24h). 9300Ah. On course 297°. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

1605 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
ASW hunt by destroyers and aircraft. - Kraus -

Cmdr.: Probably as a result of U 206 (Opitz) sinking the destroyer in CG 9593.

1608 - According to a radio intercept message, the convoy, on which we have been operating since the 2nd October, has entered Gibraltar. According to this reliable report, the convoy must have traveled about 2.5kn faster than calculated up to now. As all the operations on the convoy were not calculated for such an unusually high speed, the boats were, in fact, traveling behind the convoy.

The boats are now west of the Straits of Gibraltar and receive orders to move away, in order to operate on the convoy leaving Gibraltar on or after the 17th of October.

1600 & 1640 - Position reports from Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist) in Qu.3693AL, on course South, speed 5kn.

Group "Mordbrenner" consists of U 208 (Oblt. Alfred Schlieper); U 374 (Oblt. Unno von Fischel); U 573 (Kptlt. Heinrich Heinsohn) - all VIIC - and U 108 (IXB, Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt).

1643 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 553 (Kptlt. Karl Thurmann) and U 568 (Kptlt. Joachim Preuss) have been assigned to attacking areas AK 55 and AK 59, which is the area inside the patrol lines S.E. of Greenland.

1816 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[pikke]

1 November 1939, 0744
U53 leaves Wilhelmshaven under an heavy rain.
Visibility is really poor so we must pay extra attention not to collide with any other vessels.
Assigned patrol area: AM41


U53 will sail NNW, just north of the Shetland isles will turn SSW and cruise toward assigned patrol area passing halfway between Far Oer Isles and Scotland.


November 2, 1939 1852
Run some emergency drills on our way here, crew must be ready for the real stuff and it's good to make them wonder about the risks of our mission...once in a while at least. We are approaching an interesting area, with any luck we may find some targets for our torpedoes.


November 3, 1939 0600 AN43
Weather has improved: wind 4 knots, almost no waves and a big blue sky.
U53 will dive more often to briefly check with sonar.


0942 Ship spotted! Merchant closing in, too far away to identify properly, does not seem that big. Perhaps we'll save torpedoes and go for a deck gun attack. Down to periscope depth for a stealthy approach.


0951 Seems like a Granville, moving about 7 knots heading NE. No other sound contact. Moving into position.


1000 Definetly a british Granville all alone out here. We may end up jumping out very close and make good use of our deck gun.


1008 That's our first prey! Granville going down. Crew at the deck gun made a quick job of it. Back on our previous course and leaving the area.



November 5, 1939 AF77

1252 Sonar reports feeble sound contact NNE of our position. Surfacing and closing the gap.


1338 Ship spotted! Seems like a medium cargo heading WSW. Changing course and taking the boat lower on the water while moving into position. Let's see if we can identify our prey properly and determine her speed.


1344 Down to periscope depth. It's a medium cargo moving about 6 knots. Wind picked up a bit, about 9 knots. I'll use a single torpedo and finish it off with deck gun if necessary.


1357 A dud! Damn! Surfacing and using deck gun.


1402 We got our second prey! She is going down very slowly but it's burning like a huge bonfire. That dud almost spoiled the day. I don't dare think what would happen if we had a dud while attacking a destroyer.
Resuming previous course and leaving the area.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Tuesday, 14 October 1941 - Rockall Bank -

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
For Commanders eyes only:
RST: About F.T.0501/11:
Own units currently in Qu.3698AL, on course NNE.

0600 - Morning Dawn.

0704 - Qu.1755AM - Sunrise.
Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

1001 - Incoming F.T.: From U 206:
Have sunk the British Corvette HMS Fleur de Lys (K 122), in front of the Straits of Gibraltar. - Opitz -

1200 - Qu.1719AM - Days Run: 132.3sm - ↗ 129.3 (22h 20') - ↘ 3.0sm (1h 40').
177.6cbm (1.7cbm/24h). 9300Ah. On course 297°. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto). Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

1605 - Incoming F.T.: From U 83:
ASW hunt by destroyers and aircraft. - Kraus -

Cmdr.: Probably as a result of U 206 (Opitz) sinking the destroyer in CG 9593.

1608 - According to a radio intercept message, the convoy, on which we have been operating since the 2nd October, has entered Gibraltar. According to this reliable report, the convoy must have traveled about 2.5kn faster than calculated up to now. As all the operations on the convoy were not calculated for such an unusually high speed, the boats were, in fact, traveling behind the convoy.

