This record was kindly provided by the generous assistance of Tony Cooper

 
 

   
                                                                                                                 COPY No.
     
 
This book is invariably to be kept locked up when not in use and is not to be taken outside the ship or establishment for which it it issued without the express permission of the Commanding Officer
 
     
     
     
 
C.B.  04051 (70)
 
   
     
 
 
 
"U 752"
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interrogation of Survivors
 
 
 
     
     
     
     
 
 
     
 
July, 1943
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
     
 
This Report is not to be considered accurate in all respects, having been prepared before complete information was available.  It is therefore not to be taken as historically correct.
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

 

 
 

   
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
     
     
     
     
 
SECRET
 
     
          This book is the property of His Majesty's Government.  
     
          It is intended for the use of the recipients only, and for communication to such Officers under them (not below the rank of Commissioned Officer) who may require to be acquainted with its contents in the course of their duties.  The Officers exercising this power will be held responsible that such information is imparted with due care and caution.  
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

 

 

     
 
SECRET
 
     
 
Attention is called to the penalties attaching to any infraction of the
 
Official Secrets Acts.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
C.B.  04051 (70)
 
     
     
 
 
 
"U 752"
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interrogation of Survivors
 
 
 
     
     
     
     
 
 
     
 
July, 1943
 
 
 
 
 
     
     
     
 
     
     
     
     
  NAVAL INTELLIGENCE DIVISION,  
  ADMIRALTY, S.W.1.  
     
  N.I.D. 04020/43.  
     
     
     

 

     
     
 
   
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
          The following report is compiled from information derived from prisoners of war.  The statements made cannot always be verified; they should therefore not be accepted as facts unless they are definitely stated to be confirmed by information from other sources.  
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

 

     
     
 
iii
 
     
 
CONTENTS
 
_______
 
 
 
       
Page
I.
  Introductory Remarks  
1
           
II.
  Details of "U 752"  
1
    (i)  Displacement;  (ii)  Type;  (iii)  Building Yard;  (iv)  Armament;  (v)  Diesels;  (vi)  Superchargers; (vii) Electric Motors;  (viii)  Switchboard;  (ix)  Batteries;  (x)  Radar;  (xi)  G.S.R.;  (xii)  S.B.T.;  (xiii)  Distilling Plant  (xiv)  Compressors;  (xv)  E/S;  (xvi)  Bilge Pumps;  (xvii)  Diving Times;  (xviii)  Patron Town;  (xix)  C/T Badge.  
       
III.
  Eighth and Last Patrol of "U 752"  
3
      (i)  Departure from St. Nazaire;  (ii)  Attack on Convoy;  (iii)  Pursuit of an Independent;  (iv)  "U-752" joins a Patrol Sweep;  (v)  "U 752" ordered to intercept a Convoy;  she refuels;  (vi)  "U 752" sights the Convoy.    
       
IV.
  Sinking of "U 752"  
4
       
V.
  General Remarks  
5
    (i)  1,200-ton U-boats, (a) Seaplane Carriers; (b) Details of 1,200-ton U-Boats;  (ii)  "Curly" torpedoes;  (iii)  Supply U-Boats;  (iv)  1600-ton Minelaying U-Boats;  (v)  Additional Armament of 740 and 500-ton U-boats;  (vi)  New U-boat Construction;  (vii)  Description of "U.D.3";  (viii)  A/A Armament in U-Boats;  (ix)  Bridge Watch Routine;  (x)  Use of G.S.R.; (xi) Boilers and Turbines.  
       
       
VI.
  Surface Ships  
7
    "Tirpitz," "Scharnhorst" and "Gneisenau".  
       
VII.
  Bases, Training Establishments, etc.  
7
    A. France    
      (i)  Brest;  (ii)  Bordeaux;  (iii)  Cherbourg;  (iv)  Wimille;  (v)  Sideville.    
    B. Channel Islands    
      (i)  Alderney; (ii)  Guernsey.    
    C. Germany    
      Bad Heilbronn.  
           
VIII.
  Morale  
8
           
Appendix "A"  Early History and Working-up of "U 752"  
9
         
Appendix "B"  Previous Patrol of "U 752"  
9
      (i)  First Patrol;  (ii)  Second Patrol;  (iii)  Third Patrol;  (iv)  Fourth Patrol;  (iv)  Fifth Patrol;  (vi)  Sixth Patrol;  (vii)  Seventh Patrol.  
         
Appendix "C"  Ship's Company of "U 752"  
11
      (i)  Complement;  (ii)  Captain;  (iii)  First Lieutenant;  (iv)  Second Lieutenant;  (v)  Engineer Officer;  (vi)  Midshipmen;  (vii) General.  
         
Appendix "D"  Nominal Roll of "U 732"  
12
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  (C49676)                                                                                                                             B2  
     
     

 

 
 
 
1
 
 
 
                    REPORT ON INTERROGATION OF SURVIVORS FROM "U 752," A 500-TON
                    U-BOAT,SUNK 23rd MAY, 1943, BY AIRCRAFT FROM H.M.S. "ARCHER"
______________________
     
 
I.  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS
 
     
          "U 752," a 500-ton U-Boat commanded by Kapitänleutnant Ernst Schroeter, was sunk at 1020 G.M.T. on 23rd May, 1943, in approximate position 51° 48' N., 29° 32' W. by aircraft from H.M.S. "Archer," escorting Convoy H.X.239.  
          She was reputed to be the crack U-Boat of the 3rd Flotilla based at La Pallice.  Her war career lasted almost two years to the day, she being commissioned with Kapitänleutnant Schroeter in command, on 24th May, 1942.  
          She was on her eighth operational patrol when sunk and claimed some 75,000 tons of shipping as well as three escort vessels.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  This figure is an exaggeration.  The claim of the destruction by gunfire of "the 9.500-ton passenger ship "Reinholt" off the U.S.A. coast in April, 1943, is known to be false.  This vessel, of 4,799 tons only, later arrived in port with only slight damage to superstructure.)  
          Kapitänleutnant Schroeter did not survive.  It was said that he was a most efficient officer, with a reputation as a fine marksman, and that he would shortly have been awarded the Knights Insignia of the Iron Cross.  
          The ship's company, totaling 46, were well drilled and proud of their successes.  They had a complete faith and confidence in their officers.  It was not, therefore, surprising to find that the 13 survivors were more security-conscious than other U-boat prisoners recently captured.  They admitted that they had undergone intensive security instruction each time they left their base, and is was said that the one surviving officer, Leutnant zur See Schauffel, when swimming among his men in the water, had threatened them with the "hangman" should they divulge any information to interrogators.  
          Features of this report are:  
                  (1)  Further details of the new types of torpedoes;  
                  (2)  Details of 1,200 ton U-Boats, now alleged to be carrying aeroplanes.  
          German Naval ranks equivalents used in this report are:  
 
Kapitän sur See Captain.
Fregattenkapitän Commander (Senior Grade)
Korvettenkapitän Commander (Junior Grade).
Kapitänleutnant Lieutenant-Commander
Oberleutnant zur See Lieutenant.
Leutnant zur See Sub-Lieutenant.
Oberfähnrich zur See Midshipman (Senior Grade).
Fähnrich zur See Midshipman (Junior Grade).
 
