U-69 3rd War Patrol

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

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
Lorient	5 May 41	St. Nazaire	8 July 41	65

 

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
21 May 41	09.49 - 10.45	6°15'N, 25°45'W	ROBIN MOOR	4,999	American
21 May 41	23.42	6°27'N, 24°03'W	TEWKESBURY	4,601	British
31 May 41	00.25	5°32'N, 0°12'W	SANGARA	5,445	British
4 Jun 41		6°23.7'N, 3°24.2'W	ROBERT HUGHES (Mine)	2,879	British
27 Jun 41	01.49	46°33'N, 11°55'W	RIVER LUGAR	5,423	British	SL-78
27 Jun 41	02.37	46°33'N, 11°55'W	EMPIRE ABILITY	7,603	British	SL-78
3 Jul 41	04.36 - 06.50	30°45'N, 18°38'W	ROBERT L. HOLT	2,918	British	OB-337
			Total = 33,868
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.

 

This KTB uses the depth notation "depth T = xx meters"  Under this scheme, the actual depth was twice the depth given after T = so for example, if the KTB entry read "depth T = 50 meters, the actual depth was 100 meters.  This was intended to hide the actual depth for security purposes. This notation was used from about January 1940 to December 1941.  In these KTBs, depths written without using "T =", for example "dived to depth 35 meters" were not so disguised.

 

---

				Copy No.
				K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h
				Unterseeboot "U-69"
				Kommandant:  Kaptlt.     M  e  t  z  l  e  r
		Beginning:        12.04.41. Ending:            08.07.41.
				Distribution:     " U-69 " Copy No. 1 7. U-Flottille " 2 B.d.U. -Op.- " 3 B.d.U. -Org.- " 4 O.K.M. " 5 + 6
				Enclosures: 1.) 1 Track chart for Copy No. 1-5 2.) 8 Torpedo firing reports for Copy No. 1-3 3.) 1 Excerpt of the Radio Log for Copy No. 1-5 (M-General) 4.) 2 Mine lists for Copy No. 1-5 5.) 1 Mine sketch "Takoradi Bay" for Copy No. 1-5 6.) 1 Mine sketch "Lagos" for Copy No. 1-5 7.) 1 Report on the sinking of the American steamer "ROBIN MOOR" for Copy No. 1-5
				© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved

Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB

	- 1 -
		12.04. - 30.04.41		Shipyard overhaul Lorient.
		01.05. - 04.05.41		Outfitting. Degaussing - radio direction finder - trim test.
		05.05.41
		21.00		Put to sea from Lorient with escort in accordance with Operations Order "Atlantic" No. 42, 8 torpedoes 12 mines.
		06.05.41
		00.00		Point "B".
		04.00	BF 5548	Test dive.
		08.00	BF 5722 right edge	Boat showed an oil trace that was eliminated.
			NEbyE 1, Sea 1, overcast, light swell, Vis. medium
		11.39 - 11.58		Crash dive for enemy aircraft bearing 253°T, 6 nm, course 160°.
		12.00	BF 5741	Day's run:  Surfaced 172 nm,  Submerged 3 nm.
		16.00	BF 4985
		20.00	BF 7311
			ESE 2-3, Sea 2, medium swell, Vis. medium
		21.00		Short signal:  "BF 73".
		07.05.41
		00.00	BF 7283	Gyrocompass failed due to breakdown of the pickup gear.   The port supercharger slips.  After 3 hours the breakdowns are repaired.
		04.00	BF 7435
		08.00	BF 7448	Test dive.
			EbyS 4, Sea 3-4, long light swell, Vis. medium
		12.00	BE 9922 right edge	Day's run:  Surfaced 248 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	BE 9836 right lower edge
		20.00	BE 9884
			NEbyE 4, Sea 3-4, medium swell, Vis. medium

	Sun and Moon Data 05.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 06.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 07.05.41

	- 2 -
		08.05.41
		00.00	CG 1151
		04.00	CF 3631 upper-right corner
		06.00		Test dive.
		08.00	CF 3628 lower-left corner
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2, overcast, light swell, Vis. medium
		12.00	CF 3826	Day's run:  Surfaced 286 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	CF 3798
		20.00	CF 6149
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2, light swell, overcast, Vis. medium, moonshine
		09.05.41
		00.00	CF 5626
		04.00	CF 5671
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	CF 5853
			NEbyN 1, Sea 1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	CF 5875	Day's run:  Surfaced 275 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	CF 8155
		20.00	CF 7631
			SSE 1, Sea 1, low swell, mostly overcast, Vis. medium
		10.05.41
		00.00	CF 7673
		04.00	CF 7838
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	CF 7876
			SbyE 2-3, Sea 2, Vis. medium, overcast
		12.00	DG 3262	Day's run:  Surfaced 274 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DG 3284
		20.00	DG 3486
			SbyW 2-3, Sea 2, overcast, Vis. medium

	Sun and Moon Data 08.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 09.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 10.05.41

	- 3 -
		11.05.41
		00.00	DG 3484
		04.00	DG 2939
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	DG 2985
			S 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	DG 5361	Day's run:  Surfaced 224 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		14.16		Deep dive depth T = 60 meters. [actually depth 120 meters]
		16.00	DG 5398
		20.00	DG 5669
			SE 2, Sea 1-2, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		22.07		Short Signal:  For 4 days no traffic.
				= Understood =
		12.05.41
		00.00	DG 6741
		04.00	DG 9115
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	DG 9176
			SSE 1, Sea 0-1, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		10.30		Radio Message 0952/12/157:  Supply U-69 23 May Point Red.
		12.00	DG 9458	Day's run:  Surfaced 230 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DG 9722
		19.15		Radio Message 1855/12/165:  U-69 Advance up to square ER between 24° and 30° West.
		20.00	DG 9768
			EbyS 1, Sea 1, Vis. good
		22.15		Radio Message 2130/12/:  To B.d.U.:  Request supply 19 May due to new moon.  Position square DT 13.
		13.05.41
		00.00	DT 1345
		04.00	DT 1538
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	DT 1826
			NEbyN 1-2, Sea 1, lightly cloudy, Vis. good

	Sun and Moon Data 11.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 12.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 13.05.41

	- 4 -
		continued
		13.05.41
		12.00	DT 1873	Day's run:  Surfaced 229 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DT 4244
		16.51		Radio Message 1625/13/188:  Supply is scheduled for 19 May probably Point "Red".
		20.00	DT 4437
			NEbyN 2-3, Sea 2-3, light swell, Vis. good
		14.05.41
		00.00	DT 4488
		04.00	DT 4749
		07.00		Test dive.
		08.00	DT 7117
			NE 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	DS 9631	Day's run:  Surfaced 243 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DS 9658
		20.00	DS 9943
			NNE 3-4, Sea 3, mostly overcast, long swell, Vis. good
		15.05.41
		00.00	DS 9978
		04.00	EH 3344
		07.15		Test dive.
		08.00	EH 3298
			NE 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	EH 3556	Day's run:  Surfaced 197 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	EH 3834
		20.00	EH 3971	No mastheads sighted since putting to sea.
			NE 3-4, Sea 3-4, Vis. medium, mostly overcast
		16.05.41
		00.00	EH 6313
		04.00	EH 6356
		07.30		Test dive.
		08.00	EJ 4177
			NE 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	EJ 4446	Day's run:  Surfaced 190 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	EJ 4738

