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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Monday, 8 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Soviet troops capture Kursk.

Gefreiter Werner Wrangel of the Panzerjager Battalion 183, becomes the only person to be awarded the Iron Cross 2nd Class, Iron Cross 1st Class, and the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross at the same time.

Convoy No. 6 (SC.118):
The last report of this convoy was from U 402 (Kptlt. Freiherr Siegfried von Forstner) at 1100/8 in AL 5236. After that it was not sighted again. Boats were constantly forced to dive by strong air activity by land-based planes, and could not get ahead. The operation was nevertheless continued during the night 8/9, as there was a chance that the boats might come upon the convoy in the dark. But as it was not sighted again and no boat appeared to be in the vicinity, the boats were ordered to move away from the convoy by first light on the 9th, as air activity by land-based planes was likely to be very strong off the North Channel.
U 135 (Lt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) reported that she had been surprised by an aircraft that had 22 bombs. She reported further damage and broke off on the evening of the 8th. U 402 also had to break off prematurely owing to lack of fuel.
U 187 (Kptlt. Ralph Münnich), on her first enemy patrol, sighted the convoy (No. 6) at 1108/4/2 in BD 1199 and reported it again at 1144. Since then the boat has not replied to several signals. She may have been sunk by escort forces.

Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2):
Strong air activity continued. Ar 0800 U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) believed the convoy to be in DH 6864 according to hydrophone bearing. Contact was then lost and reestablished by U 202 (Kptlt. Günter Poser) at 1745 in DH 6667. Convoy was zig-zagging around 50°. Close escort of 2 aircraft.
Boats were ordered to haul as far ahead as possible during the day so as to be able to attack at night. Boats which could not reach the convoy before first light were to break off then and move away to the W. At 1902 the convoy was in DH 6666. Visibility deteriorated badly and contact was lost, and was only regained for a short time by U 87 (Kptlt. Joachim Berger) in DJ 4446 and at 0625 by U 264 (Oblt. Hartwig Looks) in DJ 4194. U 264 fired 3 single misses at a corvette and was then driven off. According to reports received later U 43 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Schwantke) fired a double miss at 800 meters with good data. U 521 (Kptlt. Klaus Heinrich Bargsten) attacked before first light on the 8th and sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT and a corvette in DH 6863 also torpedoed a freighter of 8,000 GRT, probably sunk. The operation was broken off at dawn as intended.
By then all boats had reported and moved away to the W. No boat was lost, damage was slight, so that all boats are still fit for operations.
2 ships totaling 18,000 GRT and a corvette were sunk. The operation has shown that extensive action in the area N. of the Canary Islands is no longer possible owing to strong air patrol by land-based aircraft (altogether 44 planes, according to radio interception).

According to observations from Ceuta and Tangier a convoy started to put to sea during the night as there are about 20 loaded ships with the convoy, this section may be destined for Casablanca. But there are also ships coming from Spain assembling there, which are presumably destined for England. On the assumption that at least a large section is going to England, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to form a new patrol line from CG 4652 to CF 9665. Order: U 125, 522, 511, 436, 442, 575, 381, 571, 620. The convoy is expected to arrive in the course of February 10th. Owing to low fuel stocks, this will probably be the Group's last operation, which they could only carry out on a homeward course.

U 706 (Kptlt. Alexander von Zitzewitz) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is starting her return passage.

U 217's (Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke) supply from U 504 (Kptlt. Wilhelm Luis) has so far been interrupted twice owing to bad weather. Both boats are now in DF 6456 with course 65°.

U 176 (Kptlt. Reiner Dierksen) has been ordered to take over 2 Metox sets from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) and deliver them to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) on her return passage.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.

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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, 9 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Soviet troops recapture Belgorod.

The first of seven Axis convoys left Italy with reinforcements bound for Tunisia. British aircraft from Malta, submarines, and minefields caused some losses.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) was attacked by aircraft in AL 5293 when surfacing and received 4 well-placed bombs. Considerable damage, ability to dive restricted. Return necessary after refueling from U-tanker.

