U-190 - 1st War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
Kiel
20 February 1943
Lorient
30 March 1943
39

 

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
8 Mar 43
21.59
58°03'N, 28°12'W
EMPIRE LAKELAND
7,015
British
SC-121
     
 Total = 7,015
   
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  
                               = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =    
           
                                        Unterseeboot  "  U  1  9  0  "  
           
           
                                               for the period from  
                                   24. September to 29. February 1943  
           
                                 Kommandant:  Kaptlt. Wintermeyer  
                                                 = = = = = = =  
                               
           
                               Distribution: 2 x O.K.M.  
        1 x B.d.U.  
        1 x Kmdr.Adm.d.U-Boote.  
        1 x F.d.U.-West-  
        1 x 2.Uflottille.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
- 1 -
 
           
           
           
           
    24.09.42 Bremen Commissioning of " U-190 ".  
         
    28.09.42 Bremen Transit to Wesermünde.  
         
    29.09.42 Wesermünde Transit to Finkenwerder.  
         
    01.10.42 Finkenwerder Transit to Kiel.  
         
    02.10. - 12.10.42 Kiel U.A.K. Kiel.  
         
    13.10. - 25.10.42 Kiel Shipyard period.  Damage to supercharger.  
         
    26.10. - 29.10.42 Kiel U.A.K. Kiel.  
         
    30.10.42 Kiel Transit to Swinemünde.  
         
    31.10.42 Swinemünde Transit to Stettin.  
         
    01.11.42 Stettin Transit to Swinemünde.  
         
    02.11.42 Swinemünde Corrective maintenance work on the transmitter switching panel.  
         
    03.11.42 Swinemünde Transit to Danzig.  
         
    04.11. - 9.11.42 Danzig U.A.G.  I.  Danzig.  
         
    10.11. - 14.11.42 Gotenhafen T.E.K.  Gotenhafen.  
         
    15.11. - 02.12.42 Hela Agru-Front  Hela.  
         
    03.12.42 Hela Transit to Pillau.  
         
    03.12. - 14.12.42 Pillau Shooting with the 26th U.-Flottille.  
         
    15.12.42 Pillau Transit to Gotenhafen.  
           
           
 
 
- 2 -
 
           
           
           
           
    17.12.- 30.12.42   Tactical training in the Eastern Baltic.  
         
    30.12.42 Gotenhafen Transit to Stettin.  
         
    31.12.42 - 10.03.43 Stettin Final adjustments and overhaul.  
         
    10.02.43 Stettin Put to sea for Swinemünde.  
         
    11.02.43 Swinemünde Artillery shooting followed by transit to Rönne.  
         
    12.02. - 15.02.43 Rönne Sound trials not possible due to weather.  
         
    15.02.43 Rönne Transit to Kiel.  
         
    16.02.43 Kiel Instruction.  
         
    17.02.43 Kiel Transit to Sonderburg for sound trials.  
         
    18.02. - 20.02.43 Kiel Outfitting.  
         
    20.02.43 Kiel Put to sea for the Front.  
           
           
           
                                           
           
           
           
           
           
 
 
 
           
           
           
           
           
                K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h  
                = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =  
                 of the Unterseebootes " U 190 "  
           
                          ____1st Patrol.____  
           
           
               Beginning:  20. February 1943.  
               Ending    :  30. March     1943.  
           
           
           
                  Time:  DGZ.    
                  All naval squares.    
                  Operating according to Operations Order 54.  
           
           
                 Kommandant:  Kptlt. Wintermeyer.  
           
           
           
           
           
       
Distribution: 2 x O.K.M.
  1 x B.d.U.
  1 x Kmdr.Adm.d.U-Boote.
  1 x F.d.U.-West.
  1 x 2. Uflottille.
  1 x 27.Uflottille.
  1 x Agru-Front.
 
           
           
           
           
           
           
 
 
- 1 -
 
           
           
           
           
    20.02.43      
    08.30 Kiel Put to sea from Kiel with U-530, 642, 641, 447, 633, 229, 665, Senior Kommandant U-190.  
    11.20 Great Belt Taken in convoy.  One boat of the 19 MS Flottille.  
    11.45   Outgoing Radio Message on NB:  
        All taken in convoy.   
    11.50   U-190 completed frequency change.  Went to U-boat Coastal Circuit.  
    12.00 Great Belt    
      Lat.    54°45'N    
      Long. 10°47'E Day's run:  33 nm.  
    21.40 Great Belt Aircraft warning.  
    23.00   A 4-engined aircraft over flies tactical No. 4 of the formation coming from thte west.  
           
    23.10   Aircraft warning ended.  
           
    21.02.43 Great Belt    
    00.00 WNW 4, Sea 3, Vis. 10 nm    
    03.15 Kattegat Air danger Kattegat.  
    11.15 Kattegat Drifting mine sighted, attempted to shoot.  
    12.00 Kattegat Day's run:  196 nm  
      Lat.    57°30.5'N    
      Long. 11°29'E    
    13.30 Kattegat Patrol boat hands over escort to Sperrbrecher.  
    14.30 Skagerrak 2 patrol boats join as flank escort.  
           
    22.02.43 Skagerrak    
    00.00 W 5, Sea 4, misty, Vis. 5 nm    
    08.00 Kristiansand Fjord Headed for Kristiansand harbor  
    08.20            "           " Released from convoy.  
    09.10 Kristiansand Entered Kristiansand.  Refuelled.  
    12.00            " Day's run:  143 nm  
    13.10            " Put to sea for Farsund with patrol boat 5301.  
    16.25   Sighted drifting mine.  
    18.20 Farsund Made fast Farsund.  
           
