F.d.U./B.d.U.'S War Log

16 - 31 January 1942

PG30303

     
     
 
16.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 AM 24
U 106
-
 CD 12
U 352
-
 AD 40
U 582
-
 BC 26
 
66
-
 Op(CA/DC)
107
-
 BD 86
402
-
 BE 57
586
-
 AN 20
 
71
-
 CF 60
108
-
 BE 83
455
-
 AO 40
587
-
 Op(AM 10)
 
73
-
 CG 90
109
-
 Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
504
-
 AM 77
588
-
 Op(AM 10)
 
82
-
 BE 54
123
-
 Op(CA 20-50)
552
-
 Op(südl. Neufundl.)
591
AO 40
 
84
-
 Op(BB 90)
125
-
 Op(CA 30-60)
553
-
 BB 99
654
BC 75
 
85
-
 BE 72
130
-
 Op(BB 50)
561
-
 CG 90
656
AO 40
 
86
-
 Op(BB 60)
132
-
 AF 48
566
-
 BF 50
701
BC 21
 
87
 - Op(BB 90)
135
 - Op(BB 90)
571
 - CF 60
751
   BF 40
 
93
 - CF 60
203
 - Op(BB 60)
572
 - CG 90
754
   Op(BC 47-71)
 
94
 - AF 75
333
 - BC 29
578
 - AO 40
575
   BF 40
 
103
 - BD 77
   
581
 - BF
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 504 - 43
  Sailed:  - . -         Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  Convoy number 2 and 4 see IV a 1 and 2
  b)  None.
  c) 1) British steamer "Llangibby Castle" bombed by a German plane in BE 5779 (evidently after being torpedoed by U-402).
    2) 1 steamer (call letters MPAQ) sent SOS.  Call given from Cape Race (Presumable therefore, American area).
    3) 10 transports sailed from Reykjavik at 0800 on 16 January for Aberdeen.  (see IVa)
    4) At 1558 hours a British steamer was attacked by a U-boat in AM 1557 (U 588?).
    5) U-boat sighted on westerly course in BB 7528 at 1326 hours (U 109?).
    6) Floating wreck at CA 2945 (U 123?).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy number 2:  No further reports received.  Boats to go to their operational areas.  U 93, whose last report came from CF 9665 at 2357 hours on 15 January, has made no further reports in spite of numerous opportunities.
    2) Convoy number 4:  As a result of U 402's convoy report, U 581 - 85 and 82 were sent out.  Remaining boats are to sail westward.  U 402 reports 5 steamers and 1 destroyer
       
- 20 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      in BE 5924 on SW course.  According to observation control U 402 gave convoy position at 1400 as BE 5716.  Air cover for ship 10 gave convoy position as BE 5924 at 1345 hours.  Convoy was made up of 19 ships and 5 destroyers.  U 402 lost contact at 1515 because she submerged to avoid aircraft, but made contact on enemy destroyer again at 2015 in BE 4955.  Then no further contact.  U 402 evidently scored 2 hits on a 2 stack passenger steamer.
      Boats were ordered to operate against the convoy further during the night and then to follow a southerly course for action against the possible Gibraltar convoy.  Our own air recce was announced for 17 January at 1100 hours.  U 71, on return cruise, was ordered to move against the convoy since she had plenty of fuel.
  b) 1) Action against the 10 transport convoy outbound from Reykjavik is foreseen in enemy shipping lanes (see IIIc 3).  In this connection U 94 and U 586 were ordered to sail for AM 12 at high speed.  From here both boats will operate with U 587 and 588.
    2) U 128 ordered to Bermuda area to prey on British shipping and to remain outside the 200 meter line because of mines.
  c) Special operation (Göttingen) of U 564 was called off again.
  d) 1 U 73 reported passing 00 at 1120 hours.  12 hours later the boat entered the area under the Italian U-boat command.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 402 reported 2 hits, evidently on the Llangibby Castle (British) 11,951 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
 - AF 77
U 107
- BD 84
U 402
- BE 70
U 582
- BC 52
 
66
 - Op(CA/DC)
108
 - BE 81
453
 - AN 30
586
 - AM 32
 
71
 - CF 53
109
 - Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
504
 - AL 93
587
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
82
 - BE 70
123
 - Op(CA 20-50)
552
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
588
 - Op(  "    "  )
 
84
 - Op(BB 90)
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
553
 - BB 97
591
 - AN 30
 
85
 - BE 70
128
 - BD 94
561
 - CG 90
654
 - BC 74
 
86
 - Op(BB 60)
130
 - Op(BB 50)
566
 - BF 40
656
 - AN 30
 
87
 - Op(BB 90)
132
 - AF 69
571
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
701
 - BC 18
 
93
 - Op(between Azor.-Gibr.)
135
 - Op(BB 90)
572
 - CG 90
751
 - BF 40
 
94
 - AM 31
203
 - Op(BB 60)
575
 - BF
754
   Op(BC 47+71)
 