          The suffix (Ing.) after an officer's rank signifies (E) Engineer, e.g., Kapitänleutnant (Ing.) is translated as Lieutenant-Commander (E).  The suffix "d.R." signifies "der Reserve" and is translated as Reserve Officer.  
     
 
II.  DETAILS OF "U 752"
 
     
 
(i)
  Displacement  
    500 tons.  
(ii)
  Type  
    VII C.  
(iii)
  Building Yard  
    Kriegsmarinewerft, Wilhalmshaven.
(iv)
  Armament  
  Guns One 88 mm. (3.46 in) forward.
      One 20 mm. and four M.G.'s on bridge.
    Torpedoes A maximum of 14 carried: on last patrol four electric, 10 air.  Eight of the 10 air torpedoes were fitted with "curly" gear."  Stowage on last patrol:  Four in tubes forward; four in bilges forward; two on floor plates in bow compartment; one in stern tube; one under floor plates aft; two air torpedoes in upper deck containers.
    Torpedo Tubes Four forward; one aft.
    Torpedo Pistols G.7.H., only, carried.
 
     
  (C49676)                                                                                                                              B3  
     
     

 

     
     
 
2
     
 
  Torpedo Warheads A captured document gives the numbers of warheads of torpedoes carried in the tubes on "U 752's" last patrol as:
    Starboard upper        55,612
      Starboard lower        13,295
      Port upper                   2,699
      Port lower                 13,990
      Stern tube                 51,229
      A seaman torpedoman confirmed this information ans said that numbers were always noted, so that is any defect became apparent, a report could be made and the factory from which the torpedo came ascertained.
(v)
  Diesels  
    G.W. (Germania Werft), built under license at Köln-Deutz.  Believed to be similar in detail and performance to those fitted in H.M.S. "Graph."  "U 752's" diesels were replaced in February, 1943, following damage sustained on her seventh patrol.
(vi)
  Superchargers  
    Kapsel type (similar to Rootes Blower).
(vii)
  Electric Motors  
  Brown Boveri.  Considered by the stokers to be better than those made by either Siemens or A.E.G., as they regulate more smoothly.
(viii)
  Switchboard  
  B.B.C. (Brown Boveri Companie).
(ix)
  Batteries  
  A.F.A. (Akkumulatoren Fabrik A.G.  Renewed after damage on 7th patrol.
(x)
  Radar  
  Not fitted.  
(xi)
  G.S.R.  
  Metox R.600 and Southern Cross type aerial carried from 6th patrol onwards (i.e. from October, 1942).  It was said that the aerial had two connections to the receiving set which were changed in order to determine whether transmissions were vertical or horizontal.
(xii)
  S.B.T.  
  Fitted in stern compartment on starboard side of stern torpedo tube.  Three types of charge were carried:
          (a)  Oil trace.  
          (b)  Screw noises.  
          (c)  A patch of bubbles taking a long time to rise.
(xiii)
  Distilling Plant  
    Produced 18 liters per hour, after a period of 1-1/2 hours for working up.  Said to be an improvement on a previous type whose capacity was between 9 and 12 liters per hour.
(xiv)
  Compressors  
  Electric and one Junkers free-piston type fitted.
(xv)
  E.S.D.  
  Fitted.  
(xvi)
  Bilge pumps  
  Never used below 50 metres (164 ft.)
(xvii)
  Diving times  
  Best crash diving time to periscope depth was given as 18 seconds.  (The ship's company regarded themselves as particularly well drilled)  This was the best time achieved by any boat of the Flotilla.
(xviii)
  Patron Town  
  Bad Heilbronn.  
(xix)
  C/T/ Badge  
  Shield bearing a black eagle, head turned to left, on gold background.  Coat of Arms of Heilbronn.
 
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
3
     
 
III.  EIGHTH AND LAST PATROL OF "U 752"
 
     
  (i)  Departure from St. Nazaire  
          "U 752" left St. Nazaire on 22nd April, 1943, at 1600, escorted for eight hours by one "Sperrbrecher" proceeding about 3 cables ahead of her.  It is not thought that she was accompanied by other U-boats.  General course was set towards Newfoundland, "U 752" surfacing from dawn till dark through the Bay of Biscay and submerging from dusk till dawn.  This routine was kept up for four or five days, and was the result of orders from Admiral U-Boats received after they had left port.  
     
  (ii)  Attack on Convoy  
          Three days beyond the Biscay area, on about 29th April, a convoy was sighted which was alleged to consist of three large transports of between 18,000 and 20,000 tons with four escorting destroyers.  Approaching at periscope depth, Schroeter first singled out a destroyer, but later changed his mind and fired two torpedoes at a transport.  He then dived deep.  A minute later there were two dull explosions.  The screws of searching destroyers were heard but no depth charge attack followed, although a charge was released from the U-Boat's S.B.T. gear.  Schroeter thought it too risky to surface to observe results of his attack, and he never ascertained whether any ship was hit or sunk.  A signal reporting the attack, but not claiming any ship sunk, was made to Admiral U-boats.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  There is no record of such an attack.)  
     
  (iii)  Pursuit of an Independent  
           'U 752" continued on a westerly course and approximately a week later, about 6th May, a 12,000-ton refrigerator ship, independently routed, was sighted and pursued.  The same night, when Schroeter was about to order torpedoes to be fired, a heavy explosion was observed aboard his target.  It later transpired that the ship had been sunk by torpedoes fired by another U-boat under the command of Kapitänleutnant Gelhaus.  Survivors said that Schroeter was much downcast by the loss of this possible addition to his tonnage sinkings, but comforted himself with the remark: "The chief thing is that the ship is sunk."  It was claimed that "U 752"  spoke to a boat from the torpedoed ship and learned that she was carrying 10,000 tons of frozen meat to England.  Prisoners said that this success appeared in a German High Command communiqué.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  An extract from the German High Command communiqué for 18th May, 1943, runs:  "U-boats on roving commissions in the North Atlantic have sunk eight ships, including one 12,000 ton refrigerator ship fully laden with meat for England."  "Port Victor," 12,411 tons, England bound and independently routed, was sunk on 30th April, 1943 in 47° 49' N., 22° 02' W.)  
 