The boats are now west of the Straits of Gibraltar and receive orders to move away, in order to operate on the convoy leaving Gibraltar on or after the 17th of October.

1600 & 1640 - Position reports from Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist) in Qu.3693AL, on course South, speed 5kn.

Group "Mordbrenner" consists of U 208 (Oblt. Alfred Schlieper); U 374 (Oblt. Unno von Fischel); U 573 (Kptlt. Heinrich Heinsohn) - all VIIC - and U 108 (IXB, Kptlt. Heinrich Bleichrodt).

1643 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 553 (Kptlt. Karl Thurmann) and U 568 (Kptlt. Joachim Preuss) have been assigned to attacking areas AK 55 and AK 59, which is the area inside the patrol lines S.E. of Greenland.

1816 - Sundown. Weather unchanged since 13 Oct., 0000h.

Boat operating acc. Op.-Orders as per F.T.0501/11.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Wednesday, 15 October 1941 - Northwest of Rockall Bank -

0040 - Group "Mordbrenner" now in Qu.3666AL, course 8°, 5kn.

0400 - WNW5/4, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb.

0451 - Incoming F.T.: From U 553:
After making contact with convoy SC.48, immediately pressed home the attack and sunk the British Silvercedar, 4354ts, and the Norwegian Ila, 1583ts. About 50 ships and 4 escorts. On course 70°, speed 7kn. Keeping contact and sending radio beacon signal. - Thurmann -

0530 - Qu.3655AL -

0601 - Morning Dawn.
Incoming F.T.: From F.d.U.M.:
For Commanders eyes only: Further special orders for boats operating in the Mediterranean.

0708 - Sunrise.

0719 - Incoming F.T.0710/15: From B.d.U.:
B-Dienst reporting small enemy convoy in Qu.3681AL, course ESE, speed 6kn.

0729 - Boat operating on convoy 0710/15. New course 163°, 1/3-Ahead. Boat should make contact with convoy in about 2h in Qu.3682AL.

0907 - At plotted interception point - nothing found.
Diving for sound check. At first nothing heard, then faint screw noises bearing 25°. At S-Tiefe nothing seen.

0913 - T=18. Full Ahead.

0920 - S-Tiefe. Sound contact turbine bearing 26°, E=24000.

Cmdr.: Only now I discover the blunder: We were plotting a convoy course of ENE, when in fact it is ESE. A classic rookie mistake.

0922 - Surfaced after 15min. and 1.1sm. 2xH.F.-Ahead.

0950 - New course 136°.

The convoy comes into sight. E=10000.
5 steamers in keel-line and a Flower Corvette in the back:
1. Ore Freighter; 2. M12-Freighter; 3. OreII Freighter; 4. Medium Freighter; M39 Freighter.

The Corvette has the following ASW sensor fields:
Field-of-View 360° = 8000m
Radar 360° = 3000m
Sound contact 270° = 6500m
ASDIC 180° = 1500m

1125 - Moving ahead of the convoy along its port beam, all the while keeping a distance of 8000m. New course 210°. K.F.-Voraus.

As the wind and sea conditions have not improved since 0400h, the torpedo running depth has to be set at min. 3.5m.

1132 - At E=7000, diving for submerged attack. S-Tiefe. 65rpm.

1147 - "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube I.

1155 - Two Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 568 (VIIC, Kptlt. Joachim Preuss), U 502 (IXC, Kptlt. Jürgen von Rosenstiel), U 432 (VVC, Oblt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) and U 558 (VIIC, Kptlt. Günther Krech), receive orders to operate on convoy "Thurmann".
U 126 (IXC, Kptlt. Ernst Bauer), which has recently come into the southern operational area, receives orders to operate west of Freetown, and to push on to the east along the African coast to Takoradi and Lagos.

1200 - Qu.3689AL - Days Run: 154.1sm - ↗ 152.3 (23h 17') - ↘ 1.8sm (43').
174.1cbm (3.5cbm/24h). S-Tiefe. On course 219°. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto).

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

Wednesday, 15 October 1941 - Northwest of Rockall Bank -

0040 - Group "Mordbrenner" now in Qu.3666AL, course 8°, 5kn.

0400 - WNW5/4, overcast, light haze, medium visibility, ~1000mb.

0451 - Incoming F.T.: From U 553:
After making contact with convoy SC.48, immediately pressed home the attack and sunk the British Silvercedar, 4354ts, and the Norwegian Ila, 1583ts. About 50 ships and 4 escorts. On course 70°, speed 7kn. Keeping contact and sending radio beacon signal. - Thurmann -

0530 - Qu.3655AL -

0601 - Morning Dawn.
Incoming F.T.: From F.d.U.M.:
For Commanders eyes only: Further special orders for boats operating in the Mediterranean.