103
 - BC 97
333
 - BC 54
578
 - AN 30
   
 
106
 - CC 36
352
 - AN 30
581
 - BE 70
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
- 21 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance: 
  Convoy number 4 in area BE 70-80.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 87 reported sinking two tankers totaling 51,200 ton in BB 9871.  U 87 shot up and returning, fuel 47 cubic meters.
    2) Situation report:  U 123:  operational area at first normal then after sinkings, lights extinguished and movements ceased.  Area free of mines up to line CA 2793 to 5849, although area CA 54 has medium air and destroyer patrols.  Still has 5 electric torpedoes, 90 cubic meters of fuel.  Position CA 8145.
    3) Convoy number 4 - see section IV a.
  b) Convoy was not picked up.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings reported in BC 1860 and BB 7528.
    2) Steamers steaming along the coast for ports north of New York are to steer for Cape Hatteras.  In case this is not possible, steer as close to the coast as navigation will permit.
    3) A request for help but no position was given by the Greek steamer "Dimitrios Thermiotis" on 18 January at 0619 hours.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy number 4:  Air recce did not pick up the convoy.  Orders to the boats:  In case no contact made by evening, U 82 and 85 to sail westward, U 402 and 581 to steer for area CF 92.  U 71 to turn back.  Since no reports are forthcoming from the boats, the operations against this convoy are finished.
     After 24 hours no further contact was made and no promise of success from the few boats was evident.  Due to bad visibility no air recce is expected in the morning.
  b) 1) U 588 - 587 - 94 - 586 received orders to take up patrol positions on 18 January at 1200 hours from AM 2176 to AE 9774.  Purpose:  Attack the 10 transport ships already sailing from Reykjavik.
    2) U 333 joined group Ziethen and took up area BB 98 and 99 as attack area.
    3) U 132 assigned area west of Reykjavik for attack on ships moving eastward.
    4) U 123 - 109 - 87 ordered to report position.  U 203 given freedom of movement in same area as Group Ziethen., that is to say, south of Newfoundland.  Former area BB 68 and 69 taken by U 754.  Boats of Group "Paukenschlag" to follow order 46 in case ship movement or defense necessitate this action.  In this case U 130 is to take up attack area between U 123 and U 66 (CA 50 and 80).
  c)  None.
 
 
 
- 22 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) U 561 reported position at 2118 as CH 8183.  Boat will be in Mediterranean U-boat Command area in 12 hours.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 87 reports sinking 2 tankers of 15,200 BRT.  One was Cardit 8200 BRT, the other a new tanker of 7000 BRT.
       
VI. General:
  a)  Operation of U 132 off Reykjavik will offer information on the situation there.  The question is open, as to whether new boats fresh from the homeland are to be sent to a definite area or just to the middle of the North Atlantic.  Sizable attacks will not be afforded in these great empty stretches at the time.
  b)  Reports from the coast of USA and Canada show that activities of U-boats can be successful much longer than was expected.  Reports from U 123 point out that this boat has had success far above its expectations.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
- AF 79
U 109
- Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
U 504
- BF 41
U 591
- AN 23
 
66
 - Op(CA/DC)
123
 - CH 80 Op
552
 - Op(südl. Neufl.
654
 - BB 97
 
71
 - CF 22
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
553
 - BB 87
656
 - AN 20
 
82
 - BE 70
128
 - BD 85
566
 - BF
701
 - Op(BB 60)
 
84
 - Op(BB 92+93)
130
 - Op(BD 50)
571
 - Op(Az.-Gibr.)
751
 - BE 67
 
85
 - BD 99
132
 - AE 59
572
 - Gibr.
753
 - AO
 
86
 - Op(BB 63+66)
135
 - Op(BB 90)
575
 - BE 69
754
 - Op(BB 60)
 
87
 - BB 70
203
 - Op(südl. Neufl.)
578
 - AN 20
   
 
94
 - Op(AM 20)
333
 - BC 73
581
 - CF 26
   
 
103
 - CD 11
352
 - AN 20
582
 - BC 49
   
 
106
 - CC 34
402
 - CF 26
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
   
 
107
 - BD 75
404
 - AO
587
 - Op(dto.)
   
 
108
 - BE 72
455
   AN 20
588
 - Op(    "     )      
 
 
 
 
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 504 - 43 - 71 - 87.
  Sailed:  U 564 - La Pallice; U 98 - 69 - St. Nazaire.         
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 87 reports single steamer in BC 7942 on general course 3200 speed 10 knots, zigzagging sharply.
    2) Situation report U 552:  Heavy ship movements off the coast and St. Johns in area BB 66.  Air and destroyer patrols.  56 cubic meters of fuel, 5 misses, causes unknown.  "Dimitrios Thermiotis" sunk.  Boat is returning to port, since heavy weather and icing prevent unloading of deck torpedoes.
       
- 23 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) Situation report U 86:  16 January torpedoed tanker.  "Dimitrios Thermiotis" sunk on 18 January at 0615 hours.  Steamer was steering for BC 4110.  Assembly point for convoys (St. Johns - Conception Bay?) - no movement up until 16 January (8 torpedoes, 80 cubic meters of fuel).  Since U 552 and 86 both claim sinking the same steamer, arrival of boats must be awaited for clarification of this matter.  Evidently evidently each sank a steamer and both heard the same SOS.
  b) - d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) The patrol line has had no success in picking up the 10 ships from Reykjavik.
    2) U 701 has transferred the upper deck torpedoes and has taken up areas BB 63 and 66.
    3) U 84 had freedom of movement in the area of Group Ziethen (S. Newfoundland).  After release of several boats from Group Ziethen, empty areas were filled as follows:
      U 135 area BB 92 and 93
      U 333    "    BB 95 and 96
      U 582    "    BB 98 and 99
      U 553 and U 654 area BB 50 for CA 54 and 57.  Boat still has 145 cubic meters of fuel.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 552 and U 86 reported sinking Greek steamer "Dimitrios Thermiotis", U 86 reported torpedoing a tanker.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
- AN 23
U 107
- BC 98
U 402
- CF 61
U 582
- BC 74
 
66
 - CA/DC/Op.
108
 - BD 93
404
 - Kr'sand
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
69
 - BF 50
109
 - Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
455
 - AN
587
 - dto.
 