  (iv)  "U 752" Joins a Patrol Sweep  
          No details as to "U 752's" subsequent course were obtained, but it would appear that she continued westward, changing course occasionally to the north and south, and that in mid-May she had probably reached approximate position 52° N., 45° W.  Here she was ordered by Admiral U-Boats to join a patrol sweep consisting of 34 U-Boats in all.  This sweep extended from the southern tip of Greenland towards Newfoundland.  Prisoners said that among U-Boats participating were those commanded by Heinsohn, Auffermann, Tinschertt, Bleichrodt, Köhler, Heydemann, Weber, Johannsen and Gelhaus.  
          The sweep was proceeding westward when orders were received for the U-Boats to be split into five smaller groups, each to be named after a bird.  These groups consisted of "Amsel", in which "U-752" operated with seven other boats, "Drossel", "Fink", "Meisel" and "Starr."  The five groups were soon disbanded, however, and reformed in two groups with the names "Oder" and "Rhein," each group now consisting of 21 U-Boats.  Finally "Oder" and "Rhein" were disbanded and "U 752" joined a ten U-Boat group bearing the name "Elbe."  
     
  (v)  " U 752" ordered to Intercept a Convoy; she Refuels  
          Operations with these groups had brought "U 752" to a position off the coast of Newfoundland.  Here her group received urgent instructions to put back east at full speed to intercept a convoy which had been reported.  Owing to increased speed, she began to run short of fuel and a rendezvous, for the purpose of refueling, was arranged with the 740-ton U-Boat commanded by Kapitänleutnant Auffermann.  This rendezvous took place in approximately 52° N., 35° W., and must have occurred, at the latest, on about 20th/21st May.  Survivors sad that "U 752" embarked about 65 tons of fuel, but as the 740-tonner was not fitted with proper hoses for supplying fuel, the transfer had to be made through fire hoses.  These hoses were not strong enough and a great amount of fuel was lost in the water.  The 740-tonner's pumps were said to have had pressure of only two atmospheres instead of the usual four atmospheres of a supply U-Boat, and little more than five tons of fuel could consequently be transferred per hour.  Because of this, the complete operations lasted from 1400 one day to 0400 the next.  
          To relieve congestion on board the 740-tonner, four weeks' provisions were also transferred, although "U 752's" supplies were said to have been adequate at the time.  The 740-tonner had already transferred fuel to other U-Boats, all of which had refused to accept provisions.  
          Food was transferred in sea-bags slung on lines between the conning towers of the two U-Boats.  Throughout the rendezvous look-outs for aircraft were doubled, although prisoners of war thought that few, if any, aircraft were likely to have sufficient range to cover this position.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  This is well within air range of Allied bases.)  
     
     
  (C49676)                                                                                                                              B4  
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
4
     
          Prisoners said that Auffermann's U-Boat was one of a number of 740-tonners which had received urgent instructions to put back to base in order to take part on "a special undertaking," which prisoners surmised, would take them on a patrol to the south.  
          Parting company, "U 752" proceeded on a southeasterly course, shortly afterwards meeting and exchanging greetings with a U-Boat commanded by Oberleutnant zur See Heinemann.  
          It was claimed that at about this time a signal was intercepted from a U-Boat commanded by Kapitänleutnant Forster, reporting that she was putting back to base owing to badly damaged saddle tanks.  
     
  (vi)  "U 752" Sights the Convoy  
          Prisoners said that at 0740 (German time) on 23 May they first sighted the convoy which was to have been their objective.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  This convoy was H.X.239)  
          Almost immediately after sighing this convoy, Schroeter believed that he had been detected by escort vessels, and he ordered "U 752" to dive to a safe depth.  At the same time he released a charge from the S.B.T. gear.  No attack developed, however.  
          Schroeter again came to periscope depth to shadow the convoy by following the strong smoke trail left by one of the ships.  He was also seeking a chance to surface in order to send a first sighting signal which would bring the other U-Boats to the convoy.  He was using his attack periscope, with which he could not see aircraft immediately overhead.  
     
 
IV.  SINKING OF "U 752"
 
     
          At 1100 (German summer time), on 23 May, 1943, Schroeter decided to surface.  This decision caused general consternation within the U-boat.  The Second Lieutenant, who survived, later said that he found all Schroeter's actions at this time inexplicable.  The presence of aircraft was suspected and had Schroeter followed his usual tactics he would have dived the U-Boat to a considerable depth.  Instead, on this occasion, he surfaced without even bothering to have the search periscope manned, his only means of sweeping the sky above the U-boat.  Hardly had the lookouts reached the bridge when an aircraft was reported only 200 metres distant.  Schroeter immediately ordered everyone below and the U-Boat crashed dived.  Before "U 752" could get below surface a number of bombs was dropped, one of which burst against diving tank Number 4, tearing a hole through the pressure hull into the ward room.  A column of water which it was quite impossible to stem poured into the U-Boat.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  At 1017 (zone time) on 23rd May, 1943, in position 51° 40' N., 29° 49' W., a Swordfish aircraft G, of 819 Squadron from H.M.S. "Archer," escorting Convoy H.X.239, sighted a U-Boat approaching on course 075° at a good speed on the port bow of the aircraft at a distance of about 8 miles.  The aircraft turned to starboard to take advantage of the cloud cover.  Course was continued until it was estimated that the U-Boat was abeam.  The U-Boat was resighted at a distance of 1 mile, slightly abaft the beam and on the same course as when first sighted.  G/819 immediately turned to attack, achieving complete surprise.  The first salvo appeared to have considerable moral effect.  The crew disappeared below.  The second salvo fell short and in line with the conning tower.  The third produced splashes about 5 yards short and in line, slightly abaft the conning tower.  The U-boat appeared to be attempting to dive, the stern being clear of the water.  The fourth attack hit the water line about 20 feet ahead of the rudders.)  
          Within the U-Boat, water mixed with oil was rapidly rising over the floor plates.  The batteries were swamped, generating chlorine gas, and the magazine was flooded and inaccessible.  A final attempt to dive was speedily abandoned and no course remained but to surface.  The 20 mm. gun was immediately manned in an endeavor to fight off the aircraft, but the repeater leaver jammed, enabling single shots only to be fired.  In addition, Able Seaman, and a Petty and Chief Petty Officer were fighting over the right to fire the gun.  The U-Boat with diesels running full speed and with rudders jammed to port, was turning in wide circles.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  The aircraft reported that oil was pouring out of the tanks.  After the crew had re-appeared and manned the 20 mm. gun, range was opened.  At 1030, Martlet B, of 892 Squadron, had been diverted to the scene of the attack and swept the conning tower and deck of the U-Boat with machine gun fire.)  
          When the Martlet opened fire Schroeter was in the act of calling for more ammunition.  He was shot through the head and instantly killed.  A Midshipman was also shot dead, but the Second Lieutenant, who was standing between the two, was unscathed.  The Engineer Officer was standing at the foot of the conning tower hatch supervising the supply of ammunition.  As soon as the casualties were reported he ordered "Cease Fire!" and called for everybody below deck to abandon ship.  He then remained below to open the vents and survivors knew he had gone down with his boat.  
       The rest of the ship's company left the U-Boat by the conning tower hatch, and having remained a short while on deck, jumped into the water.  Survivors spoke most highly of the conduct of the First Lieutenant, who refused to leave the bridge and called for three cheers for the U-Boat before it sank beneath him.  He made no attempt to save himself.
          (N.I.D. Note.  Aircraft reported that the crew abandoned ship at 1045.  The U-Boat had been gradually sinking lower in the water and she developed a list to port.  She slewed over and sank bow first at 1050.)  
          Thirteen survivors were picked up by H.M.S. "Escapade," who gave the time of the sinking as 1020 GMT. and the position as 51° 48' N., 29° 32' W.  It was denied by prisoners that they sent any signal reporting their sinking to Admiral U-Boats.  
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
5
     