    23.02.43 Farsund    
    08.05   Put to sea from Farsund, patrol boat 5301 as escort.  
    11.03 South coast of Norway Sighted drifting mine.  
    12.00      "       "              " Day's run 103 nm.  
      Lat.    58°24.3'N    
      Long. 5°53.2'E    
    12.30 South coast of Norway Drifting mine sighted.  
    16.46      "       "              " Drifting mine sighted.  
    17.00 AN 3122 Released from convoy  The first four boats of the formation proceded to the north in order of tactical number.  
    17.34 AN 3121 Test dive, afterwards ran on westerly course from the coast and to depart the warning area.  
    20.00 AN 3111    
           
    24.02.43      
    00.00 AN 2868    
      Sea area west of Stavanger    
      SSW 3, Sea 3, Vis. 8 nm    
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 22.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.02.43
 
- 2 -
 
           
           
           
    continue      
    24.02.43      
    00.39 AN 2864 U-boat sighted to starboard, probably U-Lange.  Turned away and ran until out of sight and then came to old course again.  
    04.00 AN 2367    
    06.40   Came to course 340°.  
    07.14 AF 8787 Dived.  
    08.00 AF 8784    
    12.00 North Sea Day's run:  224 nm.  
      AF 8783    
      Lat.    61°08'N    
      Long. 3°28'E    
    16.00 AF 8749    
    18.13 AF 8745 Surfaced.  
    20.00 AF 7818    
           
    25.02.43      
    00.00 AF 7696    
      WNW 4, Sea 3, Swell, Vis. 8 nm    
    04.00 AF 7662    
    07.20 AF 7631 Dived.  
    08.00 AF 7397    
    12.00 North Sea Day's run:  117 nm.  
      AF 7386    
      Lat.    62°51.3'N    
      Long. 1°56'E    
    18.02 AF 7358 Surfaced.  
    18.29   Came to course 300° due to heavy stern sea.  
    20.00 AF 7354    
           
    26.02.43      
    00.00 AF 7317    
      NW 7, Sea 7, heavy Swell, Vis. 3 nm, rain    
    04.00 AF 7236    
    07.28 AF 7231 Dived.  
    08.00 AF 7231    
    12.00 North Sea    
      AF 4889 Day's run:  77 nm.  
      Lat.    63°37.4'N    
      Long. 0°23'W    
    16.00 AF 4888    
    18.00 AF 4885 Surfaced.  
    20.00 AF 4873    
           
    27.02.43      
    00.00 AF 4765    
      W 6, Sea 6, heavy Swell, Vis. 4 nm, rain    
    08.00 AF 4711    
    09.28 AE 6935 Test dive.  
    10.40   Surfaced.  
    12.00 AE 6942    
      Sea area Iceland-Faroes    
      Lat.    64°18'N    
      Long. 5°04'W    
    16.00 AE 6942    
    20.00 AE 6867    
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 26.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.02.43
 
- 3 -
 
           
           
           
           
    28.02.43      
    00.00 AE 6876    
      SW 5, Sea 5, heavy Swell, Vis. 5 nm, rain    
    04.00 AE 6877    
    05.30 AE 6799 Crash dive for training.  
    06.33 AE 6798 Surfaced.  
    08.00 AE 6798 Dived.  Changed course to 245°.  
    12.00 Sea area Iceland-Faroes    
      AE 6797 Day's run:  117 nm.  
      Lat.    63°37.2'N    
      Long. 9°05'W    
    16.00 AE 9123    
    18.40 AE 9124    
           
    01.03.42      
    00.00 AE 8363    
      WSW 4, Sea 4, heavy Swell, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 AE 8359    
    08.00 AE 8375    
    08.15 AE 8374 Dived.  
    12.00 Sea area south of Iceland    
      AE 8296 Day's run:  119 nm.  
      Lat.    62°48.6'N    
      Long. 13°06'W    
    16.00 AE 8298    
    19.00 AE 8297 Surfaced.  
    19.40 AE 8531 Due to heavy head sea changed course to 225°.  
    20.00 AE 8523    
           
    02.03.43      
    00.00 AE 8525    
      WSW 8, Sea 7, heavy Swell, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 AE 8527    
    08.00 AE 8543    
    12.00 Sea area south of Iceland    
      AE 8571 Day's run:  76 nm.  
      Lat.    62°03'N    
      Long. 15°05'W    
    15.00   Test dive.  
    15.50   Surfaced.  
    16.00 AE 8731    
    20.00 AE 8752    
    22.08 AE 8855 Course changed to 260°, difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix 79 nm.  
    22.35 AE 8855 Incoming Radio Message 2209/2/199:  
        1) As temporary attack are occupy:  Baberg square AK 75, Deetz MT 69.  
        2)  New objective for:  Löser, Wintermeyer, Lange, Brünning, Rendtel, Haupt, Bothe, Müller, Schetelig is square AK 66.  
           
    03.03.43      
    00.00 AE 8845    
      W 2, Sea 2, Swell, Vis. 10 nm    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.02.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.03.43
 
- 4 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    03.03.43      
    00.10 AE 8845 Headed for AK 65.  
    04.00 AE 8797    
    08.00 AL 3254    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 3199 Day's run 202 nm.  
      Lat.    60°04'N    
      Long. 17°32'W    
    13.52   Incoming Radio Message 1256/3/110:  
        1.)  Bothe, Schetelig, Haupt, U-633, Rendtel, Wintermeyer, Lang, Brünning, Tippelskirch, Baberg, Deetz, Dieterichs, Schug, and Löser form group Neuland.  
        2.)  In named order on 7 March at 12.00 hours be in reconnaissance line from AK 6625 to BE 1132 course 240° speed 5 knots over ground.  
        3.)  Do not arrive early in the line, boats arriving early stand off from the line, free to maneuver.  Radio silence in the vicinity of the line.  
    14.25 AL Test dive.  
    15.07   Surfaced.  
    16.00 AL 3329    
    20.00 AL 3354    
           
    04.03.43      
    00.00 AL 3372    
      SSW 3, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm Proceeding to position in reconnaissance line (see Radio Message).  
    04.00 AL 2633    
    08.00 AL 2661    
    09.00 AL 2664 Test dive.  
    11.20 AL 2659 Surfaced.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 2682 Day's run:  128 nm.  
      Lat.    58°28'N    
      Long. 20°07'W    
    16.00 AL 2816    
    20.00 AL 2845    
           
    05.03.43      
    00.00 AL 2793    
      W 4, Sea 3, Swell, Vis. 8 nm    
    04.00 AL 2931    
    08.00 AL 2953    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 2958    
      Lat.    56°52'N    
      Long. 22°08'W    
    12.10 AL 2957 Dived for aircraft.  Range = 1000 meters, altitude 800 meters.  Flying boat biplane appearance like Type Saro London II.  
    13.43 AL 2957    
    16.00 AL 2948    
    20.00 AL 0169    
           
