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 ...

++++++

- continued from 5 April, 1202h -

1214 - Qu.6177BF - Diving from 3 pairs of twin-engine bombers approaching on course south from 10°true, E=14000.

1218 - At A-20 heard bomb impacts and sinking noises.
Boat remains submerged, depth under keel is 45m.
In relative bearing of 33°, sound contact with a steamer on a westerly heading, E=21000.

1254 - Surfaced after 40min. and 2.0sm.
Nothing seen of the Blockade Runner.

(In the external view it could be seen, that the blockade runner was bombed and consequently sunk by the airplanes without firing a single shot from her Flak guns or any other gun. The submerged boat, barely missed the broken in half blockade runner, her stern sticking straight up from the ocean floor.)

1257 - Right after surfacing, the boat has to dive again from 2 pair of Hurricane fighters, approaching on course south from 5°true, E=14000.

1304 - At A-20 no bombs.

1312 - Surfaced after 15min. and 0.7sm.
Leaving area on ordered outbound transit path at 2xH.F.

1330 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
At 1214h in Qu.6177BF, diving from 3 pair of twin-engine bombers. Heard bomb impacts and sinking sounds. After surfacing at 1254h had to dive again from 2 pair of Fighters. Nothing seen of blockade runner. Current position Qu.5299BF. Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.Orders. - RST -

1339 - Right after sending the F.T., boat has to dive from 2 pair of Hurricane fighters, approaching on course south from 20°true, E=14000, crossing our stern at a distance of 6000m.

1341 - At A-20 no bombs. Depth under keel is 46m.

1354 - Surfaced after 15min and 0.9sm.
Leaving area on ordered outbound transit path at 2xH.F.

1403 - Incoming F.T.: From U 505:
Status report: Medium amount of traffic from and to east and south round Cape Palmas, much dispersed, at a distance of 150 sea miles. On 28 march, A/C bombs in ET 9152. D/C hunt on 29 March. Successes: 3 April, in EU 9781, 2 hits on escorted freighter "Westermore", 5775ts, probably sunk. On 4 April, in FF 2245, "Alpacca", 5759ts. Total: 25454ts. - Loewe -

1412 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Message received. Continue outbound voyage as ordered. - B.d.U. -

1801 - Norddeich Radio sending a report about air raids of the Luftwaffe on the harbour of Leningrad: 62 Ju87 Stuka dive bombers and 70 other bombers escorted by 59 Me109 fighters attacked the Soviet fleet at Kronstadt near Leningrad, in the afternoon, damaging battleships "October Revolution" and "Petropavlovsk", Cruisers "Maxim Gorky" and "Kirov", and Destroyers "Silny" and "Grozyashchi". After dark, He111 bombers, some of which had participated in the Kronstadt attack in the afternoon, bombed Leningrad.

1835 - Sundown. N1/1, partly cloudy, good visibility, >1000mb.

2045 - Point "Tanne". Diving for trial dive according B.d.U.-Standing Order 507, 135rpm, 3kn.

2110 - Boat is safe and secure at 2A-Meter. Setting Reception Depth.

2128 - Submerged cruise at T=19, 135rpm/3kn.

2233 - O₂ = 20%.

2400 - Evaded Area 1, between 47° N - 5° 30' W, Qu.BF5463, according Op-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Monday, 6 April 1942 - Bay of Biscay -

0213 - O₂ = 19%.

0540 - Sunrise.

0553 - O₂ = 18%.

0655 - S-Tiefe. Weather and Sea appear unchanged.

0700 - Surfaced after 10h 15' and 29.8sm.
Weather/Sea: SE1/1, partly cloudy, visibility 7-8sm, >1000mb.

0705 - Boat ventilated. 1/3-Ahead.

0710 - 2xHalf-Ahead.

0733 - QU.5433BF - "Surface Vessel!". The reported armed spanish merchant escorted by a corvette, relative bearing 346°, E=14000, on course 21°, slow speed. Evaded on surface.

0802 - Incoming F.T.: From U 552:
Situation report US-East Coast: Heavy traffic around Cape Henry and Cape Lookout, as of Cape Hatteras on courses from SE-SSE, patrolled by destroyers. Valuable coastal traffic protected by escorts. - Topp -

1200 - Qu.5478BF - Days Run: 202.5sm - ↗ 169.1sm (12h 35') - ↘ 33.4sm (11h 25').
233cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 7900Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 244°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700h.

1658 - Qu.4955BF -

1841 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700h.

2100 - On course 250°.

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 ...

