U-106 - 2nd War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
Lorient
26 February 1941
Lorient
17 June 1941
112

 

Click the icon to download a KMZ file displaying the U-boat track, significant events and locations for this patrol.  You must have Google Earth loaded on your computer to view this file.  Download Google Earth here

 

Ships Hit
Date
KTB Time
Position
Ship
Tons
Nationality
Convoy
11 Mar 41
15.46
20°39'N, 20°57'W
MEMNON
7,506
British
16 Mar 41
16.36 - 16.37
13°27'N, 20°15'W
ALMKERK
6,810
Netherlands
17 Mar 41
21.07 - 21.10
16°03'N, 20°51'W
ANDALUSIAN
3,082
British
SL-68
17 Mar 41
21.07 - 21.10
16°03'N, 20°51'W
TAPANOELI
7,034
Netherlands
SL-68
20 Mar 41
23.23
20°03'N, 25°57'W
HMS MALAYA (01) (damaged)
31,100
British
SL-68
20 Mar 41
23.23
20°03'N, 25°57'W
MEERKERK (damaged)
7,995
Netherlands
SL-68
24 Mar 41
22.58
17°33'N, 27°33'W
EASTLEA
4,267
British
30 May 41
00.36
16°45'N, 25°21'W
SILVERYEW
6,373
British
31 May 41
03.13 - 03.34
16°45'N, 25°31'W
CLAN MACDOUGALL
6,843
British
6 Jun 41
05.03
17°27'N, 30°09'W
SACRAMENTO VALLEY
4,573
British
     
 Total = 85,583
   
Note:  The positions in the table above and in the Google Earth patrol summary are derived from the KTB and in many cases do not match those set forth in authoritative references such as Jürgen Rohwer, Axis Submarine Successes of World War Two or the Uboat.net website.  The goal here is to present the picture relative to the U-boat and not the absolute position that the ship was attacked or sank.


 
                                                                 
 
                                                                
       
           
           
           
           
           
            
           
           
                K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h  
                = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =  
                                       of  
          U  n  t  e  r  s  e  e  b  o  o  t  e  s   "U  106"  
        = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =  
           
                                2nd Patrol.  
           
                Beginning:    11.2.1941  
                Ending:        17.6.1941.  
           
           
           
           
                          Kommandant:        Kapitänleutnant  O  e  s  t  e  n.  
           
           
                                  Distribution:   2 x O.K.M. Skl.  
          1 x B.d.U. Op.  
          1 x B.d.U. Org.  
          1 x 2.U.-Flottille  
          1 x Boot.  
   

 

20.06.41 Drafted.

            
                        
           
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
- 1 -
 
           
           
           
   
1941
     
    11.02. - 24.02.41 Lorient Shipyard overhaul.  
    24.02. - 26.03.41 Lorient Fitting out, fuel- torpedo- and provisions loading.  
    26.02.41 Lorient    
    17.00   Put to sea for 2nd war patrol from Lorient.  Up to Point II off Lorient with escort.  
    19.08 Isle de Groix Dived, to wait for darkness.  
    20.00 BF 6184    
   

20.46

14.00

 

BF 6443 upper-right

Surfaced.  Because of malfunctions in the gyrocompass installation steered by magnetic compass and deviated to sea on the ordered departure route to remain off the coast.  
                                                            
    27.02.41 Bay of Biscay    
    04.00 BF 6714 Passed 13 fishing boats with running  lights.  
    08.00 BF 5858    
    12.00 BF 8233 Day's run:  Surfaced     184.0 nm  
                         Submerged     3.5 nm = 187.5 nm.  
    16.00 BF 8245 1 bridge petty officer broke his right arm by an overcoming sea.  
      SSW 5-6, Sea 5  
    20.00 BF 8191    
    24.00 BF 8412    
                                                            
    28.02.41      
    04.00 BF 7637    
    08.00 BF 7648    
    10.36   Sent passing report 9°W.  
    12.00 BF 7589 Day's run:  Surfaced  196 nm.  
    14.00   Dived.  Test dive.  
    14.33   Surfaced.  
    16.00 BF 7842    
    20.00 CG 2211    
    24.00 CG 2168    
                                                            
    01.03.41 West of Spain    
    04.00 CG 2434    
    08.00 CG 2485    
    12.00 CG 2741 Day's run:  Surfaced     185.5 nm  
                         Submerged     3.5 nm = 189.0 nm.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.02.41
Sun and Moon Data 27.02.41
Sun and Moon Data 28.02.41
Sun and Moon Data 01.03.41
 
- 2 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    01.03.41 West of Spain    
    13.00   Clocks set back 1 hour.  Time in M.E.Z. [GMT +1]  
    16.00 CC 4336    
    19.00   Clocks set back 1 hour.  From now time in M.G.Z. [Central Greenwich Time = Universal Time = GMT + 0]  
    20.00 CG 5415  
    20.58 CG 5419 Steamer with set navigation lights in sight.  Portuguese on course 250-260°.  Unsuspicious, ran after.  
    22.22   Turned away.  
    24.00 CG 5472    
                                                            
    02.03.41 Southwest of Spain    
    01.15 CG 5476 A small Spanish freighter and passenger freighter in sight bearing 230°T.  Course 10° (for Vigo?).  Markings and flag well illuminated.  Approached to within 400 meters, unsuspicious.  
    08.00 CG 8123    
    08.33 CG 8131 Dived.  Spanish steamer "CABO ESPARTEL" on course 20-25°.  Appearance corresponds to the name.  Unsuspicious.  
    10.07   Surfaced.  
    12.00 CG Day's run:  Surfaced     240.0 nm  
                         Submerged     3.5 nm = 243.5 nm.  
    16.00 CG 8551 Because I have enough time before supplying, I go a little bit farther to the east off the Strait of Gibraltar possibly to find something there.  
    20.00 CG 8598    
    24.00 CG 8681    
                                                            
    03.03.41 Southwest of Spain    
    04.00 CG 8954    
    08.00 DJ 1333    
    12.00 DJ 1381 Day's run:  Surfaced  268.0 nm  
    16.00 DJ 1568    
    18.04 DJ 1588 Smoke trail bearing 188°T.  A steamer apparently on a southerly course.  
    18.12   Another steamer bearing 136°T.  Because it is closing, maneuvered ahead.  
        Steamer steers 45° and sets navigation lights.  Spanish freight and passenger ship "CIUDAD-Class" or "DOMINE".  Course goes from Teneriffe for Cadiz, unsuspicious.  
    24.00 DJ 1822    
                                                            
    04.03.41      
    04.00 DJ 1847    
    [illegible entry] [illegible entry] Steamer in sight.  Course [remainder of entry illegible]  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 02.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 03.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 04.03.41
 
- 3 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    04.03.41      
    08.00 DJ 4129    
    09.12   Surfaced.  Ship examined carefully in the periscope.  
    10.25   Dived.  
    12.00 DJ 4146 Day's run:  Surfaced     268 nm  
                         Submerged     3.4 nm = 271.4 nm.  
    12.55 DJ 4172 Crash dive.  Aircraft, probably "Vickers Wellington", possibly "Douglas" (Spanish).  
    13.53   Surfaced.  At "NORDMARK" a radio message was later seen which was:  
        Radio Message 1312/13 All 20-21:  
        French aircraft report:  4 March in 31°30'N 12°15'W surfaced U-boat . . . . . . etc.  
    16.00 DH 6391    
    20.00 DH 6621    
    24.00 DH 6593 This boat was certainly "U-106".  
                                                            
    05.03.41      
    04.00 DH 6856    
    02.00 DH 9243    
    12.00 DH 9432 Day's run:  Surfaced     261.8 nm  
                         Submerged     3.0 nm = 264.8 nm.  
    16.00 DH 9183    
    20.00 DH 9188    
    24.00 DH 9462    
      Off Las Palmas    
           
    06.03.41 Off Las Palmas, Roads    
        The beacons of the approach stand out well, "CORRIENTES" is easy to find.  
    01.00 Las Palmas Roads Made fast alongside "CORRIENTES".  Boat lies well.  Fenders and lines are correctly delivered, moderate swell.  
    01.15   Transfer begins, 50 cbm fuel oil, lubricating oil and fresh provisions.  Delivery was well prepared and went smoothly.  
    05.05   Cast off.  
    05.46   Short signal sent:  Supply completed.  
    07.15 DH 9435 Dived before Spanish coastal steamer, heading from the north to Las Palmas.  
      It is bright.  
    08.00 DH 9435    
    10.29   Surfaced.  
    11.25   Radio Message 0938/6/149:  B.d.U. to Southern boats:  
        "U-106" transit to the south on 22°W.  
    12.00 DH 9277 Day's run:  Surfaced     125.7 nm  
                         Submerged     7.3 nm = 133.0 nm.  
    16.00 DH 9192    
    20.00 DH 9158    
    24.00 DH 9147    
                                                            
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 05.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 06.03.41
 
- 4 -
 
           
           
           
           
    07.03.41 West of Africa    
    04.00 DH 8329    
    08.00 DH 8312    
    12.00 DH 8229 Day's run:  Surfaced  184.5 nm  
    16.00 DH 8245 To the south a convoy is reported by ship-based battleship aircraft. [SCHARNHORST and GNEISENAU]  
    20.00 DH 8167 U-124 and U-105 gain contact quickly and attack.  Am operating on the convoy in the hope that a boat maintains contact.  
    24.00 DH 8177 Convoy is still located about 600 nm to the south of me.  
                                                            
    08.03.41      
    04.00 DH 8177    
    08.00 DH 7682    
    12.00 DH 7951 Day's run:  Surfaced  199.5 nm.  
    13.55   Dived.  Test dive.  
    14.14   Surfaced.  
    16.00 DH 7981    
    16.29   Radio Message 1817/9/129:  To Southern boats:   
        Report position.                B.d.U.  
    17.26   Short Signal:  Position DT 33.        U-106.  
    20.00 DT 3351    
    24.00 DT 3387    
                                                            
    09.03.41      
    04.00 DT 3658    
    08.00 DT 3929    
    12.00 DT 3997 Day's run:  Surfaced     189.0 nm  
                         Submerged     1.2 nm = 190.2 nm.  
    12.47 DT 3997 U-124 in sight.  Leaves me information about the convoy, I deliver a paper from the Flottilla to him (G-publications). Because we are located on the presumed latitude of the convoy, I go to the west, while he continues to run on a northerly course.  
    16.00 DT 3997    
    19.22   Radio Message 2048/9/164:  To U-105, U-106:  
        If there is no enemy contact by nightfall U-105 on 20°W, U-106 on 21°W proceed to Freetown area.  Orders concerning supply to follow.        B.d.U.  
    20.00 DT 3873    
    24.00 DT 6113    
                                                            
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 08.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 09.03.41
 
- 5 -
 
           
           
           
           
    10.03.41      
    04.00 DT 6146    
    08.00 DT 6513    
    12.00 DT 6554 Day's run:  Surfaced  179.5 nm  
    16.00 DT 6586    
    20.00 DT 6937    
    24.00 DT 6895    
                                                            
    11.03.41      
    02.09 DT 9232 Small steamer in sight with navigation lights and Spanish markings, course 45°.  Pursued, inspected closely, could find nothing suspicious.  
    04.00 DT 6899 Apparently CIUDAD-Class.  Freight and passenger ship.  
    04.32   Came to old course.  
    08.00 DT 9236    
    12.00 DT 9268 Day's run:  Surfaced  150 nm.  
    14.25 DT 9298 Bearing 170°T a steamer heavily zig-zagging on apparent general course north.  Positioned ahead on general course.  
    14.48   Dived.  
    15.46 DT 9292 1st shot.  1 G7e, target speed = 13 knots, target angle 60°, range = 600 meters, hit after 25 seconds.  
      W 4-5, Sea 3-4, Vis. good  
        2nd shot.  1 G7e, target speed = 13 knots, target = 90°, range = 500 meters, hit after 46 seconds.  
        Both hits aft, speed was greater than 13 knots.  
        English, Blue Funnel Line "MEMNON" 7506 GRT.  Name located on the bow.  Appearance checks.  Stern cannon.  Ship sinks in 15 minutes over the stern.  
    15.56   Surfaced.  4 boats are in the water.  
        Radio Message was not observed after surfacing.  
    16.00 DT 9292    
    20.00 DT 9533    
    24.00 DT 9561    
                                                            
    12.03.71      
    04.00 DT 9591    
    08.00 DT 9831    
    12.00 DT 9835 Day's run:  Surfaced     136 nm  
                         Submerged      4 nm = 140 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 3261    
    18.19   Dived.  Test dive.  
    18.44   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EJ 3286    
    24.00 EJ 3561    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 11.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 12.03.41
 
- 6 -
 
           
           
           
           
    13.03.41      
    04.00 EJ 3594    
    08.00 EJ 2834    
    12.00 EJ 3897 Day's run:  Surfaced     154.0 nm  
                         Submerged     1.3 nm = 155.3 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 6261    
    20.00 EJ 6294    
    24.00 EJ 6534    
                                                            
    14.03.41      
    04.00 EJ 6591    
    07.33   Radio Message 0754/14/193:  
        Attack areas off Freetown, U-105 south, U-106 north of a line from Cape Sierra Leone in direction 55°.  According to an unconfirmed report, ships frequently wait at night inside the 200-meter line, which a heavy cruiser patrols.  Both boats remain off Freetown until about 21 and supply about 25 March at Point Red. Further orders follow.        B.d.U.  
    08.00 EJ 6834    
    12.00 EJ 6867 Day's run:  Surfaced  151.0 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 9261    
    20.00 EJ 9531    
    24.00 EJ 9537 Change course for Freetown.  Turn point and course is the most promising according to received documents.  
                                                            
    15.03.41      
    04.00 EJ 9659    
    08.00 EK 7477    
    11.45 EK 7722 A convoy comes out of the haze in direction 180°, 12-15 ships high out, am positioned to starboard abeam of the convoy.  1 "JAVELIN" destroyer ahead to starboard.  Convoy course approximately 240°, speed 7 knots.  
      NE 3, Sea 2-3, hazy  
    12.00 EK 7732 Day's run:  Surfaced  197.5 nm.  
    12.41   Radio Message 1419/15  To B.d.U.:  
        Convoy square EK 7728, westerly course.         U-106.  
        Nothing heard from headquarters; however, because U-105 has certainly received the Radio Message, I do not, as in later cases, resend.   
     