    06.03.43      
    00.00 AL 0159    
      SW 5, Sea 4, Vis. 5 nm    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.03.43
 
- 5 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.03.43      
    04.00 AL 0188    
    08.00 AL 4234    
    09.15 AL 4237    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 4264 Day's run:  97 nm.  
      Lat.    55°34'N    
      Long. 23°56'W    
    12.25 AL 4264 Test dive.  
    13.15   Surfaced.  
    16.00 AL 4298    
    17.00 AL 4535    
    19.54   Incoming Radio Message 1545/6/730:  
        1.)  Bothe, Schetelig, [Haupt], U-633, Rendtel, Wintermeyer, Lange, Brünning, Tippelskirch and Baberg are detached from Group Neuland.  
        2.)  These boats are intended to operate on NE-bound convoy that was reported by Hopmann on 6 March at 13.50 hours in AK 4454.  For this purpose the first 5 boats head for AK 0220 the last 5 AL 6170 at highest transit speed.  All naval squares.  
        3.)  Entire group immediately switch to Hubertus Circuit.  
        4.)  For the remainder of Group Neuland the previous order remains in effect.  
    20.00 AL 4564    
    21.05 AL 4563 In accordance with 1545/6/730 headed for AK 6170.  
    22.27   Incoming Radio Message 2202/6/849:  
        Boats operating on Hopmann-convoy.  Ex Neuland boats form Group Ostmark.  Remaining boats form Group Westmark.  
           
    07.03.43      
    00.00 AL 4527    
      W 2, Sea 2, Vis. 8 nm    
    04.00 AL 4425    
    08.00 AK 6622    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 6289 Day's run:  247 nm.  
      Lat.    55°28'N    
    [typo 28°30'W] Long. 23°30'W    
    12.30   Incoming Radio Message 1158/7/874:  
        Group Ostmark in the morning of 8 March at 08.00 hours in old named order be in patrol line from AK 1453 to AK 2841.  
        Group absolutely must be in position at the indicated time because the convoy may pass there from 08.00 hours. If there is contact on the convoy during the next night, attack directly, without occupying the patrol line.  
    14.00 AK 6278 Course changed to 328° to position in ordered reconnaissance line.  
    16.00 AK 6169    
    20.00 AK 0295    
    22.37   Reaching ordered position in reconnaissance line at the ordered time is not possible in the current weather, because the required speed can not be maintained.  
        Outgoing Radio Message 2232/7/802:  
        Can not reach position for tomorrow due to weather.  Naval square AK0256 NNW 9, Sea 8, heavy Swell.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.03.43
 
- 6 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    07.03.43      
    22.46   Incoming Radio Message 2153/7/200:  
        1.)  Convoy may have separated into two groups, one goes to the east and one steers on the old general course.  
        2.)  Group Ostmark tomorrow 8 March at 09.00 hours in patrol line located from AK 2619 to 0269.  Operate directly on the convoy only if specially ordered.  
        3.)  Shoot even in bad weather.  
           
    08.03.43      
    00.00 AK 0228    
      NW 8, Sea 8, rain showers, Vis. 2 nm    
    00.30 AK 0225 Course changed to 16° (see radio message) to position in new patrol line for 8 March 09.00 hours.  
    04.00 AK 0286    
    08.00 AK 2856 Test dive.  
    09.00 AK 2856 Arrived in ordered position in reconnaissance line.  
    10.00 AK 2856 5 detonations heard.  Surfaced.  
    11.50   Incoming Radio Message 1138/8/815:  
        Convoy located in square AK 2691.  
                                            from Möglich  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 2856 Day's run 185 nm.  
      Lat.    57°40'N    
      Long. 30°42'W    
    12.55   Incoming Radio Message 1220/8/818:  
        Westmark and Ostmark boats operate on Möglich report if there is no own enemy contact.  
    14.00 AK 2839 Operating on convoy position reported by Möglich:  Course changed to 518° [probably 51°] (see Radio Message).  
    16.00 AK 2839 Incoming Radio Message 1623/8/833:  
        To Ost- Westmark boats.   
        Attempt to catch the convoy in daylight.  Shoot right at the beginning of the night, the other boats can come up by star shells. The somewhat calm weather conditions are correct for you, yet still unfavorable for the defense of the enemy. The farther the convoy lies to the east the more difficult the battle because of increasing air. Therefore go! You are together 24 boats, the strongest group up to now.  
        By the continuing bad weather, and by overcoming and stern seas both periscopes, despite maintenance and continuous drying are cloudy and of limited usefulness.  
    17.12 AK 3712 Steamer sighted high out, maneuvered ahead on general course 80°, steamer is deeply loaded, makes slight course changes, it is too late for a day attack.  
    18.45   Outgoing Radio Message 1700/8/843:  
        Have contact on independent freighter, easterly course low speed.  Naval square AK 3710.  Sea 5, SW 6, Vis. changing.  
    20.00 AK 3731    
    21.59 AK 3814 3-fan on 6500 GRT freighter.  
        Target speed xx, range = 1000 meters, torpedo running time 69 seconds.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 07.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.03.43
 
- 7 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    08.03.43      
    21.59 AK 3814 Hit at the after edge of the bridge, heavy detonation with high explosion cloud, moved off from the steamer which sinks after 11/12 minutes.  
    22.00 AK 3814 Ran off on course 90°.  
    23.45 AK 3826 Changed course to 80°.  
           
