U-154 - 5th War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with the help of Ken Dunn, Rainer Kolbicz and Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
Lorient
20 March 1943
Lorient
6 July 1943
109

 

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
28 May 43
04.43 - 04.46
3°56'S, 36°37'W
CARDINAL GIBBONS (damaged)
7,191
American
BT 14
28 May 43
04.43 - 04.46
3°56'S, 36°37'W
JOHN WORTHINGTON (total loss)
8,166
American
BT 14
28 May 43
04.43 - 04.46
3°56'S, 36°37'W
FLORIDA (damaged)
8,580
American
BT 14
     
 Total = 23,937
   
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
 
       
U-boat "U-154"
 
           
       
5th Patrol
 
           
        Beginning:    8.1. 1943  
        Ending:    6.7. 1943  
     
 
 
Times:  DGZ
All naval squares
Operation under Operations Order 54
 
 
           
                        Kommandant:  Oblt.z.S. K u s c h                   
           
           
                        Copies to: 2 x O.K.M.  
        1 x B.d.U. -Op.-  
        1 x Kmdr.Adm.d.Uboote  
        1 x F.d.U. -West-  
        1 x F.d.U. -Ausbildung.-  
      1 x 27.U.-Flotille  
        1 x 2.U.-Flotille  
       
                                                                          
           
           
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
 
           
           
           
        - 1 -  
    08.01.43 to   Overhaul and outfitting in Lorient.  
    19.03.43   Leave for the crew.  
    08.02.43   Change of Command:  
      Korv.Kapt. Schuch - Oblt.z.S. Kusch.  
    20.03.43      
    16.45 SE 2, Sea 1-2, 6/10, Cirrus, light haze, Vis. 10 nm Departed on 5th War Patrol  
      Escorted by Sperrbrecher.  
    19.15   Escort ended, continued on outbound route.  
    21.03.43 Bay of Biscay    
    02.00 BF 5491 After passing outer point dove to proceed submerged  
      SEbyS 2-3, Sea 2, blue sky, Vis. 5-6 nm, large long SE-swell, very bright, clear moonlit night Deep divw test to A +40 meters.  
    12.00 BF 5486 Day's run:  Surfaced 117 nm  Submerged 20 nm.  
    20.06 ESE 1, Sea 1, blue sky, Vis. 5-6 nm, long SE-swell, bright clear moonlit night Surfaced to charge batteries and proceed on the surface.  
    20.37 BF 5478 Dived for aircraft detection on 162 cm.  
        After 5 minutes two aircraft bomb detonations astern.  
    21.30   Surfaced.  
    22.48   Again location on 162 cm.  
        Attempted to shake off enemy radar by zig-zagging.  
    22.56 BF 4932 Dived due to gradually strengthening continuous tone.  After 3 minutes 6 aircraft bomb detonations astern.  
    23.31   Surfaced to charge batteries.  
    23.33 BF 4932 Aircraft detection.  Two separate tones.  162 and 164 cm.  First search then continuous tone.  
    23.35   Dived.  Continued submerged transit.  
    22.03.43 Bay of Biscay    
    02.00 ESE 1, Sea 1, blue sky, Vis. 5-6 nm, light haze, large long SE-swell, bright moonlight Surfaced to charge.  
    02.32 BF 4934 Detection on 162 cm.  Tone strengthened slowly, however weakens and stops occasionally.  
    02.35   Dived.  
    06.51 BF 4926 Surfaced to charge.  
      SSE 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 4-6 nm, hazy, with fog banks, long S-swell, dawn    
    06.55 BF 4926 Detection on 162 cm.  Slowly becoming louder, stopping occasionally.  
    06.58 BF 4926 Crash dive for approaching land-based aircraft astern.  Distance about 6 nm, however no attack.  
        Continued submerged transit.  
    09.19 SSE 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Cirrostratus, Vis. 8-10 nm, haze developing on the horizon, long SSW-swell Surfaced to charge.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 22.03.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 2 -  
    22.03.43      
    10.40 Fog banks, very hazy, S 2-3 nm Dived due to visibility deterioration  
      Submerged transit.  
    12.00 BF 4924 Day's run:  Surfaced: 53 nm   Submerged 35 nm.  
    20.30 BF 4919 Surfaced to charge.  
    21.45 BF 4917 Dived for detection on 162 cm, continuous tone.  After 4 minutes, 5 aircraft bombs astern.  
      SEbyS 3, Sea 3, overcast, Nimbus, Vis. 2-3 nm, scattered rain, long SW-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    23.03.43 Western Bay of Biscay    
    00.05 SEbyS 3, Sea 3, overcast, Nimbus, Vis. 1-2 nm, haze, rain showers Surfaced.  
    00.07 BF 4941 Dived for detection on 162 cm, strengthening continuous tone.  
    02.00   Surfaced.  
    02.09 BF 4863 Dived for detection on 164 cm, strengthening, repeating tone.  
    04.00 BF 4863    
      SEbyS 3, Sea 3, overcast, Cirrostratus, Vis. 5 nm, long SSW-swell, bright moonlit night Surfaced.  
    04.02   Again detection on 164 cm, first search, then continuous tone.  Dived.  
        Continued transit submerged.  
    08.00 SSE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, medium SW-swell Surfaced to charge.  
    09.20 BF 4861 German U-boat in sight bearing 345°T course east.  
    10.05 BF 4854 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based), crossing course.  
    10.30   Surfaced.  
    10.45 BF 4854 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based), parallel course.  
    11.15 BF 4854 Surfaced, while blowing surprised by a twin-engine land-based aircraft in low approach.  From 25 meters 4 bombs.  No damage.  
      SSE 3-4, S 3-4, 7/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 8-12 nm, medium SW-swell,  
    11.17   Continued submerged transit.  
    12.00 BF 4854 Day's run:  Surfaced 38 nm  Submerged 26 nm.  
    20.45 BF 4848 Surfaced to proceed on the surface.  
      SE 5, Sea 4-5, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, medium SSW-swell    
    22.38 BF 4793 Dived due to detection on 162 cm, search mode.  
    24.03.43 180 nm northwest of Cape Finisterre  
    00.12 BF 4776 Surfaced to proceed on the surface.  
      SE 5, Sea 5, blue sky, Vis. 5-6 nm, high SSW-swell, bright clear moonlit night    
    07.15 SE 5, Sea 5, increasing cloudiness, Nimbus, Vis. 10 nm, high SSW-swell Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BE 9321 Day's run:  Surfaced 95 nm  Submerged 35 nm.  
    20.30 BE 9312 Surfaced to proceed on the surface.  
      NEbyN 4, Sea 3, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, medium NW-swell    
    25.03.43 240 nm west-northwest of Cape Finisterre  
    00.00 BE 9228  
      NE 4, Sea 3, 9/10, Cumulus, Vis. 2-5 nm, long NbyE-swell, bright moonlit night    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.03.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 3 -  
    25.03.43      
    07.35 BE 9159 Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BE 9182 Day's run:  Surfaced 109 nm  Submerged 20 nm.  
    20.54 BE 8397 Surfaced.  
      NNW 3-4, Sea 3-4, 7/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 4-5 nm, confused swell Intention:  proceed to CF 73 via BE 85 in accordance with outbound orders.  
    26.03.43 420 nm west of Cape Finisterre    
    04.00 BE 8616    
      NbyE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Nimbus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell, bright moonlit night    
    08.00 BE 8563    
      N 2, Sea 2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 8 nm, long WNW-swell    
    12.00 BE 8555 Day's run:  Surfaced 111 nm  Submerged 23 nm.  
      Weather as at 08.00, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 BE 8579    
      NW 2, Sea 2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 8-10 nm, occasionally hazy on the horizon, light WNW-swell    
    21.00 BE 8844 Outgoing radio transmission (Short Signal):  
      NW 1-2, Sea 2, 9/10, Stratus, Vis. 3-4 nm, light WNW-swell Position BE 8844.  
         