	Sun and Moon Data 13.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 14.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 16.05.41

	- 5 -
		continued
		16.05.41
		20.00	EJ 4884
			NE 3, Sea 2-3, lightly cloudy, Vis. good
		17.05.41
		00.00	EJ 7261
		04.00	EJ 7534
		08.00	EJ 7594	Test dive.
			NE 1, Sea 0-1, Vis. good
		11.32		Radio Message 1026/17/189:  To U-69 from B.d.U.  After completing supply report "EGERLAND" inventory of torpedoes, fuel oil and provisions for U-boats.
		12.00	EJ 7864	Day's run:  Surfaced 240 nm,  Submerged 0.3 nm.
		16.00	ES 1261
		20.00	ES 1273
			NE 1-2, Sea 1, Vis. good
		22.45		Test dive.
		18.05.41
		00.00	ES 1431
		04.00	ES 1443
		08.00	ER 3694
			NE 1, Sea 1, cloudless, Vis. good, light swell
		12.00	ER 3915	Day's run:  Surfaced 214 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ER 3859
		20.00	ER 3876
			NbyE 2, Sea 2, light swell, Vis. very good
		19.05.41
		00.00	ER 6129
		04.00	ER 6147	Test dive.
		07.45	Point "Red"	Recognition signals exchanged with U-105.
			NbyE 2-3, Sea 2, Vis. good
		10.17		Recognition signals exchanged with "EGERLAND".
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 166 nm,  Submerged 0.2 nm.
		22.00		Provisions, fuel oil supplemented, duration of fuel oil transfer 2-1/2 hours.  Classified equipment delivered to "EGERLAND".  The outfitting of the "EGERLAND" is by no means satisfactory.

	Sun and Moon Data 16.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 17.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 18.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 19.05.41

	- 6 -
		continued
		19.05.41
		22.30		Began transit to primary objective.
		23.05	ER 5389	Radio Message 2116/19/151:  Officer-Only:  B.d.U. to U-69.  Subject entrance routes in Lagos and Takoradi.
				Went back again to "EGERLAND" for documents required for Radio Message.
		20.05.41
		00.00	ER 5631
		03.00		Radio Message Officer-Only sent and transit continued.
		04.00	ER 5631	Trim test.
		08.00	ER 6426
			NNE 3, Sea 3, cloudy, Vis. good
		12.00	ER 6528	Day's run:  Surfaced 106 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ER 6643
		20.00	ES 4444
			NEbyE 2-3, Sea 3, lightly cloudy, Vis. good
		21.05.41
		00.00	ES 4468	Radio Message 04.00/21/:  B.d.U. from U-69:
		04.00	ES 4675	Supply "Red".  According to Schewe "EGERLAND has 2 Atos, 4 boat's provisions, 7720 cbm, no traffic ES 46.
		04.30		A steamer in sight bearing 0°T, 3 nm distant course 130°.  Steers a slight zig zag steaming and side lanterns noticeably faint.
				Held on to steamer.
		05.10		Approached to within 1000 meters of the steamer.  Illuminated neutrality markings do not exist.  Flag cannot be distinguished.
				Ship has a very strongly conspicuous deck cargo, weapons cannot be distinguished.  Have strong suspicion of a U-boat trap.
		05.25		Take position 2000 meters off and ask the name via Morse lamp.
				Steamer gives:  "ROBIN MOOR".
				Name is not to be found in any catalogue, my suspicion increases.
		05.35		Order steamer to stop and ask for boat with Captain and papers.  Steamer stops immediately and simultaneously put boat into the water.
				Lie with sharp silhouette on the steamer am ready for a stern shot and crash dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 19.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 20.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 21.05.41

	- 7 -
		continued
		21.05.41
		06.00		Boat with the first officer of the ship is alongside.  Papers were not brought.  Find out from the 1st Officer that because it was sold 14 days ago the ship's name was changed from "EXMOOR" to "ROBIN MOOR".   Allegedly a U.S.A. ship on the way from New York to South Africa; cargo allegedly engines and semi-finished motor vehicles, as well as general piece goods.
				Explain to the 1st Officer, that on the basis of his information, the steamer carries absolute contraband and therefore must be sunk.   Request the abandonment of the ship and at the same time for the Captain to bring over the papers.  The 1st Officer raises no objection, he and his crew note my explanation calmly.  A willingness which is all the more suspicious!
				Observe that after return of the boat to the steamer a mass confusion ensues, doors fly up and the boats go to water in a panic and retreat from the steamer.
		08.15	ESE 1-2, Sea 1, light swell, Vis. medium, light tropical rain	Boat with Captain and cargo papers alongside.  The papers prove banned goods perfectly, even weapons are listed.
				Explain to the Captain personally that steamer must be sunk because cargo is exclusively and absolutely banned goods against which nothing is objected.  Hand over to the Captain more provisions, cognac and dressings.
				Captain and crew call "Heil Hitler"! Set off and moved away quickly.
				A very remarkable behavior!
				Expect a surprise attack at any moment from the enormous deck cargo.
		09.49		To avoid surprises, gave the steamer a
				stern shot:  Bow left, target angle 90°, depth 2 meters, Eto tube runner ejected with mine gear -
				Crash dive.  Running time 127 seconds - 1900 meters.
				Hit center.
				Observe from periscope depth.  Steamer sinks very slowly.  Nothing remarkable noted on deck.
		10.45	ES 4682	Surfaced and sank ship with 30 rounds of artillery ammunition from 3000 meters.  Square ES 4682.  Entire over deck cargo floats off.  Boxes do not sink after MG C30 bombardment, through bullet holes aluminum parts can be recognized.  Because aircraft tires float among the boxes, it is an aircraft cargo.
		11.30		Continue transit.
		12.00	ES 4659	Day's run:  Surfaced 237 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ES 5482
		20.00	ES 5576	A steamer in sight bearing 130°T, 8 nm.  Course 20°, zig zagging very heavily.
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 21.05.41