    09.03.43      
    00.00 AK 3824    
      SW 5, Sea 4, Swell, Vis. 4 nm    
    00.55   Outgoing Radio Message 2342/8/859:  
        Naval square AK 3814, at 21.58, independent 6500 GRT sunk.  12 + 6 torpedoes.  193 cbm.  Operating on Möglich convoy.  
    01.15   Incoming Radio Message 2217/8/863:  
        Naval square AK 3645 While attacking forced to submerge by the enemy.  Enemy course east.  
                                                            From Möglich  
    04.00 AL 1711    
    04.35 AL 1579 Course changed to 30° according to plotting of the last contact keeper report from Möglich.  
    07.42 AL 1552 Dived for test dive and to listen.  Nothing heard in sound gear.  
    08.00 AL 1552    
    08.12 AL 1552 Course changed to 30°.  
    10.52 AL 1529 Surfaced.  New course 340°.  
    11.26 AL 1529 Dived for approaching aircraft.  Range = 5000 meters, altitude = 400 meters, course 110°, type Lockeed Hudson.  
    11.50 AL 1525 2 depth charges heard.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 1525 Day's run:  250 nm.  
      Lat.    58°56'N    
      Long. 25°10'W    
    12.25 AL 1525 While rising to depth 30 meters and intending to surface, the boat was suddenly over run by a destroyer.  Destroyer throws sounding charges and was only heard in the G.H.G. at the last moment just before throwing the sounding charges.  Immediately ensuing depth charge pursuit apparently by 3 destroyers.  Depth charges are well placed.  Boat quickly goes to safe depth 2A +20 meters and runs off on a straight course.  Damage:  merely diving plane and rudder, fuses, depth gage glass, starboard regulating tank, 1 battery cell torn and out of service.  
    15.30 AL 1522 Convoy heard ahead to starboard.  
    15.45 AL 1522 Shifts slowly astern.  
    16.00 AL 1522 Depth charge pursuit ended.  
    16.30 AL 1522 While going higher and with the intent of surfacing, determined in the G.H.G. that a previously stopped destroyer astern has hung on and was picking up speed.  Stops and speeds up again and again at the same interval.  
    19.30 AL 1522 Nothing more heard.  I decide to surface at the beginning of dawn and move off.  
    20.00 AL 1521    
    22.00 AL 1513 Surfaced.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.03.43
 
- 8 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    09.03.43      
    22.40   Incoming Radio Message 2215/9/806:  
        To Ost- and Westmark boats:  Continue searching in an easterly direction.  There is still a chance of encountering the convoy or independents.   
        The boat is positioned far behind the convoy, searching in long legs in an easterly direction.  
           
    10.03.43      
    00.00 AL 1376    
      W 6. Sea 5, hail and rain showers, Vis. 1-4 nm    
    00.25   Outgoing Radio Message 2301/9/812:  
        11.26 hours dived for aircraft naval square AL 1526.  Depth charge and sound pursuit by destroyer naval square AL 1513.  
    01.00 AL 1372    
    04.00 AL 1388    
    04.25 AL 1389    
    08.00 AL 1565    
    10.07 AL 1593    
    11.23 AL 1649    
    12.00 North Atlantic Incoming Radio Message 1016/10/827:  
      AL 1646 Ost- and Westmark boats.  
      Lat.    58°30'N 1)  Boats in promising position in the vicinity of the convoy hang on and utilize the last chance for attack.  
      Long. 24°05'W  
        2)  Boats in hopeless position move off to the west expect stragglers on the convoy route.  Report fuel inventory and position.  
    12.50 - 14.15 AL 1651 Dived for test dive and to listen.  
    15.00   2 aircraft bombs heard at long range.  
    16.00 AL 1652 Surfaced.  
    16.42 AL 1628 Changed course to 230°, to search for stragglers of the convoy.  
    20.00 AL 1624    
    22.45   Incoming Radio Message 2220/10/858:  
        Ost- and Westmark boats:  
        1.)  All boats break off operation at dawn on 11 March and search to the west for stragglers on the convoy route.  
           
    11.03.43      
    00.00 AL 1642    
      WNW 7, Sea 7, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 AL 1671    
    08.00 AL 1599    
    09.00 AL 1733    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 1596 Day's run:  93 nm.  
      Lat.    58°23'N    
      Long. 24°30'W    
    12.32 AL 1593 Dived before aircraft.  
    13.31 AL 1593 Surfaced.  
    14.00 AL 1569 Changed course to 270°.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 10.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.03.43
 
- 9 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    11.03.43      
    15.50 AL 1567 Incoming Radio Message 1416/10/882:  
        Bahr, Ühlig, Engel, Pietzsch, Schetelig, Möglich, Brünning, Tippelskirch, Israel [Kinzel], Baberg, Rendtel, Haupt, Wintermeyer, Lange in named order as new Group "Stürmer" on 15 March 20.00 hours be in reconnaissance line from AK 0371 to AL 7278, course 240°, speed of advance 5 knots.  Do not occupy position earlier then odered.  Switch to Ireland Circuit from today at 20.00 hours.  
           
    12.03.43      
    00.00 AL 1878    
      W 4-5, Sea 4, heavy Swell, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 AL 0118    
    08.00 AL 0148    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 0178 Day's run:  104 nm.  
      Lat.    56°54'N Dived for a test dive.  
      Long. 24°28'W    
    12.20 AL 0178 Aircraft bombs heard at long range.  
    14.45 AL 0178 Surfaced.  
    16.00 AL    
    19.50   Incoming Radio Message 1853/12/169:  
        1.)  Former "Stürmer" reconnaissance line cancelled.  
        2.  Group "Stürmer" with 14 boats and additionally Krüger, Holtorf, U-384, Brosin on 14 March at 08.00 in new reconnaissance line from square AK 3563 to AL 7275 course 260°.  Speed of advance 5 knots.  Interval 20 nm.  
        3.)  By that named boats join the Group.  
    20.00 AL 4251    
           
    13.03.43      
    00.00 AL 4281 Sounds in the Fu.M.B.  Dived.  
      WSW 4, Sea 4, Vis. 5 nm    
    01.15 AL 4281 Surfaced.  
    04.00 AL 4221    
    08.00 AL 4554    
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 4584 Day's run:  104 nm.  
      Lat.    54°56'N    
      Long. 24°10'W    
    16.00 AL 4824    
    20.00 AL 4857    
    22.00 AL 4887 Headed for position in reconnaissance line.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 11.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.03.43
 
- 10 -
 
           
           
           
           
    14.03.43      
    00.00 AL 4873    
      SW 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 AL 4845    
    08.00 AL 4733    
    11.25 AL 4494 Test dive.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 4494 Day's run:  130 nm.  
      Lat.    54°43'N    
      Long. 25°10'W    
    13.00 AL 4494 Surfaced.  
    16.00 AL 9483    
    20.00 AL 4451    
    23.15   Incoming Radio Message 2241/14/123:  
        Group "Stürmer" and "Dränger" from 15 March 08.00 hours steer 135° not 260°.  
           