    21.47   Confirmation of Short Signal by Control Station.  
    27.03.43 400 nm northeast of the Azores    
    00.00 BE 8796    
      NW 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cirrus, Vis. 2-3, hazy, light NW-swell    
    04.00 CF 2327    
      W 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 2-3 nm, hazy, light NW-swell    
    08.50 CF 2372 Test dive and torpedo maintenance.  
      W 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Altostratus, Vis. 5 nm, hazy with fog banks, light NW-swell    
    11.20   Surfaced, switched to "Ireland" circuit.  
    11.55   Received radio message:  
        New objective for Kusch and Kietz is ET 50.  For Auffermann square 90 of the large square west of disguised square QL  
    12.00 CF 2614 Intention:  proceed to ET 50 via CF 73, DH 77, EJ 32, ES 35
      N 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 8 nm, occasional fog banks and haze, light NW-swell Day's run:  Surfaced 148 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
    16.00 CF 2568    
      NE 2, Sea 2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 10 nm, occasional haze, light NW-swell    
    20.00 CF 2823    
      WSW 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Nimbus, Vis. 8-10, haze, scattered rain showers, light NW-swell    
    28.03.43 320 nm east-northeast of the Azores  
    00.00 CF 2854    
      W 2, Sea 2-3, overcast, Stratus, freshening, Vis. 3-4 nm, light W-swell    
    08.00 CF 5195    
      SW 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, light W-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 25.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 26.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 4 -  
    28.03.43      
    12.00 CF 5429 Day's run:  Surfaced 195 nm.  
      SW 2-3, Sea 2, 8/10, Cirrus, Vis. 10-12, light W-swell    
    16.35 CF 5479 Test dive with follow-on deep dive to test depth resulted in leakage through the port outboard exhaust valve.  Leakage noted before on deep dive on 21 March.  Improvement was obtained by tightening the linkage.  Defect cannot be completely eliminated.  
      W 2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm, light W-swell  
    20.20 CF 5716 Outgoing Radio Message:  
      WNW 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, light W-swell Request meeting with returning boat for transfer Oblt.(Ing.) Reinecke.  
      CF 5718, 215 cbm, WNW 2, Sea 2, Cumulus, 1028. - Kusch -  
    20.52   Confirmation of radio message by Control Station.  
    22.44 WNW 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, light W-swell, marine phosphorescence Incoming Radio Message:  
      To Kusch:  
Transfer in approximately 6 days possibly.  More to follow.
    29.03.43 140 nm east of the Azores    
    00.00 CF 4999    
      WNW 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 2-3, light W-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    02.00   On board clocks advanced 1 hour (German Summertime).  
    04.00 CF 7337    
      N 3-4, Sea 2, freshening wind, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4, light NW-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 CF 7385    
      N 2, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 11 nm, light NW-swell    
    09.27 CF 7388 Steamer in sight bearing 106°T.  
      NNE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulostratus, freshening, Vis. 8-10 nm Maneuvered ahead.  
    10.41   Dived, to operate on steamer.  Steamer is Portuguese "GIL FANNES".  Approximately 3,000 GRT, Course 270°T, 9 knots  
    12.58 CF 7613 Surfaced, steamer out of sight, continued southward.  
      N 4, Sea 4, overcast, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, Vis. 6-10 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 170 nm  Submerged 6 nm.  
    16.00 CF 7646    
      NNE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 CF 7913    
      NE 4-5, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, freshening, Vis. 5-6 nm, entered the area of NE Trade Winds    
    22.37   Incoming Radio Message:  
        1) Intentions:  a) Kusch give Chief Engineer to Emmerman.  On 30 March Kusch is about in DH 11, course south.  
        b) Fuel offload Emmermann to Neitzel for continued return.  Emmermann suggest meeting place according to completion of repairs other boats adjust accordingly.  
        2)  Neitzel to receive Metox later from an outward bound boat.  
        3)  Kusch switch to "America 2" Circuit tomorrow at 08.00 hours.  
    30.03.43 200 nm southeast of the Azores  
    00.00 CF 7979    
      NE 4-5, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 4 nm    
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 30.03.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 5 -  
    30.03.43      
    04.00 DH 1146    
      Stiff NE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4-5, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4-5    
    08.00 DH 1416 Switched to "America 2" circuit.  
      NE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4-5, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm    
    12.00 DH 1444    
      NE-Trade Wind 5, Sea 4-5, 6/10, Cumulus, building, Vis. 12 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
    12.36   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Emmermann sends bearing signals in accordance with standing order.   
        From then to 15.30 hoursno signals are heard and Emmermann's position is unknown to me  
    15.35   Outgoing Radio Message:  
        Bearing signals not heard.  What is Emmermann's location?  DH 1477. - Kusch -  
    16.16 DH 1477 Incoming Radio Message:  
      ENE-Trade Wind 5, Sea 5, continuing, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10-12 nm You were not meant.  It was for Müller.  Rendezvous point follows. - Emmermann -  
    16.37   Test dive, torpedo and machine maintenance.  
    18.50   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DH 1714    
      ENE-Trade Wind 5, Sea 5, overcast, Cumulostratus, Vis. 8 nm    
    23.12   Incoming Radio Message:  
        1)  E-compressor operable, Junkers compressor still inoperable, DT 34, 80 cbm, returning to base.  
        2)  Meeting with Kusch, 1 April at 12.00 hours DG 9935.  
        3)  Meeting with Neitzel, 4 April at 10.00 hours DG 1855,  
        4)  In each case send bearing signals 1 hour prior to determined meeting time in accordance with standing orders.  
                                                             - Emmermann -  
    31.03.43 380 nm southeast of the Azores  
    00.00 DG 3993    
      NE-Trade Wind 5, Sea 5, overcast, Cumulostratus, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.00 DG 6335    
      EbyN 5, Trade Wind, Sea 4-5, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 4-5,    
    08.00 DG 6369    
      EbyN 5, Trade Wind, Sea 4-5, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 8 nm, haze    
    12.00 DG 6635 Day's run:  Surfaced 139 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
      ENE 5, Trade Wind, Sea 5, 9/10, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 10 nm    
    16.00 DH 4477    
      NE-Trade Wind, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.30   Test dive.  
    16.42   Surfaced, proceeded to meeting point DG 9935.  
    20.00 DH 4741    
      NO-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm    
    01.04.43 300 nm west of the Canary Islands  
    00.00 DG 6996    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 4, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 DG 9563    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    08.00 DG 9399    
      ENE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 11 nm    
    12.00 DG 9662 Day's run:  Surfaced 179 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      ENE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.25   Receiving bearing signals from "U-172" bearing 193°T.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 31.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 6 -  
    01.04.43      
    15.42 DG 9932 U-172 in sight bearing 195°T.  
    16.00 DG 9932 Transferred Oblt.(Ing.) Reinicke in rubber dinghy to U-172, afterwards continued southwards.  
      ENE 3, Trade Winds, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm  
    18.14   U-172 out of sight.  
    18.16   Test dive.  
    18.45   Surfaced.  Intention:  proceed to ET 50 via EJ 19.  There is probably enemy traffic at the refueling station in EJ 27.  
    20.00 DG 9938    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    21.07   Sent Short Signal:  Task accomplished.  
    23.35   Confirmation of Short Signal by headquarters.  
    02.04.43 450 nm west-southwest of Canary Islands  
    00.00 DG 9994    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    04.00 DT 2253    
      NE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 7/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    08.00 DT 2289    
      NE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.00 DT 2556 Day's run:  Surfaced 168 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      NE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 DT 2826    
      NE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.30   Test dive and torpedo maintenance.  
    17.52   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DT 2856    
      NE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    03.04.43 400 nm north of Cape Verde Islands  
    00.00 DT 5223    
      W 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm    
    04.00 DT 5259    
      W 1, Trade Wind, Sea 1, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm    
    08.00 DT 5529    
      N 1-2, Trade Wind, Sea 1-2, 1/10, Altocumulus, Vis 3 nm    
    12.00 DT 5586 Day's run:  Surfaced 178 nm  Submerged 3 nm.  
      N 3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 DT 5856    
      N 3, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 DT 8223    
      N 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm.    
    21.00   Test dive.  
    22.00   Surfaced.  
    04.04.43 230 nm north of the Cape Verde Islands  
    00.00 DT 8252    
      NbyW 1, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 DT 8516    
      WNW 1, Sea 1, 5/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    08.00 DT 8571    
      N 1, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis, 5 nm    
    12.00 DT 8738 Day's run:  Surfaced 184 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      NbyW 1-2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 7 -  
    04.04.43      
    16.00 DT 8783    
      NbyW 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 EJ 2127    
      NbyW 1-2, Sea 2, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis 12 nm    
    20.30   Test dive.  
    20.52   Surfaced.  
    05.04.43 West of the Cape Verde Group    
    00.00 EJ 2175    
      NW 1-2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm    
    02.40 EJ 2414 Point Chao de Mangrade Lighthouse on Santo Antao Island in sight bearing 186°T.  27 nm distant.  
    04.00 EJ 1663    
      NE-Trade Wind 1, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm    
    05.38 EJ 1692 Mangrade Lighthouse passed at 5.5 nm abeam.  
    08.00 EJ 1934    
      NE-Trade Wind 1, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm    
    08.27 EJ 1931 Mangrade Lighthouse out of sight.  
    09.15 EJ 1935 Santo Antao and Sao Vicente Islands in sight distance 20 nm.  
    12.00 EJ 2718 Day's run:  Surfaced 191 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      NbyE 1, Trade Wind, Sea 1-2, 5/10, Cumulostratus, haze, Vis, 11 nm    
    13.39 EJ 2746 Land out of sight.  
    16.00 EJ 2776    
      NbyE 1, Trade Wind, Sea 1-2, overcast, Stratus, light haze, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 EJ 5146    
      ENE 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    21.00   Test dive.  
    21.20   Surfaced.  
    06.04.43 20 nm west of Brava (Cape Verde Islands)  
    00.00 EJ 5413    
      NE Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    04.00 EJ 5455    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2, 2/10, Nimbus, Vis. 3 nm    
    08.00 EJ 5498    
      NE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Nimbus, Vis. 3 nm    
    12.00 EJ 5842 Day's run:  Surfaced 177 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      NNE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Altocumulus, haze, Vis. 10 nm    
    14.40   Test dive.  
    15.00   Surfaced.  
    16.00 EJ 5882    
      NNE 2-3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Altocirrus, haze, Vis. 10 nm    
    20.00 EJ 8235    
      NNE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 8/10, Altocumulus and Cirrus, light haze, Vis. 11 nm    
    07.04.43 140 nm south of the Cape Verde Islands  
    00.00 EJ 8372    
      NNE 2-3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 EJ 8626    
      NNE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 EJ 8668    
      NNE 2-3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 8 -  
    07.04.43      
    12.00 EJ 9713 Day's run:  Surfaced 178 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      NNE 2-3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 10    
    13.42   Test dive.  
    14.05   Surfaced.  
    16.00 EJ 9753    
      NNE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 2-3, blue sky, Vis. 12 nm, light S-swell    
    20.00 EJ 9796    
      NNE 1, Trade Wind, Sea 1, blue sky, Altocirrus veil, Vis 11 nm, light S-swell    
    22.54   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Congratulations on promotion sent from 2. U.-Flottille to U-154 for Oblt. Druschel.  
    08.04.43 300 nm west-southwest of Portuguese Guinea  
    00.00 ES 3246    
      NNE 1, Sea 1, blue sky, Vis. 4 nm, light S-swell, southern border of NE-Trade Winds    
    04.00 ES 3523    
      NNE, 1, Sea 0-1, blue sky, Vis. 3-4 nm, light S-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 ES 3566    
      NNE 1, Sea 0-1, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, light SE-swell, beginning of the doldrums    
    12.00 ES 3673 Day's run:  Surfaced 191 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      NNE 1, Sea 0-1, blue sky, haze on the horizon, Vis. 10 nm, light SE-swell    
    13.46   Test dive.  
    13.59   Surfaced.  
    16.00 ES 3961    
      E, Sea 0, blue sky, haze, Vis. 10 nm, light SE-swell    
    16.32   Incoming Radio Message:  
        1)  Schröter and Nissen proceed further.  
        2)  Occupy the following attack areas:  
             Nissen FE 30 and FF 10,  
             Kietz EU 80 and FF 20,  
             Kusch FF 40 and 70  
             Schröter in accordance with serial number 334 of 30.03  
        3)  Single traffic steering NW-SE probably runs in the areas mentioned.  Independents and north-bound convoys originate from the main port.  All naval squares.  
        Intention:  proceed to FF 4333 via ET 5777.  
    20.00 ET 1774    
      E, Sea 0, blue sky, haze, Vis. 10 nm, light SE-swell    
    09.04.43 370 nm west of Freetown    
    00.00 ET 4127    
      E, Sea 0, blue sky, Vis. 4 nm, light S-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 ET 4192    
      E, Sea 0, 1/10, Cirrus, haze, Vis. 3 nm, light S-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 ET 4515    
      E, Sea 0, blue sky, haze, Vis. 2-3 nm, light SSE-swell    
    12.00 ET 4585 Day's run:  Surfaced 190 nm  Submerged 0.8 nm.  
      E, Sea 0, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SSE-swell    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 9 -  
    09.04.43      
    13.24   Test dive.  
    13.43   Surfaced.  
    16.00 ET 4835    
      S 1, Sea 0-1, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SSE-swell    
    20.00 ET 4948    
      E, Sea 0, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SSE-swell    
    10.04.43 300 nm southwest of Freetown    
    00.00 ET 4986    
      S 1, Sea 1, 2/10, Vis. 3 nm, 1ight S-swell, distant lightening and marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 ET 8114    
      SSE 1, Sea 0-1, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 2 nm, light SE-swell, distant lightening and marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 ET 8155    
      E, Sea 0, 6/10, Vis. 2 nm, light SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    11.08 ET 8193 U-126 in sight bearing 90°T.  
        Maneuvered alongside.  
    12.00 ET 8272 Day's run:  Surfaced 182 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SSE 1, Sea 0-1, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    13.54   U-126 out of sight.  
    16.00 ET 8522    
      SSE 0-1, Sea 0, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    20.00 ET 8563    
      E, Sea 0, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    11.04.43 280 nm southwest of Monrovia    
    00.00 ET 8653    
      SSE 1, Sea 0, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, light SSE-swell    
    04.00 ET 9471    
      SSE 1, beginning of the SE-Trade Winds, Sea 1, 2/10, Cumulus, rain showers, Vis. 3 nm, light SE-swell    
    08.00 ET 9723    
      SSE 1, Trade Wind, Sea 1, 2/10, Cumulus, rain showers, Vis. 4 nm, light SE-swell, distant lightening    
    12.00 ET 9815 Day's run:  Surfaced 183 nm.   
      SSE 1-2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.16   Test dive.  
    13.44   Surfaced.  
    16.00 ET 9855    
      SSE 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, tropical showers, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 ET 9896    
      SSE 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.04.43 260 nm south-southwest of Monrovia  
    00.00 FE 3328    
      SSE 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 4    
    04.00 FE 3369    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4-5 nm    
    08.00 FF 1188    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 FF 1464 Day's run:  Surfaced 186 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, tropical showers, Vis. 8-12 nm    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 10.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 10 -  
    12.04.43      
    13.01   Test dive.  
    13.24   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FF 1572    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 8-12 nm    
    20.00 FF 1823    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm    
    13.04.43 290 nm southwest of Cape Palmas (Liberia)  
    00.00 FF 1838    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, light showers, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.00 FF 1949    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, freshening, Sea 3, heavy tropical showers, Vis. 1-2 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    05.18 FF 1957 lower-right corner Equator crossed at 9° 36.9' W Longitude.  
    08.00 FF 1994    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Nimbus, Vis. 2-3 nm    
    10.00 FF 4333 upper-right corner Entered the attack area FF 40 right upper corner.  
        Intentions:  
        To search on southwest and/or northeastern courses between the upper-right and lower-left corners of the operations area, expecting to catch and stop NW-SE enemy traffic between Capetown and Freetown, stopping during darkness to save fuel.  
    12.00 FF 4338 Day's run:  Surfaced 164 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    14.30   Held a 40-man crossing the line ceremony.  
    16.00 FF 4364    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    18.08   Test dive.  
    18.40   Surfaced.  
    20.00 FF 4358    
      NNE-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Nimbus, heavy rain showers, Vis. 2-6 nm, SE-swell    
    21.30   Stopped.  Let the boat drift..  
    14.04.43 350 nm south-southwest Cape Palmas  
    00.00 FF 4384    
      ENE 2, Sea 2-3, overcast, Stratus, rain showers, Vis. 3-4 nm, bright growing moon, heavy marine phosphorescence,    
    04.00 FF 4375    
      ESE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 5 nm, bright moon, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FF 4296    
      ESE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 4 nm, light NE-swell    
    08.30   Proceed onward.  
    12.00 FF 4535 Day's run:  Surfaced 96 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      SSE 3-4, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    16.00 FF 4659    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 3/10, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    20.00 FF 4587    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, steady, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, light SE-swell    
    21.15   Stopped, let the boat drift.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 14.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
        - 11 -  
    15.04.43 400 nm north-northeast Ascension Island  
    00.00 FF 4574    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 5 nm, medium SE-swell, bright moon    
    04.00 FF 4496    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, bright moon, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FF 4495    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 5 nm, light SE-swell    
    08.45   Proceed onward.  
    12.00 FF 4735 Day's run:  Surfaced 82 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-12 nm, light SE-swell    
    15.45   Test dive.  
    16.08 FF 4762 Surfaced.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 11-12 nm, light SE-swell    
    20.00 FF 4792    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 10 nm, light SE-swell    
    21.15   Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    16.04.43 340 nm north-northeast of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FF 4797    
      SSE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, overcast, Nimbus, Vis. 4 nm, rain showers, light SE-swell, growing crescent moon    
    04.00 FF 4788    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Stratus, Vis. 4 nm, medium SE-swell, bright moon    
    08.00 FF 7121    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm    
    08.30   Continued transit.  
    12.00 FF 7128 Day's run:  Surfaced 83 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3-4, 4/10, Cumulus, light showers, Vis. 12 nm, medium SE-swell    
    16.00 FF 7158    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm, medium SE-swell    
    20.00 FF 7189    
      SE-Trade Wind, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 11-12 nm, medium SE-swell    
    21.30   Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    17.04.43 300 nm north-northwest of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FF 7425    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3-4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, medium SE-swell, bright moon    
    04.00 FF 7427    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 5 nm, medium SE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 FF 7427    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5, medium SE-swell    
    08.30   Continued transit.  
    12.00 FF 7457 Day's run:  Surfaced 81 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 12 nm, medium SE-swell    
    14.15   Test dive and engine maintenance.  
    15.28   Surfaced.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 12 -  
    17.04.43      
    16.00 FF 7485    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Altocumulus, showers, Vis. 8 nm    
    20.00 FF 7722    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 4, 6/10, Stratocumulus, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    21.15   Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    18.04.43 250 nm northeast of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FF 7731    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    04.00 FF 7751    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FF 7743    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.30   Continued transit.  
    12.00 FF 7781 Day's run:  Surfaced 66 nm  Submerged 3 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.46 FF 7781 Crash dive for aircraft (twin-engine land-based), high flyer, course for Ascension.  
    13.13   Surfaced.  Continued towards the lower-left corner of the attack area.  
    15.00 FF 7787 Reached the lower-left corner of the operations area.  Intentions:  proceed on a northeast course to the upper-right corner of FF 70, then head from there on a northerly course to the upper-right corner of FF 40.  
    16.07 FF 7788 Crash dive for an aircraft appearing out of the clouds (twin-engine, land-based).  High flyer, range estimated 6000 meters.  Several aircraft bombs, one depth bomb after about two minutes, no damage.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus and Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm  
    17.27   Surfaced, continued to upper-right corner of FF 70.  
    19.27 FF 7783 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based) bearing 50°T.   
        At first only crossing path, far off, turns then in long curve on the approach.  
    20.23 FF 7791 Surfaced.  Continued transit.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    19.04.43 260 nm northeast of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FF 7766    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, overcast, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    04.00 FF 7815    
      SE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FF 7585    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Nimbus and Stratus, showers, Vis. 6 nm    
    12.00 FF 7567 Day's run:  Surfaced 115 nm  Submerged 7 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4-5, blue sky, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FF 7539    
      SE-Trade Wind 4-5, Sea 4-5, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FF 7378    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.45   Incoming Radio Message:  
        1)  With the release of Sector D occupy with economical cruise speed the following attack areas:  
        Kietz square 15, Kusch 57, Nissen 63, all in FD.  Henke square FE 15, depth 180 nm.  
        In this area independents steering to the NS- and NE are to be expected.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 18.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 19.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 13 -  
    19.04.43   2)  Henke freedom to maneuver to the NE up to the coast at the time of the new moon.  
        3)  For Schröter operate at your own discretion.  
        4)  Replenishment for further operations is intended for all boats beginning 15 May in square ER.  If further operations are no longer possible for Henke announce in good time and expect resupply only on return transit.  All naval squares.  
    21.30   Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    22.00   Incoming Radio Message (Officer-only):  
        Starting on 20 April 00.00 hours attack prohibition is waived eastward in section Dora including the extension of 200 nm.  Thus in route Anton attack on unidentified independents is approved the entire way.  
    20.04.43 350 nm northeast of Ascension Island  
      FF 7376    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, blue sky, Vis. 6 nm, full moon    
    01.00 FF 7376 Began transit to FD 57.  
    04.00 FF 7295    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 4, blue sky, Vis. 6 nm, full moon    
    08.00 FF 7273    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm    
    12.00 FF 7183 Day's run:  146 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.15   Test dive.  
    13.40   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FF 7173    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FE 9382    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus and Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    21.04.43 270 nm north-northeast of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FE 9292    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    04.00 FE 9249    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, full moon    
    08.00 FE 9159    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, Vis. 5 nm    
    11.23   Crash dive for aircraft (land-based), course NW.  
    12.03 FE 9145 Surfaced.  
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 189 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
    16.00 FE 8343    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2-3, 6/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    20.00 FE 8261    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    22.04.43 300 nm north-northwest of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FE 8139    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    04.00 FE 8124    
      SE-Trade Wind 1-2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FE 7334    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 9/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-5 nm    
    12.00 FE 7233 Day's run:  Surfaced 230 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FE 7213    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 20.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 22.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 14 -  
    22.04.43      
    20.00 FE 4789    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    23.04.43 420 nm northwest of Ascension Island  
    00.00 FD 6999    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 FD 6976    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm moonlit    
    08.00 FD 6886    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm    
    12.00 FD 6793 Day's run:  Surfaced 218 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    13.15   Test dive.  
    13.43   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 6781    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm    
    20.00 FD 5967    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    24.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 5948    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 FD 5855    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 9/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FD 5765 Entered square FD 57  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-5, moonlit    
    09.50 FD 5755 Arrived at center point of attack area in square FD 57.  Intend to steam back and forth in the attack area on NW-SE courses perpendicular to the traffic line "Pernambuco Bahia - Freetown" to a depth of 180 nm.  
    12.00 FD 5719 Day's run:  Surfaced 203 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FD 4699    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, confused swell    
    20.00 FD 4659    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, confused swell    
    22.30 FD 4643 Reached the NW edge of attack area, came to SE course.  
    25.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 4654    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 FD 4694    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-5 nm    
    08.00 FD 4933    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    12.00 FD 5743 Day's run:  Surfaced 148 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.10   Test dive.  
    13.28   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 5782 During a brief stop abeam the sea it was determined that main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 2 leaked slightly.  For a few days the boat has had a light oil trace,  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 8-12 nm  
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 15 -  
    25.04.43   without the cause being found.  Assumption:  a bad welding seam in 2 starboard  
    20.00 FD 5797    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    26.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 8131    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 8 nm    
    04.00 FD 8241    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 4-5 nm, long SE-swell    
    08.00 FD 8249    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, long SE-swell    
    09.38 FD 8276 Crash dive for aircraft.  Parallel flight, course for Ascension Island.  
    10.05   Surfaced.  
    10.30 FD 8279 Reached the SE-edge of the attack area, to course NW.  
    12.00 FD 8272 Day's run:  Surfaced 111 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3-4, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    16.00 FD 8162    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FD 8122    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 9/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 5-12 nm    
    27.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 4969    
      SE-Trade Wind 5, Sea 3, 7/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 4 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 FD 4934    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 7/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 4 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00

