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 ...

+++++++

Thursday, 26 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The British 36th Brigade reaches Jefna, Tunisia and runs into an ambush of our troops, suffering heavy casualties. Meanwhile, the British 11th Brigade captures Majaz al Bab unopposed. The 1st Battalion of US 1st Armored Regiment raids the Axis airfield at Djedeida, shooting up 23 Ju 87 Stuka and 14 Bf 109 fighters.

Low cloud ceiling of 200 meters and periodic snow showers hinder our ability to supply our troops in Stalingrad, on this day.

After joint pursuit with U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte), U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) sank Norwegian ship "India" 5,041 tons in ER 9833, course 310°.
U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) has seen nothing since 26 November in area KY 95 to JJ 15. Fired a 2 shot spread which missed a freighter on 21 November in KY 9693, course 70°. Boat on return cruise.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sank a freighter of 2,000 tons in KP 53, also the steamer "Corinthiakos" (3,562 tons) as well as the "Alcoa Pathfinder", 6,900 tons. No ships have left Lourenco Marques since 20 November. Shipping from the N.E. very hard to intercept because the N.E. border of the area is too near. Further sinkings were: "Mounthelmos" 6,481 tons in KP 6465, enroute Suez to Capetown and "Dorington Court" (5,281 tons) in KP 6158, course 290°.

U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) one of the boats short of fuel near "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor), sighted a steamer in BD 7590 on course 190° and 2 hours later 3 smoke plumes on estimated N. course. Pursuit impossible because of lack of fuel
Since the weather has improved, re-supplying will begin today by Schnorr. Heavy weather has prevented this operation up to date. The boats have been cruising about for 6 days near the tanker and some have no fuel at all. This is even more unpleasant since a number of ships and destroyers have been encountered nearby, which must have come from convoys which have been broken up. Warning has been issued to these boats to give assistance to each other.

U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles) is occupying ES 40 as attack area. "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) gave anti-radar gear cables to U 519 (Kptlt. Günther Eppen) and U 515 (Kptlt. Werner Henke) as well as Junkers spare parts to U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus). U-Stiebler is moving southward, and is designated as refueling boat for other boats in this area. Rendezvous is planned for 9 days hence.

U 263 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) is sailing through Bay of Biscay according to plan and was in position BF 9716 at 0900 on 27 November.

A number of attack reports from ships as well as sighting reports by aircraft gives indication of the presence of a U-boat in BC and CC. It is possible that this boat is U 520 (Kptlt. Volkmar Schwartzkopff) which is believed lost but which may be unable to report because of breakdown of her radio gear. We must await further developments.

According to the proposal of B.d.U., boats are free to attack single ships in the area of route "Anton", N. of 25° N. and W. of 20° W., effective at once.

Yugoslavian Partisans convene the first meeting of the Anti-Fascist Council of National Liberation of Yugoslavia at Bihac in northwestern Bosnia.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Friday, 27 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Axis forces stiffen resistance on the approaches to Tunis, as our forces in Tunisia counterattack, capturing 286 men from the British 11th Brigade.

Commanded by General Erich von Manstein, the Armeegruppe "Don" is formed in southern Russia, in order to relieve the 6th Army in Stalingrad.

U 663 (Kptlt. Heinrich Schmid) sank a steamer in AJ 8844, type "Clan Maquarry" (6,000 tons). Deck load consisted of aircraft and landing barges.

U 174 (FrgKpt. Ulrich Thilo) situation: Inner roads of Fortaleza empty. Lights extinguished along harbor but city was lit up. Shelling possible, no air patrols. Nothing seen in FB 60 and 91. Boat received FB 21 - 36 as new operational area since attacks on the harbor have not yet been authorized.

So far "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) has supplied U 84 - 753 and 606. U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) which was drifting and entirely out of fuel, was picked up by U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) and will be refueled when the weather permits.

The former Spanish route was abolished because of the U.S. port of Baltimore and Norfolk are closed to neutral shipping. Ships now sail from entrance point CE 4956 to 38° N. westwards to the coast. Only destination is Philadelphia.

Attack area in the Mozambique route will immediately be broadened to 20° S.

As we occupy the naval base at Toulon, the French Navy scuttles warships to avoid capture.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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 ...

+++++++

Friday, 27 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Axis forces stiffen resistance on the approaches to Tunis, as our forces in Tunisia counterattack, capturing 286 men from the British 11th Brigade.