U 752 (Kptlt. Karl-Ernst Schroeter) reported a large independently-routed ship in BE 1685, course 45°, speed 12 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sighted a solitary destroyer in CG 4861. No further contact was made with the enemy. According to our reckoning no convoy is expected at the moment.

Group "Nordsturm" is being dissolved. These boats will reinforce Group "Haudegen" and occupy the following positions, depth 40 miles: U 358 : AJ 78, U 186 : AJ 7972, U 223 : BC 1255, U 707 : BC 1384. U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) is returning owing to lack of fuel. According to a report from U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) there has been fog in this sea area for 3 days. As a depression is passing and visibility may be expected to improve, the boats have been left in their positions. A convoy can be expected to pass any time after today.

After operations against Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2) had been broken off, Group "Rochen" received orders to be in patrol line from DH 2333 to DH 5639, course 270, speed of advance 6 knots at 1200/11/2. Order: U 66 - 521 - 108 - 218 - 43 - 264 - 258 - 558 - 202 and 87.
The latter 5 boats are to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in about DH 45. Subsequently all boats will operate against America - North Africa convoy traffic.

A Chief Engineer has transshipped from U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) to U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen). U 183 and U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis) are to operate in the Windward Passage sea area. There have been no boats there for some time. They are to make for DN 60.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is returning.

U 609 and U 624 both operated against Convoy No. 6 (SC.118) and made contact. They last reported on 6.2. from AK 65 and on 7.2. from AK 66 respectively. It can therefore be assumed for certain that they were lost due to convoy escort or aircraft.

Shoe rationing are going into effect in the United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.

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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, 9 February 1943 - Stettin

Conducting tactical exercises and training together with U 648 (Stahl)*, with the 4th Training Flotilla (Freg.Kpt. Heinz FISCHER), Stettin and AGRU-Front, (Kvt.Kpt.-Ing. H. MÜLLER).

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Soviet troops recapture Belgorod.

The first of seven Axis convoys left Italy with reinforcements bound for Tunisia. British aircraft from Malta, submarines, and minefields caused some losses.

U 614 (Kptlt. Wolfgang Sträter) was attacked by aircraft in AL 5293 when surfacing and received 4 well-placed bombs. Considerable damage, ability to dive restricted. Return necessary after refueling from U-tanker.

U 752 (Kptlt. Karl-Ernst Schroeter) reported a large independently-routed ship in BE 1685, course 45°, speed 12 knots. Boat was ordered to attack.

U 442 (FrgKpt. Hans-Joachim Hesse) sighted a solitary destroyer in CG 4861. No further contact was made with the enemy. According to our reckoning no convoy is expected at the moment.

Group "Nordsturm" is being dissolved. These boats will reinforce Group "Haudegen" and occupy the following positions, depth 40 miles: U 358 : AJ 78, U 186 : AJ 7972, U 223 : BC 1255, U 707 : BC 1384. U 268 (Oblt. Ernst Heydemann) is returning owing to lack of fuel. According to a report from U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) there has been fog in this sea area for 3 days. As a depression is passing and visibility may be expected to improve, the boats have been left in their positions. A convoy can be expected to pass any time after today.

After operations against Convoy No. 7 (GIB.2) had been broken off, Group "Rochen" received orders to be in patrol line from DH 2333 to DH 5639, course 270, speed of advance 6 knots at 1200/11/2. Order: U 66 - 521 - 108 - 218 - 43 - 264 - 258 - 558 - 202 and 87.
The latter 5 boats are to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in about DH 45. Subsequently all boats will operate against America - North Africa convoy traffic.

A Chief Engineer has transshipped from U 183 (Korvkpt. Heinrich Schäfer) to U 105 (Oblt. Jürgen Nissen). U 183 and U 68 (Oblt. Albert Lauzemis) are to operate in the Windward Passage sea area. There have been no boats there for some time. They are to make for DN 60.