71
 - BF 77
123
 - Op(CA 20-50)
504
 - BF 45
588
 - dto.
 
82
 - BD 97
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
552
 - BC 70
591
 - AF 75
 
84
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
128
 - BD 78
553
 - Op(BB 70)
654
 - BB 88
 
85
 - BD 64
130
 - BD 85 (Op)
564
 - BF 50
656
 - AN
 
86
 - Op(BB 63+66)
132
 - AE 73
566
 - BF 40
701
 - Op(BB 60)
 
87
 - BC 87
135
 - Op(BB 90)
571
 - Op(SW. Azor. Gibr.)
751
 - BE 58
 
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
203
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
572
 - Gibraltar
753
 - Kr'sand
 
98
 - BF 50
333
 - BC 74
575
 - BE 59
754
 - Op(BB 60)
 
       
- 24 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
 
 
103
 - CC 32
352
 - vor Bergen
578
 - AF 75
   
 
106
-
 CC 27
 
581
-
 CF 37
 
 
   
  On Return Passage:  U 552 - 504 - 87 - 71 - 43
  Sailed:  U 505 - Kiel         
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 572 reported failure to pass through Straits of Gibraltar because of bad weather and heavy defenses.
    2) U 135 (in area S. Newfoundland) reported return cruise because of fuel supply.
  b) None.
  c) 1) The Norwegian whale ship "Kosmos II" (16,966 BRT) sent "SSS" from area 30 miles NE Cape Hatteras.  (U 66 or 123).
    2) The American tanker "Malay" (8207 BRT) was fired on by a U-boat (U 66) and was afire aft - 20 miles NE of Cape Hatteras.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 582 - U 402 - U 571 occupy attack area between Azores and Gibraltar in a strip 40 miles wide.  Boats may move eastward due to moon and defense conditions.
    2) U 572 ordered to attempt new breakthrough of Straits of Gibraltar.
    3) Since the patrol group has had no luck, U 586 - 587 - 588 - 94 proceed to attack area as previously ordered (see IVb of 15 January).
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
20.January 1942.
 
 
   
I.
U 43
 - AN 43
U 106
- CC 18
U 352
 - Bergen
U 575
 - BE 57
 
66
 - Op(CA/DC)
107
 - CD 13
402
 - CF 68
578
 - AM 32
 
67
 - BF 50
108
 - BD 91
404
 - AF 87
581
 - CF 69
 
 
 
 
 
 
- 25 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
69
 - BF 40
109
 - Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
455
 - AN
582
 - Op(BB 90)
71
 - BF 73
123
 - Op(CA 20-50)
502
 - BF 50
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
82
 - BD 88
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
504
 - BF 50
587
 - Op(dto.)
84
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
128
 - BC 99
505
 - Br-Büttel
588
 - Op(    "    "    )
85
 - BD 58
130
 - CB 23
552
 - BC 58
591
 - AE 92
86
 - Op(BB 63+66)
132
 - AE 71
553
 - Op(BB 70)
654
 - Op(BB 70)
87
 - BC 99
135
 - BB 90
564
 - BF 40
656
 - AN
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
156
 - BF 50
566
 - BE 67
701
 - Op(BB 60)
98
 - BF 40
203
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
571
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
751
 - BE 47
103
 - CC 25
333
 - Op(BB 90)
572
 - DJ 13
754
 - Op(BB 60)
   
   
753
 - AF 79
   
 
 
 
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 43 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 71.
  Sailed:  U 435 - Kiel; U 576 - St. Nazaire.         
  Entered Port:  U 504 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Situation and success reports of U 123:  Area CA 7965 has very heavy single ship movements.  Sank 3 tankers and 5 freighters totaling 53,360 BRT.  Ships lie in 7-11 meters of water.  U 123 returning to port.
    2) Situation report of U 66:  In area (CA 79 - 87, DC 12-13).  Everything dimmed out.  Movements same as U 123.  Fuel 135 cubic meters.  Position DC 13.  Have sunk 18,000 BRT.
  b) None.
  c) 1) American reports give 1 steamer abandoned in CA 7695.
    2) English U-boat in BF 5539 on 19 January.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 106 and U 103 steering for new area CA 69.
    2) U 106 - 109 - 125 ordered to report position, situation and success.
  c) Exercise Göttingen begins in the morning of 21 January.  U 432 has left on corresponding orders.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 123 reports sinking "Cyclops" - 9076 BRT, tanker "Norness" - 9577 BRT, tanker "Malay" - 8207 BRT and 5 other ships totaling 26,500 BRT, altogether 8 ships of 53,000 BRT total.
    U 66 reports sinking 18,000 BRT.
       