Commanded by General Erich von Manstein, the Armeegruppe "Don" is formed in southern Russia, in order to relieve the 6th Army in Stalingrad.

U 663 (Kptlt. Heinrich Schmid) sank a steamer in AJ 8844, type "Clan Maquarry" (6,000 tons). Deck load consisted of aircraft and landing barges.

U 174 (FrgKpt. Ulrich Thilo) situation: Inner roads of Fortaleza empty. Lights extinguished along harbor but city was lit up. Shelling possible, no air patrols. Nothing seen in FB 60 and 91. Boat received FB 21 - 36 as new operational area since attacks on the harbor have not yet been authorized.

So far "Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) has supplied U 84 - 753 and 606. U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) which was drifting and entirely out of fuel, was picked up by U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) and will be refueled when the weather permits.

The former Spanish route was abolished because of the U.S. port of Baltimore and Norfolk are closed to neutral shipping. Ships now sail from entrance point CE 4956 to 38° N. westwards to the coast. Only destination is Philadelphia.

Attack area in the Mozambique route will immediately be broadened to 20° S.

As we occupy the naval base at Toulon, the French Navy scuttles warships to avoid capture.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Saturday, 28 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Infantry of British 11th Brigade and tanks of US 1st Armored Division attacke Djedeida, Tunisia unsuccessfully, losing 19 tanks in the process.

Because of especially heavy supply shipping and presence of 30 - 40 ships in Fedala and Casablanca (spy reports) U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) ordered there at high speed.

U 167 (IXC/40; Kptlt. Kurt Neubert) sighted "Empire Glade" in EF 2463 course 310. U-boat scored a number of hits during an artillery engagement but stopped pursuit at dawn.

U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles) sank Dutch "Tojileboot", 5,760 T. in ES 7633 on 29 November. She blew up as she was torpedoed - no survivors.

U 177 (Kptlt. Robert Gysae) sank English auxiliary "Nova Scotia" cruiser (6,796 tons) in KP 8325, carrying over 1000 Italian internees from Massana. Two survivors taken on board and about 400 in lifeboats and rafts. Had to leave because of air patrols. Rescue activities impossible by U-boat traveling alone. Request orders regarding operations.

Single ships on the S. African - W. Indies route sometimes follow a course 75 miles wide from Capetown along the coast to 20° S., then spread out toward St. Helena - Ascension St. Paul Rocks. U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) ordered to intercept this activity on her return cruise.

U 552 (Kptlt. Klaus Popp, ex Topp) is to operate off Dakar as fuel permits since Free French merchant and warships are believed to be operating with the enemy in that area, receiving information from the Guallists. U 552 reports however that neither the fuel supply or the condition of the crew permits any further operation. U 552 is returning to port.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) has been re-supplied by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) has transferred a total of 8 air torpedoes to U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte).

U-boats were informed of the departure of the Italian blockade runner "Cortellazzo".

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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 ...

+++++++

Saturday, 28 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Infantry of British 11th Brigade and tanks of US 1st Armored Division attacke Djedeida, Tunisia unsuccessfully, losing 19 tanks in the process.

Because of especially heavy supply shipping and presence of 30 - 40 ships in Fedala and Casablanca (spy reports) U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) ordered there at high speed.

U 167 (IXC/40; Kptlt. Kurt Neubert) sighted "Empire Glade" in EF 2463 course 310. U-boat scored a number of hits during an artillery engagement but stopped pursuit at dawn.

U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles) sank Dutch "Tojileboot", 5,760 T. in ES 7633 on 29 November. She blew up as she was torpedoed - no survivors.

U 177 (Kptlt. Robert Gysae) sank English auxiliary "Nova Scotia" cruiser (6,796 tons) in KP 8325, carrying over 1000 Italian internees from Massana. Two survivors taken on board and about 400 in lifeboats and rafts. Had to leave because of air patrols. Rescue activities impossible by U-boat traveling alone. Request orders regarding operations.

Single ships on the S. African - W. Indies route sometimes follow a course 75 miles wide from Capetown along the coast to 20° S., then spread out toward St. Helena - Ascension St. Paul Rocks. U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) ordered to intercept this activity on her return cruise.