U 632 (Kptlt. Hans Karpf) has supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) and is returning.

U 609 and U 624 both operated against Convoy No. 6 (SC.118) and made contact. They last reported on 6.2. from AK 65 and on 7.2. from AK 66 respectively. It can therefore be assumed for certain that they were lost due to convoy escort or aircraft.

Shoe rationing are going into effect in the United States.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea, together with U 115 (RST)*.

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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, 10 February 1943 - Stettin

Concluding 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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Enemy reports depth charge attack by aircraft in DJ 3748 and torpedo report from an unidentified steamer from an area 10 miles S. of Cape Francis (Capetown).

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) tried several times to reach Peterhead in bad weather. There were constant location transmissions from AN 1633 onwards. Doubtful whether she was picked up. From 7.2. heard several explosions in the area by day.

So that there will be U-boats in the vicinity in case of an American and English invasion of Portugal, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to take up a new disposition W. of Lisbon. Attack areas, depth 60 miles: U 575 : CF 6626, U 571 : CF 6862, U 620 : CF 9345, U 436 : CG 4515, U 125 : CG 4624, U 5522 : CG 4718, U 511 : CG 4829, U 381 : CG 7165, U 422 : CG 7354. Several of these boats are already so short of fuel that they will have to return very soon and U 107, 103, 445, 569, 382 and 410 are intended to replace them and have been directed to CG 44.

"Milkcow" U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) has refueled U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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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Wednesday, 10 February 1943 - Stettin

Concluding 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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Enemy reports depth charge attack by aircraft in DJ 3748 and torpedo report from an unidentified steamer from an area 10 miles S. of Cape Francis (Capetown).

U 376 (Kptlt. Friedrich-Karl Marks) tried several times to reach Peterhead in bad weather. There were constant location transmissions from AN 1633 onwards. Doubtful whether she was picked up. From 7.2. heard several explosions in the area by day.

So that there will be U-boats in the vicinity in case of an American and English invasion of Portugal, Group "Delphin" has been ordered to take up a new disposition W. of Lisbon. Attack areas, depth 60 miles: U 575 : CF 6626, U 571 : CF 6862, U 620 : CF 9345, U 436 : CG 4515, U 125 : CG 4624, U 5522 : CG 4718, U 511 : CG 4829, U 381 : CG 7165, U 422 : CG 7354. Several of these boats are already so short of fuel that they will have to return very soon and U 107, 103, 445, 569, 382 and 410 are intended to replace them and have been directed to CG 44.

"Milkcow" U 465 (Kptlt. Heinz Wolf) has refueled U 266 (Kptlt. Ralf von Jessen) and U 413 (Kptlt. Gustav Poel).

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Thursday, 11 February 1943 - Danzig

Transferred to Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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General Dwight Eisenhower is selected to command the Allied forces in Europe.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening), on her way out, sighted several destroyers and small vessels in BE 9945. According to our reckoning, they probably belonged to a N-bound Gibraltar convoy and boats in favorable positions were ordered to make use of opportunities to attack. For reasons unknown, U 155 continued on her outward passage as soon as she had made her report. There is therefore no contact. As visibility is poor and there is strong air reconnaissance in this area a controlled operation of several boats does not seem promising, especially as there is at most one night left for attack.

U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) was observed in AJ 8489 by an independent destroyer, course 220°, high speed. She lost contact after surfacing.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) has requested squares EO and EP as attack area, because of an oil trace.

As no further reports were received from Group "Rochen", the operation was broken off at 1200. U 87, 202, 264, 558 and 258 are proceeding to DH 4755 to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan). The remaining boats will occupy the following attack areas for the time being: U 521 squares CF 76 and 84, U 108 : CF 79 and 87, U 66 : DH 11 and 12, U 218 : DH 14 and 15, U 43 : DH 17 and 18.