	- 8 -
		continued
		21.05.41		Maneuvered ahead.  No navigation lights set at darkness.  Stern cannon.
		23.42	ES 5554	Attack initiated!
				Bow right, target angle 90°, enemy speed 10 knots, Ato depth 3 meters.  Running time 52 seconds = 1070 meters.  Without [fire control] system, because the gyro-angle setting is not working!
				Hit:  forward 20 meters.
				Steamer transmits:  SSS position 6° 25 North 24° 00 West "TEWKESBURG". (4601 GRT) torpedoed.
		22.05.41
		00.00		Steamer does not sink, attack with artillery, shot 21 shots incendiary ammunition, well placed, the effect is poor, no shells ignite, steamer does not sink deeper.
		00.36		Coup de grâce:  Stern shot Eto depth 3 meters.  Again a tube runner - ejected with the mine gear - running time 30 seconds = 625 meters.
				Hit center:  Steamer sinks immediately.
				Continued transit.
				The cause of the launch failure in tube V could not be found in spite of the detailed examination after the 1st shot.
		00.14		Radio Message 2340/21 to B.d.U. from U-69:  "EXMOOR" with banned goods for Capetown sunk, 4 boats square ES 4682, course east, just now "TEWKESBURG".
		01.56		Test dive.
		04.00	ES 5598
		08.00	ES 5926
			WbyN 3, Sea 3, rain showers, Vis. continuously changing
		12.00	ES 6728	Day's run:  Surfaced 238 nm,  Submerged 2 nm.
		16.00	ES 6855
		20.00	ES 6981
			WNW 2-3, Sea 2-3, changing cloudiness with rain showers and Vis. changing
		23.05.41
		00.00	ET 4778
		04.00	ET 7217
		08.00	ET 7373	Test dive.
			SSE 3, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, Vis. medium
		12.00	ET 7399	Day's run:  Surfaced 203 nm,  Submerged 0.5 nm.
		16.00	ET 8438

	Sun and Moon Data 21.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 22.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 23.05.41

	- 9 -
		continued
		23.05.41
		18.30	ET	Port engine exhaust valve cylinder 3 threads stripped.
		20.00	ET 8564
			S 3-4, Sea 3, rain showers, Vis. changing
		24.05.41
		00.00	ET 8673
		04.00	ET 8699
		05.00		Port engine again in service.
		07.30		Test dive.
		08.00	ET 9498
			SE 3, Sea 2-3, Vis. medium, lightly cloudy
		12.00	ET 9598	Day's run:  Surfaced 264 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ET 9921
		20.00	EU 7712
			ESE 2-3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, Vis. changing
		25.05.41
		00.00	EU 7811
		04.00	EU 7833
		07.30		Test dive.
		08.00	EU 7923
			SSE 2-3, Sea 2, cloudy, Vis. good, light swell
		12.00	EU 8725	Day's run:  Surfaced 270 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	EU 8824
		20.00	φ = 3°14'N
			λ = 7°05'W
			SE 2, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, Vis. good, light swell
		26.05.41
		00.00	φ = 3°18'N
			λ = 6°17'W
		04.00	φ = 3°18'N  λ = 5°29'W
		08.00	φ = 3°18'N  λ = 3°41'W	Test dive.
			SSE 2-3, Sea 2, cloudy, Vis. good	Gyro compass out of service.

	Sun and Moon Data 23.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 24.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 25.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 26.05.41

	- 10 -
		continued
		26.05.41
		12.00	φ = 3°28'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 310 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 5°25'W	I will still go this evening towards Takoradi.
		16.00	φ = 3°43'N	Radio Message 1207/26/158 Officer-Only.
			λ = 3°00'W	Cannot be deciphered, because in accordance with orders no Officer-Only cipher may be taken on shallow water war patrol.
		20.00	φ = 4°07'N	Boat is ready for self destruction.
			λ = 2°21'W
			SSE 1-2, Sea 1, Vis. changing, partially cloudy
		21.00		Stand off the route ordered for enemy navigation.
				Traffic is not discovered, nevertheless I decide to enter.
		27.05.41
		00.15		Some lights - working crane in sight.
		00.30		Positioned off Takoradi harbor.  City and harbor are darkened exemplarily.  Approximately 6 ships lie in the roadstead, the harbor is almost overcrowded.  Both mole heads are occupied with artillery and a small watch house.  In the harbor and roadstead a small slowly moving vessel. Apparently a patrol vessel.  Set off somewhat, because the harbor is still working.
		01.30		All lights turned off, apparently work has ended.
		01.48		Mines laid.  (See enclosure "A".)
		02.12		1 mine in the entrance, 3 off it.
				The laying was greatly hindered by the ships lying near the entrance, the ships were passed by approximately 150-200 meters.  Guards stood on the mole, was unnoticed, although in the swell the boat was illuminated brightly by very strong marine phosphorescence.
				Backwards out of the harbor on the entrance route.
				Continued transit to Lagos.
		04.00	φ = 4°45'N
			λ = 3°33'W
		08.00	φ = 4°25'N	Test dive.
			λ = 1°00'W
			SSW 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. changing
		12.00	φ = 4°32'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 237 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 0°19'W
		16.00	φ = 4°41'N
			λ = 0°28'E
		20.00	φ = 5°03'N
			λ = 1°18'E

Note:  Position at 27 May 04.00 is a typo, should be λ = 1°33'W

	Sun and Moon Data 26.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 27.05.41

	- 11 -
		28.05.41
		00.00	φ = 5°40'N
			λ = 1°49'E
		04.00	φ = 6°10'N
			λ = 2°16'E
			SEbyE 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good
		07.00	φ = 6°10'N	Stand off the route ordered for enemy navigation.
			λ = 2°48'E
		07.10		Dived to proceed submerged and observe the traffic.
		12.00	φ = 6°18'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 220 nm,  Submerged 5 nm.
			λ = 3°00'E
		16.30		A medium sized steamer comes exactly on the prescribed route.
				Proceeding submerged places hard demands on the watch standers.  The temperature in the boat rises to 45°C.
				The gyro installation has failed again.
		21.30	φ = 6°20'N	Surfaced and ran on the determined entrance route for Lagos.
			λ = 3°12'E
		29.05.31
		00.30 - 01.50		Searched the harbor entrance.  Around the city there lay a light glow, the moles contrast very badly with the coast.
		01.55		Positioned off the entrance where there is surf.
		02.06		I decide initially to run in astern.  In so doing the boat was forced by the surf towards the east mole, at the same time 2 mines were laid.
		02.43		Departed again and ran back in forwards and laid 6 mines. See appendix "E".
				It was determined:
				West and east moles guarded by machine guns.  On the western mole "smoking" watchstanders were observed.  A net barrier lies off the east mole to the south of the "West Training Wall", directly behind it a patrol vessel with tender.
				Maneuvering in the entrance was made much more difficult by the surf and opposite running under and over current.  The boat responded to the rudder very badly.
		03.00		Started back on the entrance route.
		04.00	φ = 6°20'N
			λ = 3°13'E
		08.00	φ = 5°44'N	Test dive.
			λ = 2°52'E
			SSW 2-3, Sea 2, Vis. good

	Sun and Moon Data 28.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 29.05.41