++++++

Monday, 6 April 1942 - Bay of Biscay -

0213 - O₂ = 19%.

0540 - Sunrise.

0553 - O₂ = 18%.

0655 - S-Tiefe. Weather and Sea appear unchanged.

0700 - Surfaced after 10h 15' and 29.8sm.
Weather/Sea: SE1/1, partly cloudy, visibility 7-8sm, >1000mb.

0705 - Boat ventilated. 1/3-Ahead.

0710 - 2xHalf-Ahead.

0733 - QU.5433BF - "Surface Vessel!". The reported armed spanish merchant escorted by a corvette, relative bearing 346°, E=14000, on course 21°, slow speed. Evaded on surface.

0802 - Incoming F.T.: From U 552:
Situation report US-East Coast: Heavy traffic around Cape Henry and Cape Lookout, as of Cape Hatteras on courses from SE-SSE, patrolled by destroyers. Valuable coastal traffic protected by escorts. - Topp -

1200 - Qu.5478BF - Days Run: 202.5sm - ↗ 169.1sm (12h 35') - ↘ 33.4sm (11h 25').
233cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 7900Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 244°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700h.

1658 - Qu.4955BF -

1841 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 0700h.

2100 - On course 250°.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Tuesday, 7 April 1942 - Bay of Biscay -

0044 - Qu.7238BF - The reported inbound spanish merchant on an easterly heading, relative bearing 265°, E=14000.

0251 - Qu.7255BF - On new course 233°.

0440 - Morning Dawn.

0505 - Qu.7275BF - The reported inbound armed portuguese merchant, in relative bearing 356°, E=8500, on course 27°, slow speed. Evaded on surface.

0553 - Qu.7278BF - "ALARM!". Diving from a single Catalina in 20°true, on course SW, E=8000.

0558 - At A-Meter no bombs.

Cmdr.: Did the Portuguese see us after all and report our position to the enemy!

0600 - Sunrise.

0614 - At Reception Depth.

0618 - Surfaced after 25min. and 1.4sm.
Weather and Sea unchange since 6 April, 0700h.

1025 - Qu.7455BF - Back to course 233°.

1200 - Qu.7473BF - Days Run: 333.7sm - ↗ 332.3sm (23h 35') - ↘ 1.4sm (0h 25').
219cbm (14cbm/24h). Battery 7700Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 6 April, 0700h.

1215 - Charging batteries:
- Port Diesel, Propulsion, 396RPM/11kn
- Stbd.-Diesel, Charging, 496RPM.

1420 - On course 239°. Batteries charged => 2h 05' for 2300Ah. 2x325RPM/11kn (is still 1/3-Ahead).

1853 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchange since 6 April, 0700h.

1920 - Qu.9955BE - On new course 248°.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[patfly]

Patrol #16, U-47 (don't ask me). 7th Flot.
Departed St Nazaire Jul 28 1941.
Orders: Patrol AM14.
Made best economy speed to area, with horrible weather the entire passage.
Completed order requirements, and decided to return to better area in BF 13.
Weather still preventing use of deck gun, but still holding about 70% fuel and 11 torps, so we continue on...
Crew is threatening to cook the cook.
1 small merchant, 2 Coastals,and 1 C-3 to score
so far.

Moving to North end of BF-13 to try for better luck.

Log entry date Aug 14 1941

Still in my trusty 7B, holding every pfennig for the XXI later, while getting the crew smarted up.

[patfly]

Hit and disabled a C2, boarded for food and Intel, than had to put 2 more eels into it to sin it. This is getting depressing.

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

++++++

Tuesday, 7 April 1942 - Bay of Biscay -

0044 - Qu.7238BF - The reported inbound spanish merchant on an easterly heading, relative bearing 265°, E=14000.

0251 - Qu.7255BF - On new course 233°.

0440 - Morning Dawn.

0505 - Qu.7275BF - The reported inbound armed portuguese merchant, in relative bearing 356°, E=8500, on course 27°, slow speed. Evaded on surface.

0553 - Qu.7278BF - "ALARM!". Diving from a single Catalina in 20°true, on course SW, E=8000.

0558 - At A-Meter no bombs.

Cmdr.: Did the Portuguese see us after all and report our position to the enemy!

0600 - Sunrise.

0614 - At Reception Depth.

0618 - Surfaced after 25min. and 1.4sm.
Weather and Sea unchange since 6 April, 0700h.

1025 - Qu.7455BF - Back to course 233°.