0708 - Sunrise.

0719 - Incoming F.T.0710/15: From B.d.U.:
B-Dienst reporting small enemy convoy in Qu.3681AL, course ESE, speed 6kn.

0729 - Boat operating on convoy 0710/15. New course 163°, 1/3-Ahead. Boat should make contact with convoy in about 2h in Qu.3682AL.

0907 - At plotted interception point - nothing found.
Diving for sound check. At first nothing heard, then faint screw noises bearing 25°. At S-Tiefe nothing seen.

0913 - T=18. Full Ahead.

0920 - S-Tiefe. Sound contact turbine bearing 26°, E=24000.

Cmdr.: Only now I discover the blunder: We were plotting a convoy course of ENE, when in fact it is ESE. A classic rookie mistake.

0922 - Surfaced after 15min. and 1.1sm. 2xH.F.-Ahead.

0950 - New course 136°.

The convoy comes into sight. E=10000.
5 steamers in keel-line and a Flower Corvette in the back:
1. Ore Freighter; 2. M12-Freighter; 3. OreII Freighter; 4. Medium Freighter; M39 Freighter.

The Corvette has the following ASW sensor fields:
Field-of-View 360° = 8000m
Radar 360° = 3000m
Sound contact 270° = 6500m
ASDIC 180° = 1500m

1125 - Moving ahead of the convoy along its port beam, all the while keeping a distance of 8000m. New course 210°. K.F.-Voraus.

As the wind and sea conditions have not improved since 0400h, the torpedo running depth has to be set at min. 3.5m.

1132 - At E=7000, diving for submerged attack. S-Tiefe. 65rpm.

1147 - "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube I.

1155 - Two Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
U 568 (VIIC, Kptlt. Joachim Preuss), U 502 (IXC, Kptlt. Jürgen von Rosenstiel), U 432 (VVC, Oblt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) and U 558 (VIIC, Kptlt. Günther Krech), receive orders to operate on convoy "Thurmann".
U 126 (IXC, Kptlt. Ernst Bauer), which has recently come into the southern operational area, receives orders to operate west of Freetown, and to push on to the east along the African coast to Takoradi and Lagos.

1200 - Qu.3689AL - Days Run: 154.1sm - ↗ 152.3 (23h 17') - ↘ 1.8sm (43').
174.1cbm (3.5cbm/24h). S-Tiefe. On course 219°. 9 internal torpedoes (6xEto, 3xAto).

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1200h -

1204 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube I: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 1 Ore Freighter, draught 5.8m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1176m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 346°.

=> The torpedo is a hit amidships after 74 Sec.!
Steamer is burning and has a distinct list to port but continues on.

1205 - F.T. from HQ could not be heard.

1206 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube II: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 2 M12 Freighter (has military trucks as upper deck cargo), draught 7.5m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1196m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a miss by the bow, as the steamer has started to turn to port after the first torpedo hit on the Ore Freighter.

1207 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube III: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 4.0m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 2 M12 Freighter, draught 7.5m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1015m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 4kn; Firing angle α 349°.

=> The torpedo is a hit after 56 Sec.!
Load fire explosion after the hit, debris are flying through the air.

Right after the shot, turning the boat hard to port, in order to bring the stern tubes to bear. T=18. Full Ahead.

1210 - Qu.3689AL - Distinct sinking noises heard from the Pos.2 torpedoed M12 Freighter.

1212 - Boat is deteced by the escort ASDIC! Diving from approaching Corvette. On course 120°.

1214 - At T=130, several Wabos above and behind the boat. No concussions or damages.

1215 - At 2A+7, further Wabos astern. In all, 40 Wabos are counted.

Cmdr.: First Wabo attack for this young boat!

1238 - Back to S-Tiefe. Boat is still in good position to attack the Pos.5, M39 Freighter. Turning boat hard to port, to bring the stern tube to bear. Flooding tube V.

1244 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube V: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 4.0m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 5 M39 Freighter (has a deck gun on the stern), draught 9.3m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 853m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 5kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a hit amidships after 51 Sec.!
The steamer continues on.

1255 - Running off submerged on course 75°, 1/3-Ahead.

1310 - Qu.3823AL - The Pos.5, M39 Freighter, sinks by the bow.