	- 12 -
		continued
		29.05.41
		12.00	φ = 5°18'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 100 nm,  Submerged 13 nm.
			λ = 2°33'E
		16.00	φ = 5°11'N	Radio Message 1731/29/184:  To U-69:  Suspicious ship in square FF 1179.
			λ = 2°08'E
				I cant´t act on this information.
		17.00		Both over deck torpedoes downloaded.  Duration 1 hour.
		20.00	φ = 5°06'N
			λ = 1°40'E
			SSW 1-2, Sea 1, light swell, Vis. good
		23.06		Test dive.
		30.05.41
		00.00	φ = 4°40'N
			λ = 1°39'E
		04.00	φ = 4°07'N
			λ = 1°39'E
		08.00	φ = 4°27'N	I have decided to make for "Accra" Reeds this evening, because I know from personal experience that at least in peacetime a lot of ships lay there.
			λ = 1°36'E
			W 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. good, changing cloudiness
		12.00	φ = 4°45'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 162 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 1°17'E
		16.00	φ = 5°07'N
			λ = 0°58'E
		20.00	φ = 5°23'N
			λ = 0°22'E
			WbyN 1, Sea 1, Vis. good, lightly cloudy
		31.05.41
		00.15		"Accra" in sight.
				Because of suspicion of mines approached from the east (Tassi) on the 20 meter limit.
				Unfortunately only 1 steamer lies off the roads.
		00.25		Initiated attack:
				Bow left, target angle 90°, target speed 0, Ato, tube V, depth = 3 meters, range = 1800 meters = 87 seconds.
				Hit aft 30 meters.
				Steamer sinks over the stern post in 10 meters of water.
				Forship juts out of the water.
				Steamer radios for assistance - has not noted apparently that it is hit by a torpedo.

	Sun and Moon Data 29.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 30.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 31.05.41

	- 13 -
		continued
		31.05.41
				Name of the steamer:  "SANGARA".  4124 GRT.  A brand new ship of the Elder Demyster Line.
		00.35		Transit continued.
				I will attempt to intercept the Kongo and Capetown - Freetown traffic.
		04.00	φ = 5°08'N
			λ = 0°05'E
		06.30		Test dive.
		08.00	φ = 4°20'N
			λ = 0°12'W
			SSW 2, Sea 2, lightly overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	φ = 3°44'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 124 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 0°23'W
		16.00	φ = 3°26'N
			λ = 0°56'W
		18.00		Starboard diesel and compass installation switched off for overhaul.
		20.00	φ = 3°20'N
			λ = 1°15'W
			SE 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. changing
		01.06.41
		00.00	φ = 3°12'N
			λ = 1°40'W
		02.00		Starboard diesel overhauled and ready.
		04.00	φ = 2°58'N
			λ = 2°02'W
		06.30		Test dive.
		08.00	φ = 2°46'N	Port diesel switched off for overhaul.
			λ = 2°26'W
			SbyW 3, Sea 2-3, cloudy, Vis. good
		12.00	φ = 2°34'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 158 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 2°48'W	To rest the gyro compass steered by the magnetic compass.
		16.00	φ = 2°10'N
			λ = 3°04'W
		20.00	φ = 1°58'N
			λ = 3°28'W
			S 3, Sea 3, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		20.30		Starboard [typo - port was meant] diesel again ready.

	Sun and Moon Data 31.05.41
	Sun and Moon Data 01.06.41

	- 14 -
		02.06.41
		00.00	φ = 1°45'N
			λ = 3°54'W
		04.00	φ = 1°32'N
			λ = 4°16'W
		06.30		Test dive.
		08.00	φ = 1°18'N
			λ = 4°40'W
			SSE 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. changing, slight swell
		12.00	φ = 1°04'N	Day's run:  Surfaced 188 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
			λ = 5°05'W
		16.00	φ = 1°00'N
			λ = 5°56'W
		20.00	φ = 1°20'N
			λ = 6°28'W
			SSE 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good
		03.06.41
		00.00	FF 2294
		04.00	FF 2246
		08.00	FF 2134	Test dive.
			SSE 1-2, Sea 1, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EU 9778	Day's run:  Surfaced 224 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
				Gyro compass switched on.
		16.00	EU 7962
		20.00	EU 7695
			SSE 1, Sea 1, cloudy, Vis. good
		04.06.41
		00.00	EU 7638
		04.00	EU 7392
		08.00	EU 7373	Test dive.
			WSW 2-3, Sea 2, Vis. medium, mostly overcast
		11.02		Steamer in sight bearing 165°T, distance 10 nm, on course 300°.
		11.43		Positioned ahead of the ship.  Initiated submerged attack.
		12.00	EU 7256	Day's run:  Surfaced 204 nm,  Submerged 4 nm.
		12.30		Near the attack determined:  Spanish steamer "DOMINE".
		13.20		Worse luck!  Ran off submerged, surfaced, continued transit.

	Sun and Moon Data 02.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 03.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 04.06.41

	- 15 -
		continued
		04.06.41
		16.00	EU 7242
		20.00	EU 7127
			Wind shifting to the west 2-3, Sea 2, changing cloudiness with rain showers, Vis. changing
		23.11		Radio Message 2211/4:  B.d.U. from Metzler:
				Takoradi 27 May one [mine] between, three off the guarded moles.  Unnoticed, very heavy traffic.
				Lagos 29 May five [mines] in, three off the entrance.  Mole and net barrage guarded, was unnoticed.
				Accra roadstead "SANGARA" sunk, coast well darkened.  No Officer-Only encryption.  4 Etos, request supply 14 June, ET 93.
		05.06.41
		00.00	EU 7128
		04.00	ET 9332
		08.00	ET 9321	Test dive.
			SSW 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. bad, tropical rain
		11.10		Radio Message 1028/5/173:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				Well done.  Apparently off Lagos already a success.
		12.00	ET 6898	Day's run:  Surfaced 172 nm,  Submerged 2 nm.
		16.00	ET 6884
		20.00	ET 6792
			NW Wind 1-2, Sea 1-2, changing cloudiness, Vis. quickly changing, rain showers
		06.06.41
		00.00	ET 6747
		04.00	ET 5929
		07.30		Test dive.  Propeller sounds bearing 280°T, turned towards.  Recognized a U-boat target angle 80°, range = 1000 meters.  Attack initiated, with the approach recognized as UA.
		08.00	ET 5675
			W 1, Sea 1, Vis. good
		08.10		Surfaced.  Recognition signals and greetings exchanged with UA.
		08.30		Transit continued.