 

Haze/dust zone (according to monthly chart)

I maneuver ahead of the convoy on a westerly course. Contact keeping is complicated by exceptionally unpleasant haze.  The haze lies during day and night about a hand's width above the horizon, in the direction of the sun [last line of the entry is illegible]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 14.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 15.03.41
 
- 7 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    15.03.41      
    14.00 Heavily changing visibility conditions Convoy turns behind me on a northerly course.  I am positioned on the port side.  Convoy crossed behind me.  See 1 2-stack destroyer old type and a big yellow auxiliary cruiser (port astern sweeper).  
    15.00   The visibility becomes better suddenly.  Am positioned very close, all ships of the port side are high out.  Attempt to move off at high speed.  (I want to maintain my position and not risk losing contact by diving.)  
    15.06 EK 7715 Artillery fire by auxiliary cruiser.  4 covering impacts!  Crash dive.  
        My belief, that I would be difficult to detect in the haze was evidently wrong.  The advantage of the high bridge is particularly striking with the changing visibility and long swell.  
    16.00 EK 7714    
    16.44   Surfaced.  Convoy out of sight.  
    18.15   Convoy again in sight, steering northerly course.  
    19.40   Radio Message 2110/15/139:  To B.d.U.:  
        Convoy square EK 7473, upper-left, northerly course, 2 destroyers.        U-106.  
    20.00 EK 7447 In the brief twilight convoy was lost for a short time.  After moonrise regained contact, it steers a NW-course.  
    21.31   Radio Message 2323/15/141:  To U-106:  
        Hold on, to bring up U-105.        B.d.U.  
        In other words, do not attack.  Attack is hopeless in the bright moonlight on the surface, submerged because of quite high swell also not very promising.  
    22.14   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 369 2356/15/143:  
        Convoy in sight square EK 7743, 0°, 7 knots.        U-106.  
        Convoy changes course every 2-3-hours about 20-30°, hold contact, come well ahead by changes of course of the convoy from his port side to the starboard side.  Far ahead a destroyer runs large legs [back and forth across the convoy's course].  
    24.00 EK 7413    
                                                            
    16.03.41      
    00.19   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 880 0306/16/148:  
        Enemy steers 30°, screen positioned ahead.        U-106.  
    04.00 EK 7183    
    04.55   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 221 0640/16/154:  
        Enemy steers northerly course.        U-106.  
        In fact the [remainder line -illegible]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 16.03.41
 
- 8 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.03.41      
        04.40 hours on NW.  Now intend to attack submerged in the morning twilight, am positioned exactly ahead of the convoy and will allow him to come up.  
    06.00   Dived.  
        In the periscope only a destroyer, making large legs, steers improbable courses, but does not get closer.  From the convoy only the auxiliary cruiser occasionally still in sight.  
    07.34   Surfaced.  Convoy had zigzagged off, not in sight, it has probably stopped for a time to allow a straggler to catch up.  
    08.00 EK 7143    
      NE 5, Sea 4-5, long swells, on top of it short steep seas, unusually heavy for the tradewinds    
    08.25   Contact on the convoy again, am positioned to port astern, steering a NW-course again.  
    09.07   Radio Message 1056/16/162:  
        Square 4724, northwesterly course.        U-106.  
        That square must mean 7124.  
    09.40   Crash dive.  
        Forced to submerge by destroyer.  
    09.54   Surfaced.  
    09.56   Crash dive.  The haze has come up again, I am positioned too close, must let now the whole convoy pass me.  Distance is too great to reach a shooting position.  I see on the port side forward 1 destroyer (2-stack) in the center still another destroyer (2 stack) and to port astern 1 gun boat (HALCYON?).  The "JAVELIN" must therefore be positioned on the starboard side.  Convoy drives in 3 columns each of about 10 steamers.  In the center between the steamers with heavily changing speed settings, (determined by sound observations) "MALAYA".  
    11.51   Surfaced.  Positioned to port behind the convoy.  
    12.00 EK 7114 Day's run:  Surfaced     197.5 nm  
                         Submerged     14.7 nm = 212.2 nm.  
    14.00   Radio Message 1546/16 to B.d.U.:  Convoy position square EJ 6993 present today "MALAYA" and 2 additional destroyers.        U-106.  
        Radio message was not heard by headquarters, can not be expected during the daytime.  The main thing is that U-105 received it.  
        Ran ahead on the port side of the convoy.  
    16.00 EJ 6983    
    16.10   In direction 180°T, 1 steamer in sight on course 350°.  Am positioned between the steamer and the convoy.  Because I must submerge anyway, I can also immediately shoot the single steamer, he lies exactly towards me.  
        In my opinion, he has nothing to do with the convoy, although he is on course to it.  He steers on 21° W.  
    16.14   Dived.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.03.41
 
- 9 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.03.41      
    16.36   1st shot: range = 500 meters, target angle = 90°, target speed 14 knots.  
        Hit aft of the bridge after 27 seconds = 405 meters.  
    1637   2nd shot: range = 500 meters, target angle = 110°, target speed 14 knots.  
        Hit forward of the bridge after 46 seconds = 690 meters.  
        Steamer is Dutch  "ALMKERK" 6810 GRT.  Cannon astern.  Sinks in about 15 minutes over the stern.  
    16.58   Surfaced.  
    16.58   Crash dive.  Artillery fire.  Had not seen our special friend, the big yellow auxiliary cruiser in the haze and swell in the periscope.  Unfortunately, my hope that he will go to the scene of the "ALMKERK" disaster and come within shooting range does not come true.  He remains very cautious with continuous changes of course at great distance.  The destroyers also remain so, in this case, probably because of the "MALAYA" with the convoy.  
    17.54   Surfaced.  Pursued.  Contact on the auxiliary cruiser.  From "ALMKERK" 3 boats float.  Although the convoy saw the downing, it does not risk allowing him to take the boats.  
    20.00 EJ 6953 Follow the auxiliary cruiser on northerly courses, he makes constant legs so that I assume he is on one side of the convoy.  Nothing is seen of the convoy itself.  I lose contact during the brief twilight (20 minutes).  Possibly he has also increased speed.  I then realize I have been drawn off by deceptive course.  
    20.18   Radio Message 2207/16/184:  U-105 reports by Short Signal "Yes".        B.d.U.  
        Therefore "U-105" has contact and our messages were not in vain.  
    20.28   Radio Message 1825/16/172:  To U-105, U-106:  
        Attack, hang on.        B.d.U.  
    20.37   Radio Message 2226/16/185:  To Southern Boats:  
        Attack, U-105 serve as contact keeper if "U-106" does not have contact.        B.d.U.  
        Because now with darkness I have little prospect of finding the convoy again and possibly have been set off by the auxiliary cruiser far from the real convoy I report:  
    21.37   Radio Message 2305/16/187:  Forced off.  Position EJ 6934.        U-106.  
    22.22   Radio Message 2354/16/190:  Convoy square EJ 6925 with course 0°.        U-105.  
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.03.41
 
- 10 -
 
           
           
           
           
    17.03.41   [handwritten entry]  Operating on the basis of U-105 report.  
   

00.00

 

  Because I still have nothing in sight, navigation differences must be present.  Take a good navigation fix on the moon horizon which shifts me 22 nm to the SW and, request bearing signals by Short signal.  
    00.14    
    02.49   Radio Message 04.30/17/195 Alpha Alpha 534:  
        The correct position of the convoy is square 6657, course 340°, speed 7 knots.  
                                                                          U-105.  
    04.00 EJ 6678 So U-105 has also corrected his navigation.  
    05.00   With the help of his bearing signals I get in contact again.  
        [handwritten entry] So that "U-105" can cease bearing signals, send  
    05.15   Radio Message 0712/17/198 Alpha Alpha 615:  
        Have contact on reported enemy.        U-106.  
    08.00 EJ 6562    
    08.42   Crash dive, approached too closely while getting ahead in the morning haze.  
    09.13   Surfaced.  Ran off, unseen.  
        U-105 in sight.  We are positioned ahead of the convoy to port.  
    09.40   Preparatory talks held with U-105.  It is decided to attack together from the west after the arrival of darkness before moonrise (about 23.30 hours).  In case of lost contact by any one of the two boats report immediately.  Contact holder then immediately gives bearing signals.  
    12.00 EJ 6294 Day's run:  Surfaced     195.8 nm  
                         Submerged     8.6 nm = 204.4 nm.  
        The big yellow auxiliary cruiser patrols his post as sweeper very skillfully.  The ship is painted white light yellow with yellow superstructure and stack, perhaps "AVELONIA STAR".  
    14.56   Crash dive.  Artillery fire.  4 salvoes.  Central firing procedure.  In my desire to keep the convoy in sight irrespective of the sweeper, I have approached a little bit too close. With the haze visibility improvement is unfavorable for me.  
    15.17 EJ 6255 Surfaced.  Convoy has shifted its course in about 2-3 steps changed his course from NW across N to NE.  
    16.00 EJ 6252    
    18.00   Hold contact on easterly course.  
    20.00 EJ 3847 Radio Message Alpha Alpha 314 2209/17/119:  Have lost contact.               U-105.  
        It is a pity, he probably did not notice the NE-leg.  
    20.41   Radio Message 2217/17/120:  U-105, U-106:  As soon as situation permits, report fuel and position.        B.d.U.  
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.03.41
 
- 11 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    17.03.41      
        Here I have made a mistake, I have taken it for granted that U-105 also holds contact and no longer send running reports.  It is always necessary to send contact reports at intervals, even if one can suppose that all boats are in contact.  
    20.55   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 316 2246/17/122:  
        Square EJ 3896.        U-106.  
        As I am attacking, I want to update the course information.  Have difficulty with a destroyer on the port side center of the convoy who continually makes cross legs.  Must pass him initially at 800 meters, then one more time at 600 meters.  
    21.00   Positioned between the destroyer and the convoy.  
        Intend initially bow then stern tubes.  
    21.07   1st shot,  range = 800 meters, target speed = 7 nm, target angle 90°.  Hit after 58 seconds, 870 meters.  
    21.08   2nd shot,  hit after 25 seconds.  Must turn hard from the next steamer to get free.  
    21.09   3rd shot,  hit after 2 minutes, 45 seconds (2500 meters) next column.  
    21.10   4th shot,  hit.  Somewhat weaker detonation after 2 minutes 6 seconds  
        Because I must run off due to the destroyers, I can no longer shoot stern torpedoes with certain data.  
        In the convoy 1 hit with bright fiery glow another with only rockets and detonations.  
        Rescue measures, lights observed in the boats and rockets perfectly from 3 ships.  4th hit not certain, because only weak detonation was heard in the boat.  Because these were all big ships, I call it, 3 ships with together approximately 21000 GRT.  4th hit is possible.  Nothing heard on the 600-meter wavelength.  
    22.17   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 075 2350/17/124:  
        Square 3892, course 40°.        U-106.  
        Have sent bearing signals on request from U-105.  (Had not heard headquarters)  
    23.45   Have only still the stern gun boat in sight.  Haze makes contact keeping difficult.  
    24.00 EJ 3891    
                                                            
    18.03.41      
    01.00   Gun boat lost from sight, it probably runs after the convoy [ remainder of entry illegible]  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 18.03.41
 
- 12 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    18.03.41      
        after and search on various courses.  
    01.23   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 925 0203/18/122:  
        Have lost contact on reported enemy in square 3865.      U-106.
    02.12   Radio Message 0324/18/130:  To B.d.U.:  
        130 cbm,  2 individual steamers 14316 BRT, from convoy 3 of about 21000 BRT, still 7 + 4 torpedoes.  Position EJ 38.        U-106.  
    04.00 EJ 3852    
    08.00 EJ 3595    
    12.00 EJ 3641 Day's run:  Surfaced     177.5 nm  
                         Submerged     1.3 nm = 178.8 nm.  
    13.00   Dived.  Test dive.  
    14.07   Surfaced.  
       

