Tell us what you're up to in current campaign (lets get this one going lol)

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

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Saturday, 16 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Iraq declares war on the Axis powers.

British bombers attack Berlin.

Soviet troops capture Pitomnik Airfield west of Stalingrad, denying the 6.Armee the ability to fly in supplies and fly out wounded men.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) sighted 8 tankers putting out in EC 92 easterly course, speed 12 knots. Betrayed by splash of torpedo discharge during daylight attack. No contact.

Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" received orders to steer on a course of 330° at a speed of 6 knots on 1100, and to occupy the position lines "Falke" from AD 8835 to AK 6362; "Habicht" from AL 4171 to 7229 at 0430 on 17.1 as patrol channels. U 414 and U 268 exchange positions owing to reversed times of arrival. This move to the N.W. follows a Radio Intelligence report, according to which the last ONS convoy apparently deviated far to the N. as far as the new patrolled area.

As, according to Radio Intelligence report (special) the convoy New York/Gibraltar has been delayed for 6 days. Group "Delphin" received orders to proceed on a course of 285° at a speed of 6 knots by day and to remain in patrol channels at night. Intention: Perfect patrol of occupied channels and area gain for actions.

As it may be presumed with certainty that the expected HX and SC (convoy) passed unperceived, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are allocated the following operation areas until planned arrival of next convoys: In AJ: U 337 = 7655, U 413 = 7963, U 598 = 8491, U 594 = 8792, U 96 = 8887, U 123 = 8982, - In BC: U 266 = 2126, U 662 = 2257. This should ensure a further if not infallible patrol of this area used by the enemy for Greenland and Iceland convoys.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Sunday, 17 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 4 destroyers on a course of 65° in DH 7297, speed 20 knots. Contact lost short time afterwards.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) Situation: Nothing sighted for 8 days, apart from a destroyer, in area of Tobago Passage. Regular traffic to Port of Spain is therefore unlikely through this way. Boat sank a freighter in ED 5956. Night aerial activity experienced once without radar in ED 8653. Otherwise nothing confirmed. Return passage owing to fuel situation.

Current Operations:
As it is presumed that the boats belonging to Group "Falke" and "Habicht" are W. of the expected convoys, both groups proceeded on an easterly course with a speed of 6 knots at 1300.
U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) and U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) were attacked several times in the course of the afternoon by enemy wheeled aircraft and search groups. As up to dusk the convoy had not been found, both groups turned on a course of 270° with speed of 6 knots at 1900. In this way the convoy was to be prevented from passing through unperceived by night.
At 2136 U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) reported (T.O.O. 1600) a large convoy on a northwesterly course in AD 8947. Boat attacked and sank large tanker. Subsequently forced to submerge for 6 hours by aircraft and destroyers. According to boats estimate this was connected with a HX convoy. As U 268 was about 55 miles astern and contact was lost - also as Group "Falke" could not have reached the convoy until the next day in an area of heavy enemy air protection it was not detailed for action. Instead the boats U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) coming from the east and in approximately AE 70 were assigned for this task. "Falke" and "Habicht" also U 268 proceeded further to the W. and on 18.1 at dawn return back from reached AD 8735 to AK 1262 also AK 1371 to AL 2129 to 90° at a speed of 6 knots.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) fired 2 misses at an escort vessel in AD 8974. U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) sighted unidentified craft on westerly course in AK 3267. No further contact with the enemy. Whether this refers to an escort craft has not been ascertained.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has taken on supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and occupies BC 2318, depth 40 seamiles as action area. Further supplying from U 117 was not possible up to now owing to bad weather conditions. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) and U 440 (Kptlt. Hans Geissler) still expect replenishment of supplies. Latter received ordered to return owing to the small amount on the tanker.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

+++++++

Sunday, 17 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 4 destroyers on a course of 65° in DH 7297, speed 20 knots. Contact lost short time afterwards.