FD 4682

   
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit, long SE-swell    
    11.30 FD 4619 Reached the NW-edge of the attack area, to course SE.  
    12.00 FD 4651 Day's run:  Surfaced 171 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, long SE-swell    
    16.00 FD 4659    
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    20.00 FD 4699 Determined that 3 cbm of fuel oil was lost by oil leak.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cumulus and Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm. long SE-swell    
    28.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 5727    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 FD 5767    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, slight swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FD 5799    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6, slight swell, moonlit    
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.04.43
  Sun and Moon Data 28.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 16 -  
    28.04.43      
    12.00 FD 8219 Day's run:  Surfaced 146 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-12 nm    
    13.28   Test dive.  
    13.55   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 8255    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3-4, 8/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    18.40 FD 8283 Reached the SE-edge of attack area.  Intention:  head for the NE corner (FD 5537) and from there by on a SW-course to the SW-corner stopping at night to save fuel.  
    20.00 FD 8264    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm    
    22.00 FD 8239 Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    29.04.43 680 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 8238    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 FD 8238    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 1, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FD 8237    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, moonlit    
    09.00   Continued to the north.  
    12.00 FD 5898 Day's run:  Surfaced 83 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cirrus and Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    14.47   Incoming Radio Message:  Attack areas:  
        1)  Kusch FC 70, 80 and area south thereof by FK 40 lower edge.  
             Steinert FJ 80 and 90 and south thereof by FQ 20 lower edge.  Traffic situation follows.  
        2)  Kietz, Nissen make for ET 60.  
        3)  All naval squares.  
    15.00   To course WSW with the intention, iinitially wait for the traffic situation to arrive.  
    16.00 FD 5868    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    17.35   Incoming Radio Message.  
        For Kusch and Steinert:  
        Wissmann reports traffic situation along the coast in FJ  
        1)  Small fast independent traffic sails.  
        2)  Convoys about 60 nm off the coast to and from the main port in 8721.   According to the prisoner of war assembling every 10 days.  
        3)  Originating from main port after stop over single traffic for South Africa  
        4)  Numerous neutrals.  
        5)  Weak surface patrol, strong day-medium night air patrol.  Enemy radar detection.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 17 -  
    29.04.43      
        Intention:  
        To head SW for FJ 68 in the lower third of the attack area. On that course is possible to rake opposing northbound traffic and SE traffic for South Africa.   Further to run northward from there about 60 nm off the coast on the route announced by Wissmann.  
    20.00 FD 5876    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    23.45 FD 8135 Outgoing Radio Message (on 36 meters):  
        Naval square FD 8135, 8 Eto, 8 Ato, 6 T 3, Trade Wind 3, 10 mb. 140 cbm. - Kusch -  
    30.04.43 660 nm northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 8135    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Altostratus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    02.31   Contents of radio message confirmed by headquarters.  
    04.00 FD 8154    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FD 7395    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 FD 7624 Day's run:  Surfaced 183 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.27   Test dive and engine maintenance.  
    14.33   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 7563    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    18.29 FD 7559 Crash dive for aircraft, departed to the SE.  
    19.00   Surfaced.  
    19.40 FD 7583 Crash dive for aircraft, parallel course WSW the same aircraft observed at 18.29 hours.  
    20.00 FD 7583 Surfaced.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    01.05.43 520 nm east-northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FD 7499    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 FD 7728    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FD 7771    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4-5 nm    
    12.00 FK 2323 Day's run:  Surfaced 176 nm  Submerged 4 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FK 2342    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FK 2283    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Stratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    02.05.43 330 nm east-northeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FK 2512    
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, 9/10, Stratus, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 18 -  
    02.05.43      
    00.58 FK 2514 Neutral Spanish steamer in sight bearing 208°T.  Course 20° 8 knots.  
        Stack markings indicate she belongs to the Vascongada Line, Bilbao, name not readable, since ships side is not illuminated.  Size about 3000 to 4000 GRT.  
    01.35   Steamer out of sight.  
    04.00 FK 2465    
      ESE 2, Trade Wind, Sea 2, 2/10, Stratus, Vis. 4 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    06.30 FK 2458 Aircraft showing navigation lights flew over.  Probably passenger plane from Parahyba to Ascension, course east, height about 500 meters.  
    08.00 FK 2476    
      ESE 2-3, Trade Wind, Sea 2, blue sky, Vis. 5 nm, long E-swell    
    12.00 FK 1939 Day's run:  Surfaced  189 nm.  
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell Enter the attack area, middle third.  
    13.40   Test dive.  
    14.22   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FK 1955    
      E 2, Sea 2, blue sky, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    20.00 FK 1977    
      E 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulostratus, showers, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    03.05.43 190 nm east of Pernambuco    
    00.00 FK 4261    
      E 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, long E-swell    
    04.00 FK 4273    
      E 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long E-swell    
    08.00 FK 4432    
      E 2, Sea 2, overcast, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 2 nm, long E-swell    
    12.00 FK 4451 Day's run:  Surfaced 176 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      E 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight E-swell    
    16.00 FJ 6693    
      E 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight E-swell    
    20.00 FJ 6922    
      E 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    04.05.43 105 nm southeast of Maceio    
    00.00 FJ 6941    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    04.00 FJ 6878    
      ESE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3, 2/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FJ 6878    
      E 3, Sea 2, 4/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    09.00