 
V.  GENERAL REMARKS
 
     
  (i)  1,200-ton U-Boats  
          (aSeaplane Carriers.  One prisoner said that he had been temporarily drafted to "U 178," a 1,200-ton U-Boat commanded by Fregattenkapitän Ibbeken, when she was attached to the 12th Flotilla at Bordeaux with three other U-Boats of the same class.  Ibbeken had now left the U-Boat, having made one patrol with a broken leg, an injury received during an air raid on Kiel.  He had been succeeded by Korvettenkapitän Lüth.  
          Ibbeken's U-Boat was the first 1,200-tonner to be altered to carry a seaplane.  This work was not done in the U-Boat shelters, nor by the dockyard personnel, but by naval technicians, as it was regarded as highly secret.  
          A pressure-tight hangar was built abaft the conning tower, extending as far as the Diesel room hatch. The after end of the hangar was closed by a water-tight door, secured in the same manner as those within the U-boat.  When the seaplane was cleared away for launching, the water-tight door was opened and the seaplane was drawn out on rails.  The wings, which were collapsible, were then extended.  To float the seaplane, the U-Boat trimmed down aft.  The seaplane was then turned and towed behind the U-Boat, which proceeded at full speed.  The engine of the seaplane was then run at full throttle and the aircraft took the air. It was said that the seaplane could be cleared away and floated in about ten minutes.  
          The seaplane was said to be a very light reconnaissance aircraft, hardly more than a motor-driven glider.  It could not carry bombs, nor die it have armament.  Crew consisted of pilot only.  
          Another dismantled seaplane was said to be carried inside the pressure hull of the U-Boat.  
          Three airmen were attached to Ibbeken's U-Boat, an experienced pilot officer and two petty officers.  In addition two stokers and three seamen were carried, who were trained in aircraft maintenance.  It was said that considerable curiosity was caused at Base by the presence of airmen on U-Boats.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  Pending confirmation, this report should be treated with great reserve.  It is known, however, that the Germans have been experimenting to discover some means of increasing range of vision of U-Boats.)  
          (bDetails of 1,200-ton U-Boats.  The same prisoner gave the following general details of 1,200-ton U-Boats.  
 
Armament One 105 mm. (4.1 in.) gun forward; one 37 mm. (1.45 in.) gun aft; four machine guns on the bridge; two 20 mm. guns in line on the "bandstand."
  It is possible that later types are to have two 105 mm guns.
Diesel Engines Two 9-cylinder M.A.N.; two 6-cylinder G.W. for charging.
Electric Motors and Switchboard A.E.G.
Batteries Four main batteries.
Compressors Two electric; two Junkers free-piston.
Pumps Two main bilge pumps; two trimming pumps.
Maximum Speeds 22 knots on the surface; 7 knots submerged.
Complement The complement includes two Engineer Officers.
Range They are provisioned for eight months and, with the help of a supply U-Boat, could probably remain out a year.  They are intended to operate in the Indian Ocean.
  (N.I.D. Note.  It is open to doubt whether the ships' companies could stand patrols of this length.  A six months' patrol is, however, considered quite possible.)
 
     
  (ii)  "Curly" Torpedoes  
          A torpedo rating said that "Curly" torpedoes did not run in figures of eight, but could be set to run long or short legs either to the right or left, turning through 180° before each leg.  The prisoner did not know the exact turning circle, but spoke of a radius of 150 metres and a leg of 300 to 450 metres between turns.  Short legs were used against fast ships and long legs against slow ones.  The torpedoes could also be set to run straight up to their maximum range of 17,000 metres.  
          The safety range to which the torpedo had to run before the "Curly" mechanism came into operation had now been increased to 1,500 metres.  The safety range had formerly been 500 metres, but after experiments in the Baltic it was decided that this range was dangerously short.  
          It was said that "Curly" torpedoes were only to be used at night.  
     
  (iii)  Supply U-Boats  
          A prisoner had previously served in supply U-Boats confirmed that this class carry about 750 cubic metres of fuel.  This included about 150 to 200 cubic metres for their own use.  He had taken part in one patrol on which they supplied ten U-Boats with fuel.  It was not usual to give more than 50 cubic metres to any one U-Boat, but he had known a case when 100 cubic metres were supplied.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  Survivors from "U-464" a 1,600-ton supply U-Boat sunk on 20th August, 1942, said "U-464" carried between 600 and 700 tons of fuel oil, and could supply about 50 tons to each of the 10 boats she was to refuel.  See C.B. 4051 (50).)  
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
6
     
  (iv)  1,600-ton Minelaying U-Boats  
          A rating prisoner claimed that he had seen 1,600-ton minelaying U-Boats at Kiel, which were fitted with 10 mine shafts; five to port and five to starboard.  
     
  (v)  Additional Armament of 740 and 500-ton U-boats  
          It was said that some of the 740-ton U-Boats are now to be fitted with twin 37 mm. (1.45 in.) guns on a special platform abaft the conning tower, besides the two 20 mm. A/A guns.  
          One prisoner alleged that had "U 752" returned from the patrol on which she was sunk, she would have been fitted with an extended "bandstand" to carry twin, or possibly quadruple, 20 mm. A/A guns.  
     
  (vi)  New U-Boat Construction  
          A Stoker Petty Officer stated that Korvettenkapitän Herbert Schultze was the prospective commander of a "U-Kreuzer" (tonnage unspecified), and he was now standing by the final stages of her construction at Kiel.  The prisoner had heard that in this U-Boat an 88 mm. (3.46 in.) gun would take the place of the more usual 37 mm. (1.45 in.) gun, aft.  He also said that the outer casing of this U-Boat would be pressure tight, so that the U-Boat would have a double pressure hull.  
          A prisoner from a small surface craft, still under interrogation, said that, when on leave in Danzig in January, 1943, he had heard that the Danziger Werft was assembling pressure hulls for a new type of U-Boat, that he referred to as a "decoy" U-Boat.  These pressure hulls were to be double normal thickness.  
          A prisoner from "U 175" still under interrogation, stated that "U 117" and "U 118" were dual-purpose minelaying and supply U-Boats, carrying also ten torpedoes which they could fire from their own tubes.  The mineshafts were on either side amidships.  From the prisoner's description they appeared to be in the free flooding tanks.  The opening into each mineshaft is covered with a grating and is circular in shape.  
 
