F.d.U./B.d.U.'S War Log

16 - 30 June 1942

PG30308b

     
     
 
16.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- DM 18
U 129
- DM 63
U 213
- BE 84
U 552
- Op(BE)
 
68
 - Op(EB)
132
 - Op(BE)
214
 - BE 57
553
 - BD 54
 
69
 - DF 27
134
 - Op(BE)
215
 - AE 85
558
 - BD 95
 
71
 - Op(BE)
135
 - Op(CB)
332
 - Op(CA)
566
 - CD 44
 
84
 - Op(BE)
153
 - CE 87
373
 - Op(CA)
569
 - Op(BD)
 
87
 - Op(CA)
154
 - DF 25
404
 - Op(DC)
571
 - Op(BD)
 
89
 - Op(BE)
156
 - DQ 43
406
 - CC 44
575
 - Op(BD)
 
94
 - Op(BD)
157
 - Op(DA)
432
 - CC 44
578
 - Op(CB)
 
96
 - Op(BD)
158
 - Op(DA)
437
 - Op(BE)
584
 - OP(CA)
 
103
 - CF 65
159
 - EC 47
455
 - BF 60
590
 - Op(BD)
 
106
 - CC 94
161
 - Op(ED)
459
 - CD 36
593
 - BF 81
 
107
 - Op(EC)
172
 - Op(EB)
460
 - AK 66
594
 - CD 39
 
124
 - Op(BD)
173
 - AO 40
502
 - Op(ED)
653
 - Op(CB)
 
126
 - Op(ED)
202
 - Op(CA)
504
 - DM 79
701
 - Op(CA)
 
128
 - Op(ED)
203
   CD 40
505
   CE 49
753
 - CC 37
 
  On Return Passage:  U 504 - 432 - 135 - 213 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 593 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 558 - 594 - 566 - 455 - 214 - 71 - 455.
  Sailed:  U 455 - St. Nazaire.
  Entered Port:  U 402 - St Nazaire;  U 576 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
  Reconnaissance of convoy No. 28.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoys No. 28 and No. 30 see para. IVa.
    2) U 701 sighted:  3 destroyers in company and one buoy-layer.  One searching destroyer in position.  Isolated D/C's.  Main periscope out of action from a/c bombs.
    3) U 502 sighted:  13.6 fast convoy, 2 passenger ships, 2 destroyers, 3300 in ED 9823.  In 9589 tanker, 2000.  16.6 freighter, 2250 in 9592.  12.6 freighter, camouflaged patrol vessel in 9829, after firing a miss, 2 PC-boats.  Sunk:  15.6 freighter 6,500 BRT in 9471, freighter 6,000 BRT in 9447, freighter 5,500 BRT in 8669.  All ships course 1150.
  b)  Convoy No. 28 picked up several times.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  DD 49, CA 84, ED 85, DL 64, DD 49, CA 52, CD 43.
    2) U-boat attacks:  CA 32-33, ED 86.
    3) Torpedo report:  DF 84.
      SOS:  EQ 51 (J31).
       
IV. Current Operations:
            Convoy No. 28:  U 571 made contact at 1007 in BE 5679, course NE, broad formation.  Air reconnaissance sent out also picked up the convoy soon after and made beacon-signals.  As weather conditions
       
- 130 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  (wind and sea 0) were very unfavorable for U-boat attacks and the convoy was continuously escorted by day by a/c, including land-based bombers, orders were given to break off the operation and continue passage to the W.  U 71 is returning because of DC damage.  Air reconnaissance shows that there are only 17 ships left.  It can therefore be assumed that the 5 ships torpedoed by U 552 have sunk.  Result:  5 ships sunk, 1 tanker torpedoed.
            Convoy No. 30:  U 94 reported a convoy at 0900 in AK 8717, course SW.  Boats were ordered to operate.  Fuel supply for return passage is intended. U 590, 406 and 96 also made contact and U 124 and 569 reported contact with the escort forces.  Reports showed that the convoy has a double long-range escort force.  Boats were constantly forced to submerge.  U 94 and U 590 were depth charged for 7 and 9 hours respectively and are returning because of damage and casualties.  U 406 fired a miss from the stern tube at a destroyer during the night.  A four-fan was seen by the destroyer owing to phosphorescent sea and evaded.  Boat was then driven off and lost contact, as did also U 124.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 502  3 ships 18,000 BRT
        701  1 ship 5,000 BRT.  Mine hit.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- DL 32
U 129
- DM 53
U 213
- BE 83
U 552
- BE 65
 
68
 - Op(EB)
132
 - BE 55
214
 - BF 60
553
 - BD 57
 
69
 - DF 26
134
 - BE 54
215
 - AE 87
558
 - BD 93
 
71
 - BE 65
135
 - CB 81
332
 - Op(CA)
566
 - CD 54
 
84
 - BE 54
153
 - DF 33
373
 - CA 67
569
 - Op(BC)
 
87
 - Op(CA)
154
 - DE 18
402
 - BF 50
571
 - BE 55
 
89
 - BE 84
156
 - DQ 23
404
 - Op(DC)
575
 - BE 54
 
94
 - Op(BC)
157
 - Op(DA)
406
 - Op(BC)
576
 - BF 50
 
96
 - Op(BC)
158
 - Op(DA)
432
 - CC 44
578
 - Op(CB)
 
103
 - CF 43
159
 - EC 73
437
 - BE 55
584
 - Op(CA)
 
106
 - CC 93
161
 - EC 93
459
 - CD 36
590
 - Op(BC)
 
107
 - DN 76
172
 - Op(EB)
460
 - AK 93
593
 - BF 50
 
124
 - Op(BC)
173
 - AO 30
502
 - Op(EE)
594
 - CE 16
 
126
 - Op(ED)
202
 - Op(CA)
504
 - Op(ED)
653
 - CB 91
 
128
 - Op(ED)
203
 - CD 50
505
 - CE 93
701
 - Op(CA)
 
   
   
   
753
 - CE 14
 
  On Return Passage:  U 71 - 552 - 373 - 159 - 590 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 213 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 593 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 558.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 171 - Kiel;  U 166 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 30 see para. IVa.
       
- 131 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) Situation reports:  U 87 CA 3515-19 no traffic.  Much fog.  Convoys steer 3000.  12.6 sank 2 steamers 14,000 BRT, from a convoy.  Since today strong anti-S/M activity off Boston.
    3) U 578:  Nothing seen since 11.6 in CB 72-73-81 except 1 destroyer.  Air reconnaissance as far as CB 73.  Starting return passage.
    4) U 653:  chased an armed 4,000 BRT freighter from CB 6895-6535.  3 single misses, of which one was a failure.
    5) U 68:  Nothing seen in EB 50 and 80 and EC 77-82.  1 patrol vessel in EC 66.  Sunk:  "Frimaire" (9,242 BRT) in EC 8445.  Course for Panama.
  b)  None.
  c) Attack reports in EL 2244 - DC 2328 (motor vessel "Braga" 1,671 BRT).
     U-boat sightings:  EN 3327 - DM 26 - BB 46 - DC 1120.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 30:  Contact was not regained in the course of the day.  After an exchange of radio messages with U 124 to clarify the situation, further pursuit was ordered until dark.  After that, operation was not hopeful, as, according to U 124, the cold water zone had been reached and Newfoundland fogs were to be expected.  Up to the time of breaking off, boats had searched along all convoy courses from 220-2700. U 590 has reported that she suspects escort forces are using Radar, but it will not be possible to pronounce on this until the matter has been discussed with the C.O.'s.  U 124, on her way home, came upon a convoy at dawn on the 18th.  It comprised of 18 large ships, 4 destroyers and several corvettes.  Boat attacked and sank 2 freighters, totaling 13,000 BRT and torpedoed 1 freighter of 6,000 BRT.  After being hunted with D/C's, U 124 continued on her homeward passage.  Operation thus completed.
     Total results:  2 ships - 13,000 BRT sunk, 1 ship - 6,000 BRT torpedoed.
  b)  U 701 has been given freedom of action on the American coast, to move away as necessary.
     U 571, 84, 575, 437, 134 are now to steer for CC 91, there to supply from U 459.  Subsequently operation in the Caribbean is intended.
    U 89 and 132 are making for BD 62 to supply from U 460.  Subsequent operation in CA planned.
  c)  U 584 reported secondary operation I (landing of agents) completed.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 87  2 ships 14,000 BRT
        68  1 ship 9,242 BRT
        124  2 ships 13,000 BRT
        124  1 ship 6,000 BRT torpedoed.
 