FJ 6877

Arrived at southern edge of the attack area.  Assumed western course.  Advance is intended to the coast up to the 30 nm limit.  
    12.00 FJ 6789 60 nm offshore.  
      ESE 4, Trade Wind, Sea 4, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 6-12 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 182 nm.  
    13.40   Test dive.  
    14.16   Surfaced.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 19 -  
    04.05.43      
    16.00 FJ 5999 Reached 30 nm limit.  Continuing on NE course parallel to the coast.  
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm  
    20.00 FJ 6746    
      ESE 3-4, Trade Wind, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    05.05.43 40 nm south of Maceio    
    00.00 FJ 6726 On northerly course.  Advance is intended toward "Maceio" up to the 200-meter line.  Possibly independents and coastal traffic running between the 200-meter line and 30 nm offshore.  Traffic between coast and the 200-meter line is not to be expected due to the presence of numerous shoals northeast of Maceio.  
      ESE 3, Trade Wind, Sea 3-4, blue sky, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence  
    04.10 FJ 6483 City and port lights of Maceio in sight bearing 326°T. Navigation lights are extinguished.  Distance from coast about 14 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 2, Sea 2, blue sky, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell  
    04.27 FJ 6458 Crossed 50-meter line, distance from Maceio about 12 nm.  Departed.  
    05.15 FJ 6483 Passed 200-meter line, lights out of sight.  On easterly course intend to proceed to 60 nm off the coast.  
    08.00 FJ 6493    
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 FJ 6581 Day's run:  Surfaced 176 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SSE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Stratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FJ 6592 Passed 60 nm offshore, came to westerly course.  Intend to raid Maceio roadstead during darkness to determine whether ships are anchored there.  
      SE-Trade Wind 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Stratus, Vis. 12 nm  
    20.00 FJ 6573    
      SbyE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    06.05.43 26 nm southeast of Maceio    
    00.00 FJ 6468    
      SSE 2, Sea 2-3, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, slight SE-swell    
    00.05 FJ 6468 By soundings crossed the 200-meter line.  Lights in sight bearing 299°T.  
    01.03 FJ 6467 Reached 50-meter line.  On northwest course lights of Maceio bearing 306°T, distance after a series of soundings 16 nm.  
    01.28 FJ 6467 Stopped, lights hidden from view by nearby rainstorm and boat's position is inaccurate.  
    02.52 FJ 6464 Light again in view bearing 297°T maneuvering free of shoals on westerly course until lights bear 320°T.  
    04.15 FJ 6455 On bearing 320°T turned and closed Maceio.  Distance about 10 nm depth 40 meters.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 8/10, heavy rain showers, Vis. 1-3 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    05.24 FJ 6455 upper-left corner Advanced to Maceio roadstead, distance from port about 5000 meters, depth 20 meters.  
      S 3-5, showers  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 20 -  
    06.05.43      
        City is brightly illuminated all navigation lights extinguished.  Nothing seen in the roadstead.  Departed on southern course.  
    07.00   Passed 200-meter line.  
    07.30   Turned to the east to proceed 60 nm off the coast.  
    08.00 FJ 6483    
      ESE 5, weather worsening quickly, Sea 4, overcast, heavy squalls, Vis. 1-2 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 FJ 6572 Day's run:  Surfaced 157 nm.  
      ESE 5, Sea 4, 4/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.42   Test dive and engine maintenance.  
    14.33   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FJ 6581    
      SE 4, Sea 4, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    18.00 FJ 6583 Reached 60 nm offshore, turned on NW course.  Intention is to run northward alternating between 30 and 60 nm offshore.  
    20.00 FJ 6552    
      ESE 2-3, Sea 3, 1/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    22.00 FJ 6524 Came to an easterly course.  
    07.05.43 90 nm southeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FJ 6534    
      ESE, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    03.30 FJ 6615 Came to a northwest course.  
    04.00 FJ 6615    
      SE, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    04.05 FJ 6639 Neutral steamer in sight bearing 320°T.  Argentinean, name not legible, national ensign illuminated on the ship's side.  About 5000 GRT, course 180°, 8-9 knots.  
    06.30 FJ 6639 Steamer out of sight.  
    08.00 FJ 6533    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Stratus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    10.00 FJ 6292 To easterly course, about 42 nm perpendicular to the coast.  
    12.00 FJ 6371 Day's run:  Surfaced 156 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, freshening, Sea 3-4, 9/10, Nimbus, heavy tropical showers, Vis. 2-10 nm    
    14.43 FJ 6381 Crash dive for flying boat appearing from a cloud bank, crossing course 5000 meters, towards Pernambuco.  
      overcast, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, Vis. 2-5 nm Proceeding submerged because of poor visibility and the possibility of being surprised.  
    16.00 FJ 6381 Making hourly periscope observations.  
      SE-Trade Wind 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Cumulonimbus, rain, haze, Vis. 2-5 nm    
    20.00 FJ 6357    
      SE-Trade Wind 3, Sea 3, overcast, Cumulonimbus, rain, haze, Vis. 3-6 nm    
    22.30 FJ 6354 Surfaced on NW course heading for Pernambuco.  Intend to observe the traffic conditions off Pernambuco, maneuvering back and forth for 24 hours off the port at the 30 nm limit.  
    08.05.43 60 nm east-southeast of Pernambuco  
    00.00 FJ 6316    
      SE-Trade Wind 2-3, freshening, Sea 3, overcast, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, haze, Vis. 1-3 nm, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 21 -  
    08.05.43      
    04.00 FJ 3944    
      SE 4, Sea 3-4, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 FJ 6232    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, light swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.40 FJ 6235 Shadow in sight bearing 305°T.   Closed.  Ship is tanker of 6000 - 8000 GRT, general course 180, irregular zig-zag of 20-30°, estimated speed 10 knots.  Began approach curve.  Intend shot from 70°, range 800 meters.  Shortly before firing steamer zigs 30° toward the boat.   
    09.07 FJ 6235 2-fan from tubes I and IV, with target angle 43° bow left, 10 knots, estimated range 400 meters, tube I T 3, depth 7 meters, MZ on, tube IV Eto depth 4 meters, spread angle 3 seconds, lead angle17°.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence  
        Miss.  Assumption, due to the short range the torpedoes had not steered in yet and understeered the target.  
    09.08   Turned off, again began attack.  Target speed appears faster, probably 11-12 knots.  In the mean time dawn is breaking.  
    09.28 FJ 6238 Single shot from tube III, T 3 depth 5 m, MZ on, target angle bow left 95°, target speed 12 knots, estimated range 2000 meters, lead angle 23.7°.  
    09.29 FJ 6238 Single shot from tube II, Eto depth 4 m, Bow left 115°, speed 12 knots, estimated range 1500 meters, lead angle 21.5°.  
    09.30   1 min. 38 seconds after firing from tube III a sharp metallic impact is heard in the boat.  Apparently a Pistol failure of the T 3.  Computed distance 1500 meters.  
        Shot from tube II missed.  Assume that target speed was overestimated.  Aiming point was after edge of bridge, thus forward, thus torpedo with lead angle 21.5° with target angle of 115° possibly passed ahead.  
    09.31   Turned away and because of increasing lightness departed.  
    09.33   Steamer suddenly opens random fire to all sides with stern cannon and steers completely irregular courses.  
    09.38 FJ 6238 Steamer transmits:  
        SSS of HPGM, attacked by submarine, 9°4' S, 34°36'W  
        Also:   Motor tanker "MOTOCARLINE" 8,900 GRT, 10 knots, Panama  
        Steamer constantly repeats distress calls.  
        Land station Pernambuco acknowledges.  
        In the mean time the steamer steers irregular courses.  
    10.10   Approached the steamer again, dived as soon as boat was range of vision.  
    10.17   Dived at distance 11 nm, closing steamer at GF.  Ship lay stopped possibly damaged by a dud hit.  
    11.04   Surfaced because there is neither a sound bearing or sighting in the periscope.  
        Steamer again in sight bearing 202°T.   Distance now 12-13 nm.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 22 -  
    08.05.43      
    11.05   Land Station asks steamer if the sea is clear and whether "sub still sighted".  
        Steamer replies:  
        "no dived", "seaward" and "we felt a heavy shock about 45 minutes ago.  Saw two torpedoes cross our bow.  Investigation as far as can be made do not show that ship was hit.  Continuing our voyage.  -Master-".  
    11.27   Distance now 9-10 nm.  Ship's lies athwart the seas engines apparently still stopped.  Continued submerged approach.   Surfaced immediately when steamer's reply radiogram submitted.  
    11.40   Steamer in sight bearing 199°T distance 12 nm, 160° relative, course 180°.  
    11.45 FJ 6262 Began to maneuver ahead at GF.  Steamer steering general course 180° with zig-zags 20-30°, speed about 12 knots.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Altostratus, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.10 FJ 6262 Aircraft in view astern, far off, transverse flight, course east, disappeared in the clouds.  
    13.12 FJ 6293 Aboard the steamer a torpedo detonation takes place, high water with associated brown explosion column, however, steamer shows no effect and runs with undiminished speed on course 180°.   Assume that T III hit and lodged in the steamer detonating just now.  Bearing 299°T  
    13.14 FJ 6293 Steamer repeatedly transmits:  
        "SSS of HPGM, attacked by submarine, 9°34'S, 34°36'W at 11.14 GMT."  
        Land station at Pernambuco acknowledged.  
    13.15   Continued to maneuver ahead.  
    14.11 FJ 6374 Aircraft in sight bearing 305°T, far distant.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm Course to steamer at LF.  
        Aircraft remains astern.  
    14.13   Crash dive, aircraft turns toward the boat.  
        Aircraft is Catalina type.  
    14.43   By search periscope, aircraft circles above the diving position.  
    15.11   By search periscope, aircraft circles above the boat.  
    16.00 FJ 6377 Surfaced.  
    16.03 FJ 6377 Crash dive for aircraft on crossing course.  
    16.35   Aircraft circles astern above the diving position.  
    17.08 FJ 6377 Surfaced, on search course 185° in pursuit.  
    17.20 FJ 6377 Crash dive for attacking flying boat.  8 depth charges at depth 50 meters.  3 over the boat.  No damage.  
    18.00   By search periscope flying boat circles diving position.  
    19.00   By search periscope flying boat remains over boat and diving position.  
    19.10 SE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm Ran off submerged on easterly course.  
    22.55 FJ 6387 Surfaced, set off to the east.  
    23.33 FJ 6388 Crash dive for detection on 164 cm.  
    09.05.43 90 nm southeast of Pernambuco  
    01.40 FJ 6388 Surfaced, set off to the east.  
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell, slight marine phosphorescence.    
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 23 -  
    09.05.43      
    02.x0   Incoming Radio Message (time group 1834)  
        To Kusch:  
        Panama steamer transmitted distress calls in maritime square FJ 62 lower-center.  
    04.00 FJ 6399 To northerly course, intend to proceed north of Pernambuco returning to the coast since the area off Pernambuco is now alerted.  
      SE 4, Sea 3-4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell  
    08.00 FJ 6363    
      EbyS 3, Sea 2-3, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 FJ 3996 Day's run:  Surfaced 142 nm  Submerged 17 nm.  
      E 3-4, Sea 3, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.32 FJ 3993 Crash dive for flying boat on the sea bearing 0°T.  
    13.40 FJ 3993 Surfaced, just as flying boat overflew boat at 100 meters.  
    13.41 FJ 3993 Crash dive, aircraft is leaving.  Apparently the boat had been sighted at 12.32 hours.  Decided to proceed submerged so as not to be sighted again.   Ran off to the east.  Sweeping with search periscope once per hour.  
    22.38 FK 1773 Surfaced.  
    22.39 EbyS 0-1, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell Crash dive for detection on 164 cm, getting louder.  
    10.05.43 104 nm east of Pernambuco    
    01.32 FK 1781 Surfaced, proceeded on NW-course.  
        Intend to head for the area north of Cape Roque since all southbound traffic must round the Cape.  Proceeding submerged to avoid being seen during the day.  
    02.15 FK 1781 Crash dive for detection, search mode, 164 cm.  
    03.30 FK 1781 Surfaced, transit continued.  
    04.00 FK 1757    
      SE 1, Sea 1, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell    
    04.10 FK 1757 Sighted flickering light on the horizon bearing 330°T.  Extinguishes immediately again.  Closed it.  
    07.33 FK 1477 Crash dive for detection.  Search mode, 228 cm, scratchy bright tone, 800 - 1000 cycles per second, become louder quickly.  
    09.00 FK 1474 Surfaced to charge batteries.  
      SE 1-2, Sea 2, 3/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell    
    10.15 FJ 3665 Dived to proceed submerged.  Making hourly sweeps with by periscope.  
    12.00 FJ 3665 Day's run:  Surfaced 65 nm  Submerged 23 nm.  
    16.00 FJ 3662    
    20.00 FJ 3637    
    22.30 FJ 3626 Surfaced, proceeding northward.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    11.05.43 90 nm east-southeast of Natal    
    00.00 FJ 3385    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 10.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 24 -  
    11.05.43      
    02.37 FJ 3343 Crash dive for aircraft, flies over on an easterly course, port navigation light visible.  
    02.50 FJ 3343 Surfaced.  
    04.00 FJ 3315    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, light SE-swell    
    06.22 FC 7974 Light in sight on the horizon bearing 255°T.  Apparently the Natal airfield beacon.  
        Blinking light, period 10 seconds.  
    07.05 FC 7893 Lights of Natal in sight on the horizon bearing 251°T.  
    08.00 FC 7869    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell    
    10.02 FC 7862 Dived to proceed submerged.  Making hourly sweeps by periscope.  
    12.00 FC 7861 Day's run:  Surfaced 107 nm  Submerged 23 nm.  
    16.00 FC 7837    
    20.00 FC 7834    
    22.00 FC 7826 Surfaced, proceeded to the NW.  
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    12.05.43 56 nm north of Cape de Sao Roque  
    00.00 FC 7572 Reached the area north of Cap Roque, intend to search, with changing courses, the area between "Rocas" and the 200-meter line.  North America - Antilles traffic must pass here.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm. moonlit  
    00.52 FC 7571 Dived for detection, search tones on 164 cm.  
    01.34 FC 7571 Surfaced.  
    04.00 FC 7459    
      SE 4, Sea 4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FC 7441    
      EbyS 4, Sea 4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm    
    12.00 FC 7415 Day's run:  Surfaced 117 nm  Submerged 4 nm.  
      SE 4, Sea 4. 4/10, Cumulonimbus, scattered showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    16.00 FC 7434    
      SE 4-5, Sea 4-5, freshening, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FC 7512    
      SE 4-5, Sea 4-5, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    22.00 FC 7521 On southern course for the 200-meter line.  
    13.05.43 85 nm north of Cape Roque    
    00.00 FC 7514    
      SSE 4-5, Sea 4, 8/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.00 FC 7571    
      SSE 4-5, Sea 4-5, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, moonlit    
    05.00 FC 7577 On the area of the 200-meter line on NE-SW courses.  Distance to the coast 35 nm.  
    08.00 FC 7576    
      SSE 4-5, Sea 4-5, 3/10, Cumulus, tropical showers, Vis. 3 nm    
      [hand written entry]  
    10.57 [illegible weather] Dived.  Submerged transit due to danger of surprise due to strong visibility deterioration from low clouds and rain showers.  Hourly all around sweeps.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 11.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 25 -  
    13.05.43      
    12.00 FC 7545 Submerged transit on NE course to the Rocas.  
      SSE 5, Sea 5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, haze, Vis. 4 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 157 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
    16.00 FC 7554    
      SSE 5, Sea 5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, haze, Vis. 4-5 nm    
    20.00 FC 7552    
      SSE 5, Sea 5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, misty, Vis. 4 nm    
    22.30 FC 7553 Surfaced, at the 200-meter line.  
    14.05.43 78 nm north-northeast of Cape Roque  
    00.00 FC 7555    
      SSE 5-6, Sea 5, overcast, Nimbus, rain squalls, Vis. 2-3 nm, short steep sea    
    01.23   Incoming Radio Message:  
        A)  From Schnorr supply about 17 May in naval square 8889.  
        1)  For return transit:  U-123 about 60, Henke about 30 cbm.  
        2)  For further operations:  Kietz and Kusch 70 cbm each, Steinert 100, Nissen 90 cbm.  
        3)  Fu.M.B. engine parts etc. per requirements.  
        B)  Mentioned boats, except U-123, report situation and announce arrival after leaving operational area.  
    04.00 FC 7575    