U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) Situation: Nothing sighted for 8 days, apart from a destroyer, in area of Tobago Passage. Regular traffic to Port of Spain is therefore unlikely through this way. Boat sank a freighter in ED 5956. Night aerial activity experienced once without radar in ED 8653. Otherwise nothing confirmed. Return passage owing to fuel situation.

Current Operations:
As it is presumed that the boats belonging to Group "Falke" and "Habicht" are W. of the expected convoys, both groups proceeded on an easterly course with a speed of 6 knots at 1300.
U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) and U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) were attacked several times in the course of the afternoon by enemy wheeled aircraft and search groups. As up to dusk the convoy had not been found, both groups turned on a course of 270° with speed of 6 knots at 1900. In this way the convoy was to be prevented from passing through unperceived by night.
At 2136 U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) reported (T.O.O. 1600) a large convoy on a northwesterly course in AD 8947. Boat attacked and sank large tanker. Subsequently forced to submerge for 6 hours by aircraft and destroyers. According to boats estimate this was connected with a HX convoy. As U 268 was about 55 miles astern and contact was lost - also as Group "Falke" could not have reached the convoy until the next day in an area of heavy enemy air protection it was not detailed for action. Instead the boats U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) coming from the east and in approximately AE 70 were assigned for this task. "Falke" and "Habicht" also U 268 proceeded further to the W. and on 18.1 at dawn return back from reached AD 8735 to AK 1262 also AK 1371 to AL 2129 to 90° at a speed of 6 knots.
U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) fired 2 misses at an escort vessel in AD 8974. U 631 (Oblt. Jürgen Krüger) sighted unidentified craft on westerly course in AK 3267. No further contact with the enemy. Whether this refers to an escort craft has not been ascertained.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has taken on supplies from U 117 (XB; Korvkpt. Hans-Werner Neumann) and occupies BC 2318, depth 40 seamiles as action area. Further supplying from U 117 was not possible up to now owing to bad weather conditions. U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) and U 440 (Kptlt. Hans Geissler) still expect replenishment of supplies. Latter received ordered to return owing to the small amount on the tanker.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Monday, 18 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Operation Spark, which commenced 6 days earlier, successfully openes a corridor into Leningrad. The Soviet government announces the end of the siege, although that state will still continue until 27 Jan 1943.

The Soviets capture Cherkessk in the Caucasus region.

Late in the day, three He 111 transport aircraft of unit III./KG 55 attempt to land at the small Gumrak Airfield at Stalingrad. The first lands but will not be able to takeoff again, the second makes ten failed attempts at lining up with the wreck-strewn short runway but ultimately pushes its cargo of 20 sacks of bread out of the bomb bay doors without landing, and the third follows suit.

British submarine Thunderbolt departed Malta for Tripoli, Libya, with two Chariot manned torpedoes. The two Chariot teams discover the harbor to be empty of ships and become stuck far behind enemy lines. One team is captured and the other escapes and eventually finds the advancing British 8th Army.

From 1030 groups "Falke" and Habicht" approached the convoy at 1030 at a speed of 4 knots in bad weather conditions and remained in position line reached at 1400 as patrol lines. U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 226 (Kptlt. Rolf Borchers) were attacked in the afternoon by "Consolidated" and wheeled aircraft.
At sunset both groups again proceeded at a speed of 6 knots to the W. and slow up at 1130 in patrol lines from AD 7926 to AK 6142 also AK 6181 to AK 9317. If the convoy has not yet passed the lines, a one to one and a half days postponement must have taken place. It is intended to remain in patrol lines during the day and if the convoy is then not intercepted to be redisposed in another area.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) who were both detailed to operate on the HX convoy broke off operations at dawn and steered a course for AL 94 at economical cruising speed.

Group "Delphin" proceeded on a course of 285°, with a speed of 6 knots at 1100 and remained as patrol from CE 7162 to DF 3669 at 2030. Passage further to the W. is not intended. The passing of the convoy can still be expected.