U 552 (Kptlt. Klaus Popp, ex Topp) is to operate off Dakar as fuel permits since Free French merchant and warships are believed to be operating with the enemy in that area, receiving information from the Guallists. U 552 reports however that neither the fuel supply or the condition of the crew permits any further operation. U 552 is returning to port.

U 224 (Oblt. Hans-Carl Kosbadt) has been re-supplied by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

U D 3 (ex Dutch submarine O 25; Krvkpt. Hermann Rigele) has transferred a total of 8 air torpedoes to U 159 (Kptlt. Helmut Friedrich Witte).

U-boats were informed of the departure of the Italian blockade runner "Cortellazzo".

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Sunday, 29 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

British 2nd Parachute Battalion is dropped near Depienne airfield, Tunisia.

The Soviet Transcaucasus Front launches an offensive against our lines along the Terek River in the Caucasus region in southern Russia; it will be be halted within days.

Russian Light cruiser Voroshilov bombards Axis positions near Feodossija, Crimea, and is damaged by German naval mines.

French merchant and warships are to be sunk at once unless they have been especially reported as such. All Swedish ships not in Goeteborge traffic which are inside blockade area are to be sunk, after being stopped and after the crew has abandoned ship.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) is the first boat to put out equipped with F.A.T. torpedoes - put out to sea on 23 Nov. Boats at sea were instructed to act accordingly during combined attacks. Further equipping of boats follows according to yard capabilities.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sank a freighter (4,500 tons) on 28 November in KP 3742 with torpedoes and gun fire. Portuguese "Inharrime" sighted in the same area, her flag and insignia were not illuminated.

U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) on 27 November sank American new ship "Jeremia Wadsworth" 8,000 tons in JJ 2557 course 0°. Allegedly enroute from New Orleans to Bombay.

U 177 (Kptlt. Robert Gysae) situation since the last sinking the E. sector off Durban has been quiet for 5 days. Great deal of shipping seen from 30 - 50° over RP 8530. Standing sea patrols. Raider sunk on 28 November was steering 210 at 14 knots. According to statement of the crew voyage from Aden to Durban lasted 9 1/2 days. Medium enemy activity under way.

U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) had taken on 7 cubic meters from U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) and is sailing for "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U-Schnoor has supplied U 43 and U 106.

Due to departure of the Italian blockade runner, the N. section of route "Anton" was closed by order and on 30 November at 1200 the following limitations lifted: area to E. from 30° West and on 2 December to N. of 35° North.

The United States begin to ration coffee.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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, 29 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

British 2nd Parachute Battalion is dropped near Depienne airfield, Tunisia.

The Soviet Transcaucasus Front launches an offensive against our lines along the Terek River in the Caucasus region in southern Russia; it will be be halted within days.

Russian Light cruiser Voroshilov bombards Axis positions near Feodossija, Crimea, and is damaged by German naval mines.

French merchant and warships are to be sunk at once unless they have been especially reported as such. All Swedish ships not in Goeteborge traffic which are inside blockade area are to be sunk, after being stopped and after the crew has abandoned ship.

U 553 (KrvKpt. Karl Thurmann) is the first boat to put out equipped with F.A.T. torpedoes - put out to sea on 23 Nov. Boats at sea were instructed to act accordingly during combined attacks. Further equipping of boats follows according to yard capabilities.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sank a freighter (4,500 tons) on 28 November in KP 3742 with torpedoes and gun fire. Portuguese "Inharrime" sighted in the same area, her flag and insignia were not illuminated.

U 178 (IXD2; Kpt. Hans Ibbeken) on 27 November sank American new ship "Jeremia Wadsworth" 8,000 tons in JJ 2557 course 0°. Allegedly enroute from New Orleans to Bombay.

U 177 (Kptlt. Robert Gysae) situation since the last sinking the E. sector off Durban has been quiet for 5 days. Great deal of shipping seen from 30 - 50° over RP 8530. Standing sea patrols. Raider sunk on 28 November was steering 210 at 14 knots. According to statement of the crew voyage from Aden to Durban lasted 9 1/2 days. Medium enemy activity under way.

U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) had taken on 7 cubic meters from U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) and is sailing for "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U-Schnoor has supplied U 43 and U 106.

Due to departure of the Italian blockade runner, the N. section of route "Anton" was closed by order and on 30 November at 1200 the following limitations lifted: area to E. from 30° West and on 2 December to N. of 35° North.