1200 - Qu.7473BF - Days Run: 333.7sm - ↗ 332.3sm (23h 35') - ↘ 1.4sm (0h 25').
219cbm (14cbm/24h). Battery 7700Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 6 April, 0700h.

1215 - Charging batteries:
- Port Diesel, Propulsion, 396RPM/11kn
- Stbd.-Diesel, Charging, 496RPM.

1420 - On course 239°. Batteries charged => 2h 05' for 2300Ah. 2x325RPM/11kn (is still 1/3-Ahead).

1853 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchange since 6 April, 0700h.

1920 - Qu.9955BE - On new course 248°.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Wednesday, 8 April 1942 - West of Cape Finisterre -

0401 - Incoming F.T.: From U 252:
Operation "Dana" carried out. Have disembarked agent (Ib Riis) on Iceland. North coast of Iceland free of ice, ice boundary in AD 2911. Freighter 2000 BRT sunk in AE 4112. Continuing patrol. - Lerchen -

0455 - Morning Dawn.

0614 - Sunrise. SSE1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0920 - Qu.1155CG - On new course 233°.

1002 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
To all boats: The italian ships Saturnia and Vulcania, are under an agreement with the English, Axis Powers and the International Red Cross, for the purpose of repatriation of Italian civilian colonist interned by the British in former Italian East African colonies, steaming to British Somaliland. In accordance with the agreement and Red Cross requirements both ships will be painted white, with red crosses on the sides and blue disks with white crosses on the funnel, and will be illuminated brightly at night. Saturina has departed Trieste on 4 April, and has joined Vulcania, on 6 April, south of Majorca. The ships cleared Gibraltar today and will travel to São Vicente, Cape Verde for refueling on 12 April. On route they will make a stop at Port Elizabeth, and are scheduled to reach to Berbera on 5 May. - B.d.U. -

1120 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Have crossed 15°W. Switching to Atlantic-Circuit. Passed neutral steamers as reported. On 7 April, at 0553h, in Qu.7278BF, Alarm from a single Catalina, approaching from 20°true, no bombs. Current position Qu.1173CG. 213cbm. 22 eels. NW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb. Continuing outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.1175CG - Days Run: 270.3sm - (↗ 24h).
213cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

1221 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Message received. Continue acc. Op.-Order. - B.d.U. -

1610 - Incoming Ship Contact Report:
Current position Qu.3386CF, on course North, fast speed.

Boat is continuing outbound voyage, as ship is moving away.

1752 - Qu.3655CF - On new course 249°.

1905 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

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 ...

++++++

Wednesday, 8 April 1942 - West of Cape Finisterre -

0401 - Incoming F.T.: From U 252:
Operation "Dana" carried out. Have disembarked agent (Ib Riis) on Iceland. North coast of Iceland free of ice, ice boundary in AD 2911. Freighter 2000 BRT sunk in AE 4112. Continuing patrol. - Lerchen -

0455 - Morning Dawn.

0614 - Sunrise. SSE1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0920 - Qu.1155CG - On new course 233°.

1002 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
To all boats: The italian ships Saturnia and Vulcania, are under an agreement with the English, Axis Powers and the International Red Cross, for the purpose of repatriation of Italian civilian colonist interned by the British in former Italian East African colonies, steaming to British Somaliland. In accordance with the agreement and Red Cross requirements both ships will be painted white, with red crosses on the sides and blue disks with white crosses on the funnel, and will be illuminated brightly at night. Saturina has departed Trieste on 4 April, and has joined Vulcania, on 6 April, south of Majorca. The ships cleared Gibraltar today and will travel to São Vicente, Cape Verde for refueling on 12 April. On route they will make a stop at Port Elizabeth, and are scheduled to reach to Berbera on 5 May. - B.d.U. -

1120 - Outgoing F.T.: To B.d.U.:
Have crossed 15°W. Switching to Atlantic-Circuit. Passed neutral steamers as reported. On 7 April, at 0553h, in Qu.7278BF, Alarm from a single Catalina, approaching from 20°true, no bombs. Current position Qu.1173CG. 213cbm. 22 eels. NW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb. Continuing outbound transit. - RST -

1200 - Qu.1175CG - Days Run: 270.3sm - (↗ 24h).
213cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

1221 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
RST: Message received. Continue acc. Op.-Order. - B.d.U. -

1610 - Incoming Ship Contact Report:
Current position Qu.3386CF, on course North, fast speed.

Boat is continuing outbound voyage, as ship is moving away.

1752 - Qu.3655CF - On new course 249°.