In order to intercept another convoy expected on 20.1 and yet another on 21.1., Group "Jaguar" is to take up the following patrol lines from AJ 7915 to BC 2135. Order: U 337 - 413 - 598 - 594 - 96 - 266 - 123 - 706 and 622.

US government bannes the sale of sliced bread by commercial bakers; they must sell their bread in entire loaves in order to save wrapping material. The ban will be lifted on 8 Mar 1943 after officials realized the ban was ineffective.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

+++++++

Monday, 18 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Operation Spark, which commenced 6 days earlier, successfully openes a corridor into Leningrad. The Soviet government announces the end of the siege, although that state will still continue until 27 Jan 1943.

The Soviets capture Cherkessk in the Caucasus region.

Late in the day, three He 111 transport aircraft of unit III./KG 55 attempt to land at the small Gumrak Airfield at Stalingrad. The first lands but will not be able to takeoff again, the second makes ten failed attempts at lining up with the wreck-strewn short runway but ultimately pushes its cargo of 20 sacks of bread out of the bomb bay doors without landing, and the third follows suit.

British submarine Thunderbolt departed Malta for Tripoli, Libya, with two Chariot manned torpedoes. The two Chariot teams discover the harbor to be empty of ships and become stuck far behind enemy lines. One team is captured and the other escapes and eventually finds the advancing British 8th Army.

From 1030 groups "Falke" and Habicht" approached the convoy at 1030 at a speed of 4 knots in bad weather conditions and remained in position line reached at 1400 as patrol lines. U 594 (Oblt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 226 (Kptlt. Rolf Borchers) were attacked in the afternoon by "Consolidated" and wheeled aircraft.
At sunset both groups again proceeded at a speed of 6 knots to the W. and slow up at 1130 in patrol lines from AD 7926 to AK 6142 also AK 6181 to AK 9317. If the convoy has not yet passed the lines, a one to one and a half days postponement must have taken place. It is intended to remain in patrol lines during the day and if the convoy is then not intercepted to be redisposed in another area.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) and U 456 (Kptlt. Max-Martin Teichert) who were both detailed to operate on the HX convoy broke off operations at dawn and steered a course for AL 94 at economical cruising speed.

Group "Delphin" proceeded on a course of 285°, with a speed of 6 knots at 1100 and remained as patrol from CE 7162 to DF 3669 at 2030. Passage further to the W. is not intended. The passing of the convoy can still be expected.

In order to intercept another convoy expected on 20.1 and yet another on 21.1., Group "Jaguar" is to take up the following patrol lines from AJ 7915 to BC 2135. Order: U 337 - 413 - 598 - 594 - 96 - 266 - 123 - 706 and 622.

US government bannes the sale of sliced bread by commercial bakers; they must sell their bread in entire loaves in order to save wrapping material. The ban will be lifted on 8 Mar 1943 after officials realized the ban was ineffective.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Tuesday, 19 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launched 72 USAAF P-40F fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger began withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

As the expected convoy was not found during the day, its appearance must no longer be anticipated. The groups "Falke" and Habicht" will be relieved of their duties and each redistributed according to their fuel supply. The boats form the group "Haudegen". Boats with less fuel will be disposed in reconnaissance lines from AL 4447 to BE 2136.
Southwestward bound convoy is expected on 24.1. Boats arriving early in position are to submerge during the day in order to avoid interception by English air reconnaissance.

According to a Radio Intelligence report received a north bound convoy close to the Newfoundland coast is expected sooner than was first presumed. Group "Jaguar", therefore received orders to take up position in new reconnaissance lines from AJ 7561 to AJ 8827 at 0000 on 20.1. From 1200 on 20.1. to proceed at a speed of 4 knots on a reconnaissance line, course 200°. The strip from AJ 7565 to AJ 8818 is to be narrowed owing to the temporary breakdown of U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) .