1314 - The Corvette runs back to the remaining convoy. All the while, apparently, no radar detection of our periscope.

1323 - O₂ = 20%.

1341 - Diving for torpedo reloading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!". Lunch break for the watch below.

- to be continued -

[pikke]

November 9, 1939 0600 AM01
U53 keeps sailing toward assigned patrol area.
We have almost no wind and calm sea, visibility moderate.
Will continue doing brief sonar checks for possible targets.


0712 AM01 Ship spotted! Seems a small cargo cruising our way. Down to periscope depth and closing.


0719 A small freighter. Think we'll use the deck gun.


0736 Some deck gun shell and some flack ammo were enough to sink our target. Leaving the area and back on previous course.


1702 Reached assigned patrol grid AM41. Sky is partly cloudy and the wind picked up to 9 knots.


November 10, 1939 AM41 0303 Surfaced to ventilate boat and reload batteries. Storm is raging, wind blow so hard U53 has to tack and jibe like a sailboat. We'll go down as soon as batteries are good.


1704 Patrol complete. Storm still raging. No contacts...but I doubt we would have been able to spot them anyway. U53 will now sail toward AM53. Let's hope the storm relents a little.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1200h -

1204 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube I: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 1 Ore Freighter, draught 5.8m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1176m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 346°.

=> The torpedo is a hit amidships after 74 Sec.!
Steamer is burning and has a distinct list to port but continues on.

1205 - F.T. from HQ could not be heard.

1206 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube II: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 2 M12 Freighter (has military trucks as upper deck cargo), draught 7.5m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1196m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a miss by the bow, as the steamer has started to turn to port after the first torpedo hit on the Ore Freighter.

1207 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube III: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 4.0m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 1.6kn; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 2 M12 Freighter, draught 7.5m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 1015m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 4kn; Firing angle α 349°.

=> The torpedo is a hit after 56 Sec.!
Load fire explosion after the hit, debris are flying through the air.

Right after the shot, turning the boat hard to port, in order to bring the stern tubes to bear. T=18. Full Ahead.

1210 - Qu.3689AL - Distinct sinking noises heard from the Pos.2 torpedoed M12 Freighter.

1212 - Boat is deteced by the escort ASDIC! Diving from approaching Corvette. On course 120°.

1214 - At T=130, several Wabos above and behind the boat. No concussions or damages.

1215 - At 2A+7, further Wabos astern. In all, 40 Wabos are counted.

Cmdr.: First Wabo attack for this young boat!

1238 - Back to S-Tiefe. Boat is still in good position to attack the Pos.5, M39 Freighter. Turning boat hard to port, to bring the stern tube to bear. Flooding tube V.

1244 - Qu.3689AL - Single Shot with tube V: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 4.0m; Vt30. Own course 210°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 5 M39 Freighter (has a deck gun on the stern), draught 9.3m.
Target course 120°; Target distance 853m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 5kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a hit amidships after 51 Sec.!
The steamer continues on.

1255 - Running off submerged on course 75°, 1/3-Ahead.

1310 - Qu.3823AL - The Pos.5, M39 Freighter, sinks by the bow.

1314 - The Corvette runs back to the remaining convoy. All the while, apparently, no radar detection of our periscope.

1323 - O₂ = 20%.

1341 - Diving for torpedo reloading. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!". Lunch break for the watch below.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1341h -

1356 - Tube II reloaded with G7e, K-b.

1407 - Tube V reloaded with G7a, K-a.

1416 - Surfaced after 2h 44' and 7.7sm.
Weather unchanged since 0400h.
Corvette bearing 80° on course ESE, E=8000.

1424 - Boat ventilated. Battery 7900Ah. New course 90°. 2xH.F.-Voraus.

1438 - Corvette goes on search pattern astern of the convoy, which is now running on course 95°.

1440 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
After making contact with convoy 0710/15, immediately pressed home the attack and sunk 2 steamers for 11020ts. Wabo attack, no damages. Chasing after convoy, has 3 ships left and 1 corvette with 3000m range radar. Qu.3689AL. 174cbm. 5 internal eels. WNW5/4, overcast, light haze, visibility 5-6sm, ~1000mb. - RST -

1447 - Incoming F.T.: From U 553:
Convoy SC.48: Chased off by escort. Running after convoy. - Thurmann -

Cmdr.: The incoming F.T.'s from U-Thurmann, are being read to the crew over the intercom system, mainly to the benefit of one of our Stbd.DieselFireman 1cl, who's uncle is U 553's commander.