The United States begin to ration coffee.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Monday, 30 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Luftwaffe VIII. Fliegerkorps is relieved of all its combat duties. Instead, its aircraft stationed across Rostov Oblast, Russia, are ordered to focus on flying supplies into Stalingrad.

British 2nd Parachute Battalion reaches high ground at Prise de L'Eau in Tunisia one day after having been dropped into the country.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) and U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) are underway to DJ 20. Boats have orders to carry out short surprise attacks against harbors of Mehdia, Casablanca, and Mazagan and to act according to enemy counter attacks. These harbors, according to most recent information are debarkation ports for troops and material.

U 663 - 623 - 445 are sailing to be supplied by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) in BD 7415. Combined activity is proposed with Group "Westwall" on the American - Gibraltar convoy routes.

U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) has supplied U 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 and 653.

"Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and U 505 (Kptlt. Peter Zschech) have met in DG 92 for transfer of anti-radar gear cable and a sick man.

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) has taken on pumps and nozzles from U 68 (KrvKpt. Karl-Friedrich Merten).

U 174 (FrgKpt. Ulrich Thilo) missed two shots on the C2 type ship as reported by U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) course 260°, speed 17 knots, heavily armed. Possible pistol failure.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sank Greek "Cleathis" 4,153 tons in KP 3525 with gunfire, ship was armed.

Attack on single ships along route "Anton" has been further prohibited as follows: From 2 December at 0000 N. of 35° N. from 4 December 0000 N. of 15° N. Complete prohibition is planned by about 8 December.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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, 30 November 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

Luftwaffe VIII. Fliegerkorps is relieved of all its combat duties. Instead, its aircraft stationed across Rostov Oblast, Russia, are ordered to focus on flying supplies into Stalingrad.

British 2nd Parachute Battalion reaches high ground at Prise de L'Eau in Tunisia one day after having been dropped into the country.

U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) and U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze) are underway to DJ 20. Boats have orders to carry out short surprise attacks against harbors of Mehdia, Casablanca, and Mazagan and to act according to enemy counter attacks. These harbors, according to most recent information are debarkation ports for troops and material.

U 663 - 623 - 445 are sailing to be supplied by "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) in BD 7415. Combined activity is proposed with Group "Westwall" on the American - Gibraltar convoy routes.

U 118 (XB; KrvKpt. Werner Czygan) has supplied U 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 and 653.

"Milkcow" U 461 (Kptlt. Wolf-Harro Stiebler) and U 505 (Kptlt. Peter Zschech) have met in DG 92 for transfer of anti-radar gear cable and a sick man.

U 513 (KrvKpt. Rolf Rüggeberg) has taken on pumps and nozzles from U 68 (KrvKpt. Karl-Friedrich Merten).

U 174 (FrgKpt. Ulrich Thilo) missed two shots on the C2 type ship as reported by U 172 (Kptlt. Carl Emmermann) course 260°, speed 17 knots, heavily armed. Possible pistol failure.

U 181 (IXD2; Kptlt. Wolfgang Lüth) sank Greek "Cleathis" 4,153 tons in KP 3525 with gunfire, ship was armed.

Attack on single ships along route "Anton" has been further prohibited as follows: From 2 December at 0000 N. of 35° N. from 4 December 0000 N. of 15° N. Complete prohibition is planned by about 8 December.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Tuesday, 1 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The "Grado" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, is attached to our Army units in Tunisia. Our 10th Panzer Division launches a counterattack in Tunisia, pushing back the British 11th Brigade. Meanwhile, British 2nd Parachute Brigade crosses Miliane River south of Oudna airfield and continues northwest toward El Fedja.

After supplying U 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 - 653 orders are to occupy the intended reconnaissance lines to cover the America - Gibraltar convoy traffic. U 106 has recently joined Group "Westwall". Boats received orders to patrol in reconnaissance channels from CE 1363 - CE 4966 on 3.12. at 0800, course W., daily reckoning 160 miles in the following order: U 106 - 103 - 130 - 515 - 155 - 91 - 185 - 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 and 653.