 
- 132 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op
U 132
- BE 51
U 213
- BF 48
U 553
- BD 59
 
68
 - EC 66(Op)
134
 - BE 72
214
 - BF 60
558
 - BE 58
 
69
 - DF 32
135
 - CB 81
215
 - AL 24
566
 - CD 55
 
71
 - BF 49
153
 - DF 34
332
 - Op
569
 - Op
 
84
 - BE 73
154
 - DE 39
373
 - CB 47
571
 - BE 49
 
87
 - CB 11
156
 - DE 99
402
 - BF 40
575
 - BE 72
 
89
 - BE 73
157
 - Op
404
 - Op
576
 - BF 40
 
94
 - BD 22
158
 - Op
406
 - Op
578
 - CB 58
 
96
 - Op
159
 - EC 85
432
 - CC 56
584
 - Op
 
103
 - CF 26
161
 - EC 85
437
 - BE 73
590
 - BD 22
 
106
 - CD 48
166
 - BF 50
459
 - CD 53
594
 - BD 97
 
107
 - DN 59
171
 - AO
460
 - BD 32
653
 - CB 66
 
124
 - Op
172
 - Op
502
 - EE 54
701
 - Op
 
126
 - Op
173
 - AN 20
504
 - DN 77
753
 - CE 21
 
128
 - Op
202
 - Op
505
 - CE 86
593
 - BF 60
 
129
 - DM 19
203
 - CD 55
552
 - BF 57
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 593 - 214 - 71 - 552 - 373 - 159 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 213 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 558 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 593 - St. Nazaire;  U 214 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 153:  sighted a large freighter, course 2300, 15 knots, in DF 3542.  Boat could not pursue because of damage to Diesel.
     U 89:  reports from BD 69 illuminated Portuguese ship on a course of 3100.
     U 161:  chased a tanker in EC 8528, which afterwards turned out to be the Spanish "Zorroza".
     U 126:  sunk:  15.6 ED 6953 small sailing vessel.  16.6 ED 9414 freighter 7,000 BRT, 2900.  ED 9413 American tanker "Kahuku", 6,062 BRT, 1100.  Sinking of freighter not observed, but probable.  According to statements by survivors, Trinidad is used as a coaling station for New York-Capetown and vice-versa traffic.  No sea patrol, strong air patrol also at night.  Boat intended to push forward to Curacao, has been ordered to remain in her present operations area.
    U 128 situation:  EE 60 and 30 no traffic.  Suspect focal point of NS and EW traffic id further S.  Am now in EE 90 and EF 70.
       
- 133 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    U 129:  sighted a convoy in DM 1988, 5 ships, course 3200, 10 knots.  Further in DM 1975 convoy of 20 ships, course 900.  Boat has been ordered to take every opportunity to attack.  If other boats are in the vicinity, they should request shadower's report.  At 0500 U 129 report that the W-bound convoy had turned away to the E.  Forced to submerge by a/c and approaching ships.  Not possible to join on again before first light.  Continuing westward passage.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  CA 32 - EL 31 - BA 0974 - DO 73 - ED 92 - DC 2324.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) New attack areas:  U 129 DK center and lower thirds, concentrating off Tampico.  U 154 sea area 200 miles around DL 68 (Yucatan Straits).  U 203 and 153 EB lower third and S. of this, concentrating off Colon.  U 584 freedom of action in area CA 20-30-50-60, concentrating off New York.
    U 332 freedom to attack to the N. in U 87's area.  U 576 and 402 to make for CA 50.
    U 215 has been ordered to proceed via BC 77 - BB 82 - BB 77 to CA 50 at economical cruising speed.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 126  3 ships 13,362 BRT.
       
VI General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op
U 132
- BD 66
U 213
- BF 49
U 558
- BF 49
 
68
 - Op
134
 - BD 96
215
 - AL 18
566
 - CD 55
 
69
 - CE 78
135
 - CC 55
332
 - Op
569
 - BC 36
 
71
 - BF 50
153
 - DF 34
373
 - CB 54
571
 - BE 71
 
84
 - BD 96
154
 - DE 61
402
 - BE 69
575
 - BD 95
 
87
 - Op(BA)
156
 - DF 74
406
 - BC 14
576
 - BE 69
 
89
 - BE 47
157
 - Op
404
 - Op(DC)
578
 - CB 68
 
94
 - BD 34
158
 - Op(DA)
432
 - CC 36
584
 - Op
 
96
 - BC 36
159
 - EC
437
 - BE 74
594
 - BD 99
 
103
 - CF 32
161
 - EC 80(Op)
459
 - CD 55
590
 - BD 38
 
106
 - CD 55
166
 - BF 40
460
 - BD 62
653
 - CC 46
 
107
 - DN 63
171
 - AN 30
502
 - EE 29
701
 - Op(CA)
 
124
 - BC 36
172
 - Op
504
 - DN 76
753
 - BD 98
 
126
 - EO 75(Op)
173
 - AF 75
505
 - CE 87
   
 
128
 - EE 85
202
 - Op(CA)
552
 - BF 60
   
 
129
 - DM 19
203
 - CD 55
553
 - BD 69
   
     
 
- 134 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 71 - 373 - 159 - 552 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 213 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 558 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 754 - Brest.
  Entered Port:  U 552 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 701 situation:  Spasmodic traffic off Hatteras, no longer daily.  Far away from shore, 10 miles off Diamond.  Surprised by patrol boat in mist,  Sank her after a gun action lasting 1 1/2 hours.
    U 158:  Sunk:  17.6 DK 3445 fast freighter 6,800 BRT, 1150.  DK 2566 "Moire" (1,560 BRT), course 1700.  Afterwards very strong air patrol.  Except for steamers sunk, nothing seen as far as the 20 meter line.  Since 15.6 lights on the coast as in peacetime.
    U 172:  Sunk:  14.6 EB 8281 "Sebore" (8,289 BRT), 1750.  15.6 EB 8741 "Bennestvet" (2,438 BRT), 1400.  18.6 EL 2214 petrol tanker 3,500 BRT, said to be "Motorese", 1200.  All ships bound for Colon.  Medium air activity.  17.6 Puerto Simon harbor empty, lights out.  18.6 destroyer in EL 31 standing on and off.
  b) None.
  c) U-boats sighted:  ED 9276 - DB 5669 - EC 96 - BA 97 - CA 64 - ED 11 - AF 7735 - BF 8331 - EC 6619.
    U-boat attacks:  Ca 79 - BB 94 - EC 8517.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U 106 - 566 - 203 have completed supply from U-tanker 459.
  d) U 68 reports the following on the subject of the sinking of the French ship "Frimaire" (chartered by Portugal):  Contrary to regulations, the ship was not wearing yellow Vichy markings.  It was therefore assumed that she was in enemy service and camouflaged as a French ship.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 701  1 patrol vessel
        158  2 ships 8,360 BRT
        172  3 ships 14,227 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- 135 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
20.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op
U 134
- CE 23
U 332
- Op
U 575
- BD 89
 