U 43, 521, 218 and 518 proceed at economical cruising speed to DU 72. U 66 is to occupy grid DU 72 and 73 as temporary operations area after execution of the special duties. According to agents reports there is strong north-south traffic in this area. For this reason the boats are not taking up the intended reconnaissance channels to the S.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich 'Ajax' Bleichrodt) has taken the Warrant Quartermaster from U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) on board and continues the return passage.

U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643 on 13.1. It received orders to attack. In spite of repeated requests boat has not reported since then. It must be presumed to have been sunk by the convoy escort, and considered lost (along with Master Donald MacCallum of the Baron Dechmont, sunk on 3 Jan., and taken prisoner).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

+++++++

Tuesday, 19 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) launched 72 USAAF P-40F fighters off Casablanca, French Morocco, to reinforce Allied forces fighting in North Africa. Ranger began withdrawing toward Norfolk, Virginia almost immediately.

As the expected convoy was not found during the day, its appearance must no longer be anticipated. The groups "Falke" and Habicht" will be relieved of their duties and each redistributed according to their fuel supply. The boats form the group "Haudegen". Boats with less fuel will be disposed in reconnaissance lines from AL 4447 to BE 2136.
Southwestward bound convoy is expected on 24.1. Boats arriving early in position are to submerge during the day in order to avoid interception by English air reconnaissance.

According to a Radio Intelligence report received a north bound convoy close to the Newfoundland coast is expected sooner than was first presumed. Group "Jaguar", therefore received orders to take up position in new reconnaissance lines from AJ 7561 to AJ 8827 at 0000 on 20.1. From 1200 on 20.1. to proceed at a speed of 4 knots on a reconnaissance line, course 200°. The strip from AJ 7565 to AJ 8818 is to be narrowed owing to the temporary breakdown of U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) .

U 43, 521, 218 and 518 proceed at economical cruising speed to DU 72. U 66 is to occupy grid DU 72 and 73 as temporary operations area after execution of the special duties. According to agents reports there is strong north-south traffic in this area. For this reason the boats are not taking up the intended reconnaissance channels to the S.

U 109 (Kptlt. Heinrich 'Ajax' Bleichrodt) has taken the Warrant Quartermaster from U 558 (Kptlt. Günther Krech) on board and continues the return passage.

U 507 (Korvkpt. Harro Schacht) reported convoy in FB 5643 on 13.1. It received orders to attack. In spite of repeated requests boat has not reported since then. It must be presumed to have been sunk by the convoy escort, and considered lost (along with Master Donald MacCallum of the Baron Dechmont, sunk on 3 Jan., and taken prisoner).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Wednesday, 20 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Luftwaffe fighter-bombers launch surprise daylight attacks on London. The British claim that the Luftwaffe has to abandon the attacks, after five Fw 190 aircraft are lost within half an hour, to the RAF Manston based Typhoon fighters of the No. 609 Squadron.

Captured French submarines "Requin" and "Espadon" depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with an Italian crew.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) searched from 9 - 12.1 in the lower half of ER 80 with long legs on the Equator to the E. and also on the way to FD 25.

U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) sighted unidentified U-boat in BF 7692. According to dead reckoning not one of ours.

Group "Jaguar" remains in the position reached at 2100 from AJ 7822 to AJ 8796 (Patrol channel).

U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) and U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) are to join Group "Delphin" to extend their patrol channels, and occupy the positions DF 3933 and DF 3969.

U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) joins Group "Landsknecht" and occupies position BE 2244, which must be reached by 0800 on 24.1.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) handed over a Nautical Year Book to U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf).

General:

1. The following operations in the North Atlantic have not been successful:

31.12.1942 - Convoy ON - Group "Falke" - 13 boats
8.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group "Falke" - 14 boats
12/13.1.1943 - Convoy HX, SC - Group "Jaguar" - 6 boats
16.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group Falke-Habicht" - 27 boats

Altogether only one convoy (HX) was intercepted for a short period on 17.1.1943 and an operation was not possible.