1905 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

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 April 1942 - West of Portugal -

0510 - Morning Dawn.

0627 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since 8 April, 1120h.

0822 - Qu.3755CF -

1200 - Qu.2993CF - Days Run: 271.3sm - (↗ 24h).
206cbm (7cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 249°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

1802 - Norddeich Radio sending a lenghty radio report about the Battle of Suursaari, which was fought over the frozen Gulf of Finland on and around the islands of Gogland (Finnish: Suursaari) and Bolshoy Tyuters (Finnish: Suur-Tytärsaari): Determined to retake Gogland, the Finns concentrated a three battalion strong force to the nearby Haapasaaret Islands, which are roughly 20 km NNE of Gogland. Finnish forces were under command of Major General Aaro Pajari and consisted of the second battalion of the 6th Infantry Regiment, or II/JR 6, and the first battalion of the 27th Infantry Regiment, or I/JR 27, and the whole of the 2nd Coastal Battalion (RP 2) supported by the mortar and anti-tank gun companies of the 6th Infantry Regiment, 3rd company of the 23rd Engineer Battalion, 1st Battalion of the 19th Field Artillery Regiment (total of 12 guns), and two artillery batteries (total of 8 guns). The strength of the Soviet garrison was roughly 500 men but it lacked artillery, which meant that the garrison had to fight without support, while the Finns had artillery and air support.

Prior to the attack Finnish forces opened two roads over the ice to the island's vicinity. Assault troops rode in trucks as far as they could, then, in the pre-dawn hours of March 27, traveled the last five kilometers over the packed ice on skis. At 04:00 on 27 March 1942, Finnish artillery began bombarding known Soviet strongpoints on Gogland. Finnish forces successfully overcame most of the Soviet defenders and captured key locations on the island. Fatigue from the long march to the island, enemy resistance, and difficult terrain forced the Finns to halt their assault at 22:00, at which time the only remaining Soviet strongpoints were in the extreme southern and northern tips of the island. During the night some of the Soviet forces still on the island chose to flee over the ice. The Finns resumed clearing the island the next morning. In many cases, defending Soviet forces refused to surrender and put up very stiff resistance, forcing the Finns to use satchel charges on Soviet positions. The last remaining Soviet strongpoints were taken on the morning of 29 March. Small numbers of Soviet troops escaped over the ice towards Moshchny Island (Finnish: Lavansaari), though the fleeing men suffered losses from repeated strafing runs by Finnish Air Force fighters.

On March 30, 1942, with Gogland secured, the Finns sent a small patrol to investigate Bolshoy Tyuters. A strong Soviet garrison forced the patrol to depart. A stronger force was sent to capture the island on April 1, and by the time the company-sized force reached the island the Russians had abandoned it. On the following day the Russians returned, and despite Finnish resistance, managed to create strongpoints on the island. With German support, Finnish troops eventually managed drive off the remaining Soviets.

On April 8, 1942, after the German troops had transported artillery to the Bolshoy Tyuters, the Soviets launched another attack. The assault force was estimated to have been roughly 1,200 men strong, but the heavy German artillery on the island and lack of cover on the frozen Gulf of Finland caused heavy casualties among the Soviets. After the attack had been repulsed, the Finns left the island to Germany.

1919 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 8 April, 1120h.

2254 - Qu.5255CF - On new course 233°.

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 April 1942 - West of Portugal -

0510 - Morning Dawn.

0627 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since 8 April, 1120h.

0822 - Qu.3755CF -

1200 - Qu.2993CF - Days Run: 271.3sm - (↗ 24h).
206cbm (7cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 249°. Weather and Sea unchanged since 1120h.

1802 - Norddeich Radio sending a lenghty radio report about the Battle of Suursaari, which was fought over the frozen Gulf of Finland on and around the islands of Gogland (Finnish: Suursaari) and Bolshoy Tyuters (Finnish: Suur-Tytärsaari): Determined to retake Gogland, the Finns concentrated a three battalion strong force to the nearby Haapasaaret Islands, which are roughly 20 km NNE of Gogland. Finnish forces were under command of Major General Aaro Pajari and consisted of the second battalion of the 6th Infantry Regiment, or II/JR 6, and the first battalion of the 27th Infantry Regiment, or I/JR 27, and the whole of the 2nd Coastal Battalion (RP 2) supported by the mortar and anti-tank gun companies of the 6th Infantry Regiment, 3rd company of the 23rd Engineer Battalion, 1st Battalion of the 19th Field Artillery Regiment (total of 12 guns), and two artillery batteries (total of 8 guns). The strength of the Soviet garrison was roughly 500 men but it lacked artillery, which meant that the garrison had to fight without support, while the Finns had artillery and air support.