1500 - The steamers are running array from time to time, apparently, in an attempt to confuse contact keeping boats.

1516 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Great Job!

1531 - Incoming F.T.: From U 568:
Convoy SC.48: Taking over as contact keeper. - Preuß -

Cmdr.: The commander from our sister boat U 10, when operating in the North Sea at the outbreak of the war, has joined the convoy battle of convoy SC.48.

1544 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
The boats U 77, U 101, U 751, U 73, which were enroute to the operational area, were likewise set on to convoy SC.48 at high speed.

1550 - Reached forward position of convoy.
Diving at E=7000, for submerged attack. S-Tiefe.
Turning boat hard to port, in order to bring the stern tubes to bear.

Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist), reporting in from Qu.3669AL, on course south.

1558 - Incoming F.T.: From U 568:
Convoy SC.48 proceeding east with a mean course of 40°. - Preuß -

1601 - Incoming F.T. from U 204 (Kell) cannot be deciphered.

1603 - "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube VI.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1341h -

1356 - Tube II reloaded with G7e, K-b.

1407 - Tube V reloaded with G7a, K-a.

1416 - Surfaced after 2h 44' and 7.7sm.
Weather unchanged since 0400h.
Corvette bearing 80° on course ESE, E=8000.

1424 - Boat ventilated. Battery 7900Ah. New course 90°. 2xH.F.-Voraus.

1438 - Corvette goes on search pattern astern of the convoy, which is now running on course 95°.

1440 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
After making contact with convoy 0710/15, immediately pressed home the attack and sunk 2 steamers for 11020ts. Wabo attack, no damages. Chasing after convoy, has 3 ships left and 1 corvette with 3000m range radar. Qu.3689AL. 174cbm. 5 internal eels. WNW5/4, overcast, light haze, visibility 5-6sm, ~1000mb. - RST -

1447 - Incoming F.T.: From U 553:
Convoy SC.48: Chased off by escort. Running after convoy. - Thurmann -

Cmdr.: The incoming F.T.'s from U-Thurmann, are being read to the crew over the intercom system, mainly to the benefit of one of our Stbd.DieselFireman 1cl, who's uncle is U 553's commander.

1500 - The steamers are running array from time to time, apparently, in an attempt to confuse contact keeping boats.

1516 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Great Job!

1531 - Incoming F.T.: From U 568:
Convoy SC.48: Taking over as contact keeper. - Preuß -

Cmdr.: The commander from our sister boat U 10, when operating in the North Sea at the outbreak of the war, has joined the convoy battle of convoy SC.48.

1544 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
The boats U 77, U 101, U 751, U 73, which were enroute to the operational area, were likewise set on to convoy SC.48 at high speed.

1550 - Reached forward position of convoy.
Diving at E=7000, for submerged attack. S-Tiefe.
Turning boat hard to port, in order to bring the stern tubes to bear.

Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist), reporting in from Qu.3669AL, on course south.

1558 - Incoming F.T.: From U 568:
Convoy SC.48 proceeding east with a mean course of 40°. - Preuß -

1601 - Incoming F.T. from U 204 (Kell) cannot be deciphered.

1603 - "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube VI.

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1603h -

1614 - The moment for the attack is ideal, as the Corvette is going on a search pattern astern of the convoy.

1626 - Qu.3931AL - Single Shot with tube VI: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 185°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 3 OreII Freighter, draught 5.8m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 729m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 009°.

=> The torpedo is a hit midships after 35 Sec.!
After the torpedo hit, the steamer turns to port and heads directly for our position. Boat has to retreat with K.F.-Ahead, on course 005°. The steamer turns a full circle to port and almost get's in the way of the next torpedo shot.

1644 - Qu.3931AL - Single Shot with tube V: G7a/G7H (K-a/AZ); Running depth 4.5m; Vt44. Own course 185°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 4 Medium Freighter, draught 8.0m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 1801m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 4kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a hit under the aft mast, after 86 Sec.!
However, the steamer continues on.

Cmdr.: Now the remaining three steamers have been torpedoed and are burning but not sinking, and I have only three torpedoes left under deck.

The Corvette is running up and down along the port beam of the convoy but not dropping any Wabos.

1715 - Boat running off submerged on course 51°.
"Dismissed from Battle Stations!". Dinner for the off-watch.

1720 - Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist), reporting in from Qu.3696AL, on course south.

1743 - O₂ = 20%. The convoy is now proceeding again on course 95°. The Watch Officers and Quartermaster are taking turns at the observations periscope.