Bow heaviness of the boat is continually growing stronger. A leak in ballast tank 8 to the chain locker is found to be the cause.   Transverse rear bulkhead of the watertight bow is repeatedly torn.

 
        In the course of the day on various courses searching for the convoy.  
    16.00 EJ 3387    
    20.00 EJ 3358    
    20.30   Radio Message 2119/18/154:  U-105, U-106:  
        If no enemy contact transit to the south.  Orders concerning supply follow.        B.d.U.  
    21.00   Started transit to the south.  
    24.00 EJ 3631                                                     
    19.03.41      
    00.51   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 269 0240/19/160:  
        Enemy convoy in sight square 3254, course 310°.    U-105.  
        Coung at highest speed on corresponding course.  
    04.00 EJ 3264    
    08.00 DT 9775    
    11.06   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 136/1245/19:  Not heard by headquarters.  
        "Enemy convoy in sight square 9791, course 320°."  U-105.  
    12.00 DT 9762 Day's run:  Surfaced     222.3 nm  
      NNE 2-3, Sea 2-3, long swell, Vis. good                  Submerged     2.3 nm = 224.6 nm.  
    12.10   Contact on convoy, am positioned to starboard abeam, contact now held very easily on the clear horizon and good visibility.  Fighting tops of "MALAYA" in sight.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.41
 
- 13 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    19.03.41      
    14.17   Radio Message 1602/19/182:  Convoy with "MALAYA" square DT 9751, northerly course.        U-106.  
    16.00 DT 9488    
    17.51   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 663/1400/19/187:  
        Have lost contact.  Square 9794.        U-105.  
        Oddly that square lies south of his report from 12.45 hours DSZ.  
    18.19   Alpha Alpha 435/2003/19/186:  Square 8696 course 290°.        U-106.  
        Hopefully "U-105" succeeds in coming up before the evening.  
    20.00 DT 8665 Am positioned to the east of the convoy.  This position is necessary at beginning of twilight in the southern latitudes, because one has the target against the setting sun, then against the bright horizon.  This facilitates closing at twilight.  One must close the distance in 20 minutes to hold contact from 15 nm (clouds of smoke, mastheads, stacks) to 2 nm (silhouettes in the dark).  The more forward of the convoy's position, the more favorable, because the convergence is better.  Looking for more favorable shooting position.  
    20.39   Radio Message 2155/19/193:  To U-105, U-106:  
        Attack, hold on.  
        If necessary supply at "Culebra" will be ordered.        B.d.U.  
    24.00 DT 8654    
      NE 1, Sea 1-2, Vis. good    
                                                            
    20.03.41      
        Making a stern attack on large ship of the starboard side, due to the outer destroyer we get a bit far aft, target angle will be a bit blunt.  
    00.10   Shot, range = 1200, target angle 100°, target speed 7 knots, miss or torpedo failure.  New approach.  Still have 2 bow torpedoes.  Can not get closer in the good visibility and flat sea.  Behind the destroyer, we can arrive at a shoot on well overlapping ships.  
    01.24   2 shots, range = 1000 meters, target speed 7 knots, target angle = 110°, no success.  The ships overlapped, so that a miss was unlikely.  Shooting data was good.  
    02.20 Moonrise Radio Message Alpha 906 0406/20/200:  
        Square 8644 enemy steers NW-course.        U-106.  
    04.00 DT 8566    
    08.00 DT 8553    
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 20.03.41
 
- 14 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    20.03.41      
    08.08   Radio Message 1004/20/104:  Square 8546 enemy steers westerly course.        U-106.  
    12.00 DT 8439 Day's run:  Surfaced     197 nm  
    14.18   Radio Message 1608/20/113:  
        Square 8447 enemy steers southwesterly course.    U-106.  
    16.00 DT 8447    
    18.28   Radio Message 1811/20/2nd time not heard by headquarters.
        Square 8447 enemy steers northwesterly course.    U-106.  
        Positioned well ahead of the convoy.  
    19.38   Dived.  Test dive.  
    19.48   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DT 7652 Have 2 stern torpedoes in the tubes and 2 reserve stern torpedoes.  Intend to attempt, reload, 2nd attempt.  
        This evening the convoy drives in port echelon (about [illegible word]).  By course changes have come to the NW from the starboard side to the port side of the convoy.  I allow myself to be overtaken.  
    22.49   Short Signal:  Request bearing signals from contact keeper.        U-105.  
    22.54   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 653/2358/20/127:  Have lost contact.        U-105.  
        I am positioned close ahead of the formation.  See one section of steamers bow right, one section bow left.  
    23.23   2 stern shots range = 1000 meters, target speed 7 knots, target angle 60°, hit after 2 minutes 37 seconds and 3 minutes 35 seconds.  One hit on low silhouette, in the bright fiery glow it looks like a large tanker of about 8000 tons.  
        2nd hit ship not made out.  Guess at about 7000 GRT.  "MALAYA", close by in the center of the steamers, was seen briefly, she may have been hit.  I did not expect to find the battleship with the convoy at night.  
    24.00 DT 7643    
                                                            
    21.03.41      
    00.08   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 473/0158/21/129:  
        Square DT 7646, enemy steering NE-course.        U-106.  
        Giving bearing signals for "U-105."  
    00.45   Have reloaded, running for next attack.  Detonation at the convoy, rockets from several steamers.  So is U-105 at the convoy?  Shortly afterwards wild starshell shooting begins from "MALAYA".  At first it puts 2 large fans across my side, lay short, then other starshells and artillery [illegible few words]  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 21.03.41
 
- 15 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    21.03.41      
        Impacts are to starboard astern of me.  Possibly meant for "U-105".  In the convoy a strong white rocket is shot which disintegrates into many separate balls.  Likely signal order for dissolution of the convoy.  
    03.20 Moon comes up, very bright, calm sea Convoy turns sharply to the east, I run after, have contact on a single ship.  Pursue a large independent steamer, which drives through the area with wild zig zags at high speed.  Can not reach a shooting position.  Then he drives towards a destroyer who makes "r" with a searchlight.  There several steamers which go wildly back and forth. Cannot reach a shooting position because of the moon and the calm water.  
    03.49   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 056 0538/21/30:   
        Have attacked.  Have lost contact.        U-105.  
    04.00 DT 7653    
    05.07   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 701 0702/21/30:  
        Enemy assembles in DT 7664.        U-106.  
    05.47   Radio Message 07.21/21/132:  To B.d.U.:  
        Yesterday 3 misses, today 2 steamers of approximately 15000 GRT.  Still 2 stern + 4 Torpedoes., 110 cbm.  
                                                               U-106.  
    08.00 DT 7666    
    08.56   Radio Message 1024/21/135:  
      [Oe = Oesten] From convoy "Oe" 5 steamers totaling 33000 GRT.  Still 3 stern + 4 torpedoes, 80 cbm.  Square 7625.  
                                                               U-105.  
    10.40   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 723/1207/21/137:  
        Square 8419, enemy steers NE-course.    U-106.  
        Running on the port side of the convoy.  It has in the last 24 hours changes course nearly 180°.  
    12.00 DT 8179 Day's run:  Surfaced     204 nm  
    16.00 DT 8153 Hold contact, positioned ahead of the convoy.  
    16.39 DT 8137 Crash dived.  Aircraft.  The ship-based aircraft of the "MALAYA".  Since the weather had become calmer, I had expected it.  
    17.37   Surfaced.  
    17.44   Crash dive.  Aircraft still on the move.  Convoy still seen in the periscope.  Range is too great.  
    20.00 DT 8134    
      NE 1, Sea 0-1, Vis. good    
    20.30   Surfaced.  Pursued, have contact.  
        Still have 2 stern torpedoes.  Positioned to starboard ahead of the convoy.  A large single ship runs quite far ahead.  Probably an auxiliary cruiser, the forward escort is difficult for a stern approach.  Visibility is good, water calm.  Am lying stopped, with low speed on his course, [last line illegible]  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.03.41
 
- 16 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    21.03.41      
        slowly grows bigger.  
    22.51 DT 5789 Double shot range = 1000 meters, target speed 7 knots, target angle 60°.  Aim point before and behind the bridge.  No success.  Is unclear to me, because shot with good data. Believe failure.  
    23.32   Radio Message Alpha Alpha 091 0111/22/156:  
        Square 5788, northerly course.  U-106.  
    24.00 DT 5783    
                                                            
    22.03.41      
    00.28   Radio Message 0212/22/157:  
        Out of torpedoes below deck.  No success.  
                                                               U-106.  
        Hold contact on an independent steamer.  
    04.00 DT 5752    
    08.00 DT 5724    
    08.38   Radio Message 0943/22/164 Officer-Only:  To U-105, U-106:  
        Good job.  If weather situation allows reload torpedoes and hang on.  Otherwise departure at most economical speed for ER 89.  Report by Short Signal yes or no, if reloading.  Report by Short Signal xyz, if in case of failure of supply in ER 89 transit back to "Culebra" at most economical speed is not guaranteed.                                          B.d.U.  
    10.07   Short Signal:  "No."                                    U-106.  
        Believe that reloading in the weather conditions is not possible.  
        Lets the steamer drive away with difficult hearts and come to a southerly course to the meeting place with NORDMARK and ship 41.  
    11.00 DT 5476 U-105 in sight.  Final meeting.  
        Findings:  Navigation is the main point in contact keeping.  
    12.00 DT 5478 Day's run:  Surfaced     150.7 nm  
                         Submerged     4.8 nm = 155.5 nm.  
        One can not run without torpedoes in the tubes.  Because it has become calmer, will try and reload, it goes better than expected.  
    20.00 DT 4962    
    22.00   4 torpedoes are unloaded from the canisters without major difficulties.  
    24.00 DT 4964    
                                                            
    23.03.41      
    04.00 DT 7323    
    08.00 DT 7355    
    12.00 DT 7384 Day's run:  Surfaced  102 nm  
    14.41   Dived.  Test dive.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 22.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 23.03.41
 
- 17 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.03.41      
    16.00 DT 7568    
    16.45   Steamer in sight, heavy zig zags, northerly general course.  
    17.21   Dived to attack, making zig zag legs.  
    18.15 NE 4-5, Sea 4-5, Vis. good Shot G 7a range = 800 meters, target speed 12 knots, target angle 90°, missed.  
        The ship had a sharp foredeck, therefore, may have underestimated speed.  [days later] Saw the following Radio Message on "NORDMARK": 23 March 17.28 GMT SSSS "MALANCHA" reported miss by torpedo in DT 70.  
        Because it was a G7a the ship may have avoided it.  
   