	Sun and Moon Data 04.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 05.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 06.06.41

	- 16 -
		continued
		06.06.41
		12.00	ET 5599	Day's run:  Surfaced 164 nm,  Submerged 2 nm.
				Linkage beneath the overdeck maintained.
		16.00	ET 5595
		20.00	ET 5555
			W 1-2, Sea 1, Vis. good, moonshine, partial overcast
		07.06.41
		00.00	ET 5522
		04.00	ET 5258
		08.00	ET 5527	Test dive.
			WNW 2, Sea 1, sea spout, Vis. medium to bad
		12.00	ET 5165	Day's run:  Surfaced 149 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
				Radio Message 1002/7/121:  To Southern boats:
				Supply within next 10 days called into question etc. . . .
		16.00	ET 5125	I decide to wait here for the time being at the most economic speed.
		20.00	ET 2787	Gyro compass out of service!
			WNW 1, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. good	Radio Message 0830/7/119:  from UA:  Concerning sighting of a convoy first held in ET 6579 at 14.00 hours.
				Operating on the convoy is not possible due to fuel situation.
		08.06.41
		00.00	ET 2776
		04.00	ET 2775
		08.00	ET 2774	Test dive.
			NW 1, Sea 1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	ET 1996	Day's run:  Surfaced 69 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ET 1994
		20.00	ET 1986
			NW 1, Sea 1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		09.06.41
		00.00	ET 1988
		04.00	ET 1987
		08.00	ET 1978	Test dive.
			WbyN 1, Sea 0-1, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	ET 4311	Day's run:  Surfaced 47 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.

	Sun and Moon Data 06.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 07.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 08.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 09.06.41

	- 17 -
		continued
		09.06.41
		16.00	ET 4232
		20.00	ET 4223
			NNW 0-1, Sea 0, rather overcast, Vis. good, moonshine
		10.06.41
		00.00	ET 4221
		04.00	ET 4221
		08.00	ET 4212	Test dive.
			NNE 0, Sea 0, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	ET 4133	Day's run:  Surfaced 59 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	ET 1766
		20.00	ET 1736
			NNW 1, Sea 0-1, overcast, Vis. good
		11.06.41
		00.00	ET 1491
		04.00	ET 1574
		08.00	ET 1547	Gyro compass switched on again.
			W 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. bad to medium
		08.44		A steamer bearing 290°T, distance 2 nm, on course 100°.
		08.45	ET 1547	Crash dive for steamer.  The boat should have been seen by the steamer. It was out up to waterline; the lookout must have been asleep.
				Steamer zig zags very heavily and runs off on a northerly course.  The forward mast was very high with a crow's nest, the aft clipped off at the height of the smokestack!
				Attempt submerged attack, however, range is too great.
		11.00		Surfaced.  Pursued.
		11.03		Received U-boat Warning off Freetown.  Steamer lost from sight in a rain squall.
		12.00	ET 1557	Day's run:  Surfaced 90 nm,  Submerged 4 nm.
				I believe that the U-boat Warning definitely was due to "U-69".
		13.00		Starboard diesel out of service, a cylinder is running hot.
		14.00		Search at high speed broken off due to fuel situation and failed diesel.  Continue to run at low speed to the north.
		16.00	ET 1519
		20.00	ET 1248	Starboard diesel again ready.

	Sun and Moon Data 09.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 10.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 11.06.41

	- 18 -
		continued
		11.06.41
		17.26	WbyN 1, Sea 0-1, overcast, Vis. good	Radio Message 1652/11/138:  From B.d.U. to U-69:
				Sinking "EXMOOR" was not permissible in accordance with Standing Naval War Orders.  Immediately report surrounding circumstances, particularly, if recognized as a German U-boat.
		22.26		Radio Message 2107/11:  To B.d.U.:
				Stopped because of conspicuous deck cargo.  Examined because name changed to "ROBIN MOOR".  Cargo banned goods.  Sunk according to Prize Regulations.  No Naval Orders aboard.  Recognized.  "U-69".
		12.06.41
		00.00	ET 1212
		04.00	EK 7845
		08.00	EK 7548
			NW 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good	Test dive.
		11.24		Radio Message 1002/12/163:  From B.d.U. to "U-69":
				18 June is intended as date for the designated measures in Operations Order Paragraph IV b 5, for this purpose Paragraph VIb White, Paragraph V e remain in effect.  Prepare accordingly.   If measures in accordance with Paragraph V e are necessary, send short signal concerning fuel inventory as soon as possible.  If measures from "White" are feasible, send short signal as to location.
		12.00	EK 7427	Day's run:  Surfaced 167 nm,  Submerged 0.5 nm.
		16.00	EK 7712	Gyro compass again out of service.
		20.00	EJ 9926
			NbyW 3, Sea 2-3, cloudy, Vis. good
		23.06		Radio Message 2153/12:  To B.d.U.:
				EJ 99, Paragraph V e of no significance.  Accept IV e.  Table "Fluß" on supply ship.  Going to "White".  U-69.
		23.50		Test dive.
		13.06.41
		00.00	EJ 9836
		01.21		Radio Message 0047/13/178:  U-69 from B.d.U.:
				Paragraph IV e is correct.
		04.00	EJ 9824
		08.00	EJ 9739
			NbyW 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EJ 9727	Day's run:  Surfaced 177 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.

	Sun and Moon Data 11.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 12.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 13.06.41

	- 19 -
		continued
		13.06.41
		16.00	EJ 8939
		20.00	EJ 8951
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. good
		23.31		Radio Message 2126/13/102:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				Answer the following questions concerning "ROBIN MOOR" at the next Radio Message opportunity:
				1)  Which flag did the ship fly?
				2)  Special neutrality markings?
				3)  Where you under the impression that the flag was false?  Is that why?
				4)  When was nationality recognized as American?
		23.41		Radio Message 2142/13/103:  From B.d.U.:
				U-69 prepare so that the boat is ready on the 18th of June at "White" for intended measure.  "UA" has the same orders.
		14.06.41
		00.00	EJ 8865
		04.00	EJ 8845
		08.00	EJ 8758
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2-3, mostly overcast, Vis. good, moonshine
		12.00	EJ 7968	Day's run:  Surfaced 195 nm,  Submerged 0 nm.
		12.34		Radio Message 1215/14/114:  From B.d.U. to U-69:
				Execution begins 08.00 hours and 16.00 hours MGZ.  Other request on 18 June by "UA".
		16.00	EJ 7972	Individual drill.  Crash dives, depth and damage control training.
		20.00	EJ 7881
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2-3, mostly cloudy, Vis. good
		15.06.41
		00.00	EJ 7795	A white light in sight bearing 250°T, distance 7 nm.  Steamer on course 30°.  Steamed and determined:  Spanish steamer "MONTE TEIDE" Bilbao, name read on the stern, neutral markings illuminated.  Not detained.
		01.00		Continued transit.
		04.00	EJ 7746
		08.00	EH 9938	Test dive.
			NNE 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 9913	Day's run:  Surfaced 203 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		12.47		Radio Message 1213/15/140:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				Officer Only:  Despite Operations Order and report on 04.06.41 that no information for Officer Only encryption on board.
		16.00	EH 9581

	Sun and Moon Data 13.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 14.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.06.41