  (vii)  Description of "U.D. 3"  
          Another prisoner from "U 175" said that in January, 1941, he was sent to stand by the construction of "U.D. 3" in Rotterdam.  This former Dutch U-Boat had been sunk when the Germans had first entered Holland, but has then been raised again.  
          "U.D. 3" had saddle tanks.  The conning tower was much higher and longer than the conning tower of a 740-ton U-Boat, and there were two shower baths within it, which, however, were not used.  
          She had two Swiss Sulzer Diesels and one electric motor, which developed 500 H.P.   Her maximum speed was 20 knots.  The switchboard of the electric motor was in the control room.  She was also fitter with two Junkers free-piston compressors and one electric compressor (maker unknown), which was built lengthwise in four stages, one for low pressure, two for medium pressure and one for high pressure.  The complement numbered about 50.  Living quarters and electric installations were quite different from those of German U-Boats.  The main gyro compass was in the P.O.s' quarters forward of the stern compartment.  She was armed with one 105 mm. (4.1 in.) gun forward, one 20 mm. on the bridge, one 37 mm. (1.45 in.) aft, and had four torpedo tubes forward and two aft. When the U-Boat was at periscope depth the exhausts were formerly still above water, but these were removed, as the Germans did not consider them practical.  
     
  (viii)  A/A Armament in U-Boats  
          A prisoner said that the majority of the bridge watch ratings aboard "U 752" had attended an A/A course at Mimizan in February, 1943.  They were trained as a team, as well as attending the standard course for groups of eight to 12 ratings at one time.  One prisoner said that he had trained with the Number 38 type, 20 mm gum, which had far greater muzzle velocity than the previous type.  This gun would become standard in U-Boats, and explosive and incendiary shells would be supplied.  
     
  (ix)  Bridge Watch Routine  
          A Petty Officer stated that besides the normal bridge watch of four lookouts, an additional lookout was posted on "U 752" bridge on sunny days.  This man wore dark glasses and had no other duty than to watch for aeroplanes in whatever quarter the sun stood.  This additional lookout was drawn from the torpedo ratings.  
          Another prisoner said that in daylight one extra man from the watch below was allowed on the bridge for a cigarette.  There was often a queue of six men waiting for this brief privilege.  
     
  (x)  Use of G.S.R.  
          One Petty Officer stated that on leaving the Bay of Biscay on their last patrol, they had had only two G.S.R. contacts.  They considered themselves lucky, as before they left their base a U-Boat returned which had been continually located and forced to dive.  Constant G.S.R. watch was kept when the U-Boat was on the surface, except in areas believed safe from aircraft attack.  
          After submerging due to G.S.R. reception, "U 752" remained below water for at least 30 minutes.  
          The same prisoner ascribed the waning fortunes of U-Boat warfare to continual aircraft escort and the fact that the use of G.S.R. constantly forced large numbers of U-Boats to dive, with the result that convoys sailed by unmolested.  
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
7
     
  (xi)  Boilers and Turbines  
          A German tank expert now under interrogation, who has considerable knowledge of U-Boat construction and of boilers and turbines, gave the following information:  
                  Work on high temperature pressure boiler units was done at Brückner, Canis and Co., Industrieglände, Dresden.  The particular feature of their turbine blading was that the blade angles were theoretically correct over the whole length, instead of being, as was usual, an approximation correct for one diameter only.  
                  During 1939 they built three 5,000 H.P. boilers to their designs into a 1,500-ton U-Boat at the Germania Werft, Kiel.  The turbines for this unit had been supplied by Wagner, and the condensers by Balke.  This U-Boat was fitted with normal electric motors and burned normal naval oil.  She had a surface speed of 27 knots and submerged speed of about 12 knots.  
          The prisoner said that he had been on the training ships "Brummer" and "Bremse" at Warnemünde in 1934, and that the very special experimental installations in them were made by Wagner.  
     
 
VI.  SURFACE SHIPS
 
     
  "Tirpitz," "Scharnhorst" and "Gneisenau"  
          A prisoner who had recently been in Kiel said that the majority of the personal of Germany's large surface units, including "Tirpitz," "Scharnhorst" and "Gneisenau," were being withdrawn and sent to the Russian Front.  Only skeleton crews remained in the larger warships.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  There is no confirmation that personnel have been withdrawn from "Tirpitz" or "Scharnhorst.")  
 
 
VII.  BASES, TRAINING ESTABLISHMENTS, ETC.
 
 
A.  France
 
     
  (i)  Brest  
          The same prisoner said that Brest was the base of the 3rd Escort Group (3te Sicherungs Division).  This group was responsible for the area between Dunkirk and Cherbourg.  
     
  (ii)  Bordeaux  
          An E.R.A. from "U 752" said that he had served for some time, until April, 1943, in the Reserve of the 12th U-Boat Flotilla based on Bordeaux.  He stated that there were three minelaying U-Boats in the Flotilla; two were also at Bordeaux and three 1,200-ton U-Boats.  Six 500-ton U-Boats from St. Nazaire were also there as "guest" boats.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  It is not thought that there are at present more than six supply U-Boats operational.)  
          The same prisoner stated that the 13th U-Boat Flotilla is just being formed.  Shelters were being built for it further down the Gironde estuary then those of the 12th Flotilla.  He added that in Bordeaux, ship's companies do not live in shelters, but 20 minutes' distance away.  
     
  (iii)  Cherbourg  
          The following information was provided by a prisoner who had served for some time at Cherbourg and had left that port early this year:  
                  He believed it to be the base of the 2nd, 5th and 6th E-Boat Flotillas.  The boats of the 2nd Flotilla had only recently arrived and more of this flotilla were expected.  Among E-Boats he had personally seen were "S 65," "S 68," "S 86," "S 112," "S 120" and "S 121."  It was rumored that the number of E-Boats based on Cherbourg and Guernsey, together, was to be maintained at 30.  Cherbourg was also the base of six boats of the 2nd Air/Sea Rescue Flotilla.  Only two, however, were in active service.  These were "Mars" and "Movrette," both ex-French.  
                All naval personnel at Cherbourg were medically examined in March, 1943, to determine their fitness for the U-Boat arm.
     
  Organisation  
          N.O.I.C.:  Kapitän zur See Fink, due for relief in April, 1943.  
          C.O. Coastal Batteries:  Korvettenkapitän von Wedel.  
          Flag-Lieutenant to N.O.I.C.:  Leutnant zur See Krieg.  
          Harbourmaster:  Fregattenkapitän der Reserve Georges.  
 
        Adjutant to Harbourmaster:  Leutnant zur See der Reserve Classen.
 