19.19

20.00

 

DT 7538

Surfaced.  Pursued.  Attempt at highest speed to approach for a night attack.  Steamer runs at about 15 knots.  I can not approach against the sea and swell.  
    21.00   Steamer out of sight.  
    22.25   Search broken off.  
    24.00 DT 7297    
                                                            
    24.03.41      
    04.00 DT 7558    
    08.00 DT 7824    
    12.00 DT 7793 Day's run:  Surfaced     182.5 nm  
                         Submerged     6.0 nm = 188.5 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 1163    
    20.00 EJ 1431    
    21.29 NE 2, Sea 2, Vis. good, no moon Steamer bearing 230°T.  At intervals of approximately 5-10 minutes the ship makes legs of 20-40° up to 4 times to the same side.   I maneuver ahead, apparently has a northerly general course  
    22.30   Run towards for attack.  Steamer zigzags 20° toward.  Therefore the attack was somewhat sharp, although the range was good.  
    22.45   Steamer zigzags another 40° toward.  Am positioned immediately on the courseline.  Distance 500 meters.  I must turn off with highest speed and hard rudder.  The steamer probably sees the propeller wake, gives 3 short blasts with steam whistle and stops.   I open range at slow speed running along his port side.  Steamer goes again.  I turn to the attack.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 24.03.41
 
- 18 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    24.03.41      
    22.58 EJ 1425 Shot G 7a, range = 500 meters, target speed = 5 knots, target angle 90°.  Hit in the amidships after 38 seconds.  Steamer of about 5000 GRT.  Typical English tramp.  I just got him getting underway, he could run at 10-11 knots.  Sinks in 10 minutes.  1 boat and raft are launched.  As I am approaching the boat to determine the name, the boat slowly sinks, burning magnesium fire, crew shouts help in unison.  I wanted to give the boat the course to Cape Verde, however, there is no longer any purpose.  
        Came to old course.  Steamer had transmitted SSSSS-report on short-wave (it is disrupted by us), it was only received by us with distortion.  
    24.00 EJ 1428 From now will also switch to 36-meter wavelength during steamer hunts.  
                                                            
    25.03.41      
    04.00 EJ 1484    
    08.00 EJ 1746    
    12.00 EJ 4112 Day's run:  Surfaced  200.6 nm  
    16.00 EH 6392    
    19.15 EH 6634 A steamer on a NE-course in sight bearing 230°T.  Large "Blue Funnel" zigzags off to the east.  Distance requires diving.  Assume an easterly general course.  
    19.31   Dived.  Steamer turns to the south, then southwest, must wait a while submerged.  Can not reach a shooting position.  
   

19.55

 

21.00

  Surfaced.  Steamer heads south, because I have seen him steer from NE to SW, I assume a southeasterly general course.  I proceed at highest speed on southeasterly course.  Steamer comes nearby one more time on an easterly course. Still no shooting opportunity.   Steamer runs about 16-17 knots.  Can only gain ground when I run on the general course.  
        Steamer no longer comes in sight, may have headed to the south and I have just seen the strong zigzags in the evening twilight.  
    23.45   Hunt broken off.  
    24.00 EJ 4712    
                                                            
    26.03.41      
    04.00 EJ 4747    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 25.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 26.03.41
 
- 19 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.03.41      
    12.00 EH 9386 Day's run:  Surfaced     215 nm  
                         Submerged   1.5 nm = 216.5 nm.  
    16.00 EH 9651    
    20.00 EH 9918    
    24.00 ER 3233    
                                                            
    27.03.41      
    04.00 ER 3297    
    08.00 ER 3555    
    09.14   Radio Message 0929/27/105, Officer-Only:  To U-105, U-106:  
        "NORDMARK" and Ship 41 positioned on 29 March square ER 89.  Leader supply Ship 41.  Distribute torpedoes evenly.  
    12.00 ER 3821 Day's run:  Surfaced  244 nm  
    16.00 ER 3875    
    20.00 ER 6166    
    24.00 ER 6431    
                                                            
    28.03.41      
    04.00 ER 6482    
    08.00 ER 6727    
    12.00 ER 6775 Day's run:  Surfaced  211 nm  
    16.00 ER 9142    
    20.00 ER 9174    
    24.00 ER 8639    
                                                            
    29.03.41      
    04.00 ER 8966    
    08.00 ER 9764 Am positioned at the meeting point at dawn according to plotting, no navigation fix yesterday and today because of clouds.  
    12.00 ER 8955 Day's run:  Surfaced  180.2 nm.  
    12.30 NNE 4, occasional rain showers, overcast Get a longitude observation.  Am positioned 20 nm west.  Have underestimated westerly current (1.5 knots).  
    14.20   "NORDMARK" in sight.  On approaching reports a steamer bearing 350°, is not Ship 41.  Because the sea and swell is too great today for transfer, I run after the steamer, pass to "NORDMARK" wait for meeting.  
    14.35   Steamer bearing 30°T, steering SE, runs about 12 knots, am positioned to starboard abeam.  
    16.00 ER 8966    
    18.50 ER 9756 Dived.  Positioned ahead of the steamer.  Had a straight course 108°.  (from Trinidad for Benguela).  Steamer has no flag  
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 27.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 29.03.41
 
- 20 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    29.03.41      
        no marking on the hull.  From the silhouette later determined with certainty as Norwegian "K.G. MELDAHL", 3800 GRT.  
        Ship does not appear correct to me, I decide to shoot.  
    19.50   Tube III outer door fairing will not open.  
    19.52   Tube IV shot.  Torpedo does not launch, only the gyro angle setting gear retracted.  Ejection was performed by launch valve, torpedo is a "dead man".  I had only the two torpedoes.  It was not meant to be.  The good thing is that my bad conscience because of American Neutrality Zone and the proximity of "NORDMARK" is soothed.  
    20.00      
    20.27   Surfaced.  Steamer does not set navigation lights.  
    24.00 ER 8963 Went back in the direction of "NORDMARK".  
                                                            
    30.03.41      
    04.00 ER 8961    
    08.00 ER 8961    
    08.55 ER 8677 Ship 41 sighted.  
    10.55   Signal traffic with Ship 41 and U-105.  
    12.00 ER 8913 Day's run:  Surfaced     205.5 nm  
                         Submerged     7.3 nm = 212.8 nm.  
    13.07   NORDMARK sighted.  
    15.15   Towing connection is set up.  
    16.30 NE 2-3, long swell, Vis. changing 7 torpedoes taken over.  
      Delivery is well prepared and goes off smoothly.  
    20.00   Remain in tow.  
                                                            
    31.03.41      
    08.00 At meeting point The remaining 5 torpedoes are taken over.  
    11.00   Fuel and water.  
    12.00   Day's run:  Surfaced  140 nm  
        Provisions transfer.  
    18.00   Towing connection lost.  The entire supply went very well, thanks to the experience, good preparation and quick work on the part of the "NORDMARK". Could only get 12 torpedoes, the leaking of main ballast tank 8, that now occurs after main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 7 is fully fueled again, appears alarmingly.  Main ballast tank 8 floods in 16-18 minutes completely independently as a result of leaks between  
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 30.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 31.03.41
 
- 21 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    31.03.41      
        the transverse aft wall of the waterproof bow which is torn at several places, so that the use of the watertight bow as a buoyancy chamber ceases.  
        All attempts, to seal the chain guards meet with little success. Although forward I have practically no more buoyancy, I take main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 7 fully fueled, run with 1 engine HF and blow with the other 3-4 times per hour.  Even so, I gain 800-1000 nm of operating range.  
        The condition is not pleasant, but if the watch is careful it works.  
    20.00 ER 8925    
    21.07   Dived.  Test dive.  
    21.37   Surfaced.  
    22.05   Short Signal:  Supply completed.  
                                                              U-106.  
    24.00 ER 8962    
                                                            
    01.04.41      
    04.00 ER 9757 Go to the southeast to cut across the South America - Route.  
    08.00 ER 9792    
    09.50   Radio Message 0800/1/148:  
        To Kommandant U-106:  
        The Führer has awarded you the Knight's Cross.  I convey our congratulations to you and your brave crew.  
                                                                Oberbefehlshaber.  
        Further from B.d.U.:  
        Also warm congratulations.  
    12.00 FC 3231 Day's run:  Surfaced     147.0 nm  
                         Submerged     2.0 nm = 149.0 nm.  
    16.00 FC 3318    
    20.00 FC 3364    
    24.00 FD 1181    
                                                            
    02.04.41      
    02.43   Radio Message 0413/0421/2/172/173:  To B.d.U.:  
        Miss on "MALANCHA" in DT 75, sank one of about 5000 GRT in EJ 14.  A fast "Blue Funnel" sighted in EH 66.  General course roughly North-South.  "NORDMARK" camouflaged as American "PRAIRIE".  Have 13 torpedoes.  Position FD 15, going to Freetown.  
                                                                    U-106.  
    02.56   Believe information about sighted steamer valuable for the boats still coming to the south.  Information concerning "NORDMARK" camouflage in view of the  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 31.03.41
Sun and Moon Data 01.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 02.04.41
 
- 22 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    02.04.41      
        Italians coming from the south.  
    04.00 FD 1199    
    08.00 FD 1525    
    12.00 FD 1617 Day's run:   
    16.00 FD 1656    
    20.00 FD 2472    
    24.00 FD 2497    
                                                            
    03.04.41      
    04.00 FD 2816 By Radio Message operations area off Freetown north of 8°30'N and a line at the latitude of ET 25.  
    08.00 FD 2838    
    12.00 FD 2954 Day's run:  Surfaced  168 nm  
    16.00 FD 2968 Performed Equator ceremony.  
    20.00 FD 2778    
    24.00 FD 3749    
                                                            
    04.04.41      
    04.00 FD 3437    
    08.00 FD 3576    
    12.00 FD 3564 Day's run:   
    16.00 FD 3616 After the boat undercuts 2 times up to the artillery, I have main ballast and reserve fuel oil tanks 7 blown out.   There was only little fuel oil in it.  From this point my fuel capacity is only 162 cbm.  
    20.00 FD 3689  
    24.00 FE 1147  
                                                            
    05.04.41      
    04.00 FE 1128    
    08.00 ET 7799    
    12.00 ET 7858 Day's run:  Surfaced  183.5 nm.  
    14.45   Radio Message 1505/5/177 Officer-Only:  To U-105, U-106:  
        For operation  towards GB 15 take over fuel, provisions, sea charts on 9 April from "NORDMARK" square ER 89 center.  Try to complete transfer by 10 April.  
        U-124 no restrictions to attack area off Freetown.  
                                                                       B.d.U.  
    24.00 ET 7598 Course for meeting point.  
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 03.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 04.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 05.04.41
 
- 23 -
 
           
           
           
           
    06.04.41      
    04.00 ET 7579    
    08.00 ET 7722    
    12.00 ES 9623 Day's run:  Surfaced     163.4 nm  
                         Submerged     3.0 nm =166.4 nm.  
    16.00 ES 9594    
    20.00 ES 9499    
    24.00 ES 9478    
                                                            
    07.04.41      
    04.00 ES 8921    
    08.00 ES 8822    
    12.00 ES 8734 Day's run:  Surfaced  260.9 nm.  
    16.00 ES 7694    
    20.00 ES 7678    
    24.00 ES 7825    
                                                            
    08.04.41      
    04.00 ES 7735    
    08.00 ES 7714    
    12.00 ER 9927 Day's run:  Surfaced  214 nm.  
    15.40   Smoke cloud in sight bearing 285°T, 18 nm off.  Small steamer on southerly course, avoided, because attack is prohibited here.  
    16.00 ER 9837    
    20.00 ER 9818    
    24.00 ER 9753    
                                                            
    09.04.41      
    04.00 ER 9742    
    08.00 ER 8956    
    11.30   NORDMARK sighted bearing 74°T.  
    12.00 ER 8956 Day's run:  Surfaced  214 nm  
    12.48   Towing connection established.  Supplied with NORDMARK.  "U-105" is already finished.  Took over a torpedo (earlier NORDMARK had no combat pistol, in the mean time had received a pistol from Ship 41).  In addition, a diesel compressor was taken from NORDMARK and installed, ours, which has finally collapsed despite continuous repairs for some time, will be given to NORDMARK.  Thus, the compressed air concern is resolved.  In the last week the E-compressor failed occasionally and compressed air was a critical issue.  It would be better if the boats had a second E-compressor  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 07.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.41
 
- 24 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    09.04.41      
        instead of, the certainly good, but, like the complaints of all boats, trouble-prone diesel compressor.  The diesel compressor of "NORDMARK" has worked well for us, the troubles appear only with longer operation.   
        About the approaching operation we discover on "NORDMARK" that it concerns meeting the steamer "LECH".  
    19.50   Let go the tow line.  Supply ended.  
        I separate from "U-105", we have arranged a meeting place for the next evening to have a discussion after receipt of instructions from B.d.U.  
        Transit to the south.  
    24.00 ER 8982    
                                                            
    10.04.41      
    02.06   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  Supply completed.        U-106.  
    04.00 FC 2324    
    08.00      
    10.50   U-105 comes close by, has transmitter failure of the short-wave transmitter.  Therefore, remain together.  
    12.00 FC 2611 Day's run:  Surfaced  97 nm  
    15.23   Short Signal:  (sent for U-105)  
        Supply completed.       U-105.  
    16.00 FC 2644    
    20.00 FC 2677    
    22.00   Radio Message 1858/10/116:  To U-105, U-106:  
        Report by Short Signal "yes" or no, if foreign waters encryption [Schlüsselmittel Ausserheimisch] is on board.  These are to be used for special task, further orders follow.                                          B.d.U.  
    24.00 FC 2718    
                                                            