Prior to the attack Finnish forces opened two roads over the ice to the island's vicinity. Assault troops rode in trucks as far as they could, then, in the pre-dawn hours of March 27, traveled the last five kilometers over the packed ice on skis. At 04:00 on 27 March 1942, Finnish artillery began bombarding known Soviet strongpoints on Gogland. Finnish forces successfully overcame most of the Soviet defenders and captured key locations on the island. Fatigue from the long march to the island, enemy resistance, and difficult terrain forced the Finns to halt their assault at 22:00, at which time the only remaining Soviet strongpoints were in the extreme southern and northern tips of the island. During the night some of the Soviet forces still on the island chose to flee over the ice. The Finns resumed clearing the island the next morning. In many cases, defending Soviet forces refused to surrender and put up very stiff resistance, forcing the Finns to use satchel charges on Soviet positions. The last remaining Soviet strongpoints were taken on the morning of 29 March. Small numbers of Soviet troops escaped over the ice towards Moshchny Island (Finnish: Lavansaari), though the fleeing men suffered losses from repeated strafing runs by Finnish Air Force fighters.

On March 30, 1942, with Gogland secured, the Finns sent a small patrol to investigate Bolshoy Tyuters. A strong Soviet garrison forced the patrol to depart. A stronger force was sent to capture the island on April 1, and by the time the company-sized force reached the island the Russians had abandoned it. On the following day the Russians returned, and despite Finnish resistance, managed to create strongpoints on the island. With German support, Finnish troops eventually managed drive off the remaining Soviets.

On April 8, 1942, after the German troops had transported artillery to the Bolshoy Tyuters, the Soviets launched another attack. The assault force was estimated to have been roughly 1,200 men strong, but the heavy German artillery on the island and lack of cover on the frozen Gulf of Finland caused heavy casualties among the Soviets. After the attack had been repulsed, the Finns left the island to Germany.

1919 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since 8 April, 1120h.

2254 - Qu.5255CF - On new course 233°.

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 April 1942 - East of the Azores -

0525 - Morning Dawn.

0601 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
According to Uboat Commander reports, the listening conditions in the shallow waters of the US-East coast are bad, which has resulted in boats missing promising sinking opportunities. All boats are advised to also frequently observe the area by periscope. - B.d.U. -

0640 - Sunrise. WNW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0723 - Qu.5455CF - On new course 250°.

1200 - Qu.4695CF - Days Run: 271.3sm - (↗ 24h).
198cbm (8cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 250°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1933 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

2217 - Qu.4866CF - On new course 235°.

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 April 1942 - East of the Azores -

0525 - Morning Dawn.

0601 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
According to Uboat Commander reports, the listening conditions in the shallow waters of the US-East coast are bad, which has resulted in boats missing promising sinking opportunities. All boats are advised to also frequently observe the area by periscope. - B.d.U. -

0640 - Sunrise. WNW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0723 - Qu.5455CF - On new course 250°.

1200 - Qu.4695CF - Days Run: 271.3sm - (↗ 24h).
198cbm (8cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 250°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1933 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

2217 - Qu.4866CF - On new course 235°.

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 April 1942 - The Azores -

0043 - Incoming F.T.: From U 160:
Situation report: Passenger freighter type "Antinore", 11370ts sunk (probably "Ulysses", 14400ts). Left sinking after 3 hits, owing to A/C. Marqu.DC 1259. Starting return passage. - Lassen -

0545 - Morning dawn.

0700 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0630 - Santa Maria 7.5sm to our port beam. Taking Navigational Fix from Vial do Porto.

1200 - Qu.9533CE - Days Run: 271.8sm - (↗ 24h).
193cbm (5cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 235°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April.

1401 - Norddeich Radio sending O.K.W. report about Kptlt. Erich Topp (U 552) being awarded today with the Oak Leaves to the Knights Cross.

1944 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April.

2205 - Qu.9455CE - On new course 233°.

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 ...

++++++

Saturday, 11 April 1942 - The Azores -

0043 - Incoming F.T.: From U 160:
Situation report: Passenger freighter type "Antinore", 11370ts sunk (probably "Ulysses", 14400ts). Left sinking after 3 hits, owing to A/C. Marqu.DC 1259. Starting return passage. - Lassen -

0545 - Morning dawn.