1807 - T=49. Reloading of tube VI.

1816 - Tube VI reloaded with G7a, K-a.

1825 - Sundown - Surfaced after 2h 35' and 6.7sm.
Weather unchanged since 0400h.

1833 - Boat ventilated and on course 94°. Battery 7500Ah. 2xH.F.-Ahead.

1846 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
As the convoy which was expected to leave Freetown has not been picked up, the boats are now ordered to search toward the west, in an attempt to find the traffic.

1900 - Incoming F.T.: From U 564:
Refueling from "Gata" has been carried out. - Suhren -

U 562 (VIIC, Oblt. Herwig Collmann) reporting that it has entered Brest.

2000 - Turning boat hard to stbd. and approaching the convoy with a narrow angle. Course 265°. "Battle Stations!".

- to be continued -

[ConvoyHunting]

First patrol of the IXB U-64
01.03.1940 - 13.05.1940
Kaleun : Leutnant z.S. Georg Shulz
Days at sea : 74
Ships Sunk : 9
Tonnage : 36110
Wolfpacks/Convoy Battles : 2
Awards :
Leutnant z.S. Eugen Offermann (Wath Officer) - Iron Cross Second Class
Bootsman Fritz Zolke - Iron Cross First Class

01.03.1940
22:00 - Departed Wilhemlshaven for first war patrol.

04.03.1940
AN2131
23:12 - Visual contact with british Empire-type Freigther. Engaged during surfaced night attack, fired two torpedoes (two hits). Sunk for 6780. Fuel 95, torpedoes 20. Clouds clear, visibility unlimited, wind 0mps 303.
23:31 - Status reported to BDU : BB PSLG HRE DQU IEPO NVNO PLUE EITE IOAZ BQVY JEBK PYM PSLG

05.03.1940
AF7954
12:52 - Visual contact with british Medium Cargo. Dived to conduct submerged daylight attack despite the bad weather condititions. Fired two torpedoes, two hits. Sunk for 4795.Fuel 95, torpedoes 18. Precipitaitons heavy, visibility poor, wind 15mps 78.
22:12 - Status reported to BDU : BB QFBW GCJ VYN YALB GPJT SMJJ ZWDD CPZP WVJT INIU YCZC RVZ QFBW

10.03.1940
AM5484
06:12 - Visual contact with british small merchant. Proceed to surfaced attack with aft torpedoes. Fire one torpedo, one hit. Sunk for 3168. Fuel 85, torpedoes 17. Clouds partial, visibility moderate, wind 0mps 76
AM7322
21:32 - Operation area reached. Status reported to BDU : BB IOWD ITH NYB JQUE FOPM MVCZ DKLI CXIU RJOT XTHP YIKN XOTU ZUCY ESP IOWD

20.03.1940
AM7359
22:43 - Received radio message from BDU : "REPORT CURRENT STATUS VIA IRELAND CIRCUIT"
23:03 - Status reported to BDU : BB LMAZ SDH HZP RLUH IKYZ LZXN ULCW ORKQ RWDG XKN LMAZ
23:49 - Received "officiers only" radio message from BDU : "OPERATION AREA RELOCATED TO BE36"

23.03.1940
BE3622
03:54 - New operation area reached. Fuel 75, torpedoes 17. Clouds clear, visibility unlimited, wind 0mps 28.

28.03.1940
BE3654
18:56 - Visual contact with british coastal freighter. Since she wasn't armed, we proceeded to surface attack using deckgun. Sunk for 1869. Fuel 75, torpedoes 17. Clouds partial, visibility unlimited, wind 3mps 126.
BE3657
24:51 - Status reported to BDU : BB AKO ZZL LKT GNHS GIYW MTXM PEWP FUZZ LMQJ YQDR ZJIM JIN AKO

02.04.1940
BE3692
06:46 - Visual contact with british coastal freigther, not armed. Engaged with deckgun during surface attack and sunk for 1871. Fuel 70, torpedoes 17. Clouds clear, visibility unlimited, wind 0mps 243.
BE3658
21:42 - Status reported to BDU : BB WEG OAXG QMUG VTHC DYXM XAWI QALT KWFO XHDX LFG WEG

04.04.1940
BE3668
00:06 - Visual contact with british Graville-type freighter. Impossible to determined if she was armed or not. Deceided to proceed to a good position for a surfaced night attack. Fired two torpedoes, to hits. Sunk for 4709. Fuel 65, torpedoes 15. Clouds overcast, visibility moderate, wind 9mps 72.
BE3691
06:13 : Status reported to BDU : BB SDH BEYC VUYK YVKK YYGH XVTG CALH DKPJ TMZV DDJO TGH SDH