    11.04.41      
    01.16   Radio Message 2032/10/125:  To B.d.U.:  
        Both boats "yes" "Schewe" transmitter failure while running together.  Position square FC 26.        Oesten.  
    04.00 FC 2972    
    08.00 FC 5313    
    09.26   Dived.  Test dive.  
    10.05   Surfaced.  
        Training fire 10.5 cm, 2 cm.  
    12.00 FC 5316 Day's run:  Surfaced     133 nm  
                         Submerged     2 nm = 135 nm.  
    16.00 FC 5346    
    20.00 FC 5379    
    24.00 FC 5643    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 10.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 11.04.41
 
- 25 -
 
           
           
           
           
    12.04.41      
    04.00 FC 5679    
    08.00 FC 5943    
    12.00 FC 5975 Day's run:  Surfaced  141 nm.  
    16.00 FC 8344    
    20.00 FC 8533    
    24.00 FC 8592    
                                                            
    13.04.41      
    04.00 FC 8862    
    08.00 FC 8897    
    11.15   Radio Message 1010/13/186:  To U-105, U-106:  
        Await further orders in square FK.  Remain undetected.        B.d.U.  
        This Radio Message confirms our belief that the impending operation is, from the U-boats point of view, probably only a loss of time.  
    12.00 FK 1256 Day's run:  Surfaced  199 nm  
    16.00 FK 1286    
    20.00 FK 1528    
    24.00 FK 1581    
                                                            
    14.04.41      
    04.00 FK 1816    
    08.00 FK 1849    
    12.00   Day's run:  Surfaced  142 nm  
    14.00 FK 4213 Steamer in sight bearing 260°T, NW-course.  
    14.07   Dived.  Steamer possibly Dutch.  PELAU-class.  
    15.07   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FK 4211    
    20.00 FK 4271    
    21.25   Radio Message 2253/14/133-134:  Officer-Only:  
        To U-105, U-106:  
        U-105 return transit in operations area west of Freetown = east of 24°W.  Free to attack in accordance with Standing Naval Orders.  Reach this area via the shortest route, then transit to ET.  
        U-106 executes special task possibly 27 April off Rio.   Until then left to operate according to time and fuel in FD or FL east of 24°W.  Announce intention by yes or no.  Supply at the beginning of May at Point Red intended.  However, return to "Culebra" must be always possible for both boats.         
                                                                      B.d.U.  
    24.00 FK 4433    
                                                            
    15.04.41      
    02.58   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  No.    U-106.  
        Either-or.  I could position approximately 20 hours east of 24°W, but for the fuel situation  
        [illegible line]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 13.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 14.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.41
 
- 26 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    15.04.41      
        how much I need of Rio.  So no opinion.  
    04.00 FK 4525    
    08.00 FK 4612 U-105 starts transit to operations area.  
    12.00 FK 4536 Day's run:  Surfaced  115 nm  
    24.00   Have stopped, let boat drift, because now there is plenty of time.  
                                                            
    16.04.41      
    08.00 FK 4525 Running with 1 diesel LF.  
    12.00 FK 4555 Day's run:  Surfaced  9 nm.  
    16.00 FK 4564    
    20.00 FK 4583 1 diesel LF.  
    24.00 FK 4831    
                                                            
    17.04.41      
    00.05 FK 4831 Steamer with lights bearing 200°T on NE-course.  Distance 6 nm.  
    04.00 FK 4855    
    08.00 FK 4858    
    12.00 FK 7235 Day's run:  Surfaced  104 nm.  
    16.00 FK 7246    
    20.00 FK 7279    
    24.00 FK 7517    
                                                            
    18.04.41      
    04.00 FK 7493    
    08.00 FK 7735    
    12.00 FK 7767 Day's run:  Surfaced  132 nm.  
    16.00 FK 7788    
    20.00 FR 1152    
    24.00 FR 1183    
                                                            
    19.04.41      
    01.00 FR 1416    
    08.00 FR 1448    
    12.00 FR 1477 Day's run:  Surfaced  137 nm.  
    16.00 FR 1741    
    20.00 FQ 3943    
    24.00 FQ 6335    
                                                            
    20.04.41      
    04.00 FQ 6364    
    08.00 FQ 6622    
    21.00 FQ 6619    
    16.00 FQ 6673    
    19.26   Radio Message 1952/19/176 Officer-Only:  To U-106:  
        [illegible line]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 16.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 18.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 19.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 20.04.41
 
- 27 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    20.04.41      
        ship "LECH" against English seizure off "Rio" up to the limit of the U.S.A. Neutrality Zone.  
        2)  For this purpose, from 23 April daily from 3.00 hours after sunset to 3.00 hours before of sunrise be positioned off "Rio" at the meeting place in the dark sector between "Ilha Rasa" and "Ilha Redonda", 1 nm east of the latter.  
        3)  In the evening LECH departs on course 183° up to the dark sector "Ilhas de Palmas", then 208° up to the meeting place.  Places a 2nd side lantern 1 meter over each side lantern.  U-boat calls in Morse "F", "LECH" answers with "H".   Strives to be positioned at the meeting point at 21.00 hours ZZ, waits for U-boat for half an hour and then continues transit.  
        4)  While accompanying full weapons application authorized without taking into consideration territorial waters against English ships which try to hinder "LECH" in continuing transit.  
        5)  When halted by aircraft "LECH" remains lying stopped to draw warships.  
        6)  Immediately report the following:  
        "Have met LECH" :    WYA  
        "Have completed escort task" :    WZG  
        "Have positioned 2 x at meeting point in vain" :    XXX.  
        7)  After completion of task supply and operations west of Freetown."  
                                                                    B.d.U.  
    20.00 FQ 6619    
    24.00 FQ 6911    
                                                            
    21.04.41      
    04.00 FQ 6883    
    08.00 FQ 9224    
    12.00 FQ 9281 Day's run:  Surfaced  137 nm.  
    16.00 FQ 9513    
    20.00 FQ 9545    
    20.39   Radio Message 2140/21/130:  Officer-Only:  
        To U-106:  From now only respect the American Neutrality Zone south of 20°N within 300 nm of the coast.        B.d.U.  
    24.00 FQ 9493    
                                                            
    22.04.41      
    04.00 FQ 9735    
    08.00 FQ 9758    
    12.00 GC 1122 Day's run:  Surfaced  144 nm.  
    16.00 GC 1157    
    20.00 GC 1177    
    24.00 GC 1443    
                                                            
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 21.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 22.04.41
 
- 28 -
 
           
           
           
           
    23.04.41      
    04.00 GC 1477    
    08.00 GB 3963    
    12.00 GB 6332 Day's run:  Surfaced  150 nm.  
    16.00 GB 6353    
    20.00 GB 6375    
    24.00 GB 6264    
                                                            
    24.04.41      
    04.00 GB 6249    
    08.00 GB 6168    
    09.06 GB 6164 Steamer on SW course about 6000 GRT tramp.  Armed.  
    10.07   Dived.  Running inside 300 nm, let go.  
    12.00 GB 6192 Day's run:  Surfaced     134 nm  
                         Submerged   3.6 nm = 137.6 nm.  
    12.13   Surfaced.  
    16.00 GB 6168    
    18.38   Dived.  Test dive after conversion of main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 6.  
    19.08   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GB 5393    
    24.00 GB 5383    
                                                            
    25.04.41      
    04.00 GB 5296    
    08.00 GB 5283    
    12.00 GB 5261 Day's run:  Surfaced     136.0 nm  
                         Submerged     0.5 nm = 136.5 nm.  
    16.00 GB 5183    
    20.00 GB 5171    
    24.00 GB 4365    
                                                            
    26.04.41      
    04.00 GB 1987    
    08.00 GB 1949    
    12.00 GB 1838 Day's run:  Surfaced  146 nm.  
    14.25 GB 1831 Land in sight bearing 0°T.  
        Intention, 2 nights before meeting with "LECH" to determine conditions at the meeting place and in the vicinity of "Rio".  To run during day well out of sight from land.  
    16.00 GB 1825    
    16.24 GB 1825 A steamer on a southwesterly course bearing 210°T.  Turned away.  
    18.26   A small coastal steamer in 100°T.  
    20.00 GB 1845    
    24.00 GB 1545 Am positioned close by the islands.  Determine that the lighthouse on "Ilha Rasa" has no dark sector.  Information in the Light List refers to black-out of the lighthouse on "Ilha Rasa" by "Ilha Redonda".  There is no problem with navigation at the meeting place.  Little traffic, no fishing boats.  
                                                            
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 24.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 25.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 26.04.41
 
- 29 -
 
           
           
           
           
    27.04.41      
    03.14 GB 1517 Steamer with set navigation lights bearing 261°T, course NNE.  
    04.00 GB 1644    
    08.00 GB 1855    
    12.00 GB 1891 Day's run:  Surfaced  163 nm.  
    16.00 GB 1856    
    17.20 GB 1837 Steamer bearing 190°T, turned away.  
    20.00 GB 1832    
    24.00 GB 1564    
                                                            
    28.04.41      
    00.44   Radio Message 1546/27/136:  To U-106:  
        "LECH" will depart on the evening of 28 April as intended and heads 120° from the meeting point at the end of waiting period.  Speed 13 knots.        B.d.U.  
    02.10 GB 1559 Steamer, course 355°.  
    04.00 GB 1595 Also this night I explored the navigation, nothing special.  
    08.00 GB 1917    
    12.00 GB 1944 Day's run:  Surfaced  152 nm.  
    15.10 GB 1941 Steamer, course SW.  
    16.00 GB 1944    
    17.42 GB 1829 Fishing trawler in sight.  Turned away unseen.  
    18.14 GB 1632 Steamer bearing 20°T, course SE.  
    20.00 GB 1446    
    21.15 GB 1515 Steamer enters "Rio".  
    23.30   At meeting point between "Ilha Rasa" and "Ilha Redonda".  "Ilha Rasa" directly ahead, so as not to be seen by the lighthouse.  
      [1 cable length = 185.2 meters] 3 cable lengths off "Ilha Redonda".  
    23.45   "LECH" in sight.  No 2nd navigation light.  However, departure course is so unusual that error is impossible.  2nd navigation lights might have been shown briefly also only once, because, otherwise they were too noticeable.  
    24.00 GB 1519 "LECH" at the meeting point.  Responds to recognition signal and extinguishes navigation lights, give him course and speed instructions, must avoid an arriving steamer.  
                                                            
    29.04.41      
    02.08   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  Have met "LECH".        U-106.  
    04.00 GB 1825 "LECH" must stop an engine, due to a cracked cylinder sleeve.  Transit speed only 7.5 knots.  Running about 500 meters ahead of "LECH".  Is arranged that if he should see something before me, particularly during the day, he should turn away.   Signal traffic, happily, causes no difficulties.  (signal flags).  
    08.00 GB 1893    
    12.00 GB 1578 Day's run:  Surfaced  197 nm.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 28.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.41
 
- 30 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    29.04.41      
    13.25 GB 1988 A steamer on a SW course bearing 330°T.  Crows nest reported by "LECH".  Turn off, ran out of sight.  
    16.00 GB 1999    
    19.28   Radio Message 2056/129/170:  To U-106:  
        About 1 day after dismissing "LECH" report the time and position of dismissal and anticipated arrival of "LECH" in "Gironde".        B.d.U.  
    20.00 GB 2789    
    24.00 GB 2798    
                                                            
    30.04.41      
    02.42   Radio Message 1153/29/158:  To U-106:  
        After completion of special task report by Short Signal  yes or no, if you can execute similar task in the same area from 5 - 8 May.                                          B.d.U.  
        There is the following uncertainty, my instructions are: to bring "LECH" to the border of the U.S.A. Neutrality Zone. My first assumption was, release from escort north of the zone, i.e. to approximately 10°N latitude.  The last Radio Message indicates the shortest exit route from the zone to the east.  Is unnecessary to take ship so far to the east (24°W).  Because, also, a speed of 13 knots is expected from B.d.U., and the ship currently only runs at 7.5 knots, I decide to send a Short Signal the next night to get a new release position for "LECH" as the second task can only be executed in due time when "LECH" has been released before leaving the zone.  Fuel supply is sufficient for execution with renouncing "Culebra".  
    04.00 GB 2889    
    08.00 GB 2982    
    12.00 GB 2994 Day's run:  Surfaced  188 nm.  
    16.00 GB 3776    
      NEbyE 3-4, medium swell    
   

19.00

 

 

20.00

 

24.00

 

 

 

 