- 26 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
VI. General:
    The success of U 123 and 66 justifies sending boats to this area and the future is hopeful for other boats.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
 - AN 69
U 107
 - CC 35
U 404
- AM 39
U 581
- Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
 
66
 - Op(CA/DC)
108
 - BD 76
435
 - AN 63
582
 - Op(BB 90)
 
67
 - BF 40
109
 - Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
455
 - AM
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
69
 - BF 40
123
 - CA 90
502
 - BF 40
587
 - Op(dto.)
 
71
 - BF 50
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
505
 - AN 37
588
 - Op(    "    "    )
 
82
 - BD 71
128
 - CD 43
552
 - BC 69
591
 - Al 36
 
84
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
130
 - CB 18
553
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
654
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
 
85
 - BD 71
132
 - Op(westl. Reykjavik)
564
 - BE 60
656
 - AM
 
86
 - Op(BB 60)
135
 - BC 81
566
 - BE 48
701
 - Op(BB 60)
 
87
 - BD 74
156
 - BF 40
571
 - Op(Azor. Gibraltar)
751
 - BD 59
 
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
203
 - Op(südl. Neufundl.)
572
 - Gibraltar
753
 - AE 92
 
98
 - BE 60
333
 - Op(BB 90)
575
 - BD 69
754
 - Op(BB 60)
 
103
 - CC 17
352
 - AF 76
576
 - BF 49      
 
106
 - CB 53
402
 - Op(Azor. Gibraltar)
578
 - AM 18      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 43 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 71.
  Sailed:  U 563 - Lorient; U 432 - La Pallice.         
  Entered Port:  U 71 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Situation report U 109:   Boat has been in area 4 since 16 January, unable to use weapons because of bad weather.  Fair amount of ship activity close to the coast.  Ships sailing alone are dimmed out.   Coastal lights burning.  100 cubic meters of fuel.  Still no activity in area 5.  Why the boat has had no success in this are remains to be seen.
    2) U 203 has sunk 3 ships totaling 18,000 BRT.  1 patrol boat evidently sunk due to accidental shot.  Success off Cape Race.  Use of weapons hindered by bad weather.  Air and destroyer patrols. On return cruise.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) Norwegian ship "Alexandria Hoegh" (8248 BRT) sunk in CB 1831 (U 130?).
    2) Unknown ship torpedoed in BB 6670 (U 84 - 86 - 701??).
    3) Norwegian ship "William Hansen" (1344 BRT) torpedoed in BB 6620 (U 84 - 86 - 701?).
    4) "Georgian" reported contact with a U-boat (Position unknown).
       
- 27 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) English destroyer "Hesperus" collided with a German U-boat on 16 January off Gibraltar while convoying 37 ships.  Destroyer has ramming damage.  Evidently approached from the east, if from west, however, U-boat was possibly U 93.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) Newfoundland:  After U 135 began return cruise, new positions were ordered.  In attack area BB 68 - 69 - 92 - 93 - 95 - 96 - 98 - 99, U 754 has upper third.
      U 333 middle third and U 582 the lower third.  U 86 and 701 have BB 63 - 66 as operational areas and U 84 freedom of movement in the above named areas.
      U 553 - 654 have freedom of movement in the same coastal area with CA 7960 as the southern limit.
    2) Area West of Herbrides:  Following boats received orders to occupy attack areas as follows:  U 352 - AL 24-33-34; U 753 - AL 26-35-36; U 591 - AL 28-37-38; U 404 - AL 02-39-03; U 578 - AL 61-62-63.
      After sending position report U 572 took up AL 64-65-66 as attack area.
    3) After an unsuccessful attempt to pass through Straits of Gibraltar, U 572 took up attack area from U 571 (Azores-Gibraltar).  U 571 received orders to return to port.
  c)  Operations of U 432 against convoy evidently going according to plan.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 203 reported sinking: 3 ships total 18,000 BRT; 1 patrol craft evidently sunk.
       
VI. General:
            Boats fresh from Germany (see IV b 2) will not go to area off Reykjavik but will be placed in upper area of the mid-Atlantic.  Very light ship movements in both areas.  Disadvantages of operations off Reykjavik are:  long periods of darkness, close quarters limiting action against convoys, heavy defenses etc, all of which make operations further southward more feasible.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
- AN 90
U 108
 - BD 76
U 404
- AM 39
U 576
 - BF 49
 
66
 - Op(CA/DC)
109
 - Op(Nova Scotia)
432
 - BF 80
578
 - AM 18
 
67
 - BF 40
123
 - CA 92
435
 - AN 63
581
 - Op(Azoren-Gibraltar)
 
69
 - BE 67
125
 - Op(CA 30-60)
455
 - AM
582
 - Op(BB 90)
 
82
 - BD 71
128
 - CD 43
502
 - BF 40
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
84
 - Op(Neufundl.)
130
 - CB 18
505
 - AN 37
587
 - Op(dto.)
 