U 103 will occupy position CG 4624, U 107 CG 4515, depth 60 miles, as reliefs for U 125 and U 436 which are short of fuel. These boats will join Group "Delphin".

In order to intercept convoy traffic to and from England on the southern route a patrol line has been ordered which will leave AK 3784 for AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, speed 5 knots. Order U 529 - 468 - 377 - 225 - 653 - 628 - 623 - 621 - 753 - 332 and 92. These boats will form Group "Ritter"

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will start to supply in AK 8985 from today. 5 boats will refuel for return passage at economical speed, 4 boats for further operation on the northerly convoy route.

U 519 (Kptlt. Günther Eppen) has not reported since she sailed on 30.1. There have been several attack reports in BF and BE during the last few days and she may have been sunk by English aircraft. Her loss must be presumed.

Ryan Aeronautical receives a US Navy contract to build three piston-jet mix-powered prototype fighters.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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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Thursday, 11 February 1943 - Danzig

Transferred to Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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General Dwight Eisenhower is selected to command the Allied forces in Europe.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening), on her way out, sighted several destroyers and small vessels in BE 9945. According to our reckoning, they probably belonged to a N-bound Gibraltar convoy and boats in favorable positions were ordered to make use of opportunities to attack. For reasons unknown, U 155 continued on her outward passage as soon as she had made her report. There is therefore no contact. As visibility is poor and there is strong air reconnaissance in this area a controlled operation of several boats does not seem promising, especially as there is at most one night left for attack.

U 223 (Oblt. Karl-Jürgen Wächter) was observed in AJ 8489 by an independent destroyer, course 220°, high speed. She lost contact after surfacing.

U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel) has requested squares EO and EP as attack area, because of an oil trace.

As no further reports were received from Group "Rochen", the operation was broken off at 1200. U 87, 202, 264, 558 and 258 are proceeding to DH 4755 to supply from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan). The remaining boats will occupy the following attack areas for the time being: U 521 squares CF 76 and 84, U 108 : CF 79 and 87, U 66 : DH 11 and 12, U 218 : DH 14 and 15, U 43 : DH 17 and 18.

U 103 will occupy position CG 4624, U 107 CG 4515, depth 60 miles, as reliefs for U 125 and U 436 which are short of fuel. These boats will join Group "Delphin".

In order to intercept convoy traffic to and from England on the southern route a patrol line has been ordered which will leave AK 3784 for AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, speed 5 knots. Order U 529 - 468 - 377 - 225 - 653 - 628 - 623 - 621 - 753 - 332 and 92. These boats will form Group "Ritter"

"Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor) will start to supply in AK 8985 from today. 5 boats will refuel for return passage at economical speed, 4 boats for further operation on the northerly convoy route.

U 519 (Kptlt. Günther Eppen) has not reported since she sailed on 30.1. There have been several attack reports in BF and BE during the last few days and she may have been sunk by English aircraft. Her loss must be presumed.

Ryan Aeronautical receives a US Navy contract to build three piston-jet mix-powered prototype fighters.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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, 12 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Soviet troops capture Rostov, while our troops fall back from Krasnodar to the Kuban defensive positions.

Upon promotion to Generalfeldmarschall, Maximilian von Weichs steps down as the commanding officer of German Armeegruppe B, which has been transferred to the new Army Group Don.

U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) has broken off her search for the convoy reported yesterday by U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening). This operation is thus ended.