0700 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

0630 - Santa Maria 7.5sm to our port beam. Taking Navigational Fix from Vial do Porto.

1200 - Qu.9533CE - Days Run: 271.8sm - (↗ 24h).
193cbm (5cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 235°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April.

1401 - Norddeich Radio sending O.K.W. report about Kptlt. Erich Topp (U 552) being awarded today with the Oak Leaves to the Knights Cross.

1944 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April.

2205 - Qu.9455CE - On new course 233°.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Sunday, 12 April 1942 - South of the Azores -

- First week at sea completed -

0545 - Breakfast for the Port-Machine-Watch.

0600 - Morning Dawn. Port Machine-Watch on duty. Wake-Up and Morning Wash of remaining crew.

0630 - Breakfast for the remaining crew.

0638 - Qu.8955CE.

0700 - Swap-the-Decks for the Off-Watch.

0715 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

0845 - Daily work routine for the Off-Watch.

1200 - Qu.2136DG - Days Run: 271.9sm - (↗ 24h).
185cbm (8cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April. Lunch-Break.

1300 - Daily work routine for the Off-Watch.

1512 - Qu.2155DG - On new course 250°.

1715 - Dinner for the crew.

1800 - Port Machine-Watch on duty.

1955 - Sundown. SW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2100 - Lights-Out for the Off-Watch.

2340 - Wake-Up for the Stbd.-Machine-Watch and the 1st Sea-Watch.

2400 - "Mittelwächter": Mid-Night Coffee for the Watch on Duty.

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 ...

++++++

Sunday, 12 April 1942 - South of the Azores -

- First week at sea completed -

0545 - Breakfast for the Port-Machine-Watch.

0600 - Morning Dawn. Port Machine-Watch on duty. Wake-Up and Morning Wash of remaining crew.

0630 - Breakfast for the remaining crew.

0638 - Qu.8955CE.

0700 - Swap-the-Decks for the Off-Watch.

0715 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

0845 - Daily work routine for the Off-Watch.

1200 - Qu.2136DG - Days Run: 271.9sm - (↗ 24h).
185cbm (8cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 10 April. Lunch-Break.

1300 - Daily work routine for the Off-Watch.

1512 - Qu.2155DG - On new course 250°.

1715 - Dinner for the crew.

1800 - Port Machine-Watch on duty.

1955 - Sundown. SW1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

2100 - Lights-Out for the Off-Watch.

2340 - Wake-Up for the Stbd.-Machine-Watch and the 1st Sea-Watch.

2400 - "Mittelwächter": Mid-Night Coffee for the Watch on Duty.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Monday, 13 April 1942 - Southwest of the Azores -

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From U 123:
Seven tankers for whom the bell tolls. The U-boat trap sank slower. Two freighters lay with them on bottom. Sunk by the Drumbeater!". Commenced return journey! - Hardegen -

0555 - Qu.1555DG - On new course 233°.

0620 - Morning Dawn.

0729 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1146 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Hardegen: Bravo! This was a beat of the drum as well. - B.d.U. -

1200 - Qu.1735DG - Days Run: 271.6sm - (↗ 24h).
179cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1430 - Qu.1755DG - On new course 250°.

2009 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

[Kapt Z]

Originally Posted by Kapt Z

Kptlt. Kurt Huter, KC(OL/SW)
7 patrols
01AUG39-12NOV40
34 merchant vessels sunk
5 warships sunk
2 aux cruisers, HMS Derbyshire, Mooltan
2 cruisers, HMS Sheffield, Bonaventure
1 battleship, HMS Ramillies
Total tonnage 269,748

Kptlt. Paul Lieb, KC(OL)
6 patrols
01DEC40-14OCT41
30 merchant vessels sunk
Total tonnage 169,718

U-45 withdrawn from front line service and transferred to 5th Flotilla as instructional boat

01NOV41
New type VIIC to continue the story...

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

++++++

Monday, 13 April 1942 - Southwest of the Azores -

0501 - Incoming F.T.: From U 123:
Seven tankers for whom the bell tolls. The U-boat trap sank slower. Two freighters lay with them on bottom. Sunk by the Drumbeater!". Commenced return journey! - Hardegen -

0555 - Qu.1555DG - On new course 233°.

0620 - Morning Dawn.

0729 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1146 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
Hardegen: Bravo! This was a beat of the drum as well. - B.d.U. -

1200 - Qu.1735DG - Days Run: 271.6sm - (↗ 24h).
179cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1430 - Qu.1755DG - On new course 250°.