2. The non-interception of the last ONS is a further confirmation of the conjecture that the English have begun to spread out their convoys and possibly deflected their routes considerably to the N. This evasive movement can at the most only be out-maneuvered by a long disposition in the area S.E. of Cape Farewell. It is possible here to fight to the S.W. and N.E. with some chance of success and to bring pressure to bear on ON, ONS, HX and SC convoys.

3. The next operations possible are on HX, SC (convoys) on 20/21.1 and ON (convoy) on 24.1. It is possible to operate on all these convoys with the number of boats now available. It is not, however, possible to reinforce the group "Jaguar" (North of Newfoundland Bank) within the time limit. The group will be entirely disposed to the W., according to the information obtained by the decyphering section on the positions of the lost HX convoy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

+++++++

Wednesday, 20 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Luftwaffe fighter-bombers launch surprise daylight attacks on London. The British claim that the Luftwaffe has to abandon the attacks, after five Fw 190 aircraft are lost within half an hour, to the RAF Manston based Typhoon fighters of the No. 609 Squadron.

Captured French submarines "Requin" and "Espadon" depart Bizerte, Tunisia, with an Italian crew.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) searched from 9 - 12.1 in the lower half of ER 80 with long legs on the Equator to the E. and also on the way to FD 25.

U 177 (IXD2; KrvKpt. Robert Gysae) sighted unidentified U-boat in BF 7692. According to dead reckoning not one of ours.

Group "Jaguar" remains in the position reached at 2100 from AJ 7822 to AJ 8796 (Patrol channel).

U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) and U 202 (Oblt. Günter Poser) are to join Group "Delphin" to extend their patrol channels, and occupy the positions DF 3933 and DF 3969.

U 454 (Kptlt. Burckhard Hackländer) joins Group "Landsknecht" and occupies position BE 2244, which must be reached by 0800 on 24.1.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) handed over a Nautical Year Book to U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf).

General:

1. The following operations in the North Atlantic have not been successful:

31.12.1942 - Convoy ON - Group "Falke" - 13 boats
8.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group "Falke" - 14 boats
12/13.1.1943 - Convoy HX, SC - Group "Jaguar" - 6 boats
16.1.1943 - Convoy ONS - Group Falke-Habicht" - 27 boats

Altogether only one convoy (HX) was intercepted for a short period on 17.1.1943 and an operation was not possible.

2. The non-interception of the last ONS is a further confirmation of the conjecture that the English have begun to spread out their convoys and possibly deflected their routes considerably to the N. This evasive movement can at the most only be out-maneuvered by a long disposition in the area S.E. of Cape Farewell. It is possible here to fight to the S.W. and N.E. with some chance of success and to bring pressure to bear on ON, ONS, HX and SC convoys.

3. The next operations possible are on HX, SC (convoys) on 20/21.1 and ON (convoy) on 24.1. It is possible to operate on all these convoys with the number of boats now available. It is not, however, possible to reinforce the group "Jaguar" (North of Newfoundland Bank) within the time limit. The group will be entirely disposed to the W., according to the information obtained by the decyphering section on the positions of the lost HX convoy.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Thursday, 21 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Allied leadership issues the directive to RAF and USAAF commanders "your primary objective will be the progressive destruction and dislocation of the German military, industrial and economic system, and the undermining of the morale of the German people to a point where their capacity for armed resistance is fatally wounded."

Soviet troops capture Voroshilovsky and Stavropol in the Caucasus region, claiming 500,000 of our troops dead and 200,000 captured in the last two months of fighting.

The Führer tells the Ambassador Hiroshi Oshima, that he would welcome Japanese assistance in defeating Russia.

In order to intercept the north-south bound convoys and isolated traffic, 5 boats are to be disposed in a 30 sea mile wide strip as far as 120 sea miles W. of Cape Blanco in N/S strips of equal width. Order from the west: U 518, 43, 218, 521, 66. Warfare against the traffic is considered of utmost importance to the African Front.