68
 - Op
135
 - CC 64
373
 - CC 44
576
 - BE 91
 
69
 - CE 85
153
 - DF 28
402
 - BE 67
578
 - CC 45
 
71
 - BF 60
154
 - DF 55
404
 - Op
584
 - Op
 
84
 - BD 97
156
 - DF 49
406
 - BD 19
590
 - BE 91
 
87
 - Op(BA)
157
 - Op
432
 - CC 66
594
 - BE 76
 
89
 - BD 65
158
 - DL 52
437
 - BD 98
653
 - CC 56
 
94
 - BD 39
159
 - EC 85
459
 - CD 50
701
 - CA 87(Op)
 
96
 - BD 18
161
 - EC 85(Op)
460
 - BD 65
753
 - BE 78
 
103
 - BE 98
166
 - BF 71
502
 - EE 32
754
 - Lorient
 
106
 - CD 53
171
 - AN 30
504
 - DN 59
   
 
107
 - DO 18
172
 - EB 98(Op)
505
 - DG 11
   
 
124
 - BD 19
173
 - AE 93
553
 - BE 72
   
 
126
 - Op(ED)
202
 - Op(CA)
558
 - BF 50
   
 
128
 - EE 75
203
 - CD 54
566
 - CD 61
   
 
129
 - DL 39
213
 - BF 60
569
 - BD 19
   
 
132
 - BD 65
215
 - AK 83
571
 - BD 98      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 71 - 373 - 159 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 213 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 558 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 160 - Lorient.
  Entered Port:  U 71 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 96:  sighted an auxiliary cruiser in BD 1614, course NE, speed 8 knots.  One four-fan missed, reason not known.
     U 437:  sighted an armed steamer, 10,000 BRT, in BD 7983, course E, speed 16 to 18 knots.  One miss.
     U 159:  sank:  18.6 EC 8553 "Flomar" (5,551 BRT), 800.  19.6 EC 8524 "Antemaskovio" (2,710 BRT), 700.  Both by gunfire.  Sighted further EC 8524 tanker, 800.
    U 161:  sank small sailing vessel EC 6993.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) Entrance to Chesapeake and Delaware Bays are mined and closed for the present. (Results of own mine-laying).
    2) U-boat sightings:  CO 94(?) - ED 1131 - CA 6443.
      U-boat attacks in EE 57.  SSS report from DC 11.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) Attention of U-boats in the North American coast area has been called to present favorable traffic situation in CA 79 and CA 5132 and 33.
       
- 136 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c)  U 161 has taken over 20 cbm fuel and provisions from U 159 who is on her way back.
  d) Extension of the present blockade area in the Atlantic comes into force on 27.6.
     U-boats will be informed of new boundaries.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 159  2 ships 8,261 BRT
        161 1 sailing vessel.
       
VI. General:
            U-boat operations against Brazil (see War Log 6.6, para. VI) have been ordered.
       
                                                                      (MS note):  Was later cancelled by Naval War Staff.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op(DA)
U 135
- CC 64
U 332
- Op(CA)
U 575
- CE 16
 
68
 - Op(EC)
153
 - DF 46
373
 - CC 51
576
 - BE 80
 
69
 - CE 91
154
 - DE 48
402
 - BE 83
578
 - CC 52
 
84
 - CE 24
156
 - DF 52
404
 - Op(DC)
584
 - DC 19(Op)
 
87
 - Op(BA)
157
 - Op(DA)
406
 - BD 55
590
 - BE 53
 
89
 - BD 65
158
 - DL
432
 - CD 45
594
 - BE 85
 
94
 - BE 42
159
 - EC 85
437
 - BD 79
653
 - CC 65
 
96
 - BD 54
161
 - EC 85(Op)
459
 - CD 46
701
 - Op(DC)
 
103
 - BF 58
160
 - BF 50
460
 - BD 65
753
 - BE 84
 
106
 - CD 63
166
 - BE 95
502
 - DP 93
754
 - BF 50
 
107
 - DC 22
171
 - AN 23
504
 - DN 63
   
 
124
 - BD 53
172
 - Op(EL)
505
 - DF 34
   
 
126
 - Op(ED)
173
 - AE 91
553
 - BE 81
   
 
128
 - Op(ED)
202
 - Op(CA)
558
 - v. Brest
   
 
129
 - DL 53
203
 - CD 72
566
 - CE 17
   
 
132
 - BD 58
213
 - v. Brest
569
 - BD 52
   
 
134
 - CE 16
215
 - AK 64
571
 - CE 21      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 159 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 -504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 461 - 458 - Kiel.
  Entered Port:  U 213 - 558 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 135 chased a steamer in vain in CC 59.
     U 156 has been searching for traffic as far as DQ 29 without result.
  b)  None.
       
- 137 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) U-boats sighted:  BF 19 - CA 32 - DB 6793 - AJ 1233(?) - DB 72.
    American ship "West Ira" (5,681 BRT) torpedoed in EE 81.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) U 202 and 584 have been ordered to operate in CA 79.
  c) U 432 reports supply from U 459 completed.  U 460 has supplied U 132, with 40 cbm of heavy Diesel oil, 2 cbm of lubricating oil, and 10 days' provisions, and U 89 with 44 cbm heavy Diesel oil, and 10 days' provisions.  U 460 observed constant traffic in BD 50 while supplying.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:
            The Fuehrer has ordered that an operational U-boat group be held ready against a possible landing on Madeira and the Azores.  This makes heavy demands on the conduct of the U-boat war.  I have expressed my views on the matter to Naval War Staff as follows:
  I. 1) The most important and, in my opinion, the decisive function of the U-boats is to sink enemy tonnage and, in view of the enemy's vastly increased new construction program for the next year, to sink enemy tonnage quickly.
    2) All other requirements, should, unless it is a question of overcoming an acute danger, which might involve the loss of the war, be subordinated to operations as under 1.  They can only be met if the number of boats and the situation in general permits the withdrawal of U-boats without serious consequences to the war on merchant shipping.
  II. It is assumed that an operational group of U-boats to act as defense against enemy operations against Madeira and the Azores has been asked for in ignorance of the present U-boat situation, and the U-boat situation as at 24.6 is therefore reported as follows:
       
    U-boat situation as at 24.6
       
     In operations areas:
     
Caribbean 4 - 5 boats
N. American 4 - 5 boats
        Total 8 - 10 boats
       
   
On the way out from W. France, arriving about 10.7:      17 boats
From home, arriving about 18.7 (provided tanker is available): 4 boats
  Total: 21 boats
On return passage:   28 boats
 
 
- 138 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
    To leave W. France by 24.7 and arrive in operations area about 20.8:  18 boats, of which 10 are to be detached for special operation "Brazil".  Total:  8.
    Arriving in operation area from home (only if tanker available) by the end of August:  16 boats.
    There will therefore be particularly few U-boats in the operations area from the middle of June to the middle of July.  The large number of U-boats out in May will probably not be reached again until September.
       