GB 3792

Go close to "LECH" to take over a letter of the Naval Attache.  Hold the boat to windwad of the steamer.  Conning tower at the level of the stern, speed 3-4 knots.  Fresh provisions are taken over by a working line which runs through a block fastened to the conning tower.  Distance from the conning tower to the steamer stern of 20-30 meters.  Boat can be held in spite of the medium swells. Because the steamer drives faster, danger of collision is low.  Running abeam to swell and wind.  Provisions in cans are eased into the water and taken over.  With fruit and vegetables the line is kept well rigid, so that the things come over dry.  Infer from the Rio Attache letter that the next task concerns "WINDHUK" in Santos.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.41
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.41
 
- 31 -
 
           
           
           
           
    01.05.41      
    00.07   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  My position GB 38.  
                                                                       U-106.  
    04.00 GB 3896    
    08.00 GB 3992    
    12.00 GC 1767 Day's run:  Surfaced  198 nm.  
        "LECH" has 2nd engine in service, now runs at 11.5 knots.  
    16.00 GC 1865    
    18.21   Dived.  Crash dive for training.  Boat settles to 90 meters with a large down angle as a result of the changed conditions. (main ballast tank 8 full from the outset).  
    18.38   Surfaced.  
        Transfer from "LECH" exactly as yesterday.  Potatoes.  
    20.00 GC 1960    
    24.00 GC 1936    
                                                            
    02.05.41      
    04.00 GC 2498    
    08.00 GC 2591    
    09.03   Radio Message 1020 from DAN Officer-Only to U-106.:  
        Report immediately by Short Signal yes or no if boat can execute similar task in square GA 37 on 5 May.        B.d.U.  
    10.38   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  "Yes".        U-106.  
    18.57   (Was received by Norddeich at 18.57 hours)  
     

 

 

 

E 0-1, very low swell, clear, Vis. good

Because "WINDHOEK" is a valuable ship, after the departure of "LECH" and the prior court case over the possible release of WINDHOEK an enemy seizure is likely.  I decide to execute the task under any circumstances.  To guarantee transit back to supply "Culebra", I need fuel from "LECH".  It is unusually calm weather.  "LECH" has only 24 meters of hose therefore I must go alongside.  For this purpose "LECH" has brought bales of wool from Rio (about 1.5 x 1.5 meter size)  
    11.58 GC 2667 Lie alongside "LECH".  Forward and aft long manila lines.  "LECH" has brought out four large bales of wool.  Boat lies very well.  (Substantially better than than with "CORRIENTES in Las Palmas).  The non-matching hose connection is flanged on.  Because my evaporator has failed, I also take over fresh water.  
    12.00 GC 2667 Day's run:  Surfaced     247.0 nm  
                         Submerged     1.7 nm = 248.7 nm.  
        Took over 44 cbm fuel oil.  Cannot take any more, because I also must drive with main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 6 empty at high speed settings.  
    15.58   Supply ended.  Have determined his course with the Captain of "LECH" when I release the ship  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.41
 
- 32 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    02.05.41      
        he will run around the area 10-20°S, 20-30°W because there repeatedly from SKL auxiliary cruiser patrols are indicated.  
    16.00 GC 2855 Released "LECH".  
    18.00   Dived.  Test dive.  
    18.35   Surfaced.  
    20.00 GC 2555    
    22.07   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  Have completed escort task.  
                                                                         U-106.  
        Receive orders, to execute next task on 5 May square GA 37 (Santos)  
                                                            
    03.05.41      
    04.00 GC 1659    
    08.00 GC 1559    
    12.00 GC 1482 Day's run:  Surfaced     242.0 nm  
                         Submerged     1.0 nm = 243.0 nm.  
    15.08   Steamer bearing 330°T, steering 235°.  Run to port ahead of him at highest speed.  Steamer is faster than me, has an unusual smokestack the "Blue Funnel".  Distance from land under 300 nm.  
    16.00 GB 3688    
    16.46   Steamer out of sight.  
    19.33   Radio Message 2048/3/193 Officer-Only  To U-106:  
        1)  Task is to bring the steamer WINDHUEK out of "Santos".  
      Ilha da Moela 2)  Meeting point on 5 May south of "Point Itaipu" lighthouse 2 on the Ilha da Moela in 90°T.  Meeting time:  3.00 hours after sunset to 3.00 hours before sunrise.  
        3)  WINDHUEK will be a half an hour at the meeting point on east west courses then runs through on course 240° between the mainland and Isla Conceiâo.  
        4)  Behavior and task reports as ordered for "LECH".  
                                                                          B.d.U.  
    20.00 GB 3911    
    22.43   Radio Message 2332/3/197 to B.d.U.:  
        1)  Have released "LECH" afternoon of 2 May in GC 26, running at 11.5 knots, via FS 83, FL 29 and EQ 65, entering "Gironde" about 24 May.  
        2)  Request release point for "WINDHUEK".  
        3)  On transit to supply attack free within 300 nm limit requested.  
                                                                        U-106.  
        The last paragraph should be a trial.  The traffic observed up to now all ran within the 300 nm zone.  
    24.00 GB 3739    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.41
 
- 33 -
 
           
           
           
           
    04.05.41      
    04.00 GB 2936    
    08.00 GB 2917    
    12.00 GB 2762 Day's run:  Surfaced  312 nm.  
    16.00 GB 1964    
    20.00 GB 1859    
    24.00 GB 1785    
                                                            
    05.05.41      
    00.28   Radio Message 1023/4/109:  
        Weapons use within the 300 nm zone only in accordance with Standing Orders.        B/d/U.  
    04.00 GB 6331 [typo should be GA]    
    05.19   Radio Message 1629/4/115:  Officer-Only.        To U-106:  
        Task with "WINDHUEK" no longer required.  Return transit via Point Red.        B.d.U.  
    06.10   Small vessel with 2 lights in sight.  Turned off.  
    06.35   Out of sight.  
    07.35   Small vessel in sight.  Turned off.  
    08.00 GB 3996 [typo should be GA] Out of sight.  
    12.00 GB 1782 Day's run:  Surfaced  292 nm.  
    16.00 GB 1872 Intend on the route up to the 300 nm limit to go with 1 engine in overhaul (cooling water pump).  Later shortly before meeting point with supply ship the other engine.  So that I may have both engines ready in the area where I operate.  
    20.00 GB 1893  
    24.00 GB 1991  
                                                            
    06.05.41      
    04.00 GB 278x    
    08.00 GB 2854    
    12.00 GB 2971 Day's run:  Surfaced  213 nm.  
    16.00 GB 2991    
    20.00 GB 3782    
    21.18   Radio Message 1857/6/180:  To U-106:  Supply takes place on 13 May at Point Red from EGERLAND.  Afterwards no other supply intended.  Warfare to the west of Freetown, until fuel demands return transit.  Appearance of "EGERLAND" of earlier steamer "NORTH AMERICA" 8788 GRT.  Normal bow. Cruiser stern.  From the forward to aft: mast, bridge, king post, mast, stack.  Armed, expect camouflage.  
                                                                           B.d.U.  
    22.59   Radio Message 2353/6/188:  To B.d.U.:  
        Can keep supply appointment only by waiving necessary engines overhaul and fuel to "Culebra".  Request 16 May.  Have 14 torpedoes.  102 cbm (44 cbm from LECH), position GB 37.        U-106.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 05.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.41
 
- 34 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.05.41      
    24.00 GB 3871    
                                                            
    07.05.41      
    04.00 GB 3865    
    08.00 GB 3928    
    08.45 GB 3920 Steamer bearing 180°T, course 0°.  Heavy zig-zag legs.  
    09.06   Dived.  Steamer is "MATAROA" British.  12390 GRT.  General course north.  
        Distance from land 270 nm.  Let him run past at 1500 meters.  
    11.25   Surfaced.  
    12.00 GB 3923 Day's run:  Surfaced     289 nm  
                         Submerged   4.5 nm = 293.5 nm.  
    16.00 GC 1445    
    20.00 GC 1511    
    24.00 FQ 9888    
                                                            
    08.05.41      
    04.00 FQ 9832    
    08.00 FQ 9642    
    12.00 FQ 9355 Day's run:  Surfaced  283 nm.  
    16.00 FQ 6998    
    20.00 FR 4777    
    24.00 FR 4449    
                                                            
    09.05.41      
    04.00 FR 4194    
    08.00 FR 4133    
    12.00 FR 1848 Day's run:  Surfaced  232 nm.  
    16.00 FR 1585    
    20.00 FR 1535    
    24.00 FR 1318    
                                                            
    10.05.41      
    04.00 FK 7958    
    08.00 FK 7697    
    12.00 FK 7639 Day's run:  Surfaced  245 nm.  
    16.00 FK 8148    
    20.00 FK 5787    
    24.00 FK 5738    
                                                            
    11.05.41      
    04.00 FK 5545    
    08.00 FK 5285    
    12.00 FK 5225 Day's run:  Surfaced  245 nm.  
    16.00 FK 2852    
    20.00 FK 2557    
    24.00 FK 2284    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 07.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 10.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 11.05.41
 
- 35 -
 
           
           
           
           
    12.05.41      
    04.00 FK 2213    
    08.00 FK 9818    
    12.00 FK 9541 Day's run:  Surfaced  259 nm.  
    16.00 FK 9169    
    20.00 FK 6798    
    24.00 FK 6726    
                                                            
    13.05.41      
    04.00 FC 6452    
    08.00 FC 6158    
    12.00 FC 3783 Day's run:  Surfaced  251 nm.  
    16.00 FC 3488    
    20.00 FC 3424    
    24.00 FC 3127    
                                                            
    14.05.41      
    04.00 ER 9746    
    08.00 ER 9476    
    12.00 ER 9414 Day's run:  Surfaced  251 nm.  
    15.15 ER 8366 Tanker in sight bearing 330°T lies on SE-course.  I attempt to maneuver ahead.  Shifts away quickly.  Therefore making slow speed.  
    15.40   Tanker turns through N to W.  Either zig-zagged or turned away.  Probably turned away.  Ship may be "EGERLAND". Have only 1 engine ready, ran after, slowly lost from sight.  
   

16.00

ER 9144 If it is "EGERLAND", U-38 and U-103 would still have to be with him.  Therefore one of the two would run towards me and show up with me.  Because this does not happen and I do not come up to the ship,  
    17.10   again came to old course.  
    20.00 ER 8332    
    24.00 ER 5935    
                                                            
    15.05.41      
    04.00 ER 5664    
    08.00 ER 5386 Already positioned at the meeting point today.  
    12.00 ER 5386 Day's run:  Surfaced  206 nm.  
    16.00 ER 5383    
    20.00 ER 5386 Let boat drift overnight.  
    24.00 ER 5386    
                                                            
    16.05.41      
    08.00 ER 5389 At meeting point.  "EGERLAND" probably has something to do with both other boats, after that the boats have not yet reported "supply executed".  
    12.00 ER 5386 Day's run:  Surfaced  27 nm.  
    14.40   Steamer in sight, target angle 0°.  
    14.44   Dived.  
    14.46   Surfaced.  
        Recognition signals exchanged with EGERLAND.  
    16.30   Meeting with "EGERLAND" Kapitän results in the  
        [illegible line]  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 13.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 14.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.41
 
- 36 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.05.41      
        is.  The ship is insufficiently equipped with torpedoes, has only 6 torpedoes.  U-38 and U-103 could not take over the full amount of torpedoes.  I could take 5 torpedoes, however, defer in view of "UA" and "U-69" which should soon supply.  This decision has been difficult for me.  The ship is equipped with little care with regard to consumables.  The provisions lay in former oil bunkers and to some extent have picked up a taste.  Fresh water was limited to 4 tons and this tasted brackish.  The ship was well equipped only with engine parts and nautical aids.  In the lee I first take over only lubricating oil, distillate, and provisions in life boats.  
        Boat must partly be paddled, because the engine was not in service.  
                                                            
    17.05.41      
    00.15 NE 3-4, medium swell Tow connection established with "EGERLAND".  
        Fuel and water taken over.  
    06.45   Released tow line, supply ended.  
    11.00   Dived.  Test dive.  
    11.28   Surfaced.  
    12.00 ER 5633 Day's run:  Surfaced     29 nm  
                         Submerged  1.5 nm = 30.5 nm.  
    16.00 ER 6412    
    20.00 ER 6423    
    23.17   Short Signal to B.d.U.:  Supply completed.  
                                                                            U-106.  
    24.00 ER 6433    
                                                            
    18.05.41      
    04.00 ER 6621    
    08.00 ER 6331    
    10.09   Radio Message 1114/18/117 follows:  
        Objective is:  to detect convoy traffic to England.  
        Occupy following attack areas:  
        U-107 north of a line "Cape Sierra Leone" in 100°T, U-103 south of this line.  Boat boats east of 20°W.  U-38 area ET 10 and ES 30, U-106 area EJ 70, 80 and 90.  U-105 area EJ 40, 50 and 60 and EK 40.  
        "Schewe" and "Osten" start back to "Lorient" at own discretion, if necessary also before exhaustion of supply materials and report by short signal.            B.d.U.  
    12.00 ER 6378 Day's run:  Surfaced  123 nm.  
    16.00 ER 6357    
    20.00 ER 6329    
    24.00 ER 3995    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 17.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 18.05.41
 