85
 - BD 71
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
552
 - BC 69
588
 - Op(    "    "    )
 
86
 - Op(BB 60)
   
553
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
   
 
87
 - BD 74
   
   
   
 
       
- 28 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
 
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
135
 - BC 81
563
 - BF 50
591
 - AL 36
98
 - BE 64
156
 - BF 40
564
 - BE 60
654
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
103
 - CC 17
203
 - Op(Neufundl.)
566
 - BE 48
656
 - AM 24
106
 - CB 53
333
 - Op(BB 90)
571
 - CF 60
701
 - Op(BB 60)
107
 - CC 35
352
 - AE 93
572
 - v.Gibr.
751
 - BD 59
   
402
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
575
 - BD 69
753
 - AE 92
   
   
   
754
 - Op(BB 60)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 43 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 571 - 203.
  Sailed:  U 136 - Kiel.   
  Entered Port:  U 43 - Kiel
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 85 reported sinking of a steamer of 9000 BRT.  Position of U 85 BD 8777, 81 cubic meters of fuel.
    2) U 84 reports "no activity in old area BB 6739.  Two torpedo spread shot missed, 1 torpedo broached.  Heavy air patrols and air bombs.  8 torpedoes in the boat, one in deck container, 43 cubic meters of fuel.
    3) U 123 has passed Bermuda on her return cruise and gives position as DD 25.  City and harbor dimmed out.  Lights extinguished even to single buoys.  Searchlight defenses on harbor entrances.  No mine defenses, no patrols or ship movements observed.
    4) U 82 sank tanker "Athelcrown" (11,999 BRT) in approximate position BC 22.
    5) U 553 was hunted for 2 hours by a destroyer.  U 553 sank a tanker, type W.B. Walther (10,000 BRT) in ballast on 16 January BC 85.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) British motor tanker"Athelcrown" sunk by U 82 in BC 9250.  British Admiralty sent U-boat warning for this area.
    2) American steamer torpedoed in BB 6676 reported she was still afloat and attempting to reach the nearest port.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) In order to give boats more freedom south of Newfoundland Group Ziethen U 86 - 701 - 84 - 754 - 333 - 582 given freedom of movement in all operational areas.
    2) U 125 left her operational area for area DC, because of lack of ship movement.
    3) In order to use less fuel, U 82 - 85 - 751 - 575 - 566 - 564 - 98 and 69 ordered to operate in coastal areas CA and BB.
       
- 29 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      After U 82 and 85 reported 85 and 81 cubic meters (convoy pursuit) these boats received orders to steer for BB 63 and 66 (St. Johns and Conception Bay areas).
    4) U 455 reports she is out of order (as in U 656).  Ordered to take station in areas AL 22 - 31 - 32.
  c) Convoy action by U 432 going according to plan.
  d) The sinking of a ship by U 85 in "Anton course" emphasizes the necessity of establishing the character of a ship before attacking.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 85 sank a steamer of 9000 BRT.
  U 553 sank a tanker type W.B. Walther 10,000 BRT.
  U 82 sank a tanker "Athelcrown" 11,999 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- Op(CA/DC)
U 109
- Op(südl. Nova Scotia)
U 432
- BE 83
U 581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
 
67
 - BE 96
123
 - DD 25
455
 - Op(AL 20/30)
582
 - Op(BB 90)
 
69
 - BE 67
125
 - Op(DC)
502
 - BE 92
586
 - Op(AM 11-31)
 
82
 - BC 92
128
 - CC 68
505
 - AN 20
587
 - Op(AM 13-33)
 
84
 - BB 60
130
 - Op(CA 50)
552
 - BD 58
588
 - Op(AM 15-35)
 
85
 - BD 78
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
553
 - CB 23
591
 - Op(AL 20/30)
 
86
 - Op(BB 60)
135
 - BC 93
563
 - BF 73
654
 - Op(CA-DC)
 
87
 - BD 83
136
 - AO
564
 - BE 77
656
 - Op(AL 60)
 
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
156
 - BE 97
566
 - BD 67
701
 - Op(BB 60)
 
98
 - Be 46
203
 - BC 59
571
 - CG 12
751
 - BD 48
 
103
 - CB 56
333
 - Op(BB 90)
572
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
753
 - AM 11
 
106
 - CB 47
352
 - AE 87
575
 - BD 58
754
 - Op(BB 60)
 
107
 - CC 19
402
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
576
 - BE
435
 - AN 20
 
108
 - BC 98
404
 - AM 18
578
 - Op(AL 60)
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 571 - 203.
  Sailed:  - . -       
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 85 reported sinking of steamer i.r. BD 8793.  Attack followed order number 50 figure 23 b (sinking of ship sailing alone screened by destroyer).
    2) U 203, on return cruise, sighted a large freighter in BC 5435, course SW, speed 12 knots.  Boat gave situation report later in Cape Race area.  Lights burning.  Ship
       
- 30 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      movements close to coast.  Ships blacked out for the most part.
    3) U 553 reports torpedoes all fired, returning to port.  Results:  2 tankers (16,000 BRT) sunk.  Ships taking outer coastal route, about 100 miles east of Cape Hatteras - Cape Race line, steering for convoy assembly point.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Position of U 132 reported in AE 47.
    2) English aircraft reported enemy U-boat in CG 8628 (U 402).
    3) British merchant ships received U-boat warning in BC 83 (torpedoing of Norwegian tanker "Leisten" and an unknown ship).
    4) U-boat warning in DB 6410.  Aircraft attack on U-boats in AL 18 and 27.
    5) Empire Wildebeeste (5631 BRT) torpedoed in CB 6188 and an American tanker "Venore" (14,305 gross tons) torpedoed in CA 79.
    6) Spanish steamer "Navemar" (5473 BRT) torpedoed by a U-boat in CF 9273 (not a German U-boat).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) U 106 assigned CA and DC coastal areas as attack area.  Freedom of movement in that area.
  c) Convoy operation by U 432 going according to plan.
  d) U 69 reports turning back because of heavy oil leakage.  Cause unknown.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  New report from U 553:  Sank tanker of 6000 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
 - Op(CA-DC)
U 109
- Op(südl. Nova Scotia
U 432
- BE 83
U 578
- Op(AL 60)
 
67
 - BE 97
123
 - BD 32
435
 - AN 20
581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
 
69
 - BE 67
125
 - Op(CA-DC)
455
 - Op(AN)
582
 - Op(Neufl.)
 