  III. With so few boats available, it would be particularly serious to withdraw any at present, because attacking conditions in the Caribbean, at the moment very good, will deteriorate in the near future, when traffic will be stopped and diverted, assembled into convoys and anti-S/M activity will be strengthened.  This means that successes achieved now with a few boats will not be equaled later on with more boats.  The watchword is therefore:  "Strike at once with every available means."
    On the other hand, considering the chances of success even of a detached operational group of U-boats, it can be said:
    a) Chances of success against the first landing fleet are few, because the enemy decides the time and place of landing and boats will most probably get there too late.
    b) Operations against subsequent supply transports seen to be promising.  In the case of a landing on the Azores or Madeira, in my opinion, a quick landing is to be expected and little supply transport which would make a U-boat operation worth while, because the area to be occupied is small and the Portuguese have little war material and few fighting qualities.
    c) With luck the U-boats could damage the landing, but they could never prevent it.
       
  IV. a) Further to your para. 2 b):
      It is not intended to dispose boats in patrol line to pick up convoys in the immediate future because there are not enough boats available.
    b) Further to your para. 2 a):  
      If there are any boats on their way out they can be sent to the Azores or Madeira in a very short time at high speed.  The fact that replacement figures are very low at the moment (see II) must however, be taken into account.
    c) Further to your para. 3) b):  
      To hold serviceable boats in readiness amounts in effect to the same thing as withdrawing an operational group.
       
  V. Therefore as long as the number of boats actually available for operations is so low, the detachment of a protective group for Madeira would mean a very great decrease in the vital sinking figures, which will decrease anyway in the coming period when fewer boats are at the enemy.  These operational needs and wishes always demand an increase in the numbers of operational U-boats at sea.  There are 2 basic ways in which this can be attained:
 
 
- 139 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
    A) By increasing the number of workmen in the U-boat repair dockyards at home so that less time will be taken on items of work outstanding in newly-commissioned boats before they become operational.
      This is the only way to deal with the bottleneck of U-boats at home.At present, of the 138 front-line boats recently commissioned, 63 are still at home 4 months after commissioning.  They should already have been operational.  If there is sufficient dockyard labor, time taken for items of work outstanding can be reduced to 2-3 weeks, and boats can go into operation at latest 3 1/2 months after commissioning.
    B) By keeping the strength of dockyard personnel in W. France dockyards at its present level.  For the first time now U-boats are not obliged to stay in port longer than necessary for the crew to recuperate.  This fact contributed materially to the large number of boats at sea in May and the consequent good results.  But this good proportion of dockyard to sea time has only been attained at present because the dockyard labor intended for 71 boats under repair has only had to cope with an average of 25 boats.  This shows that actually the dockyard labor only suffices for this small number of boats, if an economical operational use is to be made of the large number of U-boats built, and that therefore dockyard periods will become longer as soon as supplies of U-boats start to arrive from home.  Thus a proportion of the coming boats will again be lost to operational use.
      It is therefore urgently necessary to increase the number of workmen in the W. France dockyards as soon as more boats reach the west.  Only thus can full operational use be made of the U-boats which are coming, the number of boats on operations be increased and more results obtained.
      B.d.U. considers that the solution of this labor question is of the greatest importance for the Navy if a large number of U-boats are to be at sea on operations in a short space of time and great and decisive successes achieved.
      B.d.U. also considers that it is extremely urgent to solve the labor question quickly, because it is important to sink in 1942 before the enemy increases his defenses and his new construction of shipping and reduces the effect of the U-boat war.
       
                                 (MS page to face page 15f)
       
             Naval War Staff supports the view that the formation of an operational U-boats group by holding serviceable boats in readiness in W. France would be too much to the disadvantage of the war against merchant shipping.  It would be possible to form an operational group quickly at any time from boats on outward passage, and boats disposed in patrol in the N. Atlantic (as the number of front-line boats increases there will be more boats in patrol line).  CinC Navy will report to the Fuehrer in this sense at the next opportunity.
       
     B.d.U.'s remarks on the subject were requested.  They do not throw any fresh light.  The labor question raised in para. V will be considered separately by Naval War Staff (Fourth Division).
 
 
- 140 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
22.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op(DA)
U 132
- BD 48
U 202
- Op(CA)
U 505
- DF 25
 
68
 - Op(EC)
134
 - CE 14
203
 - CC 99
553
 - BE 83
 
69
 - CE 69
135
 - CC 66
215
 - AK 82
566
 - CE 19
 
84
 - CE 18
153
 - DF 77
332
 - Op(CA)
569
 - BD 62
 
87
 - Op(BA)
154
 - DD 93
373
 - CC 62
571
 - CE 15
 
89
 - BD 46
156
 - DQ 29
402
 - BE 81
575
 - CD 39
 
94
 - BF 50
157
 - Op(DA)
404
 - BD 56
576
 - BE 73
 
96
 - BD 55
158
 - DL 66
406
 - BD 56
578
 - CC 65
 
103
 - BF 64
159
 - EC 51
432
 - CD 54
584
 - Op(CA)
 
106
 - CE 19
160
 - BF 49
437
 - CD 34
590
 - BE 63
 
107
 - DO 32
161
 - EC 76
458
 - AO
594
 - BE 95
 
124
 - BD 63
166
 - BE 97
459
 - CD 46
653
 - CD 46
 
126
 - Op(ED)
171
 - AF 48
460
 - BD 64
701
 - Op(DC)
 
128
 - Op(ED)
172
 - Op(EB)
461
 - AO
753
 - BE 86
 
129
 - DL 46
173
 - AE 88
502
 - DQ 49
754
 - BF 19
 
   
   
504
 - DO 43
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 159 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 103 - 106 - 69 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 582 - Brest.
  Entered Port:  U 103 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 202 situation:  No traffic as far as close up to the coast.  Medium air activity, no sea patrol.  
     22.6 sunk:  Argentine "Rio Tercero" ex-"Fortunstella" (4,864 BRT), without flag or neutrality markings.  Shuttle service New York-Buenos Aires.
     U 584:  21.6 chased a large tanker from DC 1362 to CA 8437.  Got away, because boat's Diesel defective.  22.6 CA 8435 triple miss and 3 dud shots at 6,000 BRT tanker.  Course 3400, later 1200.
     U 67:  DM 1980 sighted 2 fast ships, course 3000.  No traffic from Tortugas to operations area off New Orleans.  20.6 torpedoed a large fast tanker in DA 9296, 2500, 2 duds.  Night traffic DA 9350 via DB 70 followed the 200 meter line.  Normal air activity, little sea patrol.
     U 172:   Nothing seen for 4 days EB 70-90.  Use of armament restricted by weather.
     U 159:  fired on the loaded tanker "E.J. Sadler" (9,639 BRT) in ED 4161 with 37mm gun and set her on fire.  As she had not sunk after 4 hours, tanker was blown up and sunk(sic).
  b) None.
  c) U-boat attacks:  CA 56 - ED 41 - DA 95.  SSS report from ED.
     U-boat sightings:  DN 3871 - DB 94 - CA 32 - DC 94 - ED 41 - CA 87 - CA 8476 - DO 6867 - DB 9198.
  d)  None.
       