- 37 -
 
           
           
           
           
    19.05.41      
    04.00 ES 1718    
    08.00 ES 1484    
    11.26   Crash dive for training.  
    12.00 ES 1453 Day's run:  Surfaced     155 nm  
                         Submerged  1.7 nm = 156.7 nm.  
    12.38   Surfaced.  
    18.03   Dived.  Crash dive for training.  
    18.45   Surfaced.  
    20.00 ES 1247    
    24.00 ES 1216    
                                                            
    20.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 7883 In operations area.  
    08.00 EJ 7835    
    12.00 EJ 7671 Day's run:  Surfaced     162 nm  
                         Submerged   4.1 nm = 166.1 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 7617    
    18.15   Dived.  Crash dive for training.  
    18.22   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EJ 7377    
    24.00 EJ 7344    
                                                            
    21.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 7314    
    08.00 EJ 4898    
    12.00 EJ 7222 Day's run:  Surfaced     126 nm  
                         Submerged   0.4 nm = 126.4 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 7133    
    20.00 EJ 7122    
    24.00 EJ 4777    
                                                            
    22.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 4787    
    08.00 EJ 7132    
    12.00 EJ 7213 Day's run:  Surfaced  134 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 7223    
    20.00 EJ 7233    
    24.00 EJ 7321    
           
    23.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 7331    
    08.00 EJ 8114    
    12.00 EJ 8125 Day's run:  Surfaced     117 nm  
                         Submerged      1 nm = 118 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 8135    
    20.00 EJ 8216    
    23.18   Short Signal:  to B.d.U.:  No traffic.    U-106.  
    24.00 EJ 8215 Consider the area not very productive, make for São Vicente, or farther to the west.  
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 21.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 22.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 23.05.41
 
- 38 -
 
           
           
           
           
    24.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 8135    
    08.00 EJ 8124    
    12.00 EJ 7336 Day's run:  Surfaced  134 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 7324    
    18.15   Dived.  Crash dive for training.  
    18.25   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EJ 7236    
    24.00 EJ 7224    
                                                            
    25.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 7136    
    08.00 EJ 7125    
    12.00 EJ 7114 Day's run:  Surfaced     148.0 nm  
                         Submerged      1.1 nm = 149.1 nm.  
    14.15 EJ 7116 U-boat in sight bearing 90°T on SW course.  Broad conning tower, compares to silhouette of an Italian.  
    14.25   Dived.  Can not find the boat in the periscope.  Therefore it is also dived.  Recognition signals exchanged with "UA".  
    14.42   Surfaced.  "UA" in sight.  Set out dinghy, drove over and describe conditions to the Kommandant, he is in transit to supply.  
    16.00 EJ 7116    
    17.30   "UA" out of sight.  
    20.00 EJ 7126    
    24.00 EJ 7136    
                                                            
    26.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 7224    
    08.00 EJ 7235    
    12.00 EJ 7316 Day's run:  Surfaced     125 nm  
                         Submerged      1 nm = 126 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 7335    
    20.00 EJ 8116    
    24.00 EJ 8134    
                                                            
    27.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 8214    
    08.00 EJ 8224    
    12.00 EJ 8235 Day's run:  Surfaced  129 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 8316    
    17.55   Dived.  Crash dive for training.  
    18.13   While diving it is discovered that the attack periscope leaks.  Cause is that, of the 10 holding bolts of the front glass of the headpiece, 8 have rusted through and the front glass has become loose.   Bolts are bored.  Periscope dried but salt crystals remain on the lenses.  As a result, the attack periscope is out of service.  Front glass is fastened with new bolts and sealed.  
    18.51   Radio Message 2009/27/121:  Southern boats:  
        New attack areas U-103 and U-38 south of the line "Freetown" in 40°T.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 25.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 26.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 27.05.41
 
- 39 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    27.05.41      
        U-105 and U-106 no restrictions to operating area.  All boats north of 5°N remain east of 30°W south of 5°N remain east of 25°W.        B.d.U.  
    20.00 EJ 8327    
    24.00 EJ 8315    
                                                            
    28.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 5898 Going to St. Vincent.  
    08.00 EJ 5882    
    12.00 EJ 5884 Day's run:  Surfaced     116 nm  
                         Submerged      1 nm = 117 nm.  
    14.44   Radio Message 1524/28/152:  To U-105, U-106, U-107:  
        English steamers have repeatedly received instructions to head for "São Vicente" Cape Verde.        B.d.U.  
    16.00 EJ 5791    
    20.00 EJ 5728    
    24.00 EJ 5479    
                                                            
    29.05.41      
    04.00 EJ 5447    
    08.00 EJ 4638    
    12.00 EJ 4392 Day's run:  Surfaced  135 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 4336    
    20.00 EJ 2744 Intention:  To monitor the harbor off Porto Grande at the south entrance between São Vicente and Santo Antao.  To position between the islands by night.  Set off by day.  
    22.20 Point Machado bearing 50°T    
    23.20 EK 2711 A darkened steamer bearing 130°T on opposite course.  (about 220°) distance 1.5 nm.  Turned to run off and maneuver ahead.  I want to attack before he gets too far from the coast.  
    24.00 EK 1933    
                                                            
    30.05.41      
    00.00 NE 3-4, Vis. good Steamer turns to 260°.  
    00.10          "         "    "  315°.  
    00.25          "         "    "  270°.  
    00.36 Ponta do Chao de Mangrade lighthouse bearing 9°T, 20 nm 1st shot range = 500 meters, target angle 80°, target speed = 12 knots.  Hit astern after 37 seconds.  (560 meters).  
    00.36   2nd shot  Tube runner, withdrawal linkage not totally withdrawn, later ejected.  
        Steamer was about 4000 GRT, sharply cut ship, raked bow, cruiser stern.  
    00.50   Sunk.  4 boats or rafts in the water.  Fired two torpedoes, because the torpedoes no longer seem reliable to me.  Did not transmit.  
    04.00 EJ 1928    
    08.00 EJ 1973    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 29.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 30.05.41
 
- 40 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.05.41      
    12.00 EJ 1982 Day's run:  Surfaced  203 nm.  
    13.39   Dived.  
    15.13   Surfaced.  
    16.00 EJ 1961    
    19.37   Dived.  
    19.48   Surfaced.  
    20.00   Run again between São Vicente and Santo Antao to determine what lies in Porto Grande.  
    24.00 Point Machado bearing 101°T    
      Point Ribeirp bearing 75°T    
                                                            
    31.05.41      
    00.30   Can see the harbor well.  
    01.07 Ilhéu dos Pássaros bearing 75 Steamer with dimly set navigation lights raises anchor, heads east from harbor off Ilhéu dos Pássaros in the Channel of São Vicente, extinguishes navigation lights.  
      Point Machado bearing 180°T  
      NE 4-5, overcast, moon sets  
      My fear the he wants to run off to the NE, does not prove true, he comes towards me therefore wants to go to the west.  I run ahead of him to attack him well beyond territorial waters.  Steamer heads 250°, runs at about 12 knots.  
    02.50   The nearest land (Antao) is about 15 nm off.  I turn to shoot.  (Attack)  
    03.13   1st shot G 7e, range = 800 meters, target angle 90°, target speed = 12 knots.  Hit after 1 minute 41 seconds.  
        2nd shot G 7a, circle runner, stopped the boat, nothing more heard, the torpedo is out of sight.  
        Steamer is hit astern, transmits "CLAN MACDOUGAL" 6843 GRT, British.  Still floats well.  Has stopped.  Sea and swell too great for artillery operation.  Land is too near.  
    03.24   3rd shot stern G 7a.  Miss astern.  Steamer may have still had some speed.  Range = 500 meters.  
    03.34   4th shot stern G 7a, range = 500 meters.  Hit after 41.5 seconds.  Surface runner.   
    03.45 Point Chao de Mangrade bearing 26°T, 20 nm Steamer sinks.  
      Had sent a wrong position, possibly deliberately, because the specified position is 4 nm away from St. Vincente."  
      Sent Position:                    Correct Position:  
        16° 30'N                             16° 45.5N  
        25° 10W                              25° 31W  
    04.00 EJ 1931    
    08.00 EJ 1865    
    12.00 EJ 1893 Day's run:  Surfaced     192.0 nm  
                         Submerged     2.5 nm = 194.5 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 1943    
    18.36   Dived.  Test dive.  
    18.54   Surfaced.  
    20.00 [missing line]    
    24.00 [missing line]    
                                                            
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.05.41
Sun and Moon Data 31.05.41
 
- 41 -
 
           
           
           
           
    01.06.41      
    04.00 EJ 2468 Have run through the Channel São Vicente, at best 1 ship is discovered in Porto Grande harbor.  Here for the moment there is nothing to be found. Positioned at first light well offshore off the north entrance.  
    08.00 EJ 2519    
    09.50 EJ 2415 Outbound coastal steamer in sight bearing 30°T apparently with Spanish top flag.  Then the harbor is probably empty.  However what enters comes from the south.  Therefore ran to the west of Antao off the south entrance.  
    11.35   Steamer out of sight.  
    12.00 EJ 2432 Day's run:  Surfaced     169 nm  
                         Submerged     1 nm = 170 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 2482    
    20.00 EJ 2178    
    24.00 EJ 1665    
                                                            
    02.06.41      
    04.00 EJ 1684    
    08.00 EJ 1911    
    11.31   Radio Message 1037/2/192:  Officer-Only.  
        Southern boats:  Admiralty give all ships instructions not to go to Cape Verde, because of U-boat operations there.        B.d.U.  
        Aha!  This hole is closed.  Run off to the west.  Suspect traffic between 26° and 28°W.  
    12.00 EJ 1940 Day's run:  Surfaced  140 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 1861    
    20.00 EJ 1842    
    24.00 EJ 1753    
                                                            
    03.06.41      
    04.00 EJ 1718    
    08.00 EJ 1486    
    12.00 EJ 1544 Day's run:  Surfaced     186.0 nm  
                         Submerged      1.5 nm = 187.5 nm.  
    16.00 EJ 1511    
    20.00 EJ 1422    
    24.00 EH 3636    
                                                            
    04.06.41      
    04.00 EH 3616 Because nothing is found between 26° and 28°W in two legs, I go further to the west.  
    08.00 EH 3526    
    12.00 EH 3736 Day's run:  Surfaced  196 nm.  
    16.00 EH 3416    
    20.00 EH 3178    
    21.57 EH 3158 A darkened steamer bearing 91°T, course south, heavy zig zags.  I maneuver ahead.  Steamer is about 3500 GRT.  Old coal ship.  
    24.00 EH 3158    
                                                            
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 02.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 03.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 04.06.41
 
- 42 -
 
           
           
           
           
    05.06.41      
    04.00 EH 3429 Must wait until moonset, ran therefore on the general course of the steamer.  He steers zig zags on 180° on 30°W.  Runs about 10 knots, for 3 hours.  
      NE 3, dark night, overcast  
    04.16   1st shot, G 7e, range = 700 meters, target angle 90°, target speed 11 knots.  
        2nd shot, G 7e, range = 700 meters, target angle 90°, target speed 10 knots.  
        Miss  
        New approach, matched speed, now runs slower, about 7 knots.  
    05.08   3rd shot, G 7a, range = 800 meters, target angle 80°, target speed = 7 knots.  Miss.  
        According to bubble track it would have had to hit or missed astern.  
    05.38   4th shot, G 7a, range = 800 meters, target angle 60°, target speed 9 knots.  Miss.  Unexplained.  Bubble track normal.  
        Remained undetected during all attacks.  Approaches were prepared carefully.  Steamer speed was exactly matched. Depth setting was 3 meters in all cases.  Fire control arrangement has worked well.  The differences in the speed are to be explained perhaps by boiler cleaning (coaler).  
        Tubes are empty, because the steamer is not particularly valuable and the Sea too high for artillery, I let him go.  
        This series of misses is inexplicable to me, because in spite of heavy zig zags (all 6 minutes) the target angle and speed had been determined approximately correctly and the range at the shot was no more than 7-800 meters.  
    06.45 EH 3459 Steamer out of sight.  
    08.00 EH 3426    
    12.00 EH 3191 Day's run:  Surfaced  208 nm.  
    16.00 EH 3191    
    20.15   Dived.  Test dive.  
    20.40   Sound bearing 18°T.  
    20.53 ENE 3-4, clear, moonshine Surfaced.  A steamer bearing 355°T, course south.  Run ahead, general course 180°.  Zig zags at intervals of 5-10-15 minutes up to 23.00 hours then long legs.  
        To bright for attack, waiting until moonset.  
    24.00 EH 3167    
                                                            