2009 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Tuesday, 14 April 1942 - West of the Canary Islands -

0030 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 108 and U 333:
Scholtz will be first supply from U-Tanker U 459, on 18 April, in CC 5555, and will operate in Florida Straits area after supplying. Cremer will be second supply out of U 459, on 19 April, in CC 5743. - B.d.U. -

0511 - Qu.6255DF - On new course 233°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0745 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1200 - Qu.6437DF - Days Run: 271.6sm - (↗ 24h).
173cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1202 - First position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

1313 - Incoming F.T.: From U 590:
Position Bay of Biscay: Fairly heavy damage from A/C bomb hits in BE 3953. Can be repaired with onboard supplies. Will continue return voyage after repairs. - Müller-Edzards -

1345 - Qu.6455DF - On new course 250°.

2021 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

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 ...

++++++

Tuesday, 14 April 1942 - West of the Canary Islands -

0030 - F.T. from B.d.U.: To U 108 and U 333:
Scholtz will be first supply from U-Tanker U 459, on 18 April, in CC 5555, and will operate in Florida Straits area after supplying. Cremer will be second supply out of U 459, on 19 April, in CC 5743. - B.d.U. -

0511 - Qu.6255DF - On new course 233°.

0640 - Morning Dawn.

0745 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1200 - Qu.6437DF - Days Run: 271.6sm - (↗ 24h).
173cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sundown, 12 April.

1202 - First position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

1313 - Incoming F.T.: From U 590:
Position Bay of Biscay: Fairly heavy damage from A/C bomb hits in BE 3953. Can be repaired with onboard supplies. Will continue return voyage after repairs. - Müller-Edzards -

1345 - Qu.6455DF - On new course 250°.

2021 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged in 48h.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.

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

++++++

Wednesday, 15 April 1942 - Atlantic Ocean -

0428 - Qu.5855DF - On newcourse 233°.

0411 - Incoming F.T.: From U 109:
Current postion Qu.CC75, 128cbm, NW4/3, 1033mb. Dark, clear night. Plan to go to Qu.DB60. - Bleichrodt -

0655 - Morning Dawn.

0800 - Sunrise. SE1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0801 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
To all boats: Naval Technology Command informed that upon return to base, new S-Geräte (Sonar) are availbale and can installed in the boats.

1200 - Qu.8153DF - Days Run: 271.4sm - (↗ 24h).
166cbm (7cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1201 - Second position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

1302 - Qu.8155DF - On new course 250°.

1801 - Norddeich Radio sending O.K.W. report about fighting at the Eastern Front: After long fighting south of Vyazma, the remnants of the soviet 33rd Army have been destroyed.

2035 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

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 ...

++++++

Wednesday, 15 April 1942 - Atlantic Ocean -

0428 - Qu.5855DF - On newcourse 233°.

0411 - Incoming F.T.: From U 109:
Current postion Qu.CC75, 128cbm, NW4/3, 1033mb. Dark, clear night. Plan to go to Qu.DB60. - Bleichrodt -

0655 - Morning Dawn.

0800 - Sunrise. SE1/1, clear, light haze, good visibility, >1000mb.

0801 - Incoming F.T.: From B.d.U.:
To all boats: Naval Technology Command informed that upon return to base, new S-Geräte (Sonar) are availbale and can installed in the boats.

1200 - Qu.8153DF - Days Run: 271.4sm - (↗ 24h).
166cbm (7cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

1201 - Second position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

1302 - Qu.8155DF - On new course 250°.

1801 - Norddeich Radio sending O.K.W. report about fighting at the Eastern Front: After long fighting south of Vyazma, the remnants of the soviet 33rd Army have been destroyed.

2035 - Sundown. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise.

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, 16 April 1942 - Atlantic Ocean -

0345 - Qu.7555DF - On new course 233°.

0710 - Morning Dawn.

0815 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

1200 - Qu.7755DF - Days Run: 271.5sm - (↗ 24h).
160cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 15 April.

1201 - Third position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

(U 85, VIIB, Oblt.Eberhard Greger, was the first "Paukenschlag" boat to be sunk, on 14 April 1942, off Cape Hatteras, in position 35.55N, 75.13W, by gunfire from the US destroyer USS Roper; 46 dead - all hands lost)

(U 252, VIIC, Kptlt.Kai Lerchen, was sunk at 2230hrs on 14 April 1942 in the North Atlantic south-west of Ireland, in position 47.00N, 18.14W, by depth charges from the British sloop HMS Stork and the British corvette HMS Vetch, 44 dead - all hands lost)

1220 - Qu.7755DF -

1635 - On new course 225°.