The verbal reports of the Captains of U 263 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) and U 613 (Kptlt. Helmut Köppe) completely back up the accuracy of the resolution to move westward from the Gibraltar area. Both Captains' reports are in agreement regarding the very strong and dangerous air patrols which forced boats to remain submerged for excessive lengths of time. The fact that both boats returned to W. France in spite of heavy damage is on the one side, due to the outstanding quality of German U-boats, on the other side, due to the aggressive and unshakeable character of the crews, especially the Captains. As long as such crews (both boats on 1st war cruise) come from the homeland, one need have no misgivings regarding the future of the U-boat war. Also if the war becomes more difficult, these men will meet it with still greater fortitude.
In spite of these difficult circumstances which made the operations of larger numbers of U-boats W. of Gibraltar useless, 2 have closed the Moroccan harbors, through use of U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) and U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze). The possibility to gain something by sending single boats close to the coast must at least be attempted.

(Signed): DÖNITZ.

Italian blockade runner "Cortelazzo" was attacked by an English cruiser in BE 8481 at 1600 and was scuttled by the crew. Returning boats received orders, as far as fuel situation allows, to proceed at high speed to scene of the action and to take the crew on board. The first 5 boats can be in position after about 26 hours - 3 more with course of the 3rd and three more in the morning of the 4th/12. A U-boat coming from the E. goes to meet a life boat sailing to Spain. On assembly the boats are to begin the search according to weather conditions and drift. It is intended to use 3 Condor (rec. planes) on the 2nd.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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, 1 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

The "Grado" Battalion of the "San Marco" naval infantry regiment of Italian Navy, is attached to our Army units in Tunisia. Our 10th Panzer Division launches a counterattack in Tunisia, pushing back the British 11th Brigade. Meanwhile, British 2nd Parachute Brigade crosses Miliane River south of Oudna airfield and continues northwest toward El Fedja.

After supplying U 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 - 653 orders are to occupy the intended reconnaissance lines to cover the America - Gibraltar convoy traffic. U 106 has recently joined Group "Westwall". Boats received orders to patrol in reconnaissance channels from CE 1363 - CE 4966 on 3.12. at 0800, course W., daily reckoning 160 miles in the following order: U 106 - 103 - 130 - 515 - 155 - 91 - 185 - 564 - 519 - 86 - 92 and 653.

The verbal reports of the Captains of U 263 (Kptlt. Kurt Nölke) and U 613 (Kptlt. Helmut Köppe) completely back up the accuracy of the resolution to move westward from the Gibraltar area. Both Captains' reports are in agreement regarding the very strong and dangerous air patrols which forced boats to remain submerged for excessive lengths of time. The fact that both boats returned to W. France in spite of heavy damage is on the one side, due to the outstanding quality of German U-boats, on the other side, due to the aggressive and unshakeable character of the crews, especially the Captains. As long as such crews (both boats on 1st war cruise) come from the homeland, one need have no misgivings regarding the future of the U-boat war. Also if the war becomes more difficult, these men will meet it with still greater fortitude.
In spite of these difficult circumstances which made the operations of larger numbers of U-boats W. of Gibraltar useless, 2 have closed the Moroccan harbors, through use of U 618 (Oblt. Kurt Baberg) and U 432 (Kptlt. Heinz-Otto Schultze). The possibility to gain something by sending single boats close to the coast must at least be attempted.

(Signed): DÖNITZ.

Italian blockade runner "Cortelazzo" was attacked by an English cruiser in BE 8481 at 1600 and was scuttled by the crew. Returning boats received orders, as far as fuel situation allows, to proceed at high speed to scene of the action and to take the crew on board. The first 5 boats can be in position after about 26 hours - 3 more with course of the 3rd and three more in the morning of the 4th/12. A U-boat coming from the E. goes to meet a life boat sailing to Spain. On assembly the boats are to begin the search according to weather conditions and drift. It is intended to use 3 Condor (rec. planes) on the 2nd.

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Wednesday, 2 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U-boat Success in November 1942.

1) U-boat success in November reached a new high and will probably mount to 900,000 T. The time has come to regard these results in a true light and to give propaganda proper guidance in this connection.

2) Merchant ship sinkings, losses and serious damage to U-boats, which will not be changed appreciably amount to: in N. Atlantic: 300,000 T. 5 lost, 1 badly damaged. Remainder of the Atlantic except Gibraltar area: 360,000 T. none lost, one heavily damaged. Gibraltar - Morocco area: 70,000 T., 3 lost, 5 badly damaged. Mediterranean: 100,000 T., 5 lost, 8 badly damaged. Arctic: 35,000 T. none lost or damaged.