82
 - BC 82
128
 - CC 68
502
 - BE 89
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
84
 - Op(Neufundl.)
130
 - Op(CA 50)
505
 - AF 87
587
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
85
 - BC 96
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
552
 - BD 58
588
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
135
 - BC 93
553
 - CB 32
   
 
87
 - BD 83
136
 - AO
563
 - BF 73
   
 
94
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
   
564
 - BD 95
   
 
   
   
566
 - BD 68
   
 
       
- 31 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
 
 
98
 - BE 46
156
 - CF 32
571
 - CG 12
591
 - Op(AL)
 
103
 - CB 56
203
 - BC 66
572
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
654
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
 
106
 - CB 47
333
 - Op(Neufundl.)
575
 - BD 58
656
 - Op(AL)
 
107
 - CC 19
352
 - AE 87
576
 - BE 68
701
 - Neufundl.
 
108
 - BC 98
402
 - Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
   
751
 - BD 48
 
   
404
 - AM 18
   
753
 - AM 11
 
   
   
   
754
 - Op(Neufundl.)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 553 - 203 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 571.
  Sailed:  U 161 - Lorient; U 213 - Kiel.         
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 352 reports on "Oslo Route":  no air recce; 1 patrol boat sighted.
    2) U 94 and U 586 report no ship movements and negligible patrols in area west of the Hebrides.  Just off the coast (along the 200 meter line) air patrols reported by U 94.
    3) U 581 reports sinking corvette on 19 January.
    4) U 66 reports total sinkings 5 ships 50,000 BRT of which 2 tankers, 1 auxiliary and 1 ore ship.  Heavy ship movements from the south to Cape Hatteras.
    5) U 333 reports sinking three ships from 18-24 January of which was "Burdpan" 26,000 BRT.  Single ship movements, air patrols and great deal of heavy weather.
  b)  None.
  c)  Greek ship "Mount Kitheron" sent SSS off Newfoundland.  English aircraft reported attack on U-boat in CG 8610.  Unsuccessful.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 94 - 586 - 587 - 588 make up Group Robbe.  These boats and U 505 - 455 - 352 - 753 - 581 - 404 - 578 - and 656 are to return to western France (see VI).
    2) Group Ziethen (U84 - 86 - 701 - 754 - 333 - 582) received orders to return to port in case their area was no longer productive.  Thereupon ship movements were reported from 16 - 22 January in the middle part of area BC.
      U 82 and U 85 given freedom of movement in BB and BC.
    3) U 402 ordered to Horta, since the "Llangibby Castle" lay off that point and other transports were expected to transfer 2000 soldiers.
       
- 32 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) Convoy operations of U 432 going as planned.As special operation U 575 was ordered to convoy a German steamer home.  She is to be at CD 3155 on 29 January for this operation.  Until then she has freedom of movement.  Operational order number 50 section 1 to be used.
  d) 1) Regarding the question of sinking of Spanish steamer "Navamar", U 571 reports Italian U-boat in area 100 miles from the sinking position.  Italian U-boat command confirms sinking attributable to this boat.
    2) U 445 reports transmitter breakdown from AL 31.  (see IVb 4 of 22 January).
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 581 reports sinking a corvette.
  U 66 reports sinking 5 ships total 50,000 BRT of which 18,000 BRT is already known. 
  U 333 reports sinking 3 ships, total 26,000 BRT.
       
VI. General:
    The re-call of boats west of England is based on the following:
  a) Attack possibilities of the North American and Canadian coasts are very favorable as is shown by success reports of the boats both in single ship movements and paucity of defense.  This situation must be taken advantage of with as many boats as possible before defense measures are strengthened and convoy systems are taken up.
  b)  Bad weather conditions in the area west of England lessen the possibilities of success.
  c)  The yard situation in western France is such that, because of ample space, these boats can be made ready before the large numbers of American boats put back in.
  d) The area west of England can easily be filled by boats direct from Germany should the need arise.  U 132 still remains on observation duty in the Reykjavik area.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
       
25.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CA 88
U 109
- Op(Nova Scotia)
U 404
- AL 62
U 578
- AL 65
 
67
 - CF 37
123
 - CC 79
432
 - BE 46
581
 - Op(Aroren-Gibraltar)
 
69
 - BF 47
125
 - Op(DC)
435
 - AN 20
582
 - Op(Neufundl.)
 
82
 - BC 49 (Op)
128
 - CC 83
455
 - AL 33
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
84
 - Op(Neufundl.)
130
 - Op(CA 50)
502
 - CF 31
587
 - AM 15
 
85
 - BC 86(Op)
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
505
 - AF 74
588
 - AM 17
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
135
 - BD 72
552
 - BD 67
591
 - AL 39
 
87
 - BD 92
136
 - Kr'sand
553
 - CC 11
654
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
 
94
 - AM 33
156
 - CF 29
563
 - BF 40
656
 - AL 68
 
98
 - BE 44
161
 - BF 40
564
 - BD 86
701
   Op(Neufundl.)
 