- 141 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 505 new approach point ED 11.
    2) On account of U 460's situation report, U 402 and 576 have been ordered to proceed via BD 50, right half and 60 left half and remain there for 2 days.
  c) 1) U 406 and 653 report supply from U 460 and U 459 respectively completed.
    2) U 156 has completed delivering fuel to U 562.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 202  1 ship 4,864 BRT
        67  1 ship torpedoed
        179  1 ship 9,639 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- DA 95(Op)
U 135
- CC 69
U 332
- Op(CA 79)
U 569
- BE 44
 
68
 - Op(EC)
153
 - DE 95
373
 - CD 17
571
 - CD 39
 
69
 - CF 51
154
 - DD 94
402
 - BE 72
575
 - CD 61
 
84
 - CD 62
156
 - DQ 52
404
 - Op(CA)
576
 - BE 71
 
87
 - Op(BA)
157
 - Op(DA)
406
 - BD 44
578
 - CD 42
 
89
 - BD 47
158
 - DL(Op)
432
 - CD 53
582
 - v. Lorient
 
94
 - BF 60
159
 - ED 18
437
 - CD 28
584
 - DC 13(Op)
 
96
 - BD 77
160
 - BF 71
458
 - AN 30
590
 - BF 45
 
106
 - CE 25
161
 - Op(EB)
459
 - CD 47
594
 - BF 49
 
107
 - DD 94
166
 - CF 34
460
 - BD 64
653
 - CD 62
 
124
 - BE 46
171
 - AE 68
461
 - AN 30
701
 - CA 87(Op)
 
126
 - Op(ED)
172
 - EB 89(Op)
502
 - DQ 51
753
 - BF 49
 
128
 - Op(ED)
173
 - AL 34
504
 - DO 26
754
 - BF 47
 
129
 - Op(DK)
202
 - CA 59(Op)
505
 - DF 19
   
 
132
 - BC 93
203
 - DE 26
553
 - BF 58
   
 
134
 - CD 37
215
 - BD 12
566
 - BE 75
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 159 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 124 - 94 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 553 - 106 - 69 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 94 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 701 situation:  Hatteras traffic only in daylight parallel to a line Diamond-Lookout.  Widely dispersed.
       
- 143 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Sighted a large tanker without escort 21.6.  Course N.  No chance to fire.
    2) U 502 reported 1 steamer, course 3100, 10 knots in DQ 2873.  U 153 and 156, which were in the vicinity, are operating on this report and requesting beacon-signals.  So far no success.
    3) U 404:  17.6 DC 2390 chased Norwegian "Bnaga" in vain.  Smoke bombs.  No traffic in CA 8770 since 22.6, air activity only.
    4) On the subject of the sinking of "Rio Tercero", U 202 reports:  Steamer was steering a course of 1350 without zig-zagging.  Good visibility, misty horizon.  The identity of the ship was discovered after she had been sunk, by statements from the Captain.  Steamer was sailing without any markings.
    5) U 84 sank S.S. "Torvanger" (6,568 BRT) on 23.6 in CD 5194; cargo of a/c parts from New York to Capetown.
    6) U 68 sank U.S. tanker "Arriggia" (5,000 BRT) 24.6 in EC 8233, course 1100.  Request return passage via DP 10.
    7) U 158 sank "Henry Gibbons" (5,000 BRT) on 23.6 in DL 2918, course 3300.
      U 154 reported a passenger freighter with destroyers, course 1300, 17 knots in DO 63.  Chase abandoned because of speed too high.
    8) U 332 was surprised by an a/c in CA 8468 and bombed.  Damaged.  Boat continuing operation in CB 70.
    9) U 159 sighted 3 tankers, 1 destroyer, course 2100, 8 knots in ED 1978.  Boat cannot maintain contact on account of fuel.
  b)  None.
  c)  U-boat attacks:  DB 47 - EE 73 - DL 29.
     U-boat sightings: BF 4897 - BE 6546 - BB 76 - BB 51 - BE 6546.  A/c attack on U-boat in BF 8136 (U 753).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) New approach point for U 171 and 173 is DE 10.
    2) Because of report of traffic off Hatteras boats have been re-distributed as follows:  U 202 and 332 N, U 701 584, 404 S. of the latitude of CA 7950.
  c) U 96 reports supply from U 460 completed. U 135 has supplied from U 459.
 
 
- 143 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
  d)  U 753 was attacked by an English a/c at 1615 in BF 8125 and badly damaged.  The boat was temporarily unable to dive and could not move because of her Diesels were out of action.  Boats in the vicinity have been ordered to go to her assistance.  A chain of JU-88s has been sent to render assistance, and at the same time 3 new type MS-boats have left the mouth of the Gironde.  In the evening U 69 reported the radio message, probably made by U 753 by emergency transmitter, which showed that the boat was able to dive to a limited extent.  U 753 will have air escort by JU-88 at 0730/24/6.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 84  1 ship 6,568 BRT
        68  1 ship 5,000 BRT assumed
        158  1 ship 5,000 BRT assumed.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- Op(DA)
U 153
- DE 89
U 402
- BD 69
U 576
- BD 68
 
68
 - EC 59
154
 - DP 41
404
 - CA 87(Op)
578
 - CD 28
 
69
 - BF 58
156
 - DQ 10
406
 - BE 46
582
 - BF 50
 
84
 - CD 46
157
 - Op(DA)
432
 - CD 36
584
 - Op(CA)
 
87
 - Op(DA)
158
 - DL 37
437
 - CD 46
590
 - BF 58
 
89
 - BC 92
159
 - ED 25
458
 - AN 30
594
 - BF 58
 
96
 - BD 64
160
 - BE 88
459
 - CC 47
653
 - CE 14
 
106
 - BE 75
161
 - Op(EB)
460
 - BD 80
701
 - Op(CA)
 
107
 - DD 68
166
 - CF 27
461
 - AN 30
753
 - BF 58
 
124
 - BE 64
171
 - AE 83
502
 - DQ 10
754
 - BE 67
 
126
 - Op(ED)
172
 - EL(Op)
504
 - DO 33
   
 
128
 - Op(ED)
173
 - AL 42
505
 - DE 55
   
 
129
 - Op(DK)
202
 - Op(CA)
553
 - BF 60
   
 
132
 - BC 94
203
 - DE 51
566
 - BE 84
   
 
134
 - CD 52
215
 - BC 36
569
 - BE 46
   
 
135
 - CC 47
332
 - CA 85(Op)
571
 - CD 53
   
       
373
 - CD 24
575
 - CD 54      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 159 - 553 - 68 - 578 - 406 - 590 - 569 - 158 - 124 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 753 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 69 - 594 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 66 - Lorient.
  Entered Port:  U 553 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 84 reported the Portuguese ship "Mirandella" in CD 4839, course 850, 10 knots.
     U 202 sighted a passenger steamer with Portuguese markings in CA 9510.
     U 87 situation:  visibility very variable in operations area, much fog.  18.6 single miss in fog at small fast freighter, 00.  Bombed by a/c.  Returning because of damage.
    U 404 sighted a convoy of 14 ships, 2 escort vessels off Hatteras just outside the 200 meter line. Course SW.
       