    06.06.41      
    04.00 EH 3426    
    05.03 EH 3429 Shot G7e, range = 500 meters, target angle 60°, target speed 9.5 knots.  Hit amidships after 27.5 seconds.  Steamer about 4000 GRT.  An old ship.  Transmits only "SSSSS".  No name or position.  
    05.37   Steamer sinks.  About 1 minute after sinking heavy detonation like a depth charge.  
    08.00 EH 3198 [illegible line]  
    12.00 [illegible line]    
           
Sun and Moon Data 05.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 06.06.41
 
- 43 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.06.41      
    16.00 DS 9758    
    16.17 DS 9764 Darkened steamer bearing 90°T, course south.  Heavy zig zags.  Also steering on 30°W on general course 180°.  I maneuver ahead and run on his general course.  Intention is, to wait for night.  Steamer runs about 10 knots.  
    20.00 EH 3126 It is nearly a full moon and too brightly for attack.  Steamer steers too irregular zig zags for submerged attack .  
      NE 3-4, clear, bright moonshine  
    23.13 EH 3191 A 2nd darkened steamer bearing 311°T.  Steering general course SE.  
    24.00 EH 3194    
                                                            
    07.06.41      
    00.15   2nd steamer out of sight.  Remain with the first.  To play it safe, I wait for moonset.  
    04.00 EH 3467    
    05.47 Moon has set.  Night is very dark. Shot, G 7e, range = 500 meters, target speed 10.5 knots, target angle 90°.  A failure.  
        Shooting data was ascertained exactly.  Steamer travels in ballast, propeller beats occasionally out.  Size about 3500 GRT.  An old ship, coal.  Depth setting of torpedo was 3 meters.  ( I did not want a lower setting because of the prevailing swell.)  
        Suppose torpedo has under steered.  
        Because I still only have 1 torpedo in the tubes and 1 in the over deck and the target is not worthwhile, I will save the torpedo for something better, because evidently there is heavy traffic here.  
    07.40   Steamer out of sight.  
    08.00 EH 3494    
    12.00 EH 3434 Day's run:  Surfaced  243 nm.  
    16.00 EH 3156    
    19.19   Dived.  Test dive.  
    19.43   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DS 9794    
    24.00 DS 9734    
                                                            
    08.06.41      
    00.07   Short Signal:  Return transit started.    U-106.  
    04.00 DS 9465    
    08.00 DS 9195    
    12.00 DS 9113 Day's run:  Surfaced     212 nm  
                         Submerged      1 nm = 213 nm.  
    16.35 DS 6738 Steamer bearing 332°T, general course south.  I maneuver ahead.  Steamer has a general course of about 190°.  
    20.00 EH 6782    
    20.25 NE 3-4, overcast Dived.  Positioned ahead on the general course.  Intend to approach submerged.  
        Steamer zig zags irregularly, speed matched  
        [missing line]  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 07.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.41
 
- 44 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    08.06.41      
        determine the legs submerged, however, can approach only to approximately 1500 meters.  Shot appears too uncertain to me, therefore, intend surface approach.  
    21.55   Surfaced.  Steamer runs darkened on old general course with legs at intervals of about 8 minutes.   Again maneuver ahead.  Today it is overcast, the moon will not set today.  
    24.00 DS 9119    
                                                            
    09.06.41      
    00.30   I let myself settle back towards the steamer from ahead without needlessly showing a broad silhouette.  It is quite light, however, one might approach unseen to 800 meters.  
    01.00   Shot, range = 1000 meters, target speed 10 knots, target angle 90°.  Depth 3 meters.  Failure.  
        Steamer stops shortly after the shot for a moment, then runs on.  This fact validates the belief that a pistol failure may have been present.  
        Out of torpedoes below deck.  The sea state is too high for artillery.  Reload of one of the torpedoes in the overdeck is only possible outside the trade wind area.  
    01.45   Steamer out of sight.  
    04.00 DS 6788    
    08.00 DS 6762    
    12.00 DS 6576 Day's run:  Surfaced     224 nm  
                         Submerged   5.5 nm = 229.5 nm.  
    16.00 DS 6537    
    20.00 DS 6372    
    24.00 DS 6323    
                                                            
    10.06.41      
    04.00 DT 1744    
    08.00 DT 1485    
    12.00 DT 1439 Day's run:  Surfaced  243 nm.  
    16.00 DT 1224    
    20.00 DG 9767    
    24.00 DG 9759    
                                                            
    11.06.41      
    01.24   Dimmed steamer bearing 48°T, course south.  Turned away because I still have not unloaded due to weather.  
    01.45   Out of sight.  
    04.00 DG 9561    
    08.00 DG 9283    
    12.00 DG 9233 Day's run:  Surfaced     238 nm  
                         Submerged      1 nm = 239 nm.  
    16.00 DG 6954    
    20.00 DG 6697    
    23.00   1 torpedo unloaded from the overdeck in tube 1, [illegible line]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 09.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 10.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 11.06.41
 
- 45 -
 
           
           
           
           
    12.06.41      
    04.00 DH 4417    
    08.00 DH 4159    
    12.00 DH 1814 Day's run:  Surfaced     258 nm  
                         Submerged    0.7 nm = 258.7 nm.  
    16.00 DH 1846    
    20.00 DH 1619    
    24.00 DH 1365    
                                                            
    13.06.41      
    04.00 CF 8981    
    08.00 CF 8699    
    12.00 CF 9425 Day's run:  Surfaced  328 nm.  
    16.00 CF 9241    
    18.39   Dived.  Test dive.  
    19.06   Surfaced.  
    20.00 CF 6882    
    23.10   Steamer with lights bearing 114°T.  
        Course west (for the Azores).  Because it was probably neutral, not pursued.  
    24.00 CF 6911    
                                                            
    14.06.41      
    04.00 CF 6653    
    08.00 CG 4172    
    12.00 CG 4123 Day's run:  Surfaced     279 nm  
                         Submerged   1.2 nm = 280.2 nm.  
    16.00 CG 1818    
    20.00 CG 1583    
    24.00 CG 1612    
                                                            
    15.06.41      
    04.00 CG 1362    
    08.00 BF 7759    
    11.00   Clocks set forward 1 hour.  
    12.00 BF 7733 Day's run:  Surfaced  270.5 nm.  
    15.00   Clocks set forward 1 hour.  Starting from now all times DGZ.  
    16.00 BF 7558    
    20.00 BF 7613    
    22.00   Short Signal:  Positioned 36 hours off return harbor.  
                                                                         U-106.  
    24.00 BF 8118    
                                                            
    16.06.41      
    04.00 BF 5749    
    08.00 BF 5498    
    10.03   Dived.  
    11.20   French fishing trawler in sight with set national flag, course NW.  
    12.00 BF 5572 Day's run:  Surfaced     278 nm  
                         Submerged      5 nm = 283 nm.  
    16.00 BF 5549    
    16.30   2 fishing trawlers in sight.  
    20.00 BF 5551 Surfaced at 18.58 hours.  Dived at 19.09 hours.  
    21.37   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 5523    
                                                            
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 13.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 14.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 15.06.41
Sun and Moon Data 16.06.41
 
- 46 -
 
           
           
           
           
    17.06.41      
    02.47   Dimmed sailing vessel bearing 10°T, course SE.  
    02.50 Pen Men bearing 50°T    
    03.00   Periscope with foam wake sighted.  Error possible.   Turned away hard and ran off at highest speed.  
    03.12   Dived.  
    04.00 BF 6175    
    08.00 BF 6173    
    10.00 Point L 2 Taken under escort at L 2.  
    12.00 Lorient Made fast Lorient.  
        Day's run:  Surfaced     58 nm  
                         Submerged  51 nm = 119 nm. [sum is incorrect]  
           
           
                             Total Day's run:   
            Submerged        182.9 nm  
            Surfaced        20248.0 nm = 20430.9 nm.  
           
           
                                                            
                                                       Kapitänleutnant and Kmdt.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.06.41
 
- 47 -
 
           
           
           
           
                                    Report of the Kommandant of "U-106"  
                                      on the supply ship  :  "EGERLAND"___   
           
              U-106 supplied on 16./17.5.41 with supply ship "EGERLAND"  
           
      Torpedo:    
              The outfitting of this ship with torpedoes was insufficient.  In my opinion, it would have been possible to clamp down additional torpedoes on deck with the perfect weather conditions at hand in the Central Atlantic.  The ship had only 44 of the intended 60 torpedoes aboard.   Several supplying boats could not take the full complement of torpedoes.  I could have taken 5 torpedoes, however, had to defer because there were still 2 boats coming from the homeland to supply within next eight days.  I could not justify taking over the remaining 6 torpedoes myself.   The space in which the torpedoes were stored was unsuitable from the remarks of the Kapitän of the "EGERLAND" because of transportation difficulties getting through the hatch leading to accidents which resulted in casualties to personnel.  
           
      Provisions:    
              Provisions were plentiful, even if the composition did not meet the requirements of a tropical cruise on a U-boat.  The cold storage rooms were inadequate, so that great amounts of provisions, which should have been kept in cold storage rooms, had already partly gone bad three weeks after leaving the ship.  The accommodation of provisions in the former oil bunkers resulted in everything, except for canned provisions, acquiring an oil taste.  
           
      Transfer:    
     

        Transfer was executed in rubber boats which "EGERLAND" and "NORDMARK" had taken.  At the beginning of the transfer the rubber boat motor soon had engine trouble, so that the boat had to be paddled, which under the prevailing weather conditions, resulted in great difficulties, and was very time consuming.  The ship's center engine navy launch was not used because in the Captain's view, this boat was too heavy and the tackle on the foreship was too flimsy to launch and retrieve.   During the supply of other boats up to 9 torpedoes were paddled due to the failure of the rubber boat motors.

 
           
      Machinery:    
              The outfitting of consumable materials was completely insufficient.  There was no canvas, cable, salt water soap etc.  There was no wash water at all and the drinking water had taken on a very strongly taste of the tank lining.  Apart from a few carboys there was only a tank of distilled water which was useful, however, only after lengthy filtering because the tank lining had pealed off.  The outfitting of engine spare parts was good.  
           
      General:    
              In assessing the supply ship"EGERLAND" the comparison with the supply ship "NORDMARK" which met all requirements in an exemplary manner, decisive.   
      [illegible line below]    
           
 
 
- 48 -
 
           
           
           
           
           
      from "EGERLAND".  The division: a civilian-military crew is inappropriate for a so long a voyage and the high demands which are placed on such a ship.  The civilian crew consisted partly of long discharged personnel, and partly of quite inexperienced personnel.  In the naval crew were many recent recruits and some older reservists were aboard, so that difficulties were seen manning the lookout reasonably.  
      The Captain made a good impression, however, it was difficult for him, with this crew and for this purpose hurriedly outfitted ship, to meet the military demands placed on her.  In my opinion, a ship which is dependent on itself for so long under the most difficult conditions should be manned with particularly good personnel. Only then are the deficiencies which inevitable arise from the fact that the ship was originally built for other purposes and could only be provisionally prepared to make do.  
      The military [rest of this line is illegible] however, it appears correct to use an experienced officer in this position.  
      The atmosphere aboard this ship was depressed from the outset and the meaning and importance of their task was only partially understood by the crew.  I had the impression, that the supply of the boats by the ship was felt as a burden, that supply concerned the military escort party, while the civilian crew was involved only if absolutely necessary.  
      Overall the ship personnel appear a little too thinly manned.  Added to this, 2 other boats had already been supplied shortly before our supply and the personnel were overworked.  
           
           
                                          signed in draft.  Oesten  
                                        Kapitän und Kmdt. U-106  
           
           
           
           
           
      As enclosure to Kriegstagebuch.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
 

 

 
 
Comments of the B.d.U.
 
1.) A successful, well executed patrol, for the most part there is not much to say.
2.) The observation of the Commander, that contact keeper reports must be continued even if it is thought that the other boats are also at the enemy, is very true.  As this patrol shows, such an assumption can easily be wrong.
3.) Long and tough pursuit of the convoy is particularly emphasized, as well the good co-operation with "U-105".
4.) Documentation for the sinking of torpedoed ships is sometimes quite meager. The great range to the next bases confirms the belief of the commander still more.
   
                                                                         Signed in draft:  Dönitz
                                                              For the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote
                                                                 The Chief of Operations Department
                                                                           
 
 
 


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