    15.03.43      
    00.00 AL 4441    
      W 3, Sea 3, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 AK 6661    
    08.00 AK 6651 Course change to 235° (see Radio Message of 14 March 23.15 hours)  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 6648 Day's run:  109 nm.  
      Lat.    54°56'N    
      Long. 27°46'W    
    16.00 AK 6596    
    20.00 AK 6822    
           
    16.03.43      
    00.00 AK 6818    
      SW 8, Sea 7, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 AK 6766 Because of increasingly rough seas decided to temporarily change about 20° to each side of the general course, because the bridge watch can hardly be maintained due to the rough head seas and overcoming water. Matr.Gefr. Kaopke was slammed against the periscope shear and broke his lower jaw losing 3 teeth and breaking off 3 teeth.  
    08.00 AK 6759    
    09.23 AK 6783    
    09.36   Incoming Radio Message 0845/16/139:  
        Feiler reports at 08.25 hours convoy naval square BD 1491, course 40°.  
    11.52   Incoming Radio Message 1048/16/141:  
        The 11 southernmost boats of Group Stürmer therefore Tippelskirch to Brosin operate at highest speed on Feiler-convoy.  Immediately switch Hubertus Circuit.  Convoy position 08.25 hours naval square BD 1491, course 70°, about 7 knots.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 6784 Day's run:  116 nm.  
      Lat.    53°54'N    
      Long. 30°25'W    
    12.38 AK 6784 Operating on Feiler-convoy by plotting (course 207°).  
    16.00 AK 9141    
    20.00 AK 8637    
    20.05   Incoming Radio Message ßß 2005:  
        Convoy square BD 1538, course 100°, speed 8 knots.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 14.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 15.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.03.43
 
- 11 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.03.43      
    22.00   Decide to operate on the Kapitzky convoy reports.  Enemy course is unlikely.  Bearing signals from the contact keeper are not heard or were not sent.  
    22.30   Incoming Radio Message 2203/16/811:  
        Enemy in sight square BD 1619 course 90°, speed 8 knots.  
                                                           - U-615 -  
           
    17.03.43      
    00.00 AK 8925    
      SW 3, Sea 3, Vis. 6 nm    
    01.00 AK 8952 Operating on contact keeper report 2203/16/811.  
    01.32   Incoming Radio Message 2346/16/815:  
        Convoy BD 1612, course 30°, 6 knots, about 20 steamers in 3 columns.  
                                                     from Kapitzky.  
        Because still no bearing signals are heard from the contact keeper, initially operated further on the report from U-615.  Still no bearing signals.   
    03.15   To starboard flashing lights seen 2 times.  
    04.00 BD 2213    
    04.15   Decide to change course based on Kapitzky contact keeper reports.  
    08.00 BD 2127    
    09.14   Operated by plotting convoy position and course.  
    09.24 BD 2118 Then at 09.24 hours smoke clouds in sight to starboard. Assumed it was the convoy, held contact.  
    09.30 BD 2118 Outgoing Radio Message 0930/17:  
        Have contact on smoke clouds naval square BD 2116.  U-Rendtel comes in sight to starboard and also operates on smoke clouds.  Held contact with convoy course 50° to starboard.  In changing visibility, smoke clouds are occasionally lost from sight.  
    11.18 AK 8883 The last smoke cloud sighted.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 8883 Day's run:  304 nm.  
      Lat.    51°14'N Pursued, course changed from 50° to 300° and finally to the west.  Despite temporary deteriorating visibility due to snow squalls convoy must come into sight again.  
      Long. 33°08'W  
    16.15 AK 8762 Because pursuit is unsuccessful decide to operate on Raubgraf-convoy at highest speed.  According to Zurmühlen Radio Message 1457/17/869 at 14.41 hours it was located in naval square AK 8892 and steers 70°.  
    20.00 AK 8829 Smoke clouds sighted briefly to port, pursued.  Thereafter crash dive for aircraft, Liberator, abeam to port.  Dived unsighted, no sound bearings on the questionable steamers to port.  
    21.00 AK 8829 Surfaced, continued to operate in the direction of the convoy at highest speed, from the position and speed reported by Kinzel at 12.11 hours naval square BD 2127, course 50°, 7 knots.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 17.03.43
 
- 12 -
 
           
           
           
           
    18.03.43      
    00.00 AK 8931    
      NNW 3, Sea 2, Vis. 6 nm    
    02.24   Convoy is not encountered.  Continued search in course direction and operated on Tippelskirch sighting report in accordance with Radio Message 2356/17/871 (Convoy sighted by Tippelskirch at 23.47 hours in naval square AK 8667)  
        Assume, that Tippelskirch in this square has sighted the Raubgraf-convoy.  No course given.  Raubgraf-convoy is not encountered.  No contact keeper.  
    04.00 AK 9459 Because the boat must be in the vicinity of this convoy, and visibility is sometimes only 300 meters due to rain squalls, for the morning of 18 March decide to continue searching on convoy course 60° at the convoy speed of advance.  No contact keeper reports.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 9255 Day's run:  330 nm.  
      Lat.    53°17'N    
      Long. 28°40'W    
    12.35   Incoming Radio Message 0932/18/847:  
        Convoy in sight AK 9165.  
                                                    - from Freyberg -  
        If the position of the sighting report is plotted with an easterly convoy course the boat is located directly ahead of the convoy.  Visibility is constantly under a mile.  Continued advance on convoy course.  
    13.05   Incoming:  Kr Kr boats at Raubgraf-convoy operate at highest speed on Freyberg report.  Pursuit and advance in the direction of the convoy is pointless and therefore remained on convoy course.  
    13.20   Incoming Radio Message 1252/18/850:  
        Wintermeyer and Schug report weather before 17.00 hours.  Schug report as well.  
    16.00 AK 9238 Outgoing Radio Message 1602/18:  
        Sea NNW 6, Wind NW 6, 990 mb, Vis. 2 nm, air temperature +9°C, water temperature +1°C.  
    20.00 AK 6987 Just now the first contact keeper reports are received.  Unfortunately given without course.  
    20.27   Incoming Radio Message 1630/18/869:  
        Operate on Freyberg report.  By a later contact keeper report from Brosin convoy is located far to the south and far behind.  
    22.45   Incoming Radio Message 2055/18/880:  
        Convoy broad formation, 7 steamers, slow speed, course 70°, naval square AK 9314.  
                                                     - from Brosin -  
           