3) The evaluation of these figures is as follows:
a) A good three quarters of the sinkings were in the open Atlantic a great preponderance at the beginning of the month, before the beginning of the African operation. Success fell off appreciably after withdrawal of boats for the Gibraltar area. As already reported in the opinion of B.d.U. the initial success in the Atlantic was conditioned by lack of counter measures in connection with the African landings.
Losses in the Atlantic maintained themselves in normal times, namely one boat for each 130,000 tons.
b) The success in operations against the enemy in the approaches to Africa west of Gibraltar-Morocco and in the Mediterranean comprise only one fifth of the total results. It must be pointed out that the firm position of the enemy at the time of the landing resulted in the heaviest losses, namely 1 boat for every 20,000 tons sunk and in addition a much higher percentage of boats heavily damaged. The losses in this area are therefore percentage wise more than six times as high as those in the entire Atlantic, about the North Atlantic. The average operational time of the 19 boats was only 8 days and of these boats none was in action 13 days after the beginning of the operation.
c) Results in the Arctic are of no numerical importance.

4) The outlook for December is unfavorable. According to the record month of November the smallest results are to be expected because:
a) The favorable conditions in the Atlantic cannot be taken advantage of because of withdrawal of boats to the Mediterranean and the Gibraltar-Morocco area.
b) In the Capetown area there are only 2 boats, which will probably have fired all their torpedoes in the course of the month.
c) The counter measures off Gibraltar in spite of aggressive operations, have succeeded and attacks in this area can expect only losses without the corresponding possibilities of success. That prospects in intercepting the enemy in the approaches are smaller, has already been reported.
d) Fewer targets can be expected in the Mediterranean after the first stream of shipping has ceased, the number of boats was raised 50% more during November and the defences remained the same.

5) Conclusions in brief:
a) Success in November have no connection with operations against African shipping. The prospects of these operations are meager. The opposition propaganda in the press will make false reports and will wreck damage in the long run.
b) After the record month of November, December must fall off perceptibly.

6) U-boat command and U-boats are ready and willing to fight under most difficult conditions. B.d.U. however, is of the opinion that the command must make a clear picture so that the relationship between losses and success is factual. The foregoing situation report alone serves this point.
The U-boat arm will also fight in the future under the most difficult conditions wherever they may be committed.

+++++++

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

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, 2 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U-boat Success in November 1942.

1) U-boat success in November reached a new high and will probably mount to 900,000 T. The time has come to regard these results in a true light and to give propaganda proper guidance in this connection.

2) Merchant ship sinkings, losses and serious damage to U-boats, which will not be changed appreciably amount to: in N. Atlantic: 300,000 T. 5 lost, 1 badly damaged. Remainder of the Atlantic except Gibraltar area: 360,000 T. none lost, one heavily damaged. Gibraltar - Morocco area: 70,000 T., 3 lost, 5 badly damaged. Mediterranean: 100,000 T., 5 lost, 8 badly damaged. Arctic: 35,000 T. none lost or damaged.

3) The evaluation of these figures is as follows:
a) A good three quarters of the sinkings were in the open Atlantic a great preponderance at the beginning of the month, before the beginning of the African operation. Success fell off appreciably after withdrawal of boats for the Gibraltar area. As already reported in the opinion of B.d.U. the initial success in the Atlantic was conditioned by lack of counter measures in connection with the African landings.
Losses in the Atlantic maintained themselves in normal times, namely one boat for each 130,000 tons.
b) The success in operations against the enemy in the approaches to Africa west of Gibraltar-Morocco and in the Mediterranean comprise only one fifth of the total results. It must be pointed out that the firm position of the enemy at the time of the landing resulted in the heaviest losses, namely 1 boat for every 20,000 tons sunk and in addition a much higher percentage of boats heavily damaged. The losses in this area are therefore percentage wise more than six times as high as those in the entire Atlantic, about the North Atlantic. The average operational time of the 19 boats was only 8 days and of these boats none was in action 13 days after the beginning of the operation.
c) Results in the Arctic are of no numerical importance.

4) The outlook for December is unfavorable. According to the record month of November the smallest results are to be expected because:
a) The favorable conditions in the Atlantic cannot be taken advantage of because of withdrawal of boats to the Mediterranean and the Gibraltar-Morocco area.
b) In the Capetown area there are only 2 boats, which will probably have fired all their torpedoes in the course of the month.
c) The counter measures off Gibraltar in spite of aggressive operations, have succeeded and attacks in this area can expect only losses without the corresponding possibilities of success. That prospects in intercepting the enemy in the approaches are smaller, has already been reported.
d) Fewer targets can be expected in the Mediterranean after the first stream of shipping has ceased, the number of boats was raised 50% more during November and the defences remained the same.