      SSE 5, Sea 5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 3 nm    
    05.00 FC 7577 Reached 200-meter line, turned back, began transit to supply point.  
    08.00 FC 7572    
      SE 5, Sea 5, 4/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 3 nm    
    10.32 FC 7554 Crash dive for flying boat Catalina type from 170°T.  Out of a dark rain shower at sunrise in a surprise approach.  Distance about 7000-8000 meters.  Course N.  No bomb release.  No radar detection noted.  
      SE 5, Sea 5, 8/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 5-6 nm  
        Due to limited visibility, heavy rain clouds and associated danger of surprise decided to proceed submerged.  Making hourly sweeps by periscope.  
    12.00 FC 7551 Day's run:  Surfaced 64 nm  Submerged 22 nm.  
      Weather unchanged.    
    16.00 FC 7528    
      SE 5, Sea 5, 8/10, Nimbus, haze, Vis. 6-7 nm    
    20.00 FC 7525    
      SE 5, Sea 5, 8/10, Nimbus, haze and rain, Vis. 6 nm    
    22.30 FC 7523 Surfaced.  
      SE 5, Sea 5, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 4 nm    
    22.38 FC 7523 Dived for detection on 164 cm.  Search mode gradually getting louder.  
    23.57 FC 7523 Surfaced.  
    15.05.43 100 nm north-northeast of Cape Roque  
    00.06 FC 7523 Dived for detection on 164 cm.  Search mode gradually getting louder.  
      SE 4-5, Sea 4-5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, haze, Vis. 2 nm  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 14.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 26 -  
    15.05.43      
    01.45 FC 7523 Surfaced, on NE-course to supply point.  
    04.00 FC 7294    
      SE 4-5, Sea 4-5, overcast, Nimbus, rain, visibility due to bright moonlight 4 nm    
    08.00 FC 7312    
      SE 4-5, Sea 3, 2/10, scattered Nimbus, showers, Vis. 4 nm, long SE-swell    
    10.00 FC 4984 Dived due to low visibility in rain clouds.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 8/10, Cumulus, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 6-8 nm, long SE-swell Proceeded submerged.  
    12.24 FC 4981 Surfaced, visibility improving.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell Day's run:  Surfaced 80 nm  Submerged 22 nm.  
    12.34 FC 4981 Crash dive for aircraft out of high clouds bearing 100°T, crossing course to the NW.  
    13.30 6/10, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, Vis. 6-8 nm at the horizon, otherwise less Continued transit submerged due to limited visibility from dark rain clouds approaching from the SE.  Making hourly periscope sweeps.  
    16.00 FC 4982 Further weather degradation.  Low rain clouds, showers.  Limited visibility.  
    20.00 FC 4959    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm    
    22.56 FC 4967 Surfaced.  
    16.05.43 100 nm north-northwest of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FC 4963    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 5 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    04.00 FC 5498    
      SE 1-2, Sea 2, 1/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 FC 5581    
      SE 1-2, Sea 2, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 5 nm, SE-swell    
    12.00 FC 5567 Day's run:  Surfaced 122 nm  Submerged 18 nm.  
      SE 1-2, Sea 2, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    12.42 FC 5565 Crash dive for aircraft bearing 110°T on NE course at high altitude - afterwards continued submerged because of work on high pressure air manifold (leaky drain).  
    15.15 FC 5565 Surfaced.  
    15.38 FC 5566 Crash dive for aircraft bearing 330°T on SW-course.  High flier.  Apparently on Africa-South America airway.  
    16.38 FC 5566 Surfaced.  Continued transit.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    20.00 FC 5625    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 27 -  
    17.05.43 200 nm northeast Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FC 5396    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, building Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 4-5 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlight    
    00.38 FC 5396 Outgoing Radio Message:  
        1)  From 2 May FK 10, 40 and FJ 59 to 38 only neutrals along the coast.  In the morning of 8 May fired T3 which lodged in "MOTORCARLINE", 180°.  Explosion 4 hours later, afterwards driven off by day and night medium air patrol with radar.   Once 8 depth charges from a Catalina.  
        2)  From 9 May FJ 39 to 60 nm offshore from FC 74 and 73 to 55 nothing except constant day and night air patrol with radar.  
        3)  FC 5396, 90 cbm, 10 plus 8, Trade Wind 3, rainy season  
        4)  Will arrive 20 May midday - Kusch -  
    04.00 FC 6114    
      EbyS Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, light SE-swell, moonlight    
    08.00 FC 3771    
      SE 2, Sea 2, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, slight SE-swell    
    12.00 FC 3719 Day's run:  Surfaced 173  Submerged 6 nm.  
      ESE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, sight SE-swell    
    12.22   Incoming Radio Message:  
        To Kusch:  
        1)  Report more detailed observations concerning lodged shot.  
        2)  Time of later explosion is unclear here.  Question 4, seconds or 240 minutes later.  
    14.52 FC 3726 Was overflown by a Halifax bomber, altitude 600 to 800 meters, was only seen flying away coming out of the clouds.  Course 210° boat remained unnoticed.  Probably Bathurst - Pernambuco air traffic.  
      Vis. 4 nm, Cirrostratus  
    16.00 FC 3731    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    20.00 FC 3578    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight S-swell    
    23.46 FC 3597 Outgoing Radio Message:  
        1)  09.28 hours two single shots T 3 depth 5, MZ on, and Eto depth 4.  98 seconds after firing T-3 sharp metallic impact was heard in the boat.  09.33 hours steamer opened unmethodical fire, and transmitted "attacked by sub", however keeps running.  
        2)  11.05 hours from steamer "we felt a heavy shock about 45 minutes ago, saw two torpedoes cross our bow.  Investigations as far as can be made do not show that the ship was hit".  
        3)  While maneuvering ahead at 13.12 hours aboard steamer typical torpedo explosion with high water and explosion column.  Steamer transmits "attacked by sub" and keeps running.  
        4)  Position FC 3597.  - Kusch -  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
        - 28 -  
    18.05.43 340 nm northeast Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FC 3598    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 4-6 nm, slight S-swell, moonlit    
    04.00 FC 3673    
      SW 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, slight S-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 FC 3667    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 5 nm, slight S-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 FD 1451 Day's run:  Surfaced 173 nm.  
      ESE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    16.00 FD 1438    
      ESE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 6/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    20.00 FD 1513    
      ESE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 7/10, Nimbus, Altocumulus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    19.05.43 490 nm northeast Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FD 1278    
      SE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    02.24 FD 1276 Stopped to work on the over deck.  Grinding in devices of both exhaust gas valves are inoperable.  
    03.47 FD 1276 Neutral steamer in sight bearing 247°T course 10-20°, speed about 9 knots.  Distance 10-11 nm.  Did not disrupt urgent work on the over deck by getting closer.  
    04.00 FD 1276    
      SE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis, 6 nm, moonlit    
    06.00   Steamer out of sight.  
    08.00 FD 1272    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit Work finished.  
    12.00 FD 1281 Day's run:  Surfaced 94 nm.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.34   Test dive.  
    14.00   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 1267    
      Se 3-4, Sea 3-4, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FD 1345    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.05.43 510 nm northeast Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FD 1366    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    04.00 FD 1361    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FD 2117    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, Cirrus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 FD 2137 Day's run:  Surfaced 128 nm  Submerged 2 nm.  
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FD 2215    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 19.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 29 -  
    20.05.43      
    18.13 FD 2221 U-460 Kaptlt. Schnoor in sight bearing 42°T.  
    18.50 ES 8888 Went alongside, hose connection established.  
    19.10   Began taking over fuel and lubricating oil.  Doctor from supply boat aboard.  
    20.00 ES 8888    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    22.15   Oil and provision take over completed.  
        Total taken over:  
        70 cbm fuel oil, 2 cbm lubricating oil, 20 days provisions.  
    23.00   Doctor and a patient are transferred to U-460 for treatment.  
        Incoming Radio Message:  
        After completion with Schnoor boats are to return to previous attack areas.  
        Schröter return transit.  
    23.15   Stopped.  Boat drifts over night in vicinity of supply boat.  
    21.05.43 635 nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FD 2222    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, moonlight    
    01.20   Test dive.  
    01.40   Surfaced.  
    04.00 FD 2221    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, Sea 5, moonlit    
    08.00 FD 2221    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm    
    10.05   Patient returned aboard.  
    10.15   Test dive.  
    10.32   Surfaced, then stopped to work on the overdeck.  
        (Grinding mechanism of port diesel, sheet metal damage.)  
        Attempted to weld two tears in main ballast tank 8 portside 20 cm below the waterline.  
    11.34   U-460 in sight.  
    12.00 FD 2213 Day's run:  Surfaced 63 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    14.25   Welding broken off as there was no prospect of success.  Returning to the supply boat, the tears in ballast tank 8 leak heavily and the boat continually plunges down by the bow.  
    16.00 FD 2221    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, showers    
    16.20   U-460 in sight bearing 30°T.  
        Went alongside, gear and welding specialists taken over.  Work continued.  
    20.00 ES 8888    
      S 2-3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    22.00   Work discontinued with the coming of darkness.  Boat drifts over night in the vicinity of the supply boat.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
        - 30 -  
    22.05.43 635 nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 ES 8887    
      SE 2-3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.00 ES 8887    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 ES 8879    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    09.25 ES 8887 U-515 Kmdt. Kaptlt. Henke in sight bearing 70°T.  
    09.52   Came alongside supplier to takeover specialists.  
    09.55   Welding work on ballast tank 8 continues.  
    12.00 ES 8887 Day's run:  Surfaced 26 nm.  
      Se 3, freshening, Sea 3, 4/10, Stratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 ES 8876 Welding work on ballast tank 8 broken off because of the swell.  Both tears are closed by half and do not leak as much as before.  
      SE 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm  
    16.10   Returned to the supplier, equipment and specialists transferred, then began transit to the attack area FC 71.  
    20.00 ES 8875    
      SE 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.10 ES 8875 U-460 and U-515 out of sight bearing 130°T.  
    23.05.43 580  nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 ES 8786    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.00 ES 8779    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 FD 1335    
      SE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 FD 1318 Day's run:  Surfaced 134 nm.  
      SE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    13.27   Test dive.  
    14.00   Surfaced.  
    16.00 FD 1261    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FD 1249    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    24.05 43 450  nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FD 1158    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm    
    04.00 FC 3396    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, slight SE-swell    
    08.00 FC 3622    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    12.00 FC 3526 Day's run:  Surfaced 193 nm  Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    13.26 FC 3527 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based) bearing 170°T, course about 210-215° apparenly on the Bathurst - Pernambuco airway.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 31 -  
    24.05.43      
    14.05 FC 3527 Surfaced.  
    16.00 FC 3541    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell    
    16.43 FC 3541 Crash dive for high flying aircraft (land-based) bearing 30°T course about 215°  
    17.15 FC 3466 Surfaced.  
    20.00 FC 3459    
      SE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    25.05.43 290  nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FC 2693    
      SE 2, Sea 2, blue sky, Vis. 3-4 nm, long SE-swell    
    04.00 FC 2679    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, 5/10, long SE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 FC 2834    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, long SE-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 FC 2842 Day's run:  Surfaced 196 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 8-12 nm, long SE-swell    
    14.11 FC 2765 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based) bearing 50°T appeared from high clouds, course S.  
    14.45 FC 2767 Surfaced.  
    16.00 FC 2759    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulostratus, showers, Vis. 8-12 nm, long SE-swell    
    20.00 FC 1998    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    26.05.43 220  nm northeast of Fernando Noronha  
    00.00 FC 4325    
      ESE 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long SE-swell    
    04.00 FC 4345    
      ESE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, medium SE-swell    
    08.00 FC 4295    
      ESE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Cumulus, showers, Vis. 3-4 nm, medium SE-swell, moonlit    
    10.03 FC 4528 Dived for submerged transit due to unfavorable clouds and weather conditions.  
      7/10, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, slight atmospheric layer  
    12.00 FC 4551 Day's run:  Surfaced 181 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
    16.00 FC 4551    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 3-4 nm    
    20.00 FC 4546    
      ESE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 7/10, Nimbus, rain    
    22.43 FC 4548 Surfaced.  
    27.05.43 145 nm northwest of Rocas    
    00.00 FC 4574    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, long SE-swell    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 26.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 32 -  
    27.05.43      
    04.00 FC 4755    
      ESE 3, Sea 3, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long SE-swell    
    08.00 FC 7114    
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, moonlit    
    10.15 FB 9363 Dived for submerged transit due to unfavorable weather conditions.  
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 5/10, low Cumulus, Vis. 11-12 nm    
    12.00 FB 9366 Day's run:  Surfaced 122 nm  Submerged 21 nm.  
    16.00 FB 9369    
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, low Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 FB 9393    
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    22.30 FB 9393 Surfaced.  Intention: proceed back and forth on various courses in the area between the Rocas and 100-meter line submerged by day depending upon weather conditions.  All NW and SE traffic must round Cape St. Roque.  If traffic is present at all, this corner appears to be the richest area.  
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 2/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 6 nm  
    28.05.43 115 nm northwest of Cape Roque  
    00.00 FB 9631    
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm.    
    00.33 FB 9639 Several shadows in sight bearing 215°T.  
        Turned to close.  Westbound convoy.  
        10-12 ships, number of escorts still to be determined.  
        For the moment assume 1 destroyer protecting to starboard ahead or astern.  Angled in, matched speed and began to maneuver ahead.  Convoy course 295° on the 100-meter line round Cape Roque, speed 8 knots.  Convoy formation 3 columns of 4 or 5 ships, distance between columns 500 or 600 meters, most ships ride high in ballast.  Two destroyers each are stationed ahead and astern to port and starboard for flank protection.   On zig-zag course.  American ANDERSON type.  
    00.52   Enemy radar detection from escort on 136 cm, search mode.  
        Deep, rasping tone of 100 kHz.  54 seconds required to search 360°, of that 8 second tone heard in Fu.M.B.  Detection alternates during the course of the attack between search and continuous operation with partially roaring motion strengthens at distances of about 2000 meters from escort.  After break-through of the destroyer belt the FuM.B. is secured.  Since boat came upon the convoy from astern and at 05.30 hours the moon will rise, decided to attack from starboard.  