14.04.1940
BE3684
01:37 - Received radio message from BDU : "REPORT STATUS AND FUEL CONDITION VIA IRELAND CIRCUIT"
02:01 - Status reported to BDU through Ireland Circuit : BB BDO BHVS COJX DRXT FGXN FLYE NWGN CCUH QFF BDO
02:46 - Received radio message from BDU : "OFFICERS ONLY - RELOCATE PICKET LINE TO BE 39"
BE3922
05:52 - New operation area reached. Fuel 60, torpedoes 15. Clouds clear, visbility moderate, wind 11mps 297.

15.04.1940
BE3946
07:42 - Visual contact with british warship, bearing 036. Crash dive to avoid detection.

16.04.1940
BE3654
20:54 - Visual contact with british warship, crashdive.

22.04.1940
BE3646
20:55 - Hydrophone contact with at least 10 ships, supposed convoy heading ESE at 7 knots. Despite bad weather conditions and precipitations, I deceided to tryng to make visual contact and get close. Made visual contact with several british merchants, no escorts in sight. Get into the best surfaced attack position I can and fired six torpedoes to the closest targets, four hits and two miss. Managed to sunk one british Coast Freighter, 1870, and one british Empire-type Freighter for 6782 tons. After first impacts, searchlights were pointed into our direction, immediate crashdive. No sound contact with escort of any kind. The precipitation was heavy. Fuel 55, torpedoes 9. Clouds overcast, precipitation heavy, visibility poor, wind 15mps 108.
21:33 - Status reported to BDU : BB SFH CZPN BRUO OQKJ JEIV IAPZ XGMR GUFA KFEV WXIB WVMK GIAH RGU SFH
21:56 - Radio message received from BDU : "CONVOY REPORTED - STAY IN PICKET LINE IN OUR ASSIGNED GRID - CONTINUE OPERATION - SEND SHORT WEATHER REPORT VIA IRELAND CIRCUIT"
22:26 - Short weather report send via Ireland Circuit : QQ222226Z P UVPL BMLW ZJGJ SQLX JMEX PPVH

02.05.1940
17:52 - Radio message received from BDU : "OFFICERS ONLY - U-101 REPORTED 20 MERCHANTS OUTBOUND CONVOY BEARING SSW AT MEDIUM SPEED HEADING TO YOUR PICKET LINE - INTERCEPT AND SHADOW UNTIL GOOD ATTACK POSITION - REPORT IMMEDIATLY AFTER ACTION"
BE3637
02:22 - Visual contact at 20:32 with 20 ships escorted by four escorts, heading W at medium speed. Supposed to be the convoy reported by BDU. Shadowed convoy and sending beacon signals for 1H. Spot a good position for surfaced night attack. Fired seven torpedoes at three targets, four hits and three misses. Sunk two british medium cargos, 6782 and 4267 before crashdiving. We were spotted and depthcharged for more than two hours by escorts. Flooding in command room; attack periscope qnd deckgun destroyed. We managed to stop flooding evaded after long period of depthcharging by at least two of the escort ships. Hull is intact. Weather deteriorating. Fuel 50, torpedoes 2. Clouds overcast, precipitation heavy, visibility poor, wind 7mps 63.
02:34 - Status reported to BDU : BB GJJ GLBV HXQV LQUO AZUB UIPT PDTW DJQF PSLH BGAV UBYX YIP GJJ
03:07 - Radio message received from BDU : " OFFICERS ONLY - FREE TO RETURN BASE"

13.05.1940
21:06 - Docked at Wilhelmshaven, ending patrol.

[Aktungbby]

ConvoyHunting!

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 1603h -

1614 - The moment for the attack is ideal, as the Corvette is going on a search pattern astern of the convoy.

1626 - Qu.3931AL - Single Shot with tube VI: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 185°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 3 OreII Freighter, draught 5.8m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 729m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 009°.

=> The torpedo is a hit midships after 35 Sec.!
After the torpedo hit, the steamer turns to port and heads directly for our position. Boat has to retreat with K.F.-Ahead, on course 005°. The steamer turns a full circle to port and almost get's in the way of the next torpedo shot.