103
 - CB 54
203
 - BD 45
566
 - BD 59
751
   BC 69
 
106
 - Op(CA-DC)
   
571
 - CG 24
   
 
107
-
 CC 42
 
572
-
 CG 75
 
             
575
 - BD 49      
 
       
- 33 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
108
 - CD 12
213
 - Br'büttel
576
 - BE 59
753
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
   
333
 - Op(Neufundl.)
   
754
 - Op(Neufundl.)
 
   
352
 - AL 31
   
   
 
   
402
 - CF 98
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 505 - 69 - 404 - 591 - 656 - 578 - 94 - 588 - 587 - 553 - 333 - 66 - 203 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 571 - 701.
  Sailed:  U 105 - 129 - 504 Lorient.         
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 591 - on return course "Copenhagen" reported a patrol boat in AE 9448 but no other movements whatsoever.
    2) U 701 sank steamer ("Baron Haig") (3391 BRT). U 701 had 2 pistol failures and 3 undetermined misses.  Movements in Cape Race area nil.  Patrols and various scatter bombings.
    3) U 85 sighted a brightly lighted steamer and blacked out destroyer in BC 4831 sailing westward.
    4) U 123 sank armed steamer "Culebra" after a gun battle in CC 79.  Ship was loaded with aircraft parts.  (3044 BRT).
    5) U 333 sighted freighter (7000 BRT) in BC 5755, in company with a destroyer.  Suspected U-boat trap (possibly identical to U 85 report).
    6) U 66 sank altogether:  1 tanker 9200 BRT, 1 freighter-passenger 9000 BRT, 1 freighter 7500 BRT, 1 tanker "Charles Black" (14,000 BRT), 1 ore steamer 10,000 BRT, total tonnage 50,000 BRT.  3 undetermined misses on 3 other tankers.
    7) U 130 reports sinking 3 fully loaded tankers and 1 empty freighter. Total: 30,748 BRT.  Slight ship movements, medium patrols in area BB 50.  Bays believed mined.  Movements for Sydney steer for Skatar and then along the coast.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) 1 U-boat sighting in BC 83.
    2) American steamer "Mae" (5607 BRT) sent "SSS" from DC 1280 (no German U-boat there).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
       
- 34 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) U 66 ordered not to pass Bermuda in order to make use of a fruitful area.  Boat still has 2 torpedoes.
    2) U 103 ordered to steer for CA 38-39-62-63.  In case there are no ship movements there she is to take up coastal area to the west and search to south of Cape Hatteras.
    3) Contrary to former orders U 352 and U 455 are ordered to Iceland and are steering for area AE 55.  (Seydisfiord evidently assembly point for Murmansk convoy).  U 586 and 753 to remain in north section of AM.
  c) 1) Convoy operation of U 432 going according to plan.
    2) U 575 received new orders: boat to take position in middle of CD 37 for "Spreewald" operation.  She waited there until 1 February at 2400 hours, set out for BC 80 and finally reported 200 miles from proposed meeting point.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 130 reports sinking 4 ships total 30,748 BRT.
  U 123 reports sinking steamer "Culebra" 3044 BRT.
       
VI. General:
            New orders for boats west of England (see IV b 3) are for 8 boats to remain in Iceland-Faroes-Scotland area.  In this connection U 132 for area west of Reykjavik, U 352, 455, 435 east of Iceland off Seydisfiord, U 586 and 753 west of Faroes-Hebrides, U 136 in Cristiansand and U 213 in Heligoland.  These latter two will reach their areas in a few days.  THe purpose of these boats is the defense of Norway and will be pulled in to make full complement if necessary.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CA 98
U 123
 - CC 85
U 432
- BD 65
U 578
- AL 96
 
67
 - CF 53
125
 - Op(DC)
435
 - AN 20
581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
 
69
 - BF 50
128
 - CC 84
455
 - AE 87
582
 - Op(Neufundl.)
 
82
 - Op(BB/BC)
129
 - BF 50
502
 - CF 29
586
 - Op(AM upper 3rd)
 
84
 - BC 40
130
 - CA 54
504
 - BF 50
587
 - AM 41
 
85
 - BC 82
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
505
 - AM 33
588
 - AM 45
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
135
 - BD 81
552
 - BF 40
591
 - AL 69
 
87
 - BE 73
136
 - AN 30
553
 - BB 99
654
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
 
94
 - AM 27
156
 - CF 51
563
 - BF
656
 - AM 77
 
98
 - BD 65
161
 - BF 40
564
 - BD 84
701
 - BC 49
 
103
 - CB 44
203
 - BD 55
566
 - BD 57
751
 - BC 67
 
105
 - BF 50
213
 - AN 95
571
 - BF 70
753
 - Op(AM northern part)
 
106
-
 BF 50
333
-
 BC 58
572
-
 Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
754
-
 Op(Neufundl.)
 