          Passes, etc.:  Oberleutnant zur See der Reserve Frantz.  
          Officer on Harbourmaster's Staff:  Leutnant zur See der Reserve Schuenemann.  
          Sometimes no traffic enters the port of Cherbourg for three weeks on end.  Recently, however, there had been an increase.  The usual size of coastal convoys was three to four medium-size freighters, usually with patrol boat or M/S/ escort, but sometimes also R-Boat escort, though never E-Boats.  
          Each swept channel has a cover name which is changed from time to time.  In May, 1943, the channel from Le Harve to Cherbourg was known as "Weg Rosa."  Small convoys of three to four  
     
     

 

     
     
 
8
     
  coasters and two patrol boats sail two or three times a week from Cherbourg to Alderney, mostly laden with cement for the defenses there.  The patrol boat escort was supplied by the 2nd Patrol Boat Flotilla based on St. Malo.  
     
  (iv)  Wimille  
          The same prisoner said that Wimile (7 nm from Boulogne) is the base of the 2nd Escort Group.  This Group was responsible for the area from Cherbourg to south of Brest.  
     
  (v)  Sideville  
          Sideville 4-1/2 miles south of Cherbourg, was said to be the headquarters of Captain (E-Boats) (Führer der Schnellboote).  These are situated in the Chateau de Sideville.  
     
 
B.  Channel Islands
 
     
  (i)  Alderney  
          There are said to be 9,000 to 10,000 members of the Todt Labour Organisation (O.T.) at work building harbour works and defenses in Alderney, and about 900 troops.  It was rumored that the island was being very strongly fortified.  
     
  (ii)  Guernsey  
          There were said to be two E-Boat Flotillas based on Guernsey.  Neither is up to full strength.  
     
 
C.  Germany
 
     
  Bad Heilbronn  
          Said to be a Rest Home for U-Boat men in this spa.  
     
 
VIII.  MORALE
 
     
          Before "U 752" sailed on her last patrol, Admiral Doenitz came on board and gave a pep talk to the ship's company and also to the complements of other U-Boats at the base.  Prisoners said that the speech did mush to raise morale.  
          A P.O. Telegraphist said that every precaution was now being taken to prevent mutinies on board U-Boats.  He added that it had been taken into account that the British might attempt to place their agents on board U-Boats proceeding on patrol.  
          A number of prisoners said that a new order had been promulgated which affected all German Armed Forces, whereby any man from the rank of N.C.O. upwards was entitled to shoot any subordinate who showed reluctance to carry out promptly any order.  It was said that Schroter read this order to his men before sailing on their last patrol.  
          The officer criticised the regime in Germany very severely and spoke of the very short rations on which people were expected to live throughout the country.  He said that normally, U-Boat ship's companies did not notice the shortage particularly, as they were given double rations when on leave.  
  It was said that Hitler had canceled an order issued by Admiral Doenitz to the effect that any man belonging to the Service who contracted venereal disease should be court-martialled.  The maximum penalty was now three days imprisonment.  
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
9
     
 
APPENDIX "A"
 
 
EARLY HISTORY AND WORKING-UP OF "U 752"
 
     
          "U 752" was commissioned on 24 May, 1941.  Kapitänleutnant Schroeter being in command.  Prisoners said that working up trials were completed in record time and that "U 752" was ready for her first operational patrol by September, 1941.  
 
 
APPENDIX "B"
 
 
PREVIOUS PATROLS OF "U 752"
 
     
  (i)  First Patrol  
          "U-752" left on her first war patrol in September, 1941.  She proceeded up the Norwegian coast and rounded the North Cape, finally reaching an operations area off the Kola Peninsula.  Here she sank two patrol vessels of 700 and 800 tons respectively.  She was later depth charges "in a very amateurish manner" by a Russian surface craft.  After a month at Sea, at the most, she returned to a Norwegian port where some minor adjustments were made.  The length of her stay in this harbor was said to be between four and five weeks.  
     
  (ii)  Second Patrol  
          "U 752" left her Norwegian base at the beginning of November, 1941, for an operational area off Cape Gorodetzkij. No up-to-date charts were available, and hardly had she arrived in her area, when owing to a navigational error, she ran onto a reef, heeling over to a list of 50°.  This incident occurred on an ebb tide at 1500 and preparations were made to blow the boat up to prevent her falling into Russian hands.  With the flood tide, however, the U-Boat floated off and it was first thought that little damage had been sustained.  It was later found that probably on account of her heavy list on the reef, the torpedoes in the tubes had become affected.  Later when a small convoy was attacked and one 5/6000-ton British freighter and an escort vessel of 1,200-tons sunk, a larger number of torpedoes than had been thought necessary had been expended, owing to defective running.  Following her encounter with the convoy, "U 752" put into Kirkenes, the ship's company being accommodated ashore in barracks.  After two days at this base, "U 752" returned to Kiel for overhaul.  It was found that her starboard propeller shaft had been damaged when she ran aground.  
          "U 752 had operated independently on this patrol although it was known that other U-Boats, including it was thought "U 751" (Kapitänleutnant Bigalk) had preceded her to Arctic waters.  Such successes as were achieved were ascribed by prisoners to the fact that, at the end of 1941, the Russians had not yet become expert in A/S measures.  
     
  (iii)  Third Patrol  
          "U 752" left Kiel early in January, 1942, and proceeded to the North Atlantic by way of the Rosengarten.  After five or six weeks at sea, during which time she sank two ships totaling 16,000 tons, in an area "not far from England" she was recalled to La Pallice.  Here she joined the Third Flotilla.  
     
  (iv)  Fourth Patrol  
          "U 752" left La Pallice in mid-March, 1942, for a patrol off the U.S.A. coast.  It appeared that for some time she was off New York and patrolled thence towards the south.  It was claimed that a 9,500-ton passenger ship was sunk, in early morning mist, off the coast, by gunfire.  The ship, when in flames, was allegedly towed away by a destroyer, but she was considered a total loss and Schroeter claimed her tonnage.  The name of the ship was given as "Reinholt."  
          (N.I.D. Note.  The Norwegian "Reinholt," 4,799 tons, was shelled and set on fire in position 39° 10' N., 72° W., at 0950 on 23rd April, 1942.  She had been routed independently.  She later arrived in port with only slight damage to superstructure.  One of her crew was killed and two wounded.)  
          A further two ships, totaling 10,000 tons were sunk on this patrol.  It was said that at one time "U 752" was so near the coast that sea-shore villas, and automobile traffic on coastal roads could be clearly seen.  Her tactics were to lie in wait off the coast by night and proceed to the open sea at dawn.  The duration of the patrol was given as two months.  "U 752" was finally ordered to return to St. Nazaire as a "guest" U-Boat, La Pallice being too crowded at the time.  
     