U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) reported strong air activity in CG 45, bombs; no damage, returning because of fuel.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) sighted 2 destroyers, course 225°, in CF 9266. No further contact with the enemy.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) was bombed on 10.2 at great depth. Bow tubes probably out of action. She is testing her operational fitness.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) sighted several smoke clouds at 1323 in BE 9815 disappearing S. According to our reckoning there should be a Gibraltar-bound convoy in this area. Group "Delphin", including U 107 and U 103 and U 410, 382, 445, 155 and 185, on outward passage, were ordered to operate on U 569's report. At 1600 the enemy was in BE 9873. Towards 2000, U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) reported that she had sighted 5 steamers, 3 of them passenger ships, on a main course of 160°, speed 16 knots, in CG 1559 and had fired a miss at an "Arundel Castle" type. She was then driven off by aircraft and destroyers. It appeared therefore that there was a fast and slow section of the convoy. This was quite possible, as radio intelligence (X) and agent's reports had stated that material and personnel were often convoyed to Gibraltar in separate groups. The boats were ordered to operate against one of these 2 convoys on a main course of 160 - 180°, according to the situation. Meanwhile, U 569 had also been forced to dive and contact was lost. Convoy's last position at 1730 was in CG 9892. The boat sighted several single destroyers during the night, but was constantly driven off in varying visibility, as was U 185, which also sighted destroyers several times in CG 1537. Contact had not been regained by morning. The fast group must have got through and can probably no longer be reached. Operation continues against the slow section.

Attack areas: U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel): EO 60, evading N and E. U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein): EO 50 and 20 westwards to Georgetown. Both boats are to operate as close to the coast as possible. Freedom of action as far as the sea area off Trinidad during the next new moon period.

U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) have supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

Boats in the Capetown area have been informed that Saldanhab Bay is probably an assembly point for convoys and is mainly approached by independent ships from Capetown.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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, 12 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Soviet troops capture Rostov, while our troops fall back from Krasnodar to the Kuban defensive positions.

Upon promotion to Generalfeldmarschall, Maximilian von Weichs steps down as the commanding officer of German Armeegruppe B, which has been transferred to the new Army Group Don.

U 603 (Oblt. Hans-Joachim Bertelsmann) has broken off her search for the convoy reported yesterday by U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening). This operation is thus ended.

U 436 (Kptlt. Günther Seibicke) reported strong air activity in CG 45, bombs; no damage, returning because of fuel.

U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein) sighted 2 destroyers, course 225°, in CF 9266. No further contact with the enemy.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) was bombed on 10.2 at great depth. Bow tubes probably out of action. She is testing her operational fitness.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) sighted several smoke clouds at 1323 in BE 9815 disappearing S. According to our reckoning there should be a Gibraltar-bound convoy in this area. Group "Delphin", including U 107 and U 103 and U 410, 382, 445, 155 and 185, on outward passage, were ordered to operate on U 569's report. At 1600 the enemy was in BE 9873. Towards 2000, U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) reported that she had sighted 5 steamers, 3 of them passenger ships, on a main course of 160°, speed 16 knots, in CG 1559 and had fired a miss at an "Arundel Castle" type. She was then driven off by aircraft and destroyers. It appeared therefore that there was a fast and slow section of the convoy. This was quite possible, as radio intelligence (X) and agent's reports had stated that material and personnel were often convoyed to Gibraltar in separate groups. The boats were ordered to operate against one of these 2 convoys on a main course of 160 - 180°, according to the situation. Meanwhile, U 569 had also been forced to dive and contact was lost. Convoy's last position at 1730 was in CG 9892. The boat sighted several single destroyers during the night, but was constantly driven off in varying visibility, as was U 185, which also sighted destroyers several times in CG 1537. Contact had not been regained by morning. The fast group must have got through and can probably no longer be reached. Operation continues against the slow section.

Attack areas: U 510 (Korvkpt. Karl Neitzel): EO 60, evading N and E. U 156 (KrvKpt. Werner Hartenstein): EO 50 and 20 westwards to Georgetown. Both boats are to operate as close to the coast as possible. Freedom of action as far as the sea area off Trinidad during the next new moon period.

U 594 (Kptlt. Friedrich Mumm) and U 414 (Oblt. Walther Huth) have supplied from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor).

Boats in the Capetown area have been informed that Saldanhab Bay is probably an assembly point for convoys and is mainly approached by independent ships from Capetown.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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, 13 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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With a load of 75 USAAF P-40L fighters, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) departs Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.A., bound for North Africa.