5) Conclusions in brief:
a) Success in November have no connection with operations against African shipping. The prospects of these operations are meager. The opposition propaganda in the press will make false reports and will wreck damage in the long run.
b) After the record month of November, December must fall off perceptibly.

6) U-boat command and U-boats are ready and willing to fight under most difficult conditions. B.d.U. however, is of the opinion that the command must make a clear picture so that the relationship between losses and success is factual. The foregoing situation report alone serves this point.
The U-boat arm will also fight in the future under the most difficult conditions wherever they may be committed.

+++++++

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes U.A.K.-Training at Kiel.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

+++++++

Thursday, 3 December 1942 - Gotenhafen-Oxhöft

Work-up's and Trials with the U.A.K. (Kpt.z.S.R. BRÄUTIGAM), the 2nd Training Division (U.L.D.; Freg.Kpt.d.R. Ernst HASSHAGEN) and 22nd U-Flotilla (Korvkpt. Wilhelm Ambrosius):

Dry-Run Exercises with Machinery/Mechanics; Weapons; Torpedoes.

+++++++

U-boats early December 1942.

I. In service on 1 November 1942: 368
In service in November: 23
Subtotal1: 391
Lost in November: 15
Temporarily out of order: 1
Subtotal2: 375
Foreign U-boats: 7
Total: 382

Losses in November:
Atlantic 3 (98, 411, 173)
Otherwise in Atlantic 5 (132, 658, 520, 184, 517)
Mediterranean 6 (660, 605, 595, 559, 331, 259)
In Training 1 (272)

Consisting of:
Type VIIC:
U 98 Eichmann. Experienced boat. New Commander. Middle of November W. of Gibraltar. No information.
U 132 Vogelsang. Veteran boat. At the beginning of November in action with a convoy in N. Atlantic.
U 259 Köpke. Second trip. Middle November. Mediterranean.
U 272 Hepp. On 12.11. during training in the Baltic. Rammed and sunk.
U 411 Spindlegger. Second trip. New Commander. In the middle of November W. of Gibraltar.
U 559 Heidtmann. Veteran boat. At the end of October in Eastern Mediterranean. Part of the crew taken prisoner.
U 595 Quaet - Faslem. Second trip. Bombed in the middle of the Mediterranean, later presumably scuttled off the coast of Africa. Part of crew taken prisoner.
U 605 Schutze. Second trip. Middle of November. Mediterranean.
U 658 Senkl. Second trip. Last message 20.11. May have been lost to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 660 Baur. Second trip. Middle of November. In Mediterranean. Crew for the most part taken prisoner.
U 331 von Tiesenhausen. Middle of November. Mediterranean.

Type IXC
U 173 Schweichel. Second Trip. New Commander. Middle of November. West of Gibraltar.
U 184 Dangschat. First trip, experienced Commander. Middle of November to convoy in North Atlantic.
U 517 Hatwig. Second trip. On outward voyage west of Biscay. Air attack.
U 520 Schwarzkopf. First trip. Last message 27.10. E. of Newfoundland.

By far the most sinkings can presumably be attributed to air attacks.

II. Distribution:
In action : 203
On trials: 110
In training: 62
Total: 375

III. In November (without foreign boats):
Total added +7
Number of boats in action deducted -4
Number of trial boats added + 11

IV. Number of boats in action on 1 December 1942:

Atlantic (without foreign boats) 154 plus 2 foreign boats.
Mediterranean (including 4 proceeding from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean 24
the North Sea 23
Black Sea 2

The number of boats in action in the Atlantic has decreased to 6, owing to losses and boats being sent to the Mediterranean.

V. Number of boats in the Atlantic in November:
On an average, at sea during the day 94.9 boats
Of these, in the Op. area 38.2 boats
Of these, outward bound 56.7 boats
Of these, returning to base 24.5 boats

VI. Number of boats which put out in November:
From home bases 11 boats.
From Western France 42 boats.

+++++++

U 648 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts an 8h A.K. cruise to Saßnitz. At 1700, the U.A.K. representative disembarks.

RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115