1644 - Qu.3931AL - Single Shot with tube V: G7a/G7H (K-a/AZ); Running depth 4.5m; Vt44. Own course 185°; Own speed 2kn astern; Shooter: Kptlt. & Cmdr. RST.
Target ship: Position 4 Medium Freighter, draught 8.0m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 1801m; Target angle red90°; Target speed 4kn; Firing angle α 000°.

=> The torpedo is a hit under the aft mast, after 86 Sec.!
However, the steamer continues on.

Cmdr.: Now the remaining three steamers have been torpedoed and are burning but not sinking, and I have only three torpedoes left under deck.

The Corvette is running up and down along the port beam of the convoy but not dropping any Wabos.

1715 - Boat running off submerged on course 51°.
"Dismissed from Battle Stations!". Dinner for the off-watch.

1720 - Group "Mordbrenner" (Arsonist), reporting in from Qu.3696AL, on course south.

1743 - O₂ = 20%. The convoy is now proceeding again on course 95°. The Watch Officers and Quartermaster are taking turns at the observations periscope.

1807 - T=49. Reloading of tube VI.

1816 - Tube VI reloaded with G7a, K-a.

1825 - Sundown - Surfaced after 2h 35' and 6.7sm.
Weather unchanged since 0400h.

1833 - Boat ventilated and on course 94°. Battery 7500Ah. 2xH.F.-Ahead.

1846 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
As the convoy which was expected to leave Freetown has not been picked up, the boats are now ordered to search toward the west, in an attempt to find the traffic.

1900 - Incoming F.T.: From U 564:
Refueling from "Gata" has been carried out. - Suhren -

U 562 (VIIC, Oblt. Herwig Collmann) reporting that it has entered Brest.

2000 - Turning boat hard to stbd. and approaching the convoy with a narrow angle. Course 265°. "Battle Stations!".

- to be continued -

Started new career in August 2019 to commemorate the beginning of WWII, 80 years before ...

+++++

- continued from 15 October 1941, 2000h -

2004 - Flooding tube II.

2011 - On course 185°. Inrun begins.

2014 - The boat is getting too close. K.F.-Astern.

2017 - The boat is being picked-up by the Corvette Radar. The Corvette is approaching the boat with a high bow wave at angle 0° and its max. speed of 16kn.

Running off with A.K. at course 90°. With the current sea state, the max. speed of the boat is 15kn, the corvette is slowly gaining on us.

2021 - Diving at a distance of 1600m to the Corvette.

2024 - At A+50. Silent Running. The order to close torpedo tube II was not given. The boat must reach S-Tiefe as soon as possible, before any water entry occurs or the torpedo in tube II is being damaged.

Group "Mordbrenner" can be heard in the hydrophone bearing 268°, E=19000, on a northerly course. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

The Corvette is dropping 22 Wabos at our diving position, 900m astern.

2049 - S-Tiefe. Closing torpedo tube II. The Corvette is still on ASW action at our diving position. Estimated distance is 3000m, just outside the enemy radar range.

2051 - Surfaced after 30 min. and 1.6sm.

2055 - The boat is still in favorable attack position.
"Battle Stations!". Turning in toward the steamers on course 185°. The Corvette has gone out of sight.

2058 - Qu.3833AL - Single Shot with tube II: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 3.5m; Vt30. Own course 185°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Shooter: OFähn.z.S & I.W.O. Udo HARTENSTEIN.
Target ship: Position 3 OreII Freighter, draught 5.8m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 1700m; Target angle red105°; Target speed 5kn; Firing angle α 332°.

=> The torpedo is a failure, understeers midships under the steamer!

Cmdr.: Perhaps, due to damage when the torpedo tube was not closed, when diving from the approaching Corvette.

2059 - Qu.3833AL - Single Shot with tube IV: G7a/G7H (K-a/AZ); Running depth 4.5m; Vt30. Own course 185°; Own speed 3kn ahead; Shooter: OFähn.z.S & I.W.O. Udo HARTENSTEIN.
Target ship: Position 4 Medium Freighter, draught 8.0m.
Target course 95°; Target distance 1800m; Target angle red68°; Target speed 5kn; Firing angle α 015°.

=> Torpedo is hit amidships! The steamer continues on with a list to port and falls behind the OreII Freighter.

2101 - Running off on course 90° and 1/3-Ahead.

2129 - The Corvette is returning to the convoy.

2155 - "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

2222 - The already twice torpedoed steamer doesn't sink. The Corvette has disappeared. Approaching the steamer at a narrow angle.

2230 - "Battle Stations!". Flooding tube VI.

- to be continued -