U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) discovered another large crack in the flange when trying to repair her exhaust conduit. Repairs cannot be carried out. Further operation only possible in a less endangered area.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted a destroyer with high speed, zig-zagging around a course of 225° in BC 2433. No contact.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is the first of the African boats to score a success. She sank a ship of 6,000 GRT, course 265°, speed 10 knots in KY 6267. No zig-zags. Much air activity day and night, with lights, in KY 6310. Probably training.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) sighted smoke clouds at 1005 in CG 1911 and shortly afterwards made contact with a steamer and a destroyer. The enemy was only in sight intermittently owing to bad visibility. U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported the same forces at 1615 in CG 1968, was soon forced to dive by an escort vessel and depth charged. Aircraft were located constantly and no further direct contact was made. Boats were ordered to continue provided positions for attack could be reached by first light. During the night U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) and U 511 broke off and proceeded W. U 511 had some depth charge damage. U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) started on her return passage because of lack of fuel and bomb damage.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) is starting on her return passage. All her bow tubes are unserviceable. It is intended for her to deliver fuel to U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind).

A convoy coming from America may be expected in the Azores area on about 17.2 and Group "Rochen" has therefore been ordered to proceed W. immediately, making a day's run of 140 miles. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) has been ordered to return. "Rochen" boats now supplying will join the most southerly boat of the N. group at economical cruising speed in the order in which they leave. It is intended to form a patrol line with all boats from CE 8380 to DG 2820.

According to recent reckoning, a NE-bound convoy is expected in Group "Haudegen" 's area from 15.2. The group's disposition has therefore been narrowed. Boats are now in the following position, depth 30 miles: U 358 : AJ 7574, U 186 : AJ 7595, U 223 : AJ 7685, U 69 : AJ 8715, U 201 : AJ 8764, U 403 : AJ 8887, U 707 : BC 2156, U 606 : BC 2199, U 226 : BC 2549, U 525 : BC 2813, U 303 : BC 2848, U 607 : BC 5218, U 383 : BC 5514.

The following have supplied: U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U 175 has delivered a METOX set each to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein).

Boat's attention has again been called to the closing of Route A.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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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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Saturday, 13 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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With a load of 75 USAAF P-40L fighters, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger (CV-4) departs Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.A., bound for North Africa.

U 437 (Oblt. Hermann Lamby) discovered another large crack in the flange when trying to repair her exhaust conduit. Repairs cannot be carried out. Further operation only possible in a less endangered area.

U 606 (Oblt. Hans-Heinrich Döhler) sighted a destroyer with high speed, zig-zagging around a course of 225° in BC 2433. No contact.

U 516 (Korvkpt. Gerhard Wiebe) is the first of the African boats to score a success. She sank a ship of 6,000 GRT, course 265°, speed 10 knots in KY 6267. No zig-zags. Much air activity day and night, with lights, in KY 6310. Probably training.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) sighted smoke clouds at 1005 in CG 1911 and shortly afterwards made contact with a steamer and a destroyer. The enemy was only in sight intermittently owing to bad visibility. U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) reported the same forces at 1615 in CG 1968, was soon forced to dive by an escort vessel and depth charged. Aircraft were located constantly and no further direct contact was made. Boats were ordered to continue provided positions for attack could be reached by first light. During the night U 569 (Oblt.z.S.d.R. Hans Johannsen) and U 511 broke off and proceeded W. U 511 had some depth charge damage. U 381 (Kptlt. Wilhelm-Heinrich Graf von Pückler und Limpurg) started on her return passage because of lack of fuel and bomb damage.

U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) is starting on her return passage. All her bow tubes are unserviceable. It is intended for her to deliver fuel to U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind).