        Broke through behind the aft starboard escort, on convoy course, angled in towards the starboard outer column at high speed.  The destroyer on the port side changes position repeatedly and falls back behind the convoy.  When the boat reaches the center of the starboard outer column, turned towards it to attack.  
    04.43 to 04.46 FB 9621    
      ESE 4, Sea 4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm Shot from tube I on freighter type PROME in starboard outer column, target angle right 110°, speed 8 knots, estimated range 2000 meters.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 33 -  
    28.05.43      
        Shot from tube II on typical tanker in the starboard outer column.  Estimated 6000 GRT.  Target angle right 105°, speed 8 knots, estimated range 2000 meters.  
        Shot from tube III on typical freighter 6000 GRT in center column.  Target angle right 100°, speed 8 knots, estimated range 2000 meters.  
        Shot from tube IV on tanker type Empire Oil in left column.  Target angle right 90°, speed 8 knots, estimated range 2500 meters.  
        Next turned off for shots from tubes V and VI on tanker type BRITISH ZEAL in the starboard outer column.  Target angle right 110° and 120°, speed 8 knots, estimated range 900 meters.  
        Tube I, II and IV T 3 with M.Z. on, tube III, V and VI Etos.  All depths 4 meters as ships were traveling in ballast.  
        After firing turned on convoy reciprocal heading at A.K and ran off into the seas.  While running off observed hits with flash and explosion column on 2 freighters and tanker type EMPIRE OIL, on 6000 GRT tanker faint glimmer observed.  
        Immediately thereafter the destroyers shoot star shells. In the meantime the convoy is in target angle 170-180°.  The effect of hits on the targets not visible due to thebroad target angle, in which the targets partially block themselves, the dazzling light of star shells and overcoming strong seas.  In the boat in the order of firing, six distinct torpedo detonations were perceived.  Stop watch times roughly agree with estimated distances.  
        All hits, particularly the two from tubes V and VI, heard loudly in the boat.  Hit effect tubes V and VI probably not observed visually, because the tanker was already at target angle 180°.  Use of binoculars not possible due to spray.  In addition glare caused by star shells.  
    04.50   Irregular star shell shooting by the destroyers, some of which are beside and over the boat.  
        Judging from the number of muzzle flashes there are four of them.  Apparently the destroyers are firing by radar detection, because each time the fire is aimed very well after the respective breaks.  However the boat was not hit.  
    06.04   Ran off to the east and reloaded.   
        Ran to the shooting location again.  Intention is to look for survivors or damaged ships.  
    07.03   Flickering light from the shooting location bearing 220°T.  Headed towards it.  
    07.30 Moonlit Light is from the momentarily blazing deck lighting of a floating steamer.  More is not distinguished, there are two destroyers circling the drifting ship at 4000-5000 meters.   Did not conduct surface attack because of brightness of the moon.  Brightness insufficient for underwater attack.  Decided to attack underwater after the beginning of dawn.  
    08.00 FB 9379 Ran off, to be at the limit of visibility at lightness.  
      ESE 4-5, Sea 4-5, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, moonlit    
    10.00   After dawn approached shooting position.  
    10.20 FB 9376 Drifting steamer again in view bearing 200°T.  Ship is a tanker.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 34 -  
    28.05.43      
    10.27   Dived for submerged approach.  Distance 8-9 nm.  
    11.00   Drifting tanker and two destroyers visible in the periscope at 202°T.   
    12.00 FB 9299                                Day's run:  Surfaced 122 nm  Submerged 26 nm. Approach to 7000 meters.  In the meantime a destroyer runs off to the west.  
    13.08 FB 9299 Distance about 4000-5000 meters. Tanker is of type EMPIRE OIL listing to starboard and lies with the stern deep in the water.  Forecastle is high above.  Therefore ship swings strongly.  
      EbyS 5, Sea 6, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm  
        ANDERSEN-type destroyer circles with varying speed around the tanker.  Stops from time to time, apparently to listen.  Tubes V and VI are made ready for firing.  
    13.20   Shortly before firing a flying boat Catalinia-type is sighted, heading directly towards the periscope.  Went quickly to 80 meters.  
    13.35   Again to periscope depth.  
        Flying boat circles continuously very low around steamer and to above the diving place.  Started approach again.  Tanker moves fast and continuously turns back and forth in the wind, constantly changing its heading.  
    14.05   Destroyer to windward of the tanker, suddenly goes to high speed with bow angle approximately 0°.  Destroyer observed by periscope to approximately 3000-4000 meters, then dived to depth A plus 80 meters and turned off.  At depth A plus 80 meters numerous failures, disorders and leaks of auxiliary machinery and other important operating equipment occur (pumps, stern tube, exhaust gas valve, vents), whose repair is later necessary.  
    14.35   The G.H.G. partially operable, nothing heard.  Again to periscope depth.  2 Catalina flying boats over tanker and the surrounding area, very low.  Destroyer circles steamer stopping occasionally.  Ship is now substantially deeper, stern is almost completely submerged.  At the signal mast a red burgee.   Distance now 6000-7000 meters target angle 160°.  The target angle is still changing constantly due to the strong swinging of the ship.  
    15.15   Ran off to the ENE at low speed, in order to return again to the attack.  
    16.00 FB 9299 With periscope sweep ship still floating, however very deep aft.  Stern is now awash.  2 Catalina flying boats remain over tanker, distance about 4 nm.  
      EbyS 4-5, Sea 4-5, 4/10, low Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm  
    17.00   To western course, again closing the tanker.  
    17.05   Nothing seen in periscope sweep.  Proceeded submerged until twilight on the last bearing constantly sweeping, however nothing sighted.  
    20.00 FB 9299    
      EbyS 4-5, Sea 5, 4/10, low Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    22.25 FB 9297 Surfaced at sunset.  Despite good visibility and thorough all around sweep nothing seen of the tanker.  Intention is to search on WNW course.  If nothing more is found, ship probably sunk.  The heavy settling of the stern during the day argues for this.  
      Vis. 12 nm  
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 35 -  
    28.05.43      
    22.36 FB 9297 Crash dive for aircraft approaching from the bright horizon.  Easterly course.  
    29.05.43 75 nm east of Fortaleza (Brazil)  
    01.45 FB 9294 Search broken off as hopeless.   Ran off to the north for reloading of upper deck torpedoes.  
      EbyS 4, Sea 4, 2/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm  
    04.00 FB 9262    
      EbyS 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cumulostratus, showers, Vis. 3 nm    
    04.38   Attempted to send a radio message however was only partly heard by homeland Radio Station.  
    06.20 FB 6896 Dived for detection.  Steady tone on 162 cm.  Became louder quickly.  
    08.00 FB 6893 Surfaced.  
      E 3, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    10.15 E 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, poor visibility Dived to proceed submerged due to unfavorable weather conditions.  
    12.00 FB 6829 Day's run:  Surfaced 83 nm  Submerged 28 nm.  
    16.00 FB 6826 Auxiliary bilge pumps I and II sometimes inoperable.  
      E 4-5, Sea 4-5, 7/10, Nimbus, rain    
    20.00 FB 6831    
      E 4, Sea 4-5, 8/10, Stratus, showers    
    23.20 FB 6831 Surfaced.  
    23.33   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Kusch tonight contents of radio message 0438/29 repeated.  
    30.05.43 128 nm northeast of Fortaleza (Brazil)  
    00.00 FB 6594    
      EbyS 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 3 nm    
    00.56   Outgoing Radio Message:  
        28 May 04.43 hours in naval square FB 8621 in westbound convoy 2 hits on tanker type BRTISH ZEAL, one hit each on tanker type EMPIRE OIL, 6000 ton tanker, freighter type Prome, and 6000 ton freighter.  Sinking not observed due to defense but is to be assumed.  During attack sometimes roaring locating from destroyers.  Closed to within 2000 meters without being detected.  Continuous day air.  Proceeding north to reload and for urgent engine repairs.  Tradewind 4, rainy period, 4 plus 8 torpedoes, 127 cbm, naval square FB 6831, missing 335, 36, 39.  - Kusch -  
    03.58   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Kusch report torpedo depth settings.  
    04.00 FB 6298    
      SE 3, Sea 3-4, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long SE-swell    
    04.47   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Recoding serial number 339 for Kusch:  
        1)  Starting 29 May change to Africa b circuit; from 10 to 21 hours delete ST and set for IX 15880 kHz.  
        2)  Correct NB U-boat Order Attachment 204 in pencil.  
        Other serial numbers not applicable.  
    04.48   Outgoing Radio Message on 36 meters:  
        All depth settings 4 meters, as the convoy was in ballast.  
                                                                 - Kusch -  
    05.22   Contents of radio message of 04.48 hours acknowledged by headquarters.  
    05.45   Incoming Radio Message of 29 May 09.26 hours:  
        Completion of partial Radio Message of Kusch:  
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 30.05.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 36 -  
    30.05.43      
        28 May 04.50 hours naval square FB 8621 in westbound convoy 2 hits on tanker type BRITISH ZEAL, one hit (remainder unclear).  
        This radio message to be completed during the next repetition.  
    08.00 FB 6314    
      EbyS 3-4. Sea 3-4, 4/10, Vis. 3-4 nm, medium SE-swell    
    10.50   Incoming Radio Message:  To Kusch:  
        Well done!  Ob.d.M. and B.d.U.  
    12.00 FB 3947 Day's run:  Surfaced 129 nm  Submerged 18 nm.  
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 FB 3913    
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis, 10-12 nm    
    16.48 FB 3679 Crash dive for flying boat bearing 210°, crossing course out of the clouds, course approximately SE.  
        Proceeding submerged due to unfavorable weather conditions.  
    20.00 FB 3676 Auxiliary bilge pump II pumping side inoperative.  
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 9/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 4-10 nm    
    22.20 FB 3681 Surfaced, set off further to the north.  
    31.05.43 320 nm northeast of Fortaleza (Brazil)  
    00.00 FB 3627    
      SbyE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 2-3 nm, long SE-swell    
    04.00 FB 3358    
      EbyS 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 1-2 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 EQ 9981    
      E 3, Sea 3 overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 2 nm, long SE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 EQ 9937 Day's run:  Surfaced 168 nm  Submerged 16 nm.  
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 8-10 nm, long high SE-swell    
    16.00 EQ 9665    
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 9/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 3-8 nm, long high SE-swell and slight NE-swell    
    20.00 EQ 9367    
      EbyN 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, rain, Vis. 8-10 nm, long steep swells, NE and SE    
    01.06.43 600 nm north of the Brazilian Coast  
    00.00 EQ 6997 Auxiliary bilge and trim pump has a moisture short circuit, only limitedly clear for combat  
      NE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, rain, Vis. 2-3, long steep NE-swell, long SE-swell  
    04.00 EQ 6965    
      E 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell    
    08.00 EQ 6932 Engine and repair work begins.  
      E 1-2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 3 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    12.00 EQ 6668 Day's run:  Surfaced 196 nm.  
      NE 2, Sea 2, overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 8-9 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    16.00 EQ 6694    
      NE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 9/10, Nimbus, rain, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 31.05.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 37 -  
    01.06.43      
    20.00 EQ 6926 Begin transfer of torpedoes from the over deck to inside the boat.  
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 8-10 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell  
    02.06.43 580 nm north of the Brazilian Coast  
    00.00 EQ 6922    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 2 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    04.00 EQ 6922    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 2-3 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    06.50   Transfer from the upper deck completed.  8 torpedoes G 7a taken in.   Subsequently, work on the over deck.  
    08.00 EQ 6688    
      SE 2, Sea 2, overcast, Nimbus, Vis. 3 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    12.00 EQ 6635 Day's run:  Surfaced 67 nm.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10-12 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    14.15   Test dive.  Main ballast pump output is only 70% of nominal value and has outages.  
    16.02 EQ 6685 Surfaced.  
      SE 1-2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10-12 nm, long high NE-swell and SE-swell    
    17.26   Test dive.  
    17.50   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EQ 6574 Work completed on the main bilge pump.  Moisture short circuit in the auxiliary bilge and trim pump cannot be eliminated as yet.  Began return to attack area.  
      NE 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell  
    22.19 EQ 6595 Outgoing Radio Message on 36 meters:  
        Downloaded torpedoes, extending attack area along the coast to naval square EP 70.  NE-Trade Wind 3, 115 cbm, naval square 6595.          - Kusch -  
    03.06.43 550 nm north of the Brazilian Coast  
    00.00 EQ 6586    
      NNE 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell    
    00.34   Incoming Radio Message:  To Kusch:  
        Extension of attack area approved.  
        In naval square EP 40 southwest half already several instances of SE-NW steering convoys with inexperienced escorts.  Two boats realized good success here.  As before remain unseen as long as possible.  Caution for enemy air. Strengthened as soon as boat is noticed.  
    01.40   Heading for naval square EP 44.  
    04.00 EQ 6574 Contents radio message of 2 Jun  2219 hours confirmed by Control Station.  
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 3 nm, NE-swell  
    08.00 EQ 6485    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 3 nm, long NE swell    
    12.00 EQ 5696 Day's run:  Surfaced 136 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 8-10 nm, long NE-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 38 -  
    03.06.43      
    16.00 EQ 5676 Test dive.  Draining attempt with main bilge pump, since 2 June after noon the pump has been only limitedly operable.  Attempt results in pump pumping only 70% of its nominal value under water and on the surface only 50%.   
      NE 3, Sea 3, 9/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 2-8 nm, long NE-swell  
        The cause has not been determined.  
    17.30   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EQ 5595    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, rain, Vis. 8-10 nm, long NE-swell    
    04.06.43 540 nm north of the Brazilian Coast  
    00.00 EQ 5583    
      NE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 9/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 1-2 nm, long NE-swell    
    04.00 EQ 5573    
      NE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell    
    08.00 EQ 5571    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, short steep NE-swell    
    12.00 EQ 5483 Day's run:  Surfaced 125 nm  Submerged 4 nm.  
      NE 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cirrus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, steep NE-swell    
    16.00 EQ 4693    
      NE 4, Sea 4, 8/10, overcast, Stratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, steep NE swell    
    20.00 SSE 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, rain, Vis. 8 nm, steep NE-swell and SE-swell    
    05.06.43 550 nm east of French Guyana  
    00.00 EQ 4581    
      SSE 4, Sea 3-4, overcast, rain, Vis. 1 nm, long SE-swell and NE-swell    
    04.00 EQ 4483    
      SE 2, Sea 2-3, 7/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell    
    08.00 EP 6692    
      SE 1, Sea 1, overcast, Nimbus, rain, Vis. 2 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell    
    10.30 EP 6681 Due to unfavorable visibility dived to proceed submerged.  
      Shifting winds 0-1, Sea 1, 9/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 5-6 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell    
    12.00 EP 6681 Day's run:  Surfaced 232 nm  Submerged 3 nm.  
    16.00 EP 6672    
      Shifting winds 0-1, Sea 1, overcast, Stratus, tropical showers, poor visibility    
    20.00 EP 6671    
    23.30 EP 6593 Surfaced.  
    06.06.43 430 nm east of French Guyana  
    00.00 EP 6582    
      SSE 0-1, Sea 1, 7/10, Nimbus, showers, Vis. 2-3 nm, long NE-swell and SE-swell    
    00.15   Fu.M.B. failure.  
       