Replenishment of supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) is to take place early on 29.1 in CG 5455. U 506 will take on 140 cubic meters, U 509 and U 516, 100 cubic meters each. Fuel replenishment of U 160 (still behind) follows later.
Meeting of "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) for the handing over of an Fu.M.B. Cable has taken place.
In a S.W. wind, strength 10 and heavy sea the supplying of U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) - intended for the last 10 days - is still impossible.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) is not fully ready for action owing to breakdown of forward hydroplane. The boat is ordered to return to Bergen owing to inability to submerge entirely. Further use as training ship is proposed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

+++++++

Thursday, 21 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Allied leadership issues the directive to RAF and USAAF commanders "your primary objective will be the progressive destruction and dislocation of the German military, industrial and economic system, and the undermining of the morale of the German people to a point where their capacity for armed resistance is fatally wounded."

Soviet troops capture Voroshilovsky and Stavropol in the Caucasus region, claiming 500,000 of our troops dead and 200,000 captured in the last two months of fighting.

The Führer tells the Ambassador Hiroshi Oshima, that he would welcome Japanese assistance in defeating Russia.

In order to intercept the north-south bound convoys and isolated traffic, 5 boats are to be disposed in a 30 sea mile wide strip as far as 120 sea miles W. of Cape Blanco in N/S strips of equal width. Order from the west: U 518, 43, 218, 521, 66. Warfare against the traffic is considered of utmost importance to the African Front.

Replenishment of supplies from "Milkcow" U 459 (KrvKpt. Georg von Wilamowitz-Möllendorf) is to take place early on 29.1 in CG 5455. U 506 will take on 140 cubic meters, U 509 and U 516, 100 cubic meters each. Fuel replenishment of U 160 (still behind) follows later.
Meeting of "Milkcow" U 463 (KrvKpt. Leo Wolfbauer) and U 258 (Kptlt. Wilhelm von Mässenhausen) for the handing over of an Fu.M.B. Cable has taken place.
In a S.W. wind, strength 10 and heavy sea the supplying of U 260 (Kptlt. Hubertus Purkhold) - intended for the last 10 days - is still impossible.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) is not fully ready for action owing to breakdown of forward hydroplane. The boat is ordered to return to Bergen owing to inability to submerge entirely. Further use as training ship is proposed.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Friday, 22 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The RAF conducts its first combat operation using the new Mitchell Mk.II bombers. Six aircraft from No. 98 and No. 180 Squadrons are sent out to attack oil installations at Ghent in Belgium. One aircraft is shot down by flak over the target and two others are lost when attacked by Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighters. Following this disaster the RAF's Mitchell squadrons are stood down to concentrate on developing new tactics to fend off enemy fighters.

6th Army engineers report that the small Stalingradskaya Airfield close to the center of Stalingrad, is ready to receive transport aircraft. Several He 111 aircraft arrive later on the same day with supplies, some of which will be fatally damaged when their landing gears become caught in bomb craters on the runway.

The "Bafile" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, captures Djebel Bou Dabouss massif in Tunisia, capturing 200 prisoners of war, while loosing 24 killed and 65 wounded.

U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf) a boat belonging to Group "Haudegen" heard several beacon locator noises with north-easterly deviations since 0600 on 22.1. According to fix at 0800 last bearing lay in AJ 3449. The boat is following this up in the direction of 20° in good visibility. The boats U 525, U 201, north and south of U 69 have also received instructions to steer on searching course, as the presence of an HX convoy must be presumed. This must have passed the patrol lines of Group "Jaguar" unobserved and proceeded at a very high speed.