  (v)  Fifth Patrol  
          "U 752" left St. Nazaire on 6th July, 1942, and operated in the Freetown area proceeding as far south as 1° north of the Equator.  Schroeter did not consider himself justified in crossing the Equator as he had been informed that no shipping would be found to the south.  
          A convoy was later reported sailing from U.S.A. to Capetown, but "U 752" was unable to attack it successfully.  An attempt to approach at night was warded off by escort vessels, who immediately counter-attacked.  "U 752" dived to a considerable depth and an attempt was made to eject a charge from the S.B.T. gear.  Prisoners said that the ejecting piston jammed after the tube cap had been opened and water, soaking the charge, set off the screw noises which it was supposed to imitate before the charge could be cleared from the U-Boat.  Another heavy depth charge attack immediately followed.  In order to render the charge harmless the outer tube cap was shut, the inner opened, and the charge emptied into the U-Boat.  Decomposition of the charge, occasioned by sea-water, generated fumed which nearly stifled those in the stern compartment.  
          Survivors sad that the crisis on board "U 752" lasted from 0200, when she was first forced under the water until 0800 when she was again able to surface in safety.  During this time the ship's company had lost count of the number of depth charges which had been dropped over them.  Concussion had snapped off the heads of Diesel engine holding down bolts and had caused a water entry aft, believed to have been through the Diesel engine exhaust pipe system.  By the time the U-Boat surfaced, the water level within the U-Boat was said to have reached the floor plates.  Damage was, however, satisfactorily repaired.  Prisoners believed that about this time a U-Boat commanded by Kapitänleutnant Zimmermann was lost attacking the convoy.  
          It was said that shortly after the attack on "U 752," the convoy she had been pursuing dispersed and she managed to sink three ships, totaling 25,500 tons.  The second of these was said to be the former German ship "Cassel," 6,000 tons, stated to have been taken over by the Dutch in the East Indies following the outbreak of war between Germany and the Netherlands.  "Cassel" was said to be sailing under the name of a Dutch Colonial Possession.  Three survivors were taken prisoner; the wireless operator, a "stateless Russian"; the Dutch Chief Engineer and a Dutch sailor.  
          (N.I.D. Note.  "Mendenau", 6,047 tons, British controlled and formerly the ex-German "Cassel" was sunk on 9th August, 1942, in position 04° 45' N., 18° W.  It was reported that the Chief Engineer and the W/T operator were picked up by the U-Boat.)  
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
10
     
          "U 752" subsequently ran short of fuel and requested a rendezvous with a supply U-Boat.  Arrangements were made and she fell in with what was described as a minelaying U-Boat under the command of Korvettenkaptän Thilo.  Some 50 tons of fuel were transferred.  Following this meeting, "U 752" sank one more ship.  
          During this patrol "U 752" was said to have been so near the coast on occasions that natives swam out to her.  At the end of September, 1942, she returned to La Pallice.  Ship's company were invited to spend a week's leave at Bad Heilbronn, their patron town.  
     
  (vi)  Sixth Patrol  
          "U 752" left La Pallice in October, 1942.  She was to have operated again off the West African Coast but while proceeding south she was diverted to Casablanca as a consequence of the Allied landings.  Many ships were sighted, but she was never able to position herself satisfactorily for an attack.  Only one ship, from a small convoy, was sunk.  
        For this patrol, "U 752" first carried a G.S.R. set with a Southern Cross type aerial.  At the end of November, she returned to La Pallice.  Christmas was spent at the base and over the holiday joint parties were held with the company of a neighboring U-Boat said to be commanded by an officer named Grossing.
          (N.I.D. Note.  An officer of this name does not appear in the 1940 German Navy List.)  
          Following this patrol, Leutnant zur See Isermeyer, the First Lieutenant, left the U-Boat to attend a Commanding Officers course.  He was relieved by a Leutnant zur See Eddelbüttel.  
     
  (vii)  Seventh Patrol  
          "U 752" left La Pallice on the 5th or 6th January, 1943, for a North Atlantic patrol.  On reaching mid-Atlantic she was ordered to join a patrol sweep consisting of nine U-Boats in all.  A convoy was sighted, but neither "U 752" nor any of the other U-Boats achieved a sinking.  A signal was later received from Admiral U-Boats expressing displeasure and stating that the High Command could not understand this lack of success.  (N.I.D. Note.  See C.B. 04051 (60), Section III (ix) ).  The U-boats were subsequently reformed into a second sweep (N.I.D. Note.  According to "U 187" survivors this was probably group "Pfeil"), and on 4th February a convoy was reported by "U 187".  This signal was intercepted by a U-Boat commanded by Oberleutnant zur See Rudloff, who became contact-keeper following the sinking of "U-187."  (N.I.D. Note.  This was S.C.118.  See C.B. 01051(60), Section IV.)  "U 752" herself sighted the convoy astern, but almost simultaneously the cylinder block of the starboard Diesel engine cracked.  With only one engine operating "U 752" was unable to keep up with the convoy.  Survivors stated that they had afterwards heard that Rudloff maintained contact with the convoy, under difficult circumstances, for four days and managed to sink two ships.  He was then himself sunk.  Another U-Boat, commanded by Kapitänleutnant von Forstner, claimed to have sunk seven to eight ships from the convoy, totaling 46,000 tons.  This success gained von Forstner the Ritterkreuz.  Prisoners said that a U-Boat commanded by Korvettenkapitän Thurmann was lost attacking this convoy.  They said that a third U-Boat was also lost; they did not appear to be aware of the sinking of "U-187."  Abandoning the chase herself, "U 752" requested permission to return to base.  She was ordered to put back to St. Nazaire, which she reached safely in mid-February.  She was temporarily attached to the 6th Flotilla.  
          "U 752" now went into dock for a major refit.  Both her diesel engines were replaced and her batteries changed.  A new distilling plant was installed and new bilge pumps fitted.  The periscope was unshipped and checked, and the 88 mm. gun dismounted and overhauled.  A large amount of other gear was also replaced.  Towards mid-April when the work of the major refit was completed, Admiral Doenitz visited the base to give pep-talks to individual ship's companies.  The general atmosphere of the base appeared to have affected "U 752's" ship's company adversely and many of the ratings viewed their next patrol with the gloomiest forebodings.  Ratings used to say:  "We had better skip the eighth patrol and start at once on the ninth!"  
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
 

 

     
     
 
11
     
 
APPENDIX "C"
 
 
SHIP'S COMPANY OF "U 752"
 
     
  (i)  Complement  
          The complement of "U-732" numbered four Officers, two Midshipmen and forty other ratings. Of this number, only one officer and twelve ratings survived.  
     
  (ii)  Captain  
          The Captain, Kapitänleutnant Karl Ernst Schroeter, was shot dead on the bridge of the U-Boat at the time of her sinking.  He was about thirty-three years of age, and of the 1934 German Navy Term.  He was a popular and efficient officer, and survivors only criticism of him, was that he was inclined to be rash when maneuvering to attack convoys.  He had been with "U 752" since her commissioning on 24th May, 1942, and under his command the U-Boat had gradually won for herself the reputation of being the best boat if the Third Flotilla at La Pallice.  Schroeter claimed the somewhat exaggerated total of 75,000 tons of Allied shipping sunk and it was said that he was shortly to have received the Ritterkreuz for his services.  
     