Cause:  At the clutch between the axle of the tuning scale and the axle of the variable capacitor the clutch socket has worked itself loose from the clutch ring.  Therefore

 
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 39 -  
    06.06.43      
        only the axle of tuning scale moved when turning the scale. After the problem was fixed so called "axle frequency noise" occurs as a result.  In order to fix this axle frequency noise the high-frequency module must be worked on.  
    04.00 EP 6482    
      E, Sea 0, 9/10, Stratus, Vis. 2-3 nm, slight NE-swell    
    08.00 EP 5691    
      E, Sea 0, 3/10, Stratus, Vis. 2-3 nm, slight NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    10.38 EP 5673 Due to unfavorable visibility and weather conditions dived to proceed submerged.  
      7/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm  
    12.00 EP 5672 Day's run:  Surfaced 143 nm  Submerged 2.6 nm.  
    16.00 EP 5671    
    20.00 EP 5647 Work and repair attempt on Metox receiver so far unsuccessful.  Probably due to the work on the high frequency section Metox failed completely.  In the wave band of 150 cm to 220 cm no receipt at all.  
      E 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 10-12 nm, long NE-swell  
        Resolution:  Report present situation and loss of the Fu.M.B. by radio message after surfacing.  
    07.06.43 250 nm northeast of French Guyana  
    00.00 EP 5644    
      E 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulostratus, scattered showers, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    01.19   Surfaced, set off to the north.  
        Outgoing Radio Message on 36 meters:  
        Metox permanently out of service, heading north.  Request appropriate attack area.  
        Naval square EP 5644, E 3, rainy, 102 cbm - Kusch -  
    04.00 EP 5379    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3-4 nm, medium NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    04.43   Contents of outgoing Radio Message confirmed by headquarters.  
    08.00 EP 5346    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cirrus, Vis. 3-4, medium NE-swell    
    12.00 EP 2979 Day's run:  Surfaced 94 nm  Submerged 18 nm.  
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm. slight NE-swell    
    12.31   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Kusch proceed 30°.  Further instructions to follow.  
    13.00   To course 30°.  
    16.00 EP 2968    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long NE-swell    
    19.48   Incoming Radio Message:  
        For Nissen, Henke, Kusch, Kietz, no further supply intended.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 40 -  
    07.06.43      
    20.00 EP 3715    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Altocumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long NE-swell    
    08.06.43 420 nm northeast of French Guyana  
    00.00 EP 3451    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4-5 nm, long NE-swell    
    04.00 EP 3425    
      ENE 3, Sea 3, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 3-4 nm, long NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 EP 3196    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell    
    11.05 EP 1365 Smoke clouds and masts in sight bearing 117°T.  
      [typo for EP 3165] Fast freight and passenger ship of the American "President" type, which comes on very fast.  Target angle bow left, about 30°, distance limited to 9-10 nm in unfavorable lighting due to sunrise and haze.  Ran off to the edge of the range of vision. General course 320°-330°.  Speed 14-15 knots.  
        Began maneuver ahead.  
    12.00 EP 3153 Day's run:  165 nm.  
      NEbyE, Sea 5, 6/10, Cirrostratus, haze, Vis 10-11 nm    
    16.00 EF 8966    
      NEbyE 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Altocirrus, light haze, Vis, 10-11 nm Ship runs at 14 knots, course between 320° and 325°.  The true bearing to the steamer, which had become smaller during the initial running off, slowly becomes larger.  
        Boat is getting ahead.  
    16.45   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Kusch until limited by fuel consumption occupy the attack area limited by the connecting lines:  
        Naval square DP 8136 to DQ 1481 to DQ 8962 to EE 6334.  Expect single traffic on NW and NE courses.  
    20.00 EF 8657 General course 320°T, bearing 122°T.  Distance 11.5 nm.  
      NEbyE 4-5, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    21.47   Bearing 135°T.  Distance 11 nm.  
    22.00   Steamer out of sight in rain squall. Angled out to the windward side.  
    23.05   Steamer again in view bearing 146°T the boat is positioned ahead of the opponet.  
      Light haze, occasional showers At the beginning of twilight and increasing darkness always  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 41 -  
    08.06.43      
        remained at the limit of visual range by reducing speed.  
    23.55   Steamer sets lights. ---------  
        The end of a laborious and hopeful day is a giant disappointment, it is a neutral.  We wish him all to the devil, Of all things this fellow has to resemble the "President" class.  Fully embittered we let him pass.  
    09.06.43 500 nm northeast of French Guyana  
    00.00 EF 8296 Steamer gradually comes on.  
      NEbyE 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 8 nm, long NE-swell    
    01.05 EF 8293 Steamer passed to starboard distance 1500 meters.  Spanish "CABO DE HORNOS".  
        Subsequently began transit to the South corner of the attack area (EE 6334).  
    02.30   Steamer's lights out of sight.  
    04.00 EF 8264    
      ENE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 EF 8225    
      ENE 5, Sea 4-5, 3/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, medium long E-swell    
    12.00 EF 5878 Day's run:  230 nm.  
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cirrostratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm., long E-swell    
    16.00 EF 5765    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 9/10, Altostratus, light haze, rain showers, Vis. 10 nm, steep E-swell    
    20.00 WF 5722    
      NEbyE 4-5, Sea 4-5, 8/10, Altostratus, Vis. 10 nm, steep E-swell    
    10.06.43 576 nm east of Barbados  
    00.00 EF 5447    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, steep E-swell    
    04.00 EF 4626    
      ENE 3-4, Sea 4, 9/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, long NE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 EF 4372    
      ENE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 EF 4226 Day's run:  179 nm.  
      [text illegible] , 3/10, Altostratus, [text illegible]    
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 10.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 42 -  
    10.06.43      
      long NE-swell    
    16.00 EF 4222    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Altostratus, Vis, 12 nm, long NE-swell    
    16.07   Test dive.  
    16.47   Surfaced.  
    20.00 EF 1872 Entering attack area on NW course.   
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 8/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 8-10 nm, long NE-swell Intention is, starting on the SW edge proceed on NW then SE courses to catch expected NW or NE traffic.  
    11.06.43 550 nm east of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 EF 1762    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8 nm, long NE-swell    
    04.00 EF 1479    
      ENE 4, Sea 4, 9/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell    
    08.00 EE 3669    
      ENE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Stratus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    12.00 EE 3625 Day's run:  178 nm.  
      ENbyE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 4/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 10 nm, long NE-swell                        2 nm.  
    16.00 EE 3371    
      E 3-4, Sea 3-4, 7/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, long NE-swell    
    20.00 EE 3253    
      E 3, Sea 3, overcast, Stratus, Vis. 10 nm, long NE-swell    
    12.06.43 425 nm east of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 EE 3213    
      EbyS 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 11-12 nm, long ENE-swell    
    04.00 DP 9759    
      E 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, slight ENE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 DP 9715    
      E 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Stratus, showers, Vis. 3 nm, slight ENE swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 43 -  
    12.06.43      
    12.00 DP 8692 Day's run:  186 nm.  
      E 3, Sea 3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight ENE-swell    
    16.00 DP 8651    
      E 3-4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight long E-swell    
    16.32   Test dive.  
    16.59   Surfaced.  
    19.00 DP 8613 Came about, to SE course.  
    20.00 DP 8616    
      E 3-4, Sea 3-4, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, E-swell    
    13.06.43 400 nm east of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DP 8656    
      E 4-5, Sea 4-5, blue sky, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    04.00 DP 8692    
      E 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4-5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 DP 9712    
      E 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm    
    12.00 DP 9727 Day's run:  140 nm.  
      E 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 8-12 nm                        1 nm.  
    16.00 DP 9791    
      E 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10-11 nm, long E-swell    
    20.00 EE 3133    
      E 4, Sea 4, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, steep E-swell    
    14.06.43 450 nm east of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 EE 3243    
      E 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, steep E-swell    
    01.40 EE 3257 Stopped to conserve fuel.  
    04.00 EE 3257    
      E 4, Sea 4, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit, long E-swell    
    08.00 EE 3281    
      E 4, Sea 4, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long E-swell    
    11.00 EE 3281 Came about, to NW course.  
    12.00 EE 3249 Day's run:  102 nm.  
      E 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 12.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 14.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 44 -  
    14.06.43      
    16.00 EE 3217    
      E 4, Sea 4. 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    16.30   Test dive.  
    17.16   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DP 9798    
      E 54, Sea 5, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    15.06.43 430 nm east of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DP 9758    
      E 4-5, Sea 4-5, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long E-swell    
    01.30 DP 9743 Stopped, let the boat drift.  
    04.00 DP 9742    
      E 4-5, Sea 4-5, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit, long E-swell    
    08.00 DP 9718    
      E 4, Sea 4, 7/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 5 nm, long E-swell, moonlit    
    10.50   Continued on.  
    12.00 DP 9711 Day's run:  104 nm.  
      E 4, Sea 4, 4/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 10 nm, long E-swell                        2 nm.  
    16.00 DP 8687    
      EbyN 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Altostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, medium long E-swell    
    20.00 DP 8627    
      EbyN 3, Sea 3, overcast, Altocirrus, Vis. 10-11 nm, slight E-swell    
    16.06.43 400 nm northeast of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DP 8293    
      E 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 12 nm, long EbyS-swell    
    04.00 DP 8225    
      E 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit, slight SE-swell    
    05.00 DP 8221 Came to NE-course for the north edge of the attack area.  
    08.00 DP 5894    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 9/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 14.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 15.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 45 -  
    16.06.43      
    12.00 DP 5949 Day's run:  186 nm.  
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 8/10, Altostratus, haze, Vis. 10-12 nm    
    16.00 DP 5937    
      E 3, Sea 3, 9/10, Altostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, haze    
    16.30   Test dive.  
    16.58   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DP 6712    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 7/10, Altostratus, Vis. 10-12 nm, haze, long E-swell    
    17.06.43 500 nm northeast of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DP 6483    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Altostratus, Vis. 10 nm, long EbyS-swell    
    04.00 DP 6544    
      E 3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Altostratus, Vis. 5 nm, long E-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 DP 6528    
      EbyS 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Altostratus, Vis. 4-5 nm, long E-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 DP 6377 Day's run:  165 nm.  
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Stratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, long EbyS -swell                        1 nm.  
    16.00 DP 6382    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Altostratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, long EbyS-swell    
    20.00 DP 6363    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, overcast, Altostratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, long ESE-swell    
    18.06.43 680 nm northeast of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DQ 4125    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cirrostratus, Vis. 10 nm, long ESE-swell    
    04.00 DQ 1769    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 4/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, long ESE-swell    
    05.00 DQ 1847 Reached northern edge of the attack area.  Began return transit.  61 cbm fuel oil.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 17.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 18.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 46 -  
    18.06.43      
    06.22   Outgoing Radio Message on 36 meters:  Return transit.  Proposed meeting with Kietz during transit to Bay of Biscay in square SX 9115 to 27 June midday.  61 cbm, EbyS 2, Cirrus, 22 mb, naval square DQ 1845.  
                                                         Kusch  
    07.47   Contents confirmed by Control Station.  
    08.00 DQ 1852    
      E 1-2, Sea 1, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, long ESE-swell, moonlit    
    10.50   Incoming Radio Message:  
        "Kietz":  Proceed to meeting point for common return transit as suggested by Kusch.  Promptly announce late arrival.  
    12.00 DQ 1856 Day's run:  180 nm.  
      E 1-2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long slight SE-swell    
    16.00 DQ 1685    
      EbyS 1-2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    16.31   Test dive.  
    17.06   Surfaced.  
    20.00 DQ 1692    
      EbyN 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long SE-swell    
    19.06.43 830 nm northeast of the Lesser Antilles  
    00.00 DQ 2446    
      ENE 2, Sea 2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight long SE-swell    
    04.00 DQ 2434    
      NE 2-3, Sea 2-3, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 DQ 2275    
      NE 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, slight SE-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 DQ 2268 Day's run:  161 nm.  
      EbyN 1-2, Sea 2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SE-swell                        1 nm.  
    16.00 DQ 2319    
      E 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 DE 9887    
      E 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Cumulus, light showers, Vis. 12 nm    
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 19.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
        - 47 -  
    20.06.43 Western Central Atlantic    
    00.00 DE 9891    
      EbyS 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    04.00 DE 9941    
      EbyS 2, Sea 2, 2/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 DE 9922    
      EbyS 1, Sea 1, 5/10, Cirrus, Vis. 5 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 DE 9692 Day's run:  176 nm.  
      EbyS 1-2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    16.00 DF 7446    
      EbyS 1-2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 DF 7426    
      ESE 0-1, Sea 0-1, 6/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight ESE-swell    
    21.06.43 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 DF 7431    
      ESE 1, Sea 1, 6/10, Altocirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight ESE-swell    
    01.58   Test dive.  
    02.34   Surfaced.  
    04.00 DF 7271    
      EbyS 1, Sea 1, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, slight ESE-swell, moonlit    
    08.00 DF 7252    
      EbyS 2, Sea 1-2, blue sky, Vis. 5-6 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 DF 7238 Day's run:  153 nm.  
      EbyS 1-2, Sea 1, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm                        2 nm.  
    16.00 DF 4979    
      EbyS 1, Sea 1, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    20.00 DF 4983    
      E 1, Sea 1, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    2115   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Arrival harbor Kietz, U-530, Kusch is Lorient.  
                                                  F.d.U. West.  
    22.12 DF 4965 Swedish motor tanker "KALMIA" in sight bearing 137°T, course 225° speed 11 knots.  
    23.20   Steamer out of sight.  
    22.06.43 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 DF 4992    
      E 1, Sea 1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight ESE-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 22.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 48 -  
    22.06.43      
    04.00 DF 5718    
      ESE 1-2, Sea 1, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, moonlit    
    08.00 DF 5488    
      ESE 1, Sea 1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6 nm, moonlit    
    12.00 DF 5462 Day's run:  184 nm.  
      SE 2, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SSE-swell    
    16.00 DF 5512    
      SbyW 1-2, Sea 2, 8/10, Cumulus, occasional showers, Vis. 10-12 nm, slight SSE-swell    
    20.00 DF 5258    
      S 2, Sea 2, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight SSE-swell    
    23.06.43 Central Atlantic    
    00.00 DF 5239    
      S 1-2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, slight SSE-swell    
    00.44   Test dive.  
    01.06   Surfaced.  
    04.00 DF 5321    
      EbyS 1, Sea 1, 3/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4 nm, long SSE-swell, moonlit, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 DF 2922    
      E 1, Sea 1, 6/10, Cirrus, Vis. 4-5 nm, long SSE-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 DF 3751 Day's run:  194 nm.  
      NWbyW 0-1, Sea 0, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, haze, long WNW-swell                        1 nm.  
    16.00 DF 3735 Radio message 1537/23/389 gave the position of the Swedish ship "KALMIA" on 23 June 12.00 hours and indicated that the tanker had already been sighted on 21 June at 22.12 hours in DF 4965 on course 225°.  
      NW 0-1, Sea 0-1, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, long high WNW-swell  
    20.00 DF 3584    
      NNW 0-1, Sea 0-1, 2/10, Cumulus, haze, Vis. 10-12 nm, long high WNW-swell    
    24.06.43 500 nm southwest of the Azores  
    00.00 DF 3583    
      NNW 0-1, Sea 0, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 9 nm, haze, long high WNW-swell    
    04.00 DF 3563    
      0, Sea 0, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4-5 nm, moonlit, long low WNW-swell, slight marine phosphorescence    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 49 -  
    24.06.43      
    08.00 DF 3622    
      NNW 1, Sea 0-1, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 4 nm, long WNW-swell, moonlit    
    12.00 DF 3393 Day's run:  176 nm.  
      NNW 0-1, Sea 0-1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long WNW-swell    
    14.45   Test dive.  
    15.02   Surfaced.  
    16.00 DG 1154    
      SSE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long high WNW-swell    
    20.00 DG 1135    
      SbyE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 1/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, long high WNW-swell    
    25.06.43 310 nm southwest of the Azores  
    00.00 DG 1216 Stopped, to avoid arriving too early at the meeting point.  
      0, Sea 0, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, long WNW-swell    
    04.00 DG 1216    
      0, Sea 0, overcast, Vis. 1-2 nm, long WNW-swell    
    08.00 DG 1213 Continued on.  
      0, Sea 0, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 5-6 nm, long WNW-swell, moonlit    
    08.27 DG 1213 Steamer in sight bearing 122°T.  Maneuvered ahead.  
    09.24   Dived, to operate on the steamer.  Steamer is Spanish "VIZCAYA", course 265°, speed 6 knots.  
    11.42   Surfaced, continued on.  
    12.00 DG 1215 Day's run:  107 nm.  
      SSE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, confused swell                        6 nm.  
    12.03   Steamer out of sight bearing 270°T.  
    16.00 CE 7986    
      SSE 2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight NW-swell    
    20.00 CE 8747    
      SbyE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight NW-swell    
    23.26   Incoming Radio Message:  
        "Kusch", "Kietz" on 26 June 08.00 switch to "Ireland" circuit.  Radio silence except tactically important messages.   No bearing signals for the meeting.  
    26.06.43 310 nm southwest of the Azores  
    00.00 CE 8729    
      SbyE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, slight flat WNW-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 26.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 50 -  
    26.06.43      
    04.00 CE 8811    
      0, Sea 0, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 2 nm, slight WNW-swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 CE 8582 Switched to "Ireland" circuit.  
      SE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-10 nm, slight WNW-swell    
    12.00 CE 8563 Day's run:  186 nm.  
      SE 1-2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight WNW-swell    
    16.00 CE 8625    
      WSW 1-2, Sea 1-2, 1/10, Cirrus, Vis. 12 nm, slight WbyN-swell    
    17.24   Incoming Radio Message:  
        1)  Meeting point for "Kusch" and "Kietz" rescheduled for 28 June 16.00 hours in square CF 7237.  
        2)  "Metz" deliver Metox at the time and place mentioned for Kusch.  Afterwards per previous arrival order.  
        3)  For boats mentioned absolute radio silence, no bearing signals.  If by 29 June 1200 hours meeting not successful, continue inbound or outbound transit.  
    18.30   En route CF 7237 by CF 7278.  
    20.00 CE 8399    
      W 1, Sea 1, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight W-swell    
    21.00 CE 9177 Stopped, to avoid arriving early at meeting place.  
    27.06.43 150 nm south of the Azores    
    00.00 CE 9177    
      WSW 1, Sea 1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-10 nm, slight WSW-swell    
    04.00 CE 9177    
      WbyS 1-2, Sea 1-2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 2 nm, slight WSW-swell    
    08.00 CE 9411    
      WbyS 1, Sea 1, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, slight WSW-swell    
    09.00 CE 9411 Continued on.  
    12.00 CE 9422 Day's run:  96 nm.  
      WbyS 1, Sea 1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight WSW-swell    
    14.50   Incoming Radio Message:  
        To Musenberg, Kietz, Kusch, "U-530"  
        "Sonne 15" position:  
        43° 14' 41" N  
        7° 29' 19" W  
        Identifier as for "Sonne 6".  
        Frequency 303 Khz.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 51 -  
    27.06.43      
    15.30   Incoming Radio Message:  
        To Musenberg, Kietz, Kusch, U-530.  
        "Sonne 6" briefly interrupted.  
                                   F.d.U. West.  
    16.00 CE 9511    
      WSW 2-3, Sea 2-3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, rain showers, slight WSW-swell    
    16.17   Incoming Radio Message:  
        To Musenberg, Kietz, Kusch, U-530.  
        For bearing attempt use "Sonne 6", "Sonne 15", "Severac" from 27 to 29 June daily 10-12, 14-16, 18-20 hours during the second and fourth quarter of the hour.  Compare bearing quality.  Report after arrival.  Coverage over 500 nm.  
        "Sonne 6" position:  
        48° 08' 58" N, 4° 13' 21" W  Identification:  1 min dots and dashes, 1 min steady dash, for taking bearing.  Frequency 316 Khz.  
        "Severac" position:  
        47° 32' 30" N, 2° 6' W  Identification:  KG  Frequency 156 Khz.  
        "Sonne 15" per radio message 1155) 27.  
                                                                F.d.U. West.  
    16.58   Test dive.  
    17.52   Surfaced.  
    20.00 CE 9522    
      WSW 1-2, Sea 1-2, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, confused swell    
    28.06.43 42 nm southwest "Santa Maria" (Azores)  
    00.00 CE 9611    
      W 1-2, Sea 1-2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-10 nm, confused swell    
    00.50   Light "Pt. Castello" on Santa Maria island in sight bearing 59°T.  
    04.00 CE 9622    
      SW 2-3, Sea 2-3, 6/10, Cumulonimbus, showers, Vis. 2-3 nm, slight NW-swell    
    07.15   Light "Pt. Castello" out of sight bearing 333°T.  
    08.00 CF 7511 By dawn "Santa Maria" island in sight bearing 324°T.  
      WNW 1-2, Sea 1-2, 3/10, Cumulus, Vis. 10 nm, slight NNW-swell    
    10.05   Incoming Radio Message:  
        To U-530, Kusch, Kietz, Musenberg.  
        "Sonne 6" again operational.  
                                             F.d.U. West.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 28.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 52 -  
    28.06.43      
    12.00 CF 7281 Day's run:  176 nm.  
      NW 2, Sea 2, 1/10, Vis. 12 nm, slight N-swell                        3 nm.  
    12.30   Land out of sight.  
    16.00 CF 7237    
      WNW 1-2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight N-swell    
    16.15 CF 7237 Stopped.  Boat is at meeting point.  
    17.20 CF 7237 U-126, Kmdt. Oblt.z.S. Kietz in sight bearing 220°.  
        "U-126" comes alongside.  
    18.15   Began joint return transit.   "Kietz" had met "Metz" earlier and taken over a Metox for "U-154".  
    20.00 CF 4898    
      WbyN 2-3, Sea 2-3, 7/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm, slight long N-swell    
    29.06.43 115 nm northeast of "Santa Maria" (Azores)  
    00.00 CF 4911 Stopped.  Metox and cables taken over.  Kommandant has gone aboard "U-126" for discussion of the return transit.  
      NW 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 6-8 nm, slight NE-swell  
    03.10   Kommandant returned.  Continued on.  
    04.00 CF 4678    
      NW 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, long NE-swell    
    08.00 CF 4628    
      W 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-10 nm, intermixed swell    
    09.10   Test dive.  
    09.54   Surfaced.  
    10.56   Test dived again after main ballast and reserve fuel oil tanks 6, 4 and 2 converted.  [for use as ballast tanks]  
    11.15   Surfaced.  
    12.00 CF 4389 Day's run:  164 nm.  
      W 2-3, Sea 2-3, 5/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 12 nm, intermixed swell                        3 nm.  
    12.55 CF 4391 Steamer in sight bearing 156°T.  Two-stacker, apparently a fast passenger ship.  Bow right 10-15° comes on very fast out of the hazy horizon.  Came to attack course.  
    13.02   Dived.  The steamer bridge is above the horizon, "U-126" already dove at 12.58 hours.  Afterwards I put some distance between us to the NW.  Previous communication was not possible because of his sudden diving.  
        Operating on the steamer, course 315°, estimating  
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 53 -  
    29.06.43      
        speed 19 knots, ship is American of type "Mariposa".  
        Steamer zigs to the right 20° range about 8000 meters about 30° bow right.  Course is now 285°.  
    13.30 CF 4391 Double shot from tubes I and IV target angle right 85° Etos depth 6 meters, target speed 19 knots, distance 3500 meters.  Missed.  
        Due to the zigzag away the boat could no longer get close enough with the high enemy speed.  Distance 3500 meters is too far with this fast ship.  Explanation for miss is probably target speed estimated one knot too low.  Steamer runs reliably 20 knots.  That results in a difference of 2 degrees at 3500 meters or approximately 150 meters distance at the target.  Estimated target length is approximately 180 meters.  At target speed of 19 knots the right torpedo (75 meters ahead of the aiming point) should hit.  A 1 knot speed difference results in a torpedo passage of 150 meters at the target to the left.  Thus the torpedo probably passed close behind the stern.  Too bad.  
        Shot from tubes II and III, loaded with Atos, estimated range 3500 meters, sea state 2-3 and target speed 20 knots is pointless and therefore not fired.  Tail shot with now broad target angle is hopeless since the range of the torpedoes is insufficient. Range with a shot tube I and IV: "about 5000 meters".  
    13.45   Loud detonation.  Apparently end of run detonation.  
        Simultaneously steamer zigs to 270°.  Target angle now 180°, bearing 270°T.  
    14.00   Steamer zigs further to 315°.  General course 295°.  
    14.04   Steamer out of sight.  
        Attempt to contact "U-126" by underwater telegraph.  
        Efforts continued without success.  
    14.32   Surfaced, to run back to the diving position of 13.02 hours.  
    14.52   "U-126" surfaced bearing 70°T, did not hear my underwater telegraph signals.  
    15.05   Continued on.  My G.H.G. gear failed.  
    16.00 CF 4366 Incoming Radio Message:  
      WSW 2-3, Sea 2-3, 4/10, Cumulus, haze, Vis. 10-12 nm, long SW and N-swell Musenberg, Kusch, Kietz, "U-530"  
      "Sonne 15, 6, transmitter Severac" will also operate on 30 June.  
                                                      F.d.U. West.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 54 -  
    29.06.43      
    20.00 CF 2776    
      W 3, Sea 3, 7/10, Cumulonimbus, Vis. 10-12 nm, confused swell    
    30.06.43 270 nm northeast of the Azores    
    00.00 CF 2731    
      SW 3, Sea 3, 5/10, Altostratus, Vis. 3 nm, intermixed swell    
    00.40   Outgoing Radio Message on 36 meters with originating time group 23.47/29:  
        29.06 1331 hours CF 4391 2 misses on type "Mariposa", 295°, 20 nm return transit with Kietz  
        Metz serial number 123 "yes"  CF 2731, SW 3, Altostratus, 17 mb.  
                                                       Kusch  
           