U 69, 525 and 201 pursued until darkness fell without establishing contact. They are now proceeding on a course of 210°, cruising speed to the S. to reinforce Group "Jaguar". According to a Radio Intelligence report (special) received, the course of the awaited convoy leads through the middle of the channels occupied by Group "Delphin". As its arrival can take place from today, Group "Delphin" is to proceed on a course of 90°, speed 8 knots at 2030, as reconnaissance line. On 23.1 at 1000 to turn back on a course of 280°, speed 4 knots. The boats U 264, 258 and 558 coming up, are making for approximately the center of the line.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) on the return passage, reported a convoy in AK 7422 at 1315 and after several hours confirmed an isolated search group on a southerly course. As such an isolated group is unlikely in this area, the possible presence of a convoy must be presumed. Whether it is an HX or an SC convoy remains to be seen. In any case on receipt of U 96's message Group "Haudegen" (not U 69, 525 and 201) were ordered to proceed to the S.W. at a speed of 10 knots and ordered to take up position in reconnaissance lines from AK 4313 to 8394 for 1200 on 23.1. Course 235°, speed 6 knots. U 96 continues return passage.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has only encountered Spanish coastal sailing vessels within the 40 sea mile line of DU 57 since 20.1. The boat has carried out a special task (landing Jean Lallart on the coast of Mauritania near Cape Blanc). Two sailors did not return to the boat after the successful landing. After waiting in vain for over 13 hours for his men (Bootsmaat Wagner and Matrosenobergefreiter Helmut Daschkey) to return, Kptlt. Markworth was forced to abandon them to whatever fate they had suffered. Heavy surf since then.
10 days later we will learn, that Lallart and the two men who rowed him ashore were immediately captured by the French.

Colonel-General Ludwig Beck and other anti-Hitler conspirators meet at the home of Peter Yorck von Wartenburg.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

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Friday, 22 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The RAF conducts its first combat operation using the new Mitchell Mk.II bombers. Six aircraft from No. 98 and No. 180 Squadrons are sent out to attack oil installations at Ghent in Belgium. One aircraft is shot down by flak over the target and two others are lost when attacked by Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighters. Following this disaster the RAF's Mitchell squadrons are stood down to concentrate on developing new tactics to fend off enemy fighters.

6th Army engineers report that the small Stalingradskaya Airfield close to the center of Stalingrad, is ready to receive transport aircraft. Several He 111 aircraft arrive later on the same day with supplies, some of which will be fatally damaged when their landing gears become caught in bomb craters on the runway.

The "Bafile" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, captures Djebel Bou Dabouss massif in Tunisia, capturing 200 prisoners of war, while loosing 24 killed and 65 wounded.

U 69 (Kptlt. Ulrich Gräf) a boat belonging to Group "Haudegen" heard several beacon locator noises with north-easterly deviations since 0600 on 22.1. According to fix at 0800 last bearing lay in AJ 3449. The boat is following this up in the direction of 20° in good visibility. The boats U 525, U 201, north and south of U 69 have also received instructions to steer on searching course, as the presence of an HX convoy must be presumed. This must have passed the patrol lines of Group "Jaguar" unobserved and proceeded at a very high speed.

U 69, 525 and 201 pursued until darkness fell without establishing contact. They are now proceeding on a course of 210°, cruising speed to the S. to reinforce Group "Jaguar". According to a Radio Intelligence report (special) received, the course of the awaited convoy leads through the middle of the channels occupied by Group "Delphin". As its arrival can take place from today, Group "Delphin" is to proceed on a course of 90°, speed 8 knots at 2030, as reconnaissance line. On 23.1 at 1000 to turn back on a course of 280°, speed 4 knots. The boats U 264, 258 and 558 coming up, are making for approximately the center of the line.

U 96 (Oblt. Hans-Jürgen Hellriegel; ex Lehmann-Willenbrock) on the return passage, reported a convoy in AK 7422 at 1315 and after several hours confirmed an isolated search group on a southerly course. As such an isolated group is unlikely in this area, the possible presence of a convoy must be presumed. Whether it is an HX or an SC convoy remains to be seen. In any case on receipt of U 96's message Group "Haudegen" (not U 69, 525 and 201) were ordered to proceed to the S.W. at a speed of 10 knots and ordered to take up position in reconnaissance lines from AK 4313 to 8394 for 1200 on 23.1. Course 235°, speed 6 knots. U 96 continues return passage.