A convoy coming from America may be expected in the Azores area on about 17.2 and Group "Rochen" has therefore been ordered to proceed W. immediately, making a day's run of 140 miles. U 108 (Kptlt. Ralf-Reimar Wolfram) has been ordered to return. "Rochen" boats now supplying will join the most southerly boat of the N. group at economical cruising speed in the order in which they leave. It is intended to form a patrol line with all boats from CE 8380 to DG 2820.

According to recent reckoning, a NE-bound convoy is expected in Group "Haudegen" 's area from 15.2. The group's disposition has therefore been narrowed. Boats are now in the following position, depth 30 miles: U 358 : AJ 7574, U 186 : AJ 7595, U 223 : AJ 7685, U 69 : AJ 8715, U 201 : AJ 8764, U 403 : AJ 8887, U 707 : BC 2156, U 606 : BC 2199, U 226 : BC 2549, U 525 : BC 2813, U 303 : BC 2848, U 607 : BC 5218, U 383 : BC 5514.

The following have supplied: U 175 (Kptlt. Heinrich Bruns) from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), U 608 (Kptlt. Rolf Struckmeier) and U 135 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Heinz Schütt) from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). U 175 has delivered a METOX set each to U 571 (Kptlt. Helmut Möhlmann) and U 620 (Kptlt. Heinz Stein).

Boat's attention has again been called to the closing of Route A.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) concludes Tactical Exercises in the Baltic Sea.

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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115

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

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Sunday, 14 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Our troops launch an offensive against American forces near Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
Operation was broken off. U 620, 571, 125 and 442, which are short of fuel, are returning, U 103, 107, 185, 382, 410 and 445 are moving away to the west. U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) is waiting in CF 50 to supply from U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles). The last hydrophone bearing of the convoy was from CG 5473 bearing 210° at 0800.

After the "Rochen" boats had supplied from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), the group will receive orders to be in patrol line from CE 8285 to DG 2785 at 1200/16/2. Course 285, day's run 150 miles. Order: U 521 - 66 - 218 - 43 - 218 - 43 - 558 - 258 - 202 - 87 - 267 and 504. A convoy from America is expected on 17.2. As there is no information on the convoy's probable course, it is intended to form an extended line N. of the Azores. U 410, 445, 382, 569, 107 and 103 are to make for CE 39, U 437 for CE 32.
The following have supplied from U 118: U 214 on 12.2, U 558, 258, 202 on 13.2, U 82, 264 and 514 on 14.2. The tanker is now sold out and returning.

Because of bad weather (west 9) a day's run of 60 miles has been ordered for Group "Ritter".

It is intended to operate one boat in the Hatteras sea area and one in the Florida Straits area, as there have been no U-boats there for some time. Heavy traffic may be expected and success is likely if the U-boats appear suddenly and the Commanding Officers make intelligent use of their opportunities. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) is making for DN 30. She is free to proceed via Windward Passage. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) will go to CA 87 and have freedom of action to the N. and S.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.

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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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Sunday, 14 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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Our troops launch an offensive against American forces near Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia.

Convoy No. 8 (KMF/S.9G?):
Operation was broken off. U 620, 571, 125 and 442, which are short of fuel, are returning, U 103, 107, 185, 382, 410 and 445 are moving away to the west. U 522 (Kptlt. Herbert Schneider) is waiting in CF 50 to supply from U 161 (Kptlt. Albrecht Achilles). The last hydrophone bearing of the convoy was from CG 5473 bearing 210° at 0800.

After the "Rochen" boats had supplied from U 118 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan), the group will receive orders to be in patrol line from CE 8285 to DG 2785 at 1200/16/2. Course 285, day's run 150 miles. Order: U 521 - 66 - 218 - 43 - 218 - 43 - 558 - 258 - 202 - 87 - 267 and 504. A convoy from America is expected on 17.2. As there is no information on the convoy's probable course, it is intended to form an extended line N. of the Azores. U 410, 445, 382, 569, 107 and 103 are to make for CE 39, U 437 for CE 32.
The following have supplied from U 118: U 214 on 12.2, U 558, 258, 202 on 13.2, U 82, 264 and 514 on 14.2. The tanker is now sold out and returning.