    19.03.43      
    00.00 AK 6963 Decide to operate on the last convoy position from 20.55 hours.  
      N 2, Sea 2, Vis. 6 nm  
    01.55 AK 6992 Fiery glow to port can only be a torpedo detonation.  Hold on to the fiery glow up to 02.39 hours.  Believe that I am pursuing the Brosin-convoy.  
    02.39   On reaching, went to the intercept point on the convoy course, as the fiery glow must be another partial convoy.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.43
 
- 13 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    19.03.43      
    03.31 AL 4774 Boat must be in the immediate vicinity of the Brosin-convoy, therefore dived to listen.  Broad sound band over the entire starboard side.  Maximum in forward sector.  
    03.45   Surfaced and operated on the convoy by sound bearing.  
    04.00 AL 4774    
    04.45 AL 4773 Shadow in sight ahead to starboard.  Despite the bright moonshine to port I intend to maneuver ahead to port to still reach attack position by night at all costs between moonset and morning twilight.  In so doing determined that the convoy steers more than 70°.  While setting off to port initially avoided the port astern sweeper destroyer.  Destroyer steered changing and running off courses.  Once he forced me to run at high speed when the boat was positioned in the moon track.   The destroyer is very far away, whether I was detected by him visually or by locating, I can not judge.  
    05.25   Am detected by destroyer, destroyer runs towards.  
    05.30 AL 4749 Dived before the destroyer.  Boat is taken to depth A +60 meters.  Destroyer comes on quickly.  Sound gear location.   First depth charge series of 7 charges is close to the boat. (at depth 2 A +10 meters several depth charge series at short intervals close to the boat).  In the sound gear determined that two vessels are conducting the sound pursuit.  They take turns listening and running in.  
      NW 3, Sea 2, Vis. 6 nm  
        Ejecting a Bold does not succeed, because the locating is only by listening type.  
    05.30   4 depth charge series of 7, 3, 7, 12 depth charges were counted.  
    05.47

Attempts to shake off the throwing of the pursuers are unsuccessful despite energetic changes of course and increasing speed.  At higher speeds the patrol vessels approach immediately.

Since the beginning of the depth charge pursuit no more Asdic location was heard.  Assuming that initial sound locating was by the escort destroyer, the prosecution was then handed over to an attached convoy patrol vessel group. Under the prevailing weather conditions (Sea 0-1) locating conditions appear to be particularly favorable. Stopping of the patrol vessels and over running for throwing charges could be observed perfectly in the G.H.G.  At times runs with explosive depth sounding and fire cracker sounds like knocking on the pressure hull were observed. Despite energetic course changes and increasing speed whenever the thrower came on, shaking off the pursuers remained unsuccessful.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.43
 
- 14 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    19.03.43      
    07.10 - 08.10   No depth charges, patrol vessels lie stopped and listen.  
    08.10 - 09.00   New depth charge runs:  series of 10, 3, 4, 4, again an hour pause, no depth charges, patrol vessels stopped.  
    10.00   The depth charges lie exactly over the boat and apparently were thrown set deep which was confirmed afterwards by the destruction of the over deck torpedo containers at depth 2A +20 meters.  The boat was forced to remain at this depth.  
        One double series of 2 (4 depth charges).  
    [250 meters = 820.21 feet! - deepest depth I have seen in a KTB - Yikes!] Last run severe concussion, boat settles to depth 3A +10 meters.  
        Severe deformation in the pressure hull whereby a frame in the control room cracks.  
        Suspect pressure hull strain also in the end rooms, since cracking was heard in the boat assume that upper deck containers were damaged by depth charges and flooded, as boat was suddenly inexplicably heavy. Bilges and closures showed no changes at the time.  
    10.00 - 12.00   Only isolated depth charges over the boat.  Patrol vessels have apparently run out, remain lying stopped and go from time to time.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AL 4772 Day's run:  176 nm.  
      Lat.    53°55'N    
      Long. 26°12'W    
    14.15   This was the last time a patrol vessel was heard running past.  
    16.00 AL 4775 In total there were 62 depth charges and 37 fire crackers heard.  
    18.00   Surfaced.  
        Damage:  5 over deck containers destroyed, crushed.  
        Pressure hull frame 44 cracked.  
        Tube 3 flooded on its own.  
        Fixed periscope out of service.  
        Junkers compressor conditionally operable.  
        30 battery cells cracked.  1 cell out of service.  
        Vents 6 + 7 out of service.  
        The boat held well despite the well placed depth charges at depth 2A +80 meters.  Additionally after the pressure hull frame was cracked the boat held well during the subsequent depth charges.  Water intake did not take place.  The amount of water which penetrated through stern tubes, filters, main bilge pump, exhaust gas valves, stop bushings of the outer tube door linkage was within acceptable limits. The attitude of the crew was good. They worked well and thoughtfully.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.43
 
- 15 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    19.03.43      
    18.15 AL 4748 U-Struckmeyer sighted ahead to port.  Went within signal range.  
    19.00 AL 4748 Came to course 180°.  
    20.00 AL 4772    
    21.05 AL 4778 Test dive.  
    22.02 AL 4745 Surfaced.  Set off to the west for repairs, because pursuit of the convoy in this condition is pointless.  
    22.52   Outgoing Radio Message 1938/19/863:  
        Naval square AL 4749 at 05.26 hours dived before destroyer 9 hour depth charge and sound pursuit.  All over deck containers destroyed.  Pressure hull frame 44 half cracked.  Suspect the same in the end rooms.  Tube 3 flooded on its own.  Fixed periscope out of service.  Junkers compressor conditionally operable.  31 battery cells cracked.  One out of service.  Vents 6 and 7 out of service.  Conditionally clear to dive.  
        Immediately switched to Diana Circuit.  
           