- 144 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    24.6 in the afternoon in the same position convoy of 9 ships and 3 escort vessels, course NE.  Sunk:  24.6 freighter 6,000 BRT, N. course.  3 masted freighter 10,000 BRT.  Tanker 7,000 BRT.  Probably sunk.  So far total:  6:  35,328 BRT.
    U 156 reports the sinking of S.S. "Willie Mantic" (first reported by U 502), proceeding in ballast from Capetown to Charlestown.  Total:  10 freighters, 1 sailing vessel - 48,991 BRT sunk, 1 destroyer and 1 tanker 8,000 BRT torpedoed.
    U 128 situation:  Lively single-ship traffic on an E-W course along latitude 120 N.  Sunk:  "West Ira" (5,681 BRT) EE 81.  Naval tanker 14,000 BRT in EE 74.  Chasing fast tanker in EE 8553.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat attacks:  DC 1250 and DC 1240.
    U-boat sightings:  CA 79 - BC 41 - BF 6730 - EC 4193 - DB 94 - DC 1244 - ED 98.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d) 1) U 753 was picked up by air escort at about 0900 and escorted home by the M/S boats.
    2) All C.O.'s have once more received detailed instructions on conduct towards Neutrals.
    3) Because of very great danger from the air, boats have been ordered to proceed submerged day and night in Biscay and to surface only to charge batteries.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 404  3 ships 23,000 BRT
        156  1 ship 5,000 BRT assumed.
        128  2 ships 19, 681 BRT
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BF 50
U 135
- CD 55
U 332
- Op(CA)
U 571
- CD 46
 
67
 - Op(DA)
153
 - DP 39
373
 - CD 34
575
 - CD 47
 
68
 - EC 66
154
 - DO 53
402
 - Op(BD)
576
 - Op(BD)
 
69
 - BF 60
156
 - DE 89
404
 - DC 12(Op)
578
 - CD 34
 
84
 - CD 47
157
 - Op(DA)
406
 - BE 56
582
 - BF 50
 
87
 - Op(CB)
158
 - DL 39
432
 - CE 16
584
 - Op(CA)
 
89
 - BC 85
159
 - DO 98
437
 - CC 69
590
 - BF 60
 
96
 - BF 47
160
 - CF 24
458
 - AF 48
594
 - BF 60
 
106
 - BE 85
161
 - Op(EB)
459
 - CC 91
653
 - CE 21
 
107
 - DE 41
166
 - CE 63
460
 - BD 89
701
 - Op(CA)
 
124
 - BF 49
171
 - AE 84
461
 - AF 80
753
 - BF 60
 
126
 - ED(Op)
172
 - Op(EB)
502
 - DE 99
754
 - BE 59
 
128
 - Op(EE)
173
 - AK 68
504
 - DD 97
   
 
129
 - Op(DK)
202
 - Op(CA)
505
 - DE 72
   
 
132
 - CD 14
203
 - DE 48
566
 - BE 59
   
 
134
 - CD 45
215
 - BC 61
569
 - BE 59
   
     
 
- 145 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 582 - 87 - 373 - 159 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 406 - 569 - 158 - 124 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 566 - 69 - 594 - 590.
  Sailed:  U 379 - 596 - 508 - 509 - Kiel.
  Entered Port:  U 69 - 590 - 594 - St. Nazaire;  U 753 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 158:  reported a double miss at a freighter in DL 6369.  1 shot a gyro-failure.
    U 107:  quadruple miss at ship type "Torens", 2950, 17 knots.
    U 153:  sank "Anglo-Canadian" (5,268 BRT), from Capetown to Baltimore, in DP 2655.
    U 126 situation:  No traffic along the route ED 74-75-72-73-81-82-83-91, ,nor in area ED 98 since 21.6.  On 20.6 sighted a gunboat with radar, 1 patrol vessel on 22 and 25.6 respectively.  Operations area very unfavorable at present.  Am going to EE during the full moon period.
    U 67 situation:  No traffic S. of 200 meter line.  Moved off because of moonlight nights as bright as day and sea as smooth as oil.  Intend to operate in DB 49 or 47.  Off South Pass sank a ship type "Ahome" (8,621 BRT), 600.
  b) None.
  c) Norwegian "Tamesis" (7,256 BRT) torpedoed N. of Hatteras.  
    U-boat sightings:  EC 4446 - BB 6382 - ED 9865 - BB 57 - ED 2746 - CA 5166 - CA 7999 - EB 86 - BA 99 - DC 13 - DC 12.
    (x) "Manuela" and "Nordau" torpedoed off Hatteras (probably U 404).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 332 operating against traffic in CB 70.
    2) U 107, on return passage, will remain in DD for 2 days.
    3) U 158 will make for CC 90.
  c)  None.
  d)  U 124 reports:  cannot dive because stern heavy, reason unknown.  Boat is continuing on her way at high speed will have air escort from 0830.  2 patrol vessels are also being sent to meet her.
       
- 146 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
V. Reports of Success:
    U 153  1 ship 5,268 BRT
        67  1 ship 8,621 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BF 48
U 153
- DP 51
U 373
- CE 11
U 571
- CC 93
 
67
 - DB 72 (Op)
154
 - DO 43
379
 - AO 40
575
 - CC 91
 
68
 - ED 18
156
 - DE 96
402
 - Op(BD60)
576
 - Op(BD 50)
 
84
 - CC 92
157
 - Op(DA)
404
 - CA 89
578
 - BD 84
 
87
 - CC 11
158
 - DM 42
406
 - BE 66
582
 - BF 60
 
89
 - BC 79
159
 - DP 71
432
 - BD 97
584
 - Op(CA)
 
96
 - BE 97
160
 - CE 63
437
 - CC 87
508
 - AO 40
 
106
 - BE 91
161
 - Op(EB)
458
 - AE 69
509
 - AO 40
 
107
 - DE 12
166
 - CE 67
459
 - CC 87
596
 - AO 40
 
124
 - BF 50
171
 - AL 21
460
 - CE 28
653
 - BD 98
 
126
 - ED 98(Op)
172
 - EC 71
461
 - AE 61
701
 - Op(CA 79)
 
128
 - Op(ED)
173
 - AK 85
502
 - DF 75
754
 - BE 73
 
129
 - Op(DK)
202
 - CA 80(Op)
504
 - DD 93
   
 
132
 - CC 34
203
 - DD 96
505
 - DO 99
   
 
134
 - CC 92
215
 - BC 57
566
 - BF 47
   
 
135
 - CD 61
332
 - Op(CA)
569
 - BE 68
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 582 - 87 - 373 - 159 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 404 - 406 - 569 - 158 - 124 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 566.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 582 - 124 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 203 sank "Putney Hill" (5,216 BRT) in DO 3862, from Capetown to New York.  In DO 6195 "Pedrinash" (3,666 BRT) destined for New York with cotton.  Ship was armed.
    U 404 sighted at 1940 in CA 9570 a steamer with an escort vessel, course 3200.  Boat was forced underwater by a 4 funneled destroyer.  Convoy suspected.  Boats in the vicinity were given freedom to attack.  U 404 was operating against U 202's convoy.  After she had again been forced underwater for 5 hours, she reported that at the best the convoy could be reached 40 miles off New York.  Boat was therefore ordered to continue on her protracted return passage.
     U 576 sighted a passenger steamer in BD 5372, main course 00, 18 knots.  Continued on her way, as speed too high.
     U 129 situation:  18.6 sighted Chilean freighter in DM 1972, 2900, 22.6 Chilean passenger freighter in DL 4553, 750.  Oil charging stations around Paolo Blanco not working.
       