	- 20 -
		continued
		15.06.41
		20.00	EH 9466
			NbyE 3, Sea 3, cloudy, Vis. good
		20.38		Radio Message 2015/15/152:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				On 18 June do not be at Point "white", but 81°T 16 nm from it. Everything else as ordered up to now.
		16.06.41
		00.00	EH 9443
			Moonshine
		04.00	EH 8661
		08.00	EH 8645
			NNE 2-3, Sea 2-3, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 8556	Day's run:  Surfaced 175 nm,  Submerged 0 nm.
		16.00	EH 8544	Gyro compass again out of service.
		20.00	EH 8468
			NNE 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good
		17.06.41
		00.00	EH 8456
		04.00	EH 8446
		08.00	EH 8444
			NE 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 7665	Day's run:  Surfaced 92 nm,  Submerged 0 nm.
		16.00	EH 7656
		20.00	EH 7676
			NNE 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. medium to good
		18.06.41
		00.00	EH 7941
		04.00	EH 7895
		08.00	ER 1253
		10.06	ER 1255	Recognition signals exchanged with "UA".
		10.25	NNE 2-3, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. good	Recognition signals exchanged with "U-103" and "U-107".
				Got from "UA" complete Officer Only Radio Messages and the encryption data for July and August.
		12.00	ER 1255	Day's run:  Surfaced 140 nm,  Submerged 0 nm.
				Nothing seen of the supply ship.
		16.00	ER 1294
		18.00		700 liters of lubricating oil delivered to "U-103".
				From "U-107" obtained some provisions (Bread).

	Sun and Moon Data 15.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 16.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 17.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 18.06.41

	- 21 -
		continued
		18.06.41
		20.00	ER 1255	Nothing seen.
			NNE 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. good
		22.00		"U-103" return transit.
		19.06.41
		00.00	ER 1285
		04.00	ER 1282	Together with "UA" and "U-107".
		08.00	ER 1258
		12.00	ER 1254	Day's run:  Surfaced 20 nm,  Submerged 0 nm.
			NE 4, Sea 3-4, quite overcast, Vis. good	Still nothing seen.
		15.15		Masch.Ob.Gfr. Stieberetz delivered to "U-107" on medical recommendation due to middle ear infection.
		16.00	ER 1255	"U-107" has begun return transit.
		19.15		Test dive.
		19.30		"UA" sets off on patrol.
		20.00	ER 1253
			NbyE 4, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good	No supply ship in sight!
				Believe that waiting longer is hopeless.  Provisions and fuel require return transit.  "Culebra" [German supply ship CORRIENTES interned at Las Palmas Canary Islands]
		20.06.41
		00.00	ER 1233
		04.00	EH 7981
		08.00	EH 7961	Test dive.
			NE 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 7933	Day's run:  Surfaced 140 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		14.13		Radio Message 1246/20/177 B.d.U. to Southern boats:
				Attack areas - U-69 after completion confirm by Short Signal that Officer Only encryption is on board.
				Because there was no supply Radio Message is obsolete, continue transit.
		16.00	EH 8449
		20.00	EH 8428
			NE 4-5, Sea 4, clear weather, Vis. good
		21.06.41
		00.00	EH 8198
		04.00	EH 8248

	Sun and Moon Data 18.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 19.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 20.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 21.06.41

	- 22 -
		continued
		21.06.41
		08.00	EH 8229
			NE 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 5896	Day's run:  Surfaced 158 nm,  Submerged 0.5 nm.
		16.00	EH 5957
		20.00	EH 5937
			NE 4-5, Sea 4, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		22.00		Sent Short Signal "Yes" to Radio Message 1246/20/177.  Acknowledged.
		22.06.41
		00.00	EH 6478	"Perseus" in effect.
		04.00	EH 6459	Beginning of the war with Russia.
		08.00	EH 6439
			NE 5, Sea 4-5, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	EH 6279	Day's run:  Surfaced 161 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		14.40		Radio Message 1344/22/131:  Southern boats from B.d.U.:
				U-69 supply "Culebra" 30 June intended.  Report three days prior.  Take over no more than necessary for return transit to Lorient.
		16.00	EH 6267
		20.00	EH 6317
			NE 5, Sea 4-5, overcast, Vis. good
		23.35		Radio Message 2117/22:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				Procedure:  Radio Message 2126/13/102:
				To 1)  and 2) due to darkness not recognized.
				To 3)  Suspected U-boat trap until sinking due to behavior.
				To 4)  Because of no resistance to the sinking according to papers.
				21 cbm, still 4 torpedoes, square EH 63.
		23.06.41
		00.00	EH 3987
		04.00	EH 3967
		08.00	EJ 1717
			NE 5-6, Sea 5, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	EJ 1721	Day's run:  Surfaced 151 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	EJ 1492
		19.40		Test dive.
		20.00	EJ 1592

	Sun and Moon Data 21.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 22.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 23.06.41

	- 23 -
		continued
		23.06.41
		20.00	EJ 1542
			NE 5-6, Sea 5, overcast, Vis. medium to good
		24.06.41
		00.00	EJ 1522
		04.00	EJ 1295
		08.00	EJ 1345
			NE 4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	EJ 1325	Day's run:  Surfaced 153 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
				Radio Message 1545/24/195:  Weapons use against Russian ships authorized.
		16.00	DT 7992
		18.00		Test dive.
		20.00	DT 8746
			NE 4, Sea 3-4, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		25.06.41
		00.00	DT 8731
		04.00	DT 8571
		08.00	DT 8552
			NE 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good
		12.00	DT 8531	Day's run:  Surfaced 147 nm,  Submerged 3 nm.
		16.00	DT 8371
		18.25		Crash dive - test dive.
		20.00	DT 8352
			NE 4, Sea 3-4, not overcast, Vis. good
		26.06.41
		00.00	DT 8333
		04.00	DT 6773	Matr.Ob.Gfr. Palmga O 2902/39 S falls ill with appendicitis.
		08.00	DT 6761
			NE 2, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, Vis. good
		12.00	DT 6578	Day's run:  Surfaced 167 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DT 6557	A smoke trail in sight bearing 70°T, 20 nm away.
				I decide to operate in spite of the lack of fuel (10 cbm).
		17.30		Steamer zig zags heavily around 0°, occasionally two widely spaced mastheads in sight.

	Sun and Moon Data 23.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 24.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 25.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 26.06.41

	- 24 -
		continued
		26.06.41
		20.00	DT 6275	Holding contact, accepting temporary loss of sight in order to maintain contact at most economical speed.
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, lightly cloudy, Vis. good
		20.45		2 other smoke trails suggest a total of 3 steamers or escorts driving together.
		23.15		During twilight smoke trail and masts pass out of sight.  Advance to the east towards.
		23.40		2 shadows ahead in sight.
				Hold contact on northerly course and maneuver ahead.
		27.06.41
		00.00	DT 6229
		00.20		Start the attack on nearest steamer.
				Recognize during the approach that I am in a convoy.  The attacked steamer is positioned far in front.
				Convoy must have driven with very faint smoke.  Break off the attack, run ahead to get an over view of the convoy.
		00.25		Radio Message 0105/27/188:  To B.d.U.:
				Convoy square DT 6220, 0°, 10 knots, 8 cbm.  U-69
				Convoy consists of about 30 ships in broad formation, inside the columns are closely spaced.
		01.17		Attack on the foremost line ahead.
				2 Etos, depth 4 meters, on 2 overlapping steamers.
				1st shot:  bow right, target angle 70°, target speed = 10 knots, range = 2000 meters, 5-6000 GRT.
		01.19		2nd shot:  bow right, target angle 70°, target speed = 10 knots, range = 800 meters, 6-7000 GRT.
				At the second shot port abeam escort with sharp angle and high speed
				With "AK" escort out maneuvered.  Recognize escort as a corvette.
				After 2 minutes 19 seconds = 2150 meters a detonation was heard in the boat!
				Evidently both torpedoes have run past ahead; in so doing, the 2nd torpedo hit the first attacked target which was covered at the moment the detonation was heard.
				4 star shells were fired from a steamer.
		01.49		Attack on a remarkably large steamer in the 3rd line ahead, standing out to starboard.
				Ato, depth 5, bow right, target angle 90°, target speed 7 knots.