U 66 (Kptlt. Friedrich Markworth) has only encountered Spanish coastal sailing vessels within the 40 sea mile line of DU 57 since 20.1. The boat has carried out a special task (landing Jean Lallart on the coast of Mauritania near Cape Blanc). Two sailors did not return to the boat after the successful landing. After waiting in vain for over 13 hours for his men (Bootsmaat Wagner and Matrosenobergefreiter Helmut Daschkey) to return, Kptlt. Markworth was forced to abandon them to whatever fate they had suffered. Heavy surf since then.
10 days later we will learn, that Lallart and the two men who rowed him ashore were immediately captured by the French.

Colonel-General Ludwig Beck and other anti-Hitler conspirators meet at the home of Peter Yorck von Wartenburg.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Saturday, 23 January 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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The British Eighth Army capture Tripoli, Libya.

Soviet troops capture Armavir, Caucasus.

The Gumrak Airfield on the western side of Stalingrad, is taken by Soviet troops.

Air Reconnaissance: 3 aircraft in AL 90 and 60 to intercept an expected ON convoy.

Convoy No. 3 (SC.117): The following W/T with T.O.O. 0850 was received from U 413 (Oblt. Gustav Poel) at 1142: Contact with escort in AJ 7267. As according to the text of this message other message must have been already sent, and also U 598 (Kptlt. Gottfried Holtorf) had not reported contact at 1500 from AJ 4971, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are requested to send a short situation summary. It can be seen from the messages received that U 413 sighted a convoy on a course of 20° at 1714 on 22.1. in AJ 7855, and that it reported the same at 2240 in AJ 7592 and at 0545 in AJ 7291. Also the boat sank a straggler of 5,000 GRT in AJ 7592. Unfortunately these W/T messages were not picked up by the control station owing to interference presumably caused by the northern lights, and this had a particularly adverse effect on the operations decided for Groups "Jaguar" and Haudegen". As it is likely that at the moment there is no contact, the group "Haudegen" will be at once disposed on receipt of the first situation report, on a course of 300°, speed 9 knots. Disposition of a patrol line is planned for the forenoon of 24.1, if no contact has been established by then. Group "Jaguar" received ordered to continue the search, U 525, 69 and 201 are to operate at cruising speed on the information contained in U 413's report. U 268 reporting from N.W. of the Group "Haudegen" and 358 on the outward passage in A 30 are to be diverted to AJ 25. A W/T received from U 413 at 0117 reports that the boat lost contact at 0900 in AJ 7267. Last course doubtful, NE, speed 9 knots. Convoy drawn out, about 20 ships. Weather: variable visibility, wind N.N.W., freshening to 10-11. It does not appear from the number of ships involved to be the expected SC convoy. The operation continues.

U 214 (VIID; Kptlt. Günther Reeder) situation: 19 days in the Caribbean, submerged by day. No traffic in EC 90 at night, tanker escorts from Aruba only at dawn. It is only possible to stay there a short time owing to the strong current. U-boat chaser activity at night in EC 60 large craft radar small craft then attacked. Continue to search for traffic from DP 75 via EO 52 to EE 60.

U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) received instructions to return via DU 70. It is to search for further traffic there, and not leave the position to replenish supplies until there is only 20 cu. mtrs. of fuel left.

Owing to the return of "Milkcow" U 462 (Oblt. Bruno Vowe), U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen) and U 124 (Kptlt. Johann Mohr) received orders to remain in DF 50 using as little fuel as possible until the arrival of the next tanker (about 9.2).

General Dwight D. Eisenhower is tasked with planning the invasion of Sicily, with the target date set as the period of the favourable Jul 1943 moon. General Harold Alexander, Eisenhower's deputy, will be in overall command of all Allied land forces during the operation.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts exercises with the AGRU-Front Hela.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115