2015 - Qu.3255DQ -

2048 - Sundown. WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

- to be continued -

[Kapitän]

Originally Posted by Kapitän

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

++++++

Thursday, 16 April 1942 - Atlantic Ocean -

0345 - Qu.7555DF - On new course 233°.

0710 - Morning Dawn.

0815 - Sunrise. Weather and Sea unchanged in 24h.

1200 - Qu.7755DF - Days Run: 271.5sm - (↗ 24h).
160cbm (6cbm/24h). Battery 10000Ah. 14+8 torpedoes. On course 233°. Weather and Sea unchanged since Sunrise, 15 April.

1201 - Third position and status request for U 85 (Greger) and U 252 (Lerchen).

(U 85, VIIB, Oblt.Eberhard Greger, was the first "Paukenschlag" boat to be sunk, on 14 April 1942, off Cape Hatteras, in position 35.55N, 75.13W, by gunfire from the US destroyer USS Roper; 46 dead - all hands lost)

(U 252, VIIC, Kptlt.Kai Lerchen, was sunk at 2230hrs on 14 April 1942 in the North Atlantic south-west of Ireland, in position 47.00N, 18.14W, by depth charges from the British sloop HMS Stork and the British corvette HMS Vetch, 44 dead - all hands lost)

1220 - Qu.7755DF -

1635 - On new course 225°.

2015 - Qu.3255DQ -

2048 - Sundown. WNW1/1, clear, very good visibility, >1000mb.

- to be continued -

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

++++++

- continued from 16 April, 2048h -

2218 - Qu.3275DD - "Commander to Bridge! Surface Vessel!".
Two shadows in relative bearing 18°, E=9000, on course East.

Ships are identified as two unarmed Englishmen, in front a Large Tanker of 18192ts, draught 10.7m, and in back a Large Freighter of 7447ts, draught 8.7m. Both are fully laden and travel on course 90°, speed 6kn.

2225 - Going on course 180°, decks awash, 105RPM/2kn.

2230 - Preparing boat and fire-control apparatus for surface attack acc. Standing B.d.U.-Order No.302. "Battle Stations!".

2241 - Flooding tubes I&IV. 75RPM/1kn.

2258 - Qu.3275DQ - Salvo Shot with tubes I & IV: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 7.5m; Vt30; Angle of divergence 1.0°; Own course 180°; Own speed 1kn ahead; Shooter: Ltnt.z.S & I.W.O. Rainer SCHEUFLER.
Target ship: Large Tanker of 18192ts, draught 10.7m.
Target course 90°; Target distance 1300m; Target angle red87°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 347°.

Closing tubes I&IV. Flooding tubes II&III.

2259 - Qu.3275DQ - Salvo Shot with tubes II & III: G7e/G7H (K-b/AZ); Running depth 5.5m; Vt30; Angle of divergence 1.0°; Own course 180°; Own speed 1kn ahead; Shooter: Ltnt.z.S & I.W.O. Rainer SCHEUFLER.
Target ship: Large Freighter of 7447ts, draught 8.7m.
Target course 90°; Target distance 1300m; Target angle red72°; Target speed 6kn; Firing angle α 006°.

Closing tubes II&III.

Tube I is a hit underneath the forward bridge of the tanker, tube II hits the tanker but fails to detonate (pistol failure). The tanker continues on with a slight list to port and is sending SSS.

Tube II is a hit under the bridge of the Large Freighter, tube III is a hit amidships. The Freighter explodes over its entire length, breaks in two and sinks within 1min. Flames linger on the sea for minutes after the sinking.

2301 - Blowing tanks and manning deck gun (3rd Seawatch & I.W.O.).

2303 - Distance to tanker is 1200m. "Weapons Free!".
Firing 1 Star Shell over the tanker - no response.
Firing Explosive Shells along the water line.

2305 - After 12 shots and hits, the tanker catches fire, explodes and sinks on an even keel, 1-2 minutes later.
"Secure Weapons!".

At the sinking position of the Freighter nothing found but an oil patch. At the sinking position of the tanker, questioned and supplied 10 survivors in 3 boats.

2335 - Running off at high speed on course southwest. "Dismissed from Battle Stations!".

2343 - Compressed Air Supply filled.

Continuing outbound transit acc. Op.-Orders.

Cmdr.: 30 years ago today it was reported, that the day before, RMS Titanic had struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic and sank.

RST

Kptlt.&Cmdr.