    20.03.43      
    00.00 AK 6964    
      SW 2, Sea 2, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 AK 6954    
    05.00   Incoming Radio Message 0407/20/876:  
        To Wintermeyer:  
        Move off at high speed to the southwest and initially repair damage.   Request if the assistance of another boat is required or to remain nearby within hailing distance.  
           
    08.00 AK 6866    
    09.00 AK 6865 To Radio Message 0427/20/876 course southwest and continued repairs.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 6887 Day's run 147 nm.  
      Lat.    53°42'N    
      Long. 30°06'W    
    16.00 AK 9159    
    20.00 AK 8634 In the course of the day the fixed periscope and the Junkers compressor are again in service.  
        Check of the individual rooms results in no further damage to the pressure hull and frames to the extent inspection is possible.  
    23.00   Incoming Radio Message 1821/20/721:  
        To clarify:  
        On return transit without supply:  
        Schamong, Tippelskirch, Kinzel, Christophersen, Strehlow, Struckmeier, Wintermeyer.  
        Control expects subsequent return transit of the boats.  Repair of the boat still not ended, continue to move off.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 20.03.43
 
- 16 -
 
           
           
           
           
    21.03.43      
    00.00 AK 8658    
      E 6, Sea 5, Vis. 5 nm    
    04.00 AK 8675    
    08.00 AK 8833    
    10.30 - 11.50 AK 8835 Test dive.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      AK 8837 Day's run 183 nm.  
      Lat.    51°45'N    
      Long. 33°00'W    
    16.00 AK 8851    
    20.00 AK 8848    
    20.56 AK 8847 Fu.M.B. sounds, dived.  
    21.24 AK 8847 Surfaced.  
    21.37 AK 8847 Fu.M.B. sounds, starboard astern a fiery glow, ran off to the west.  
    22.00 AK 8769 Still sounds in the Fu.M.B., dived.  
    22.20   Depth charges heard, far off.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.03.43
 
- 17 -
 
           
           
           
           
    22.03.43      
    00.00 AK 8769 Surfaced.  
    00.25 AK 8793 Again brief Fu.M.B. sounds.  
    00.40   In the distance depth charges heard.  
    02.20 AK 8795 Surfaced.  
    02.21   Fu.M.B. sounds, dived.  
    04.00 AK 8795    
    05.12   Surfaced.  
    06.15 AK 8796 Fu.M.B. sounds, dived.  
    08.00 AK 8796    
    09.00 AK 8789 Surfaced.  Fu.M.B. sounds.  
        These continual location sounds in the Fu.M.B. can not possibly originate from an aircraft or vessel.  Therefore I decide to continue to run on the surface.  In the course of the morning one can still hear three typical sounds, that cut out now and then.  
    11.25   Outgoing Radio Message 1902/21:  
        Damage repaired:  
        Fixed periscope, Junkers compressor.  
        Request Metox cable.  
        Concerning:  Pressure hull frame crack and return transit request decision, otherwise operable.  
        AK 8845.  138 cbm.  Switched to Coastal Circuit on 22 March 08.00 hours.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      BD 1319 Day's run:  108 nm.  
      Lat.    50°54'N    
      Long. 35°06'W    
    15.00   It is determined, that the Fu.M.B. sounds originated from an unshielded hair drier which was turned on in the conning tower while surfacing to dry the order transmission system.  Because required repairs are complete and the boat is not completely ready for continued operations at the Front on the basis of the break in the pressure hull frame, I ask for a decision concerning return transit.  
    16.00 BD 1292    
    17.30   Incoming Radio Message 1538/22/10:  
        Wintermeyer on 23 March in BD 2547 give about 50 cbm of fuel oil to Wolfbauer.  Afterwards return transit remain on Diana Circuit.  
    18.00 BD 1288 Changed course for the meeting point with Wolfbauer.  
    18.00   Incoming Radio Message 1654/22/14:  
        From F.d.U. West:  
        As return harbor it is determined:  
        Pallice for Zurmühlen  
        Nazaire for Kinzel  
        Lorient for Wintermeyer.  
    20.00 BB 1532    
           
    23.03.43      
    00.00 BD 1399    
      S 2, Sea 2, Vis. 6 nm    
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.03.43
 
- 18 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.03.43      
    04.00 BD 2428    
    08.00 BD 2466    
    10.45 BD 2547 U-Wolfbauer in sight.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      BD 2549 Day's run:  185 nm  
      Lat.    49°30'N    
      Long. 32°08'W    
    14.00 BD 2549 U-Uphoff in sight.  
    16.00 BD 2573 Begin the fuel oil transfer to U-Uphoff.  
    20.00 BD 2573    
    22.15 BD 2583 Fuel oil transfer ended, afterwards began return transit.  
    22.47 BD 2583 Test dive.  
           
    24.03.43      
    00.00 BD 2583    
      SE 2, Sea 2, Vis.7 nm    
    00.16 BD 2591 Surfaced.  
    04.00 BD 2676    
    08.00 BD 2698    
    10.10 BD 3479 Test dive.  
    10.43   Surfaced.  
    12.00 North Atlantic    
      BD 3731 Day's run 136 nm.  
      Lat.    49°12'N    
      Long. 28°58'W    
    16.00 BD 3732    
    20.00 BD 3814    
           
    25.03.43      
    00.00 BD 3828    
      NW 2, Sea 2, Vis. 6 nm    
    04.00 BD 3946    
    08.00 BD 3969    
    09.47 BE 1749 A vessel in sight ahead to port (target angle 0°).  It is already well out.  In visibility of 6 nm approaches quickly out of the haze.  Dived to attack.  Steered attack course for stern attack by sound bearings.  Attack periscope can only be extended slowly.  The bearing only by hand.  Vessel comes slowly astern and zig zags.  It is a very small vessel with a long, thin smokestack. Approximately 1500 GRT. Green paint with white camouflage stripes. Long, thin masts, crow's nest.  Steers approximate general course of 230°.  From construction and appearance might be a U-boat trap, smokes heavily.  Shortly before the shot at range = 1500 meters the after periscope fails.  Both cables spring from the drum.  The periscope is stuck.  Shifted to forward periscope.  Forward periscope can not be operated at all.   With operation of the bearing control by hand extends very slowly.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.03.43
 