	Sun and Moon Data 26.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 27.06.41

	- 25 -
		continued
		27.06.41
				Running time:  40 seconds = 825 meters.
				Hit center:
				Steamer breaks through in the center and sinks in a few seconds:  large ship with 2 masts and 6 pole masts, 6-7 hatches, armed.  Between smokestack and bridge a cargo hatch.  2 boats on each side.  Type similar to "GLENAPP" = 9500 GRT.
				Steamers shoot star shells again, well placed.
		02.37		Attack on a large steamer in the 2nd line ahead.
				Eto, depth 4 meters, bow right, target angle 100°, target speed 7 knots, running time 42 seconds = 650 meters.
				Hit center.
				Steamer stands after the hit in flames and sinks after 21 minutes:
				Modern ship, cruiser stern, remarkably strong heavy lift derrick on the forward mast. 2 masts and 2 pole masts, armed, astern 2 cannons.  6 hatches, 2 boats, details were well made out in the fire glow.
				Type "CLAN ROBERTSON" = 8000 GRT.
				After this shot heavy onset of star shells shot.
				My fuel situation has become dubious by long contact keeping and maneuvering ahead, must break off further contact keeping.
		03.23		Radio Message 0301/27/192:  To B.d.U. from U-69:
				From convoy 2 steamers, totaling 30724 GRT, without primary task, out of torpedoes.
				Convoy 7 knots DT 3971.
				Radio Message 0331/27:  To B.d.U. from U-69:
				Request supply 30 June 01.00 hours.  Have appendicitis patient, discharge required.
		03.41		Radio Message 0239/27/193:  From B.d.U. to U-69:
				Insofar as fuel situation allows, hold contact and report for U-123.  Request "Culebra" 3 days prior.
		04.00	DT 3978
		06.00		Test dive.
		08.00	DT 3985
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good
		10.12		Radio Message 0955/27/199:  Metzler from Hardegen:
				Question contact.  Position DT 3671.
		11.09		Short signal:  "No" - understood.
		12.00	DT 3966	Day's run:  Surfaced 219 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DU 1743	Boat is mentioned in the Wehrmacht Report.
		18.30		Radio Message 1056/27/103:  B.d.U. to all:
				Error of the last days: Paragraph 3; U-69 Radio Message 0301/27 if further contact was not possible because of fuel, must at least report the last position and course of the convoy.

Sun and Moon Data 27.06.41

	- 26 -
		continued
		27.06.41
		20.00	DU 1731	Radio Message 1801/27/119:  B.d.U. from Metzler:
			NE 2, Sea 1, cloudless, Vis. very good	1.)  To success report a third ship probable after shot forced off by "corvette".
				2.)  To Radio Message 1056/103 Paragraph 3, in Radio Message 0301/192 reported last position with exact speed.  As reported previously, further contact keeping not possible due to fuel situation.
		28.06.41
		00.00	DU 1571	Radio Message 2255/27/127:  B.d.U. to U-69.
		00.03		Radio Message 1801 was unnecessary.
		00.10		Radio Message 2122/27/126:  B.d.U. to U-69.
				1.)  Supply from 29 to 30 June.
		04.00	DU 1552	2.)  Discharge appendicitis patient to supply ship.  There is a Doctor there.  Treatment only on board.  Ashore prohibited. Obey the instructions of the representative of Military Attaché precisely.
		08.00	DU 1533
			NbyE 1, Sea 0-1, cloudy, Vis. good
				[Matr.Ob.Gfr.] Palmga instructed in detail, obliged the crew in writing concerning the secrecy of the whole undertaking.
		12.00	DU 1382	Day's run:  Surfaced 185 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DU 2115
		16.15+		Test dive and depth control training.
		20.00	DH 8989
			N 1, Sea 0-1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		29.06.41
		00.00	DH 8992
		04.00	DH 9747
		08.00	DH 9745
			NEbyN 2, See 1-2, overcast, Vis. good
		11.55		Crash dive - test dive.
		12.00	DH 9740	Day's run:  Surfaced 103 nm,  Submerged 2 nm.
		16.00	DH 9723
		20.00	DH 9495
			NNE 1, Sea 0-1, cloudy, Vis. good
		30.06.41
		00.00	DH 9547	Positioned off "Las Palmas".
				Entrance is delayed because of an incoming steamer.  Off the entrance two badly-illuminated small sailboats cruise.

	Sun and Moon Data 27.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 28.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 29.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 30.06.41

	- 27 -
		continued
		30.06.41
		01.48		Made fast to the starboard side of "CORRIETES"
				Entering brought no difficulties.  Fuel and provisions completed.
				Outfitting of the ship is very good and is impeccably prepared. Delivery of the sick person according to the decision of the doctor not necessary.
		05.30		Departed.  Transit continued.
		08.00	DH 9194	Test dive.
			NNE 0-1, Sea 0, lightly cloudy, Vis. good	Short Signal:  Supply completed.  - Understood.
		12.00	DH 9129	Day's run:  Surfaced 157 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DH 6784
		20.00	DH 6719
			NNW 1, Sea 1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		22.00		Short signal:  Position square DH 56. - Understood.
		01.07.41
		00.00	DH 5699
		04.00	DH 5658	Port diesel clutch out of service, cannot be engaged.
		08.00	DH 5615	Starboard diesel temporarily out of service because of intake valve damage
			NbyW 1, Sea 0-1, lightly cloudy, Vis. good
		12.00	DH 5259	Crash dive - test dive.
				Day's run:  Surfaced 194 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DH 5245	I set off to the NW to repair the diesels.
		20.00	DH 5131
			NNE 1, Sea 0-1, light long swell, few clouds, Vis. very good
		02.07.41
		00.00	DH 2789
		04.00	DH 2785
		08.00	DH 2781	Crash dive - test dive.
			E 1, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. good	Both diesels again ready.
		12.00	DH 2748	Day's run:  Surfaced 99 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	DH 1939
		17.12		Smoke trail sighted bearing 90°T.
		18.30		Mastheads, one steering about 160° - very heavy zig zags.
				Holding contact and I decide to attack the steamer at darkness with artillery.