  (iii)  First Lieutenant  
          The First Lieutenant, Leutnant zur See Hotop, had taken part in a number of war patrols in "U 752," originally as Second Lieutenant.  He was about twenty-two years of age, but held in high esteem by the remainder of the ship's company, who applauded his final action in going down on the bridge of the U-Boat, making no attempt to save himself.  
          Hotop had taken the place of Leutnant zur See Isermeyer, of the 1938 term, who had left "U 752" in November, 1942, to train for his own command.  Isermeyer himself had taken the place of Leutnant zur See Fenski, 1937 term, who had left the U-Boat at some previous date, presumably as a prospective U-Boat Commander.  
     
  (iv)  Second Lieutenant  
          Leutnant zur See Heinrich Schauffel, the Second Lieutenant, who survived, was twenty-eight years old.  He was making his first patrol in "U 752."  Originally a merchant navy officer he had joined the German Navy in 1938, and had since served in destroyers and minesweepers.  He appeared to have been an efficient and well-liked officer on board.  He was pleasant to speak to and quite talkative on any but service matters.  He had taken good care to instill security principles into his men before their capture.  Schauffel took the place of Leutnant zur See Eddelbüttel, who had joined "U 752" for her penultimate patrol only.  It is not known why Eddelbüttel left the U-Boat.  
     
  (v)  Engineer Officer  
        Oberleutnant (Ing.) Krey, the Engineer Officer, was held in great respect by the ship's company.  He was making his first patrol in charge of "U 752's" engines, but he had previously served in her as Engineer Officer under training.  He was very young and had been promoted from the Lower Deck.  He had taken the place of Oberleutnant (Ing.) Grundmann, also promoted from the Lower Deck.  Survivors spoke highly of Krey's conduct during the sinking of "U 752."  He remained below, first to hearten the ratings as they abandoned ship, and finally to ensure the sinking of the U-Boat by opening the vents.  Apparently he made no attempt to escape.
     
  (vi)  Midshipmen  
          Nothing was learned of the two Midshipmen, Fähnrich zur See Schammer and Fähnrich zur See Tisserant, both of whom were casualties.  Survivors believed they were on their first patrol.  
     
  (vii)  General  
          The ratings appeared to have more than average U-Boat experience.  There had been a large number of changes in the ship's company since "U 752" commissioned, and a considerable number of her original complement had been drafted to promotion courses.  One Stoker Petty Officer had been serving in U-Boats since 1938 and had made fourteen patrols.  
          Morale was high ans it was thought that this was due to the complete confidence  the men had in their officers.  There had, however, been a feeling of nervousness on the Lower Deck before she set out on her last patrol.  
          A number of ratings had noticed that efforts were being made to stiffen discipline, particularly at the U-Boat Bases.  One prisoner said that ratings were no longer allowed ashore in overalls, and that, instead of being allowed to lounge about while at their base their time was latterly taken up with such activities as early morning physical training.  
          One ordinary seaman confessed that he was a deserter from the Swiss Army.  
     
     
     
     
     
     
 
 

 

 
 
 
12
 
 
 
APPENDIX "D"
 
 
 
Nominal Roll of "U 752"
 
     
          (i)  Survivors:  
     
 
Name.
Rank.
English Equivalent.
Born.
Schauffel, Heinrich Leutnant zur See Sub-Lieutenant 13. 5.15
Elebes, Rolf Oberfunkmaat P.O. Telegraphist, 1st Class 11. 7.20
Tillmanns, Franz Maschinenmaat Stoker, P.O., 2nd Class 10. 4.18
Dietze, Wilhelm Maschinenmaat Stoker, P.O., 2nd Class   7. 2.18
Christmann, Heinz Funkmaat P.O. Telegraphist, 2nd Class   1. 9.21
Knott, Karl Mechanikersmaat P.O. Artificer, 2nd Class   6. 5.18
Schult, Rudolf Matrosenobergefreiter Able Seamen 26. 5.22
Köhler, Walter Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class  7.11.21
Richter, Rolf Maschinengefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class 20. 5.24
Appel, Erhard Maschinengefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class   5. 5.24
Bartzsch, Herbert Maschinengefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class 17. 5.24
Pinzer, Erwin Maschinengefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class   2.10.23
Hasse, Güter Mechanikergefreiter Artificer, 2nd Class 16. 6.23
 
 
 
 
Officers . .
1
Chief and Petty Officers . .
5
Men . .
7
   
13
 
 
 
          (ii)  Casualties:  
     
 
Name.
Rank.
English Equivalent.
Born.
Schroeter, Karl Ernst Kapitänleutnant Lieutenant-Commander.  
Krey Oberleutnant (Ing.) Lieutenant (E).  
Hotop Leutnant zur See Sub-Lieutenant.  
Tisserant, le Fähnrich zur See Midshipman.  
Schammer Fähnrich zur See Midshipman.  
Mess Obermaschinist Chief E.R.A.  
Adam Obermaschinist Chief E.R.A.  
Wolf Obersteuermann Chief Q.M., 1st Class  
Jakobsig Oberbootsmannsmaat

Boatswain's Mate, 1st Class.

 
Frühschulz Oberbootsmannsmaat

Boatswain's Mate, 1st Class.

 
Böhm Obermaschinenmaat Stoker P.O., 1st Class  
Seewald Obermaschinenmaat Stoker P.O., 1st Class  
Lanziger Bootsmannsmaat Boatswain's Mate, 2nf Class.  
Teichner Maschinenmaat Stoker P.O., 2nd Class.  
Langheim Maschinenmaat Stoker P.O., 2nd Class.  
Homann Matrosenobergefreiter Able Seaman.  
Kühn Matrosenobergefreiter Able Seaman.  
König Matrosenobergefreiter Able Seaman.  
Bergs Maschineobergefreiter Stoker, 1st Class.  
Bestmann Maschineobergefreiter Stoker, 1st Class.  
Stahl Maschineobergefreiter Stoker, 1st Class.  
Schmalholz Maschineobergefreiter Stoker, 1st Class.  
Kummer Funkobergefreiter Telegraphist.  
Heinitz Mechanikerobergefreiter Artificer, 1st Class.  
Reichart Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class.  
Laux Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class.  
Neudorfer Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class.  
Mittelmeier Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class.  
Görecke Matrosengefreiter Ordinary Seaman, 1st Class.  
Jung Maschingefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class.  
Schubert Maschingefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class.  
Rüger Maschingefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class.  
Ostermann Maschingefreiter Stoker, 2nd Class.  
Hillreiner Funkgefreiter Ordinary Telegraphist, 1st Class.  
 
     
 
Officers . .
5
Chief and Petty Officers . .
10
Men . .
19
   
34
 
     
          (iii)  Total Crew:  
 
Officers . .
6
Chief and Petty Officers . .
15
Men . .
26
   
47
 
     
     
     
     
 
(C49676)   500    8/43
 
 
 
 
 

 


 

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