   
No further entries this page
 
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 30.06.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 55 -  
    30.06.43      
    01.52   Contents of radio message confirmed by headquarters.  
    04.00 CF 2517    
      W 2, Sea 2, 6/10, Altostratus, Vis. 3 nm, intermixed swell, marine phosphorescence    
    08.00 CF 2258    
      SE 2-3, Sea 2, 4/10, Altostratus, Vis. 7-8 nm, slight NO-swell    
    12.00 BE 8784 Day's run:  Surfaced 262 nm  Submerged 4 nm.  
      W 2, Sea 2, 3/10, Stratus, Vis. 11 nm, medium W-swell    
    16.00 BE 8763    
      W 2, Sea 2, 5/10, Altostratus, Vis. 10 nm, high long W-swell, short steep NE-swell    
    20.00 BE 8837    
      W 0-1, Sea 0-1, overcast, Vis. 5-8 nm, haze, Stratus, long high W-swell and NE-swell    
    01.07.43 350 nm west of Cape Finisterre  
    00.00 BE 8921    
      0, Sea 0, overcast, Vis. 1 nm, high long W-swell and NE-swell, fog, marine phosphorescence    
    01.15   Incoming Radio Message:  
        Shift radio circuit on 1 July at 08.00 hours:  Kietz and Kusch to "Coastal".  
    04.00 BE 8693    
      W 0-1, Sea 0-1, overcast, Vis. 3-4 nm, long W-swell, heavy marine phosphorescence, fog    
    08.00 BE 9455 Shifted to "Coastal" radio circuit.  
      W 1-2, Sea 1, 8/10, Stratus, Vis. 7-8 nm, long NW-swell, haze    
    09.03   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BE 9437 Day's run:  Surfaced 240 nm  Submerged 5 nm.  
    14.10 BE 9437 Depth charge explosion far distant.  
    16.00 BE 9438    
    16.25 BE 9438 Loud depth charge explosion.  8 series of 5.  
    16.55 BE 9438 Renewed explosions.  This time rather close.  9 series of 5, each time one after another falls for a remarkably long time.  
    17.55 BE 9435 Again explosions.  Still closer.  Nothing seen in the periscope.  Apparently "deceptive" depth charges.  
    20.02 BE 9435    
      NE 4, Sea 4, 9/10, Stratus, haze, Vis. 10 nm, high fog Surfaced to proceed on the surface.  
    02.07.43 280 nm west of Cape Finisterre  
    00.00 BE 9284    
      NEbyE 3-4, Sea 3-4, 6/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 5 nm, medium SSW-swell    
    00.15   After nightfall dived to proceed submerged.  
    04.00 BE 9285    
    05.44 NE 3-4, Sea 3, 8/10, Cumulus, Vis. 3 nm, medium W-swell Surfaced to charge.  
    08.00 BE 9266    
      NE 4-5, Sea 4, 9/10, Cumulus, Vis. 8-10 nm, medium W-swell    
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.06.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.07.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.07.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 56 -  
    02.07.43      
    09.04   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BE 9318 Day's run:  Surfaced 80 nm  Submerged 25 nm.  
    16.00 BE 9318    
    20.02 BE 9316 Surfaced to charge.  
      NEbyE 5, Sea 5, overcast, Cumulostratus, Vis. 7-8 nm    
    20.19 BE 9324 Dived for detection on 168 cm per Kietz procedure.  
        U-126 has zone of 0-40°.  
        U-154 from 40° upwards.  
    22.01   Surfaced, continued on.  
    03.07.43 200 nm northwest of Cape Finisterre  
    00.00 BE 6989    
      E 5-6, Sea 5, overcast, Altostratus, haze, Vis. 4 nm, marine phosphorescence    
    02.44 BF 4774 Illuminated searchlight of an attacking aircraft in sight bearing 210°T.  Range 1000 meters, 15-20 meters above the water surface.  At the same time the searchlight was seen an detection was made on 130 cm.  No tone, only short, medium-high scratching volume 2-3.  Detection first made by magic eye then acoustically.  Aircraft flies from starboard astern of the boat to approximately 500 meters distance, then notices U-126 in the searchlight beam and turns, apparently because U-126 is located more favorably for the aircraft, towards U-126, dropping 4 bombs in train, flying over U-126 approximately 10 meters over the water's surface and then in a long curve to the right between both boats, firing at U-126 from the tail turret.  The bombs are approximately at the position of the ballast tank 7 to starboard of U-126 30-40 meters short, U-126 does not fire.  In the bright searchlight beam during the crossover it appeared as if U-126 dove.  The forecastle can not be seen, the stern is raised high. No one is seen on the bridge.  
     

ENE 5-6, Sea 5, blue sky, starry, dark night, Vis. 3 nm, medium marine phosphorescence

 
        Own machine gun does not fire, despite the order to do so at the moment of illumination of the searchlight.  The cause of the failure could not be determined afterwards.  The machine gun was cocked and on safety.  At the next check fire 5 hours later the weapon functioned perfectly.  Whether an operating error was present, could not be determined.  According to the gunner, he could not fire the unsafed weapon despite repeated strong pulling of the trigger.  
        Since bombs were all too short, U-126 apparently dove and is intact, the Kommandant decided to crash dive when the aircraft turned away on the long curve between the boats.  Before closing the tower hatch a flickering light and smoke is noticed at the attack position, apparently a flare and smoke-bomb.  Nothing is seen of U-126 in the darkness.  
        After crash dive to 40 meters immediately attempt contact by underwater telegraph, however receive no reply.  In the boat 6-8 short dull bangs are heard, similar in tone to  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.07.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.07.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 57 -  
    03.07.43      
        distant 3.7 cm cannon fire.  Otherwise nothing heard.  G.H.G. inoperable, no sound bearings.  
    03.05

 

Went to periscope depth.  Nothing seen.  All underwater telegraph signals remain unanswered.  The situation is unclear.  If U-126 also dived, and is listening on the underwater telegraph there should be an answer.  If the boat remained surfaced, contrary to our impression, contact is now lost.  It was agreed between the two Kommandanten that in the case of detection by the enemy to continue submerged.  Hence the assumption of the Kommandant, that after the unsuccessful bomb attack U-126 dove at the next opportunity, it may be that the distance is so large that underwater telegraph communication is no longer possible.  Therefore the decision was made not to surface.  Crucial for this determination are the observation of the Kommandant and the entire bridge watch, that the bomb attack was unsuccessful, and that U-126 remained undamaged and dived even earlier than own boat.  
    04.00 BF 4744 Decided to continue on.  Perhaps it will be possible to regain contact with Kietz at dawn.  
    07.07   Surfaced. Nothing is seen of U-126.  Distance from the attack location 4 nm.  There also nothing is seen.  
    07.14   Outgoing Radio Message:  
        02.44 hours unsuccessful bombing attack on Kietz.  After which lost contact.  Position BE 4775.  Continued on alone.                - Kusch -  
    07.23   Outgoing Radio Message (Short Signal):  
        My position is BF 4775.   - U-154 -  
        Both radio messages confirmed by headquarters.  
    08.00 BF 4773    
      ENE 5-6, Sea 5, blue sky, Vis. 12 nm    
    08.33   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BF 4782 Day's run:  Surfaced 67 nm  Submerged 26 nm.  
    16.00 BF 4783    
    20.13 BF 4791 Surfaced to charge batteries.  
      NE 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, haze, Vis. 10 nm    
    20.22 BF 4767 Dived for detection on 141 cm.  Receive 4 times briefly within 1 minute.   Hearing time 2-3 seconds. Search mode.  
    21.13   Surfaced.  
    21.45 BF 4768 Dived for detection on 141 cm.  Characteristics same as for 20.22 hours.  
    22.26   Surfaced.  
    23.15   Dived for detection on 141 cm.  Fainter.  Continued submerged.  
    04.07.43 Western Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 4846    
    04.00 BF 4854    
    05.53 NE 3-4, Sea 3, blue sky, haze, Vis. 7 nm Surfaced to charge.  
    06.18 BF 4852 Dived for detection on 164 cm.  Singing, clear tone.   Varying in volume, however 3 times 1-3 seconds each increase in 1 min. heard.  
    07.11   Surfaced.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.07.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.07.43
 
 
           
           
           
    continued   - 58 -  
    04.07.43      
    07.15 BF 4852 Dived for detection on 120 cm, volume 1-3, search mode, modulated tone, briefly suspending.  
        Continued underwater transit.  
    08.00 BF 4852    
    11.50 Poor visibility, heavy haze In the periscope sweep a pair of Lancasters astern.  
        Course south, distance 1000 meters, height 20 meters, painted white, barely visible in the haze.  
    12.00 BF 4853 Day's run:  Surfaced 37 nm  Submerged 35 nm.  
    14.12   7 explosions, far off.  
    16.00 BF 4861    
    17.25 Vis. 10 nm, high fog, haze on the horizon. Surfaced to charge batteries with improving visibility.  
    20.00 BF 4916    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 2/10, Cumulus, haze, Vis. 10 nm    
    23.02   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    05.07.43 Northern Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 5711    
    04.00 BF 5478    
    06.10   Surfaced to charge batteries.  
    07.09   Outgoing Radio Message (Short Signal):  
        Will be off return harbor in 30 hours.  
                                               U-154.  
    08.00 BF 5486    
      NNW 1, Sea 1, 4/10, Cumulus, Vis. 12 nm    
    08.12   Incoming Radio Message: Kusch arrive at 06.07.43 13.00 hours off return harbor Lorient.  
                                     -Radio Center F.d.U. West.-  
    08.20   Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 BF 5494 Day's run:  Surfaced 110 nm  Submerged 26 nm.  
    16.00 BF 5492    
    20.00 BF 5493    
    21.12   Incoming Radio Message:  U-154 and U-126:  
        On 6 July 13.00 hours meet escort off Laterne.  
        Do not cross 50-meter line without escort.  
                                           -Base Radio Center Lorient-  
    06.07.43 North Bay of Biscay    
    00.00 BF 5571 Crossed outer point.  
    04.00 BF 5554    
    05.40 BF 5554 Surfaced.   On the inbound route heading for the coast.  
    08.00 BF 5553    
      NW 3, Sea 3, 6/10, Cumulostratus, Vis. 12 nm    
    12.00 WbyN 3, Sea 3, overcast, Stratus, Vis 8-10 nm Day's run:  Surfaced 80 nm  Submerged 31 nm.  
    14.30   Taken under mine escort.  
    17.00   Made fast Lorient.  
                              Concluded at sea, on 6. July 1943  
                                                         
                                                  Oberleutnant zur See  
                                                     und Kommandant.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.07.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.07.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.07.43

  Enclosures to U-154's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
   
Track Chart A Track Chart of entire patrol             3 March to 5 July 1943
Track Chart B Track Chart of period                       2 - 11 May 1943
   
Track Chart C Track Chart of periods                    11 - 16 May and 26 - 31 May 1943

 
 
     
 

Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote

 
 
On the K.T.B. of "U-154" (Kusch) from 8.1 - 6.7.43.
 
 

 

 
 
First patrol of the Kommandant with an experienced boat (Schuch). The first independent operation for the boat into the South Atlantic.  Unfortunately the attack on 8 May was unsuccessful first because of a miss then because of pistol failures.  Air protection ruined subsequent efforts of the Kommandant.  The attack of 28 May was well done and skillfully carried out.  The success is very pleasing!
On 3 July:  The Kommandant behaved correctly during the aircraft attack, an energetic search for "U-126" would have been appropriate.  In addition to valuable experience, the first patrol brought the Kommandant a beautiful initial success.
Accredited Successes:
1 Steamer
(8917)
GRT.
Torpedoed
1 Freighter
(7000)
"
       "
1 Tanker
6000
"
Sank
1 Freighter
6000
"
   "
1 Tanker
8000
"
   "
1 Tanker
(8500)
"
Torpedoed
 
     
   

For the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote

 
   
- The Chief of the Operations Department -
 
 
                            
     
                                                       
     
 


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