- 147 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    No traffic in Tampico Roads and N. of this.  Spasmodic air activity, no sea patrol.  Requests DL 60 and 90, further if no traffic.  Sunk:  "Millinocke" (3,274 BRT) in DM 5375.
    U 161 situation:  No traffic at present off Colon.  Presume that it has been stopped for the present and will suddenly start again. Medium air activity.  Operation hindered by bad weather.
    U 126 situation:  Chased a small freighter from ED 9391 to EE 4757, double miss, certain data.  Afterwards chased a large freighter to the S.  No chance of attacking because speed too high.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  DB 47, DB 57, BA 9553, DB 6847, DM 23, DE 41, BB 8615, DB 49, DD 14.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 66 to steer for ED 60.
     U 132 has been allocated BA 3670.
  c)  None.
  d)  Special operation according to Operations Order No. 53 (Brazil) will not be carried out.  Boats taking part which are already at sea have been ordered to destroy the documents.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 203  2 ships 8,882 BRT
        129  1 ship 3,274 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BE 96
U 153
- DP 45
U 332
- Op(CB)
U 505
- DP 15
 
67
 - Op(DA)
154
 - DN 63
373
 - BD 88
508
 - AN 30
 
68
 - ED 25
156
 - DF 48
379
 - AN 30
509
 - AN 30
 
84
 - CC 80
157
 - Op(DA)
402
 - Op(BD)
566
 - BF 48
 
87
 - CC 21
158
 - Op(DM)
404
 - CA 96
569
 - BF 40
 
89
 - CC 22
159
 - DP 57
406
 - BF 40
571
 - CC 80
 
96
 - BE 69
160
 - CE 67
432
 - BD 96
575
 - CC 80
 
106
 - BF 81
161
 - Op(EB)
437
 - CC 87
576
 - Op(BD)
 
107
 - Op(CC)
166
 - CE 85
458
 - AE 86
578
 - BD 86
 
126
 - Op(EE)
171
 - AL 25
459
 - CC 87
584
 - Op(CA)
 
128
 - Op(ED)
172
 - EC 81
460
 - CE 43
596
 - AN 30
 
129
 - Op(DK)
173
 - BD 13
461
 - AE 85
653
 - BE 78
 
132
 - BB 99
202
 - Op(CA)
502
 - DF 57
701
 - Op(CA)
 
134
 - CC 80
203
 - DO 56
504
 - DE 49
754
 - BE 71
 
135
 - CE 19
215
 - BC 75
   
   
     
 
- 148 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 87 - 373 - 159 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 404 - 406 - 569 - 158 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 566.
  Sailed:  U 201 - Brest;  U 116 - 582 - Lorient;  U 597 - Kiel.
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 653 sighted a destroyer on a N. course in BE 7836.
    U 404 sank the Norwegian "Moldanger" (6,827 BRT) course 3200, in CA 6970, after chasing her for 6 hours.
    U 584:  2 unexplained misses at a stopped 2,000 BRT freighter or patrol vessel in 24.6 in CA 8791.  Otherwise nothing seen.  Strong air patrol.  Am moving off to the E., because of bright moonlight nights.  28.6 boat sighted small convoy in CA 8789, 2 steamers and 2 destroyers, N. course, speed 10 knots.  Boats in the vicinity were given freedom to attack.  No further reports received.
    U 153 sank the armed American ship "Narcissus" (6,085 BRT), with a mixed cargo from New York to Trinidad, in DP 7110.
    U 68 reported a miss with her last electric torpedo at a fast freighter, course 1300, 14 knots.  Guns not used because of weather.
    U 126 sank the Norwegian "Leiv Erykson" (9,952 BRT), course for Gibraltar, in the sea area E. of Trinidad.  Situation:  Kingstown harbor darkened, empty.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  EC 2685 - DM 2345 - EC 6887 - EE 47.
    A/c attack on U-boat in BF 4771.
    U-boat attack in DC 1232.
    SSS from American "Hamlin F. McCormick" (3,317 BRT).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b)  U 132 has been given further details of situation in operations area St. Lawrence River.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 404  1 ship 6,827 BRT
        153  1 ship 6,085 BRT
        126  1 ship 9,952 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- 149 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
28.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CF 33
U 153
- CC 96
U 332
- Op(CB)
U 508
- AN 20
 
67
 - Op(DA)
154
 - DN 53
373
 - BD 94
509
 - AN 20
 
68
 - DF 41
156
 - DF 51
379
 - AN 30
566
 - BF 49
 
84
 - CC 87
157
 - Op(CA)
402
 - BD 49
569
 - BF 60
 
87
 - BC 79
158
 - DM 38
404
 - CB 47
571
 - CC 87
 
89
 - CC 15
159
 - DP 53
406
 - BF 40
575
 - CC 87
 
96
 - BF 40
160
 - CE 85
432
 - BE 73
576
 - BD 49
 
106
 - BF 50
161
 - Op(EB)
437
 - CC 87
582
 - BF 59
 
107
 - CC
166
 - CE 78
458
 - AE 87
584
 - Op(CA)
 
116
 - BF 50
171
 - AL 19
459
 - CC 87
596
 - AN 30
 
126
 - EE(Op)
172
 - EC 87
460
 - CE 17
597
 - AO 40
 
128
 - Op(ED)
173
 - BD41
461
 - AL 31
653
 - BE 86
 
129
 - Op(DK)
201
 - Lorient
502
 - DF 53
701
 - Op(CA)
 
132
 - BB 94
202
 - Op(CA)
504
 - DE 52
754
 - BD 38
 
134
 - CC 87
203
 - DO 57
505
 - DO 63
   
 
135
 - CE 26
215
 - BB 95
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 87 - 373 - 139 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 404 - 406 - 569 - 158 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 566.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 569 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 505 sank heavily armed freighter, type Robin Hood (6,900 BRT) on 28.6 in DO 6646, course 1200.
     U 203 sank "Sam Houston" (7,200 BRT), armed, armored bridge in DO 9734.  Course for Capetown.
     U 173 sighted a steamer, course 650, in BD 10.  Afterwards found to be Irish.
     U 701 sank a tanker of 8,000 BRT from a S-bound convoy in DC 1231 and torpedoed 1 ship.  In DC 1246 sank a fully-laden tanker, type "Gulf Pride" 12,000 BRT in course N.
     U 584 reported convoy in CA 8726, 15 knots.  Out of sight.  No further contact.
     U 153 intends to operate against the freighter reported by U 68 yesterday.  Requests beacon signals.
     U 158 sighted a heavily armed freighter in DC 5547, 3200, 7 knots.  Boat has no torpedoes left.
    U 107 sank the Dutch "Jagersfoutein" (10,083 BRT) on 26.6 in DE 1797, 750.
     U 128 sank the American tanker "Polybius" (7,041 BRT) on 26.6 in EE 8748.  27.6 torpedoed "Steel Engineer" (5,687 BRT) in EE 9795, course SE.  After torpedoing her, searched but did not find her again.  Total:  35,956 BRT sunk, 16687 BRT torpedoed.
       
- 150 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) None.
  c) U-boats sighted:  DB 56 - DM 2560 - DM 2641 - DB 4871 - CA 28 - CA 79 - DB 48.
    SSS report from "Service Coolmotor" (6,762 BRT) in DM 13.  Torpedo report from British motor freighter "Waiwera" (12,435 BRT) (U 754).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) U 128 - 161 - 126 have received orders to leave their operations area so as to reach DE 50 still with a stock of fuel.  New approach points:
      U 134 - 571 - 84:  DM 26
      U 457:  DN 84
      U 575:  ED 11
      U 461 - 458:  CC 80.
  c) U 107 - 437 - 571 - 84 - 134 - 575 have supplied from U 459
    Tanker's stocks:  To deliver:  65 cbm - 25 days
                                        own:  96 cbm - 20 days.
  d)  U 105 left El Ferrol at dawn and was picked up by air escort 0745.  Shadowing Sunderland was driven off by boat and a/c.  0230 M-boats took over escort in BF 9817.
     Passage so far as B 2 according to plan.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 203  1 ship 7,200 BRT
        505  1 ship 6,900 BRT
        701  3 ships 20,000 BRT  1 ship torpedoed.
        107  1 ship 10,083 BRT
        128  1 ship 7,041 BRT
        128  1 ship 5,687 BRT torpedoed.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BE 86
U 135
- CE 33
U 203
- ED 23
U 504
- DE 37
 