Because of bad weather (west 9) a day's run of 60 miles has been ordered for Group "Ritter".

It is intended to operate one boat in the Hatteras sea area and one in the Florida Straits area, as there have been no U-boats there for some time. Heavy traffic may be expected and success is likely if the U-boats appear suddenly and the Commanding Officers make intelligent use of their opportunities. U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) is making for DN 30. She is free to proceed via Windward Passage. U 185 (Kptlt. August Maus) will go to CA 87 and have freedom of action to the N. and S.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) continues Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.

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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, 15 February 1943 - Danzig

At Danziger Werft AG, for Repairs and Overhaul.

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American forces in Tunisia launch a counterattack at Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. Though achieving some results, the Americans suffer heavy casualties and loose 46 medium tanks.

U 607 (Kptlt. Ernst Mengersen) sank "Atlantic Sun", 11,355 GRT in BC 5163, course 220°, 16 knots. According to statements made by prisoner (Ordinary Seaman William Golobich) the ship belonged to a convoy which it lost a few nights earlier in the fog. Presumably this was an extra-scheduled fast convoy.

U 509 (Kptlt. Werner Witte) encountered spasmodic traffic off Capetown, partly strongly escorted, leaving and entering the harbor on the 100 meter line. No night air activity. Good cooperation between land-based radar and sea patrol. Boat sank a 5,000 GRT ship on 10.2 in GR 6844.
According to an agent's report an American convoy of 27 steamers is said to be leaving Capetown for Australia on 15.2.

Following the new disposition of Group "Rochen": U 437, 410, 445, 382, 511, 569, 107 and 103 are being formed into Group "Robbe". They have been ordered to be in reconnaissance line at 1200/17/2 from CF 1671 to CF 4575, course 290°, day's run 140 miles.

Except for 5, all the Group "Haudegen" boats must now have less than 30 cbm fuel. This means that they could not operate even if a convoy is intercepted. Group "Haudegen" is therefore being dissolved. U 606, 69, 201, 226, 525, 303, 383 and 607 have been ordered to return. If these boats require to refuel this can be done in BD 51 from "Milkcow" U 460 (Kptlt. Ebe Schnoor). The remaining boats will stay in the sea area around Newfoundland and occupy the following attack areas: U 358 : AJ 87, U 186 : AJ 88, U 223 : BC 21, U 403 : BC 22, U 707 : BC 25. The Group will be called "Taifun".

At present there is no information as to what convoy routes are being used and several radio intelligence (X) reports show that the enemy is dispersed over the whole N. Atlantic and several patrol lines are being formed to pick up the convoys.

In addition to Group "Ritter", which proceeded as reconnaissance line from AK 3784 to AL 4711 at 1200/14/2, course 235°, day's run 60 miles, U 759, 405, 448, 638, 359, 135, 608, 376, 566 and 659 have been ordered to form a new reconnaissance line from AD 3718 to AK 3497 at 2000/18/2, course 235°, day's run 100 miles. These boats will form Group "Neptun". U 659 will not take up her position until 19 or 20/2, as she is too far away. These 2 lines overlap and should rake an area of about 450 miles. The disposition has the further advantage that it is unlikely to be detected by enemy aircraft.

U 155 (Kptlt. Adolf Cornelius Piening) has delivered a METOX set to U 217 (VIID; Kptlt. Kurt Reichenbach-Klinke).

The rendezvous of U 511 (Oblt. Fritz Schneewind) and U 108 (XB; Korvkpt. Werner Czygan) in CF 5275 will have to be transferred to CF 5171 owing to strong air activity in the former area.

U 648 (Ltnt.z.S.d.R. Peter-Arthur Stahl) conducts Torpedo Firing Training with the 25th Flotilla Danzig.

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RST
KorvKpt.& Cmdr. U 115