	Sun and Moon Data 30.06.41
	Sun and Moon Data 01.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 02.07.41

	- 28 -
		continued
		02.07.41
		20.00	DH 2758
			NE 1, Sea 1, partial overcast, Vis. good
		23.10		I maneuver ahead of the steamer.
		03.07.41
		00.00	DH 5161
			Moonshine
		00.37		Steamer abeam to starboard at 4000 meters.  Medium steamer of 5000 GRT.  A stern cannon is recognized.
		01.10		Positioned ahead of the steamer.  Due to the bright moonlight and cloudless sky I decide to wait for moonset.
		04.00	DH 5541	Maneuver to attack.
		04.36	DH 5544	Fire opened to port at 800 meters.  The first 3 shots of 8.8 cm into the bridge and superstructure.  The defensive fire of the steamer (about 3.7 cm) was suppressed by prompt fire of the M.G. C 30 and MG/34.  Further 10 shots 8.8 cm in the superstructure, of these 2 in the stern.  During the firing the steamer turned away at high speed to the east.
				During this run, tuning was observed on the 600-meter wave, stoped suddenly.  Turned towards.
				Next surprise fire on the other side of the enemy, who turned towards while shooting at me.
		04.52		After several hits in the engine and waterline the enemy stops and burns.  Observe lights on the overdeck.  Crew abandons the ship.  Firing pause.
				In several approaches on the stopped enemy numerous hits are made in the waterline and superstructure.  Fires at many places in the ship, settles deeper and shows a list.  Ship is completely torn into pieces in superstructure.  Recognize in the searchlight 4 canons (8.8 cm - 10.5 cm), 2 heavy anti-aircraft machine guns (about 3.7 cm) and 4 light anti-aircraft machine guns, the later on special anti-aircraft platforms.  Mechanism for protecting the bow.  Steamer painted grey, name painted over.
		06.50		Stern flooded, steamer settles slowly deeper and burns heavily.
				Because complete sinking of the steamboat is certain, I run off to the west when it gets light.
				Munitions consumption:
				102 rounds 8.8 cm explosive shells,
				34       "       8.8 cm incendiary shells,
				220     "      M.G. C/30 (2 cm),
				400     "         "        /34 (8 mm).

	Sun and Moon Data 02.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 03.07.41

	- 29 -
		continued
		03.07.41
		08.00	DH 5461
			NbyE 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. good
		09.00		Test dive and proceeded submerged.
		12.00	DH 5414	Day's run:  Surfaced 240 nm,  Submerged 10 nm.
		13.00		Surfaced, course "home".
		16.00	DH 4363
		20.00	DH 1996
			NbyE 2-3, Sea 2, overcast, light rain, Vis. medium
		21.00		Radio Message 2056/3/113"  B.d.U. from Metzler:
				DH 55 ship 5000 GRT, 4 cannons, 6 anti-aircraft weapons sunk with artillery.  DH 10.
		04.07.41
		00.00	DH 1936
		04.00	DH 1666
		08.00	DH 1368
			NNE 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. medium
		12.00	CF 8898	Day's run:  Surfaced 245 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	CF 8865
		17.50		Radio Message 1714/4/135:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				Return harbor for U-69 is Nazaire.
		20.00	CF 8676
			NEbyN 4-5, Sea 4, mostly overcast, Vis. good
		05.07.41
		00.00	CF 8832	Gyro compass out of service.
		04.00	CF 9122
		08.00	CF 6811	Crash dive - test dive.
			NE 3, Sea 3, overcast, intermittent haze and fog, Vis. bad
		12.00	CF 6529	Day's run:  Surfaced 304 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	CF 6371
		20.00	CF 3988
			NEbyN 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. bad

	Sun and Moon Data 03.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 04.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 05.07.41

	- 30 -
		06.07.41
		00.00	CG 1478
		04.00	CG 1432
		08.00	CG 1225	Test dive.
			NE 2, Sea 1, overcast, hazy, Vis. bad
		12.00	BE 9861	Day's run:  Surfaced 304 nm,  Submerged 1 nm.
		16.00	BE 9689
		18.07		Short Signal:  Position 36 hours off return harbor - Understood.
		20.00	BF 7453
			NE 1, Sea 0-1, overcast, occasional fog, Vis. bad
		07.07.41
		00.00	BF 7298
		02.00	Moonshine, E 1-2, Sea 1, clear, Vis. good	Avoided 5 illuminated fishermen.  One vessel was unlighted, however, was recognized as a fishing rod fisherman.
		02.28		Radio Message 2154/6/199:  B.d.U. to U-69:
				On 8 June 15.30 be at Point N 1 for convoy intake.
		04.00	BF 7363
		07.00		Dived to proceed submerged.
		08.00	BF 8137
		12.00	BF 8139	Day's run:  Surfaced 260 nm,  Submerged 10 nm.
		16.00	BF 8214
		20.00	BF 8212	Surfaced.  Continued on the surface.
		08.07.41
		00.00	BF 5845
		04.00	BF 6477
		06.00		Avoided several fishermen.
		07.37		Radio Message 0730/8/135:  B.d.U. from U-69:
				At N 1 put the boat on the bottom.
		08.00	BF 6463
			EbyN 0-1, Sea 0, hazy, Vis. medium
		10.00		At N 1 put the boat on the bottom.  Boat bumps very heavily.  Raised the boat from the bottom and went

	Sun and Moon Data 06.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 07.07.41
	Sun and Moon Data 08.07.41

	- 31 -
		continued
		08.07.41
				back and forth in position submerged.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 184 nm,  Submerged 16 nm.
				Remaining distance 20 nm.
				Surfaced.
				Taken under escort.
				Made fast Nazaire.
				Duration of the war patrol = 65 days
				Distance traveled              = 11867 nm.
				Success:
				Mining of 2 harbors.
				5 ships with torpedoes
				1 ship sunk with artillery
				Total:  36134 GRT and 1 ship probable.

Sun and Moon Data 08.07.41

	Enclosures to U-69's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Report	Report on the sinking of the American steamer ROBIN MOOR
Torpedo	Torpedo firing reports
Radio	Collection of radio messages from U-69 and received from other boats
Chart	Track Chart of entire patrol                                             5 May - 8 July 1941
MineA	Mining report and sketch of Takordi
MineB	Mining report and sketch of Lagos
SketchA	Combat sketch of attack on TEWKESBURY               21 May 1941
SketchB	Combat sketches of attack on convoy                          27 June 1941
SketchB	Combat sketch of attack on British freighter 3 July 1941 with drawing of armament

	Comments of the B.d.U.
	Very well executed war patrol.  The execution of the mining task and the surprise attack on the auxiliary cruiser illustrate an excellent performance the Kommandant and his crew can be proud of.  The success of the mine tasks became obvious very quickly by blockage of both harbors.  The sinking of the steamer ROBIN MOOR did not correspond to the orders given.
		For the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
		The Chief of the Operations Department.

 

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