- 19 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    25.03.43      
        Meanwhile, the vessel has moved to starboard and after the makeshift extension of the periscope has a very broad target angle.  Both periscopes are out of service for submerged attack  
        I decide not to pursue and to continue the return transit based on the appearance of the vessel and the failure of the periscopes.  
    12.50   Outgoing Radio Message:  
        Small steamer with camouflage, course SW zig zagging, suspect U-boat trap.  Naval square BE 1881, 10.00 hours.  Continuing return transit.  
    12.00 Sea area SW of Ireland    
      BE 1781 Day's run:  244 nm.  
      Lat.    48°29'N    
      Long. 22°53'W    
    16.00 BE 1874    
    20.00 BE 1898    
           
    26.03.43      
    00.00 BE 1989    
      SE 1, Sea 1, Vis. 2 nm    
    04.00 BE 5113    
    08.00 BE 5251    
    12.00 Sea area SW of Ireland    
      BE 5344    
      Lat.    47°51'N    
      Long. 17°22'W    
    16.00 BE 5362 Heavy visibility deterioration  
    19.00 - 19.20 BE 6154 Test dive.  
    20.00 BE 6159    
           
    27.03.43      
    00.00 BE 6283    
      SW 3, Sea 2, Vis. 2 nm    
    04.00 BE 6388    
    07.25 BE 4421 Dived to proceed submerged.  
    08.00 BF 4421    
    12.00 Outer Bay of Biscay    
      BF 4423 Day's run:  277.  
      Lat.    49°20'N    
      Long. 10°38'W    
    13.50 BF 4423 Surfaced to ventilate the boat.  
    14.05 BF 4431 Dived for aircraft, 4 aircraft bombs, boat at depth 60 meters.  
    16.00 BF 4431    
    20.00 BF 4426    
    20.46 BF 4436 Surfaced.  
    21.47   Outgoing ßß:  
        Position 36 hours off escort meeting point.  Direction finder out of service.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 25.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 26.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.03.43
 
- 20 -
 
           
           
           
           
    28.03.43      
    00.00 BF 4529    
      N 3, Sea 3, Vis. 8 nm    
    00.25 BF 4537 Astern to port a lighted aircraft searchlight (300 meters).  Machine gun ready.  Before we can shoot, aircraft over flies the boat at low altitude and shoots from the stern turret.  No Fu.M.G. [radar] location in Fu.M.B.  
    00.27   Crash dive.  
    04.00 BF 4538    
    07.00 BF 4538 Surfaced.  
    08.00 BF 4641    
    08.50 BF 4643 Ahead to port smoke cloud and 2 mast heads.  Fishing vessels in sight.  
        Dived.  Sound bearings shift slowly astern.  
    10.45 BF 4643 Surfaced.  
    11.05 BF 4651 Aircraft bearing 320°T, altitude 800 meters, range = 4000 meters.  Dived.  4 aircraft bombs, boat at depth 50 meters.  
    12.00 West of Biscay    
      BF 4651 Day's run:  116 nm.  
      Lat.    47°3.5'N    
      Long. 7°54'W    
    15.50 BF 4652 Surfaced.  
    17.45 BF 4664 Dived for aircraft bearing 280°T, altitude 500 meters, range = 5000 meters.  No aircraft bombs.  
    19.16 BF 4665 Surfaced.  
    19.45   Incoming Radio Message:  
        From Lorient Communications Center.  For U-190 escort positioned at 10.00 hours at meeting point.  Due to danger from ground mines wait on Sperrbrecher.  Bearing Signal Transmitter 2 and Group 2 runs from 20.00 - 08.00 hours.  
    20.00 BF 4666    
    20.22   Outgoing Radio Message:  
        Position 30 March 08.00 hours at meeting point for escort due to air.  
    20.28 BF 5444 Dived.  Proceeding submerged.  
           
    29.03.43      
    00.00 BF 5445    
    04.00 BF 5446    
    07.50 BF 5457 Surfaced.  
      SW 2, Sea 2, Vis. 10 nm    
    09.07 BF 5459 Dived to proceed submerged.  
    12.00 West of Biscay    
      BF 5459 Day's run:  76 nm.  
      Lat.    46°51'N    
      Long. 6°00'W    
    16.00 BF 5459    
    17.00 BF 5465 Surfaced.  
    18.00 BF 5571 Dived.  
    19.30   Incoming Radio Message 1055/29/27  Received while submerged on very low frequency from Lorient Communications Center:  For U-190 escort positioned 30 March 06.00.  
    20.30   Reached objective point, headed for Lorient.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.03.43
 
- 21 -
 
           
           
           
           
    30.03.43      
    02.15   Surfaced.  
    08.00   Taken in convoy.  
    10.30   Entered Lorient, made fast.  
        Day's run:  130 nm.  
        _____________________________________________  
           
        Completed at sea, on 30 March 1943.  
                                          
                                          Kptlt. and Kmdt.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.03.43

 
 
     
                         Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote  
                         on the K.T.B. of "U-190" (Wintermeyer) from 20.2.43 - 30.3.43.  
     
 
1.) To the convoy operation from 8-10 March:  The contact keeper message from Möglich was sent at 11.50 hours, however, it was operated on only from 14.00 hours after receiving the operation order from Leadership. This was a delay of 2 hours. Generally, boats in group deployments operate immediately after receiving a contact keeper report concerning the expected convoy without waiting for operational orders from Leadership. During a convoy operation one must not dive too long either before aircraft, before patrol vessels or even to listen.  The Kommandant must seek the will to surface, pursue and search as soon as possible.
   
2.) On behavior in the reconnaissance line:  Course and speed mean general course and speed of advance of the boats. The individual boat must search the area assigned to him as thoroughly as possible by changing courses as in a patrol line. See Standing Order No. 8 and The U-boat Kommandant's Handbook, Paragraph 373.
   
3.) In the convoy operation from 16-19 March:  The K.T.B. gives no clear picture of the conduct of the operation. There is the perception that the reports of the other boats were not adequately evaluated. During depth charge pursuits do not voluntarily go too deep. When deep the boat has a tendency to settle, so use only energetic countermeasures.
 
Accredited successes:
1 Freighter          6500 GRT        Sunk.
 
     
                                                                 For the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote  
                                                                 - The Chief of the Operations Department -  
                                                                                          
     
     
 


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