68
 - DP 80
153
 - DP 80
215
 - BB 83
505
 - DO 59
 
67
 - Op(DA)
154
 - DN 43
332
 - Op(CB)
508
 - AF 70
 
84
 - CC 87
156
 - DF 29
373
 - BE 74
509
 - AF 70
 
87
 - BC 88
157
 - Op(DA)
379
 - AF 76
566
 - BF
 
89
 - CB 39
158
 - DC 56
402
 - BC 95
571
 - CC 87
 
96
 - BF
159
 - DP 36
404
 - CB 57
575
 - CC 87
 
106
 - BF 50
160
 - CE 75
406
 - BF
576
 - BD 74
 
107
 - Op(CC)
161
 - Op(EB)
432
 - BE 82
578
 - BE 49
 
116
 - BF 40
166
 - DF 32
437
 - CC 87
582
 - BF 40
 
126
 - Op(ED)
171
 - AK 55
458
 - AL 35
584
 - Op(CA)
 
128
 - Op(EE)
172
 - EC 58
459
 - CC 87
598
 - Bergen
 
129
 - Op(DK)
173
 - BD 18
460
 - CD 31
597
 - AN 30
 
132
 - BB 59
201
 - BF 50
461
 - AE 88
653
 - BE 93
 
134
 - CC 87
202
 - Op(CA)
502
 - DF 38
701
 - Op(DC)
 
   
   
   
754
 - BD 57
     
 
- 151 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 87 - 373 - 159 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 404 - 406 - 158 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 106 - 566.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 106 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 754 sank the English "Waiwera" (12,435 BRT) in BD 4983.  Long legs around 200.
    2) U 158 fired at the Latvian "Everland" (3,950 BRT) in DC 5626 and set her on fire.  Sank ship by opening bottom valves.  Secret orders, R/S and other material taken on board, also Captain and one Spaniard.
    3) U 154 sank a freighter (3,200 BRT) in EO 3591, course 650.
    4) U 505 sank "Thomas McKean" (C7 type - 7,400 BRT) by gunfire in DP 4457, after a torpedo hit.  Course 1800 from New York to Trinidad.
    5) U 332 sank "Raphael Semmes" (6,025 BRT) on 28.6 in DD 4786.
    6) U 129 situation:  No traffic from Vera Cruz - Tampico and DK 50-80 along the coast to Roca Partida.  Probably stopped.  Strong air activity, no sea patrol.  Proceeding E.  Sunk:  27.6 DK 8259 "Tuxpan" (7,008 BRT).  DK 8291 "Chopas" (2,000 BRT).
    7) U 153 sank S.S. "Ruth" (probably 4,781 BRT), with ore from Rio to Melbourne, in DP 4769.
  b)  None.
  c)  U-boat sighting:  AM 1946 - CA 5717 - DO 89 - DB 5698 - DC 1154 - DB 9422 - DM 1397 - DC 1317 - CA 87 - DB 94.
     U-boat attacks:  in DP 41 - DP 49 - ED 67.
     SSS report from S.S. "Rio Grande" in ED 67.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  New approach points:  U 116:  ER 90.  U 582, 201:  DH 11.  U 402, 576:  CA 79.  U 173:  DN 76.  U 460:  CC 80.
    U 203 has been given freedom of action in the Caribbean area.  U 505 has been allocated EB, lower third and S. of this as operations area.
  c)  None.
       
- 152 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) 1) U 105 entered Lorient under escort.
    2) U 596 is returning to Kiel from Bergen on account of heavy explosion in the battery.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 754  1 ship 12,435 BRT
        158  1 ship 3,950 BRT
        153  1 ship 4,781 BRT
        154  1 ship 3,200 BRT
        505  1 ship 7,400 BRT
         332 1 ship 6,027 BRT
        129  2 ships 9,008 BRT
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.June 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CF 23
U 153
- DP 48
U 215
- BB 84
U 505
- DO 69
 
67
 - Op(DA)
154
 - EC 38
332
 - Op(DD)
508
 - AF 47
 
68
 - DP 50
156
 - DF 33
373
 - BE 71
509
 - AF 48
 
84
 - DD 61
157
 - Op(DA)
379
 - AE 71
571
 - DD 56
 
87
 - BC 97
158
 - DC 38
402
 - BC 95
566
 - v. Brest
 
89
 - CB 53
159
 - DE 88
404
 - CB 66
575
 - DD 63
 
96
 - BF 50
160
 - DF 36
406
 - BF 60
576
 - BC 95
 
107
 - CC 92
161
 - Op(EB)
432
 - BE 92
578
 - BE 59
 
116
 - BF 40
166
 - DF 28
437
 - DD 58
582
 - BE 92
 
126
 - Op(ED)
171
 - AK 73
458
 - AL 35
584
 - Op(CA)
 
128
 - EE 69
172
 - ED 16
459
 - CC 57
596
 - AN 30
 
129
 - Op(DK)
173
 - BC 69
460
 - BC 95
597
 - AN 20
 
132
 - BB 51
201
 - BF 40
461
 - AL 24
653
 - BF 72
 
134
 - DD 62
202
 - Op(CA)
502
 - DG 12
701
 - Op(CA)
 
135
 - BE 79
203
 - ED 27
504
 - CE 18
754
 - BD 75
 
   
   
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 87 - 373 - 159 - 68 - 172 - 578 - 404 - 406 - 158 - 504 - 432 - 135 - 653 - 128 - 96 - 156 - 502 - 107 - 596.
  Sailed:  U 572 - La Pallice;  U 136 - St. Nazaire;  U 90 - 704 - Kiel.
  Entered Port:  U 566 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 202 sank a large transport with destroyer escort in CA 9782, course 1250, speed 11 knots, after a 6 hour chase.  Probably type "Seminole" (5,896 BRT).  After attack, well placed D/C's.  Boat reported that she was starting return passage with 24 1/2 cbm, but was ordered not to return until 16 cbm left.  Still has 4 plus 2 torpedoes.
    2) U 373 sighted an oil trace in BE 7357 and suspects a submerged S/M there.
       
  b)  None.
       
- 153 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) U-boat sighting:  DC 13 - DC 12 - DC 3925 - CA 6921 - CA 6357 - CB 4399.
    U-boat attack:  CA 97.  Torpedo report from an unidentified ship in an unknown position.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 215 has received orders to remain in BB if operation there seems promising, but otherwise to steer for CA 79 and operate according to U 701's situation report.
    2) U 160 making for ED 50
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 202  1 ship 5,896 BRT.
       
VI. General:
        The unexpectedly large number of sinkings in June can be attributed to the following causes:
    a) U-boats on their way out to their operations area (North America-Caribbean) came by chance on a stream of independently routed ships in the open sea area (BD, DD, DE, DO, DP), involving more vessels than have so far been observed.  Several boats had already sunk 2 or 3 ships by the time they reached the Caribbean, in the main 6-8,000 BRT steamers.
    b) Some of the boats operating in the Caribbean on their first patrol have scored excellent results (U 159 14 ships of 70,625 BRT).
    c) Traffic has started again in the Hatteras area.  On the whole the traffic situation in the Caribbean continues to be more favorable than that in the N. American area.  It is therefore important to exploit it as much as possible.
       
       
                                                             (signed):  Dönitz
       
       
       
       
       
                                           (MS page to face page 45)
       
  1) It is remarkable that the large number of ships independently routed in DD-DP were observed, and the sinkings took place, about full moon.
  2) Captured documents evaluated later show the boats have hit upon the route prescribed by the enemy.
       
                                                                                         Iu
                                                                               (initials illegible)
       
       
       
 
 
- 154 -