107
 - Op(CA/DC)
352
 - AM 11
575
 - BD 70
   
 
108
 - CB 63
402
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
576
 - BE 57
   
 
109
   CC 33
404
 - AM 47
   
   
     
 
- 35 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 505 - 69 - 404 - 591 - 656 - 578 - 94 - 588 - 587 - 553 - 333 - 66 - 203 - 552 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 84 - 571 - 701.
  Sailed:  - . -         
  Entered Port:  U 69 St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy number 5, see IV a.
    2) U 123 sank "Pan Norway" (9231 BRT) in CC 86 as a result of an artillery engagement.
    3) U 109 reported situation south of NOva Scotia.  More active air and destroyer patrols since sinking Greek steamer "Anyceas".  Sub chasers near the coast.  No ship movements seen off Cape Sable.
    4) U 135 reports no movement in BB 90 or on return cruise.  She sank a 5000 ton freighter in BC 9167 on 22 January.
    5) U 582 reports sinking a tanker of 6000 BRT in CC 21.
    6) U 588 sank a steamer of 6000 BRT in AM 3555.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) USA tanker "Gulfqueen" (6599 BRT) sent SSS and sighted periscope.  Another U-boat sighting and SSS report in BC 7437.  Steamer "Mariposa" sighted U-boat in CC 22 and attacked it (U 552).
    2) Spanish tanker "Campomanes" sighted unknown U-boat off Gibraltar on northerly course.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy number 5:
     At 1426 hours U 753 reported small convoy of 5 ships in AM 4641, course 2300, speed 5-7 knots.  Boat had contact until 1931 hours.  Last report from AM 4927, course south, speed 10 knots.  Numerous seaplanes by day.
    At 1st report U 753 received orders to attack convoy insofar as was possible and to relay orders to boats in the neighborhood.  She signaled U 591 in AM 76, U 656 in BE 35, U 587 in AM 44, U 94 in AM 44, U 404 in AM 47 and U 505 in AM 23.  All boats were on return cruises.  U 656 received orders to set out, while U 591 alone could operate against the convoy since she was on southerly course.  Attack was immediately made optional to all boats.  Boat keeping contact was to report every hour.  U 94 was required to give bearing signal at 1906 and 2008 hours.  Since no contact was reported after 1931 hours and U 753 did not report, all boats were ordered to continue return voyage if no contact was made by dawn.
       
- 36 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) U 402 received message that damaged troop transport was reckoned to be sailing from Horta in about 6 days.
    2) Attack areas:
      U 103 - 108 in coastal area of CA, in the northern part of CA's lower corner.
      U 107 - 106 to operate south of that area.  
      In case situation fruitless, expansion of areas was optional
  c) Convoy operation of U 432 going according to plan.  U 575 was informed of course and appearance of the Spreewald.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 588 reports sinking 1 ship 6000 BRT
    U 109         "        "         D. Anyceas
  U 592         "        "         1 tanker 6000 BRT
  U 135         "        "         1 freighter 5000 BRT
  U 123         "        "         tanker Pan Norway 9231 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CB 75
U 123
- CC 86
U 402
- Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
U 578
- BF 40
 
67
 - CF 54
125
 - Op(DC)
404
 - AM 70
581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
 
82
 - Op(BB/BC)
128
 - CC 78
432
 - BD 50
582
 - CC 22
 
84
 - BC 51
129
 - BF 40
435
 - AF 70
586
 - Op(AM)
 
85
 - Op(BB/BC)
130
 - Op(CA)
455
 - AE 85
587
 - AM 70
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
502
 - CF 51
588
 - AM 70
 
87
 - BE 58
135
 - BE 42
504
 - BF 40
591
 - AM 70
 
94
 - AM 70
136
 - AN 20
505
 - AM 27
654
 - Op(amerik. Küste)
 
98
 - BD 56
156
 - CE 49
552
 - BF 50
656
 - BF 42
 
103
 - Op(CA)
161
 - BF
553
 - BC 78
701
 - BC 58
 
105
 - BF 40
203
 - BD 64
563
 - BE 61
751
 - BC 58
 
106
 - Op(CA)
213
 - AN 93
564
 - BD 72
753
 - AM 70 Op
 
107
-
 CB 61
333
-
 BC 67
566
-
 BD 48
754
-
 Op(Neufundl.)
 
108
 - CC 34
352
 - AE 85
571
 - BF 50      
 
109
 - BB 70
   
572
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)      
 
   
   
575
 - BD 70      
 
   
   
576
 - BE 47      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 552 - 571 - 505 - 404 - 591 - 656 - 578 - 94 - 587 - 588 - 553 - 130 - 333 - 701 - 66 - 203 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 84.
  Sailed:  U 332  La Pallice.         
  Entered Port:  U 552  St. Nazaire;  U 571  La Pallice.
       
- 37 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 130 torpedoed a tanker of 7500 BRT in CA 5443.  Ship broke up.
    2) U 754 reports sinking:  4 ships 16,876 BRT total.  Situation report from area BB 60; lighthouses alight from St. Marys to Baccalieu since 24 January but some are weak.  No ship movements by day, but heavy the 1st night.  After sinking 2 steamers movements stopped.  3 torpedo boats operating as a patrol group seen thrice.
    3) U 125 reports situation:
     
I) Area 3 (see order number 50) no movement up until 21 January, light air patrols.  Light ships just like peace time.
II) CA 58-88 very heavy movements, mostly N-S.  Many tankers.  Various neutral ships.  No Patrols.
III) 3 bow tubes out of order, stern tube empty.  Wind NE 3, visibility medium.
IV) Sank a 7000 ton freighter in CA 8797 on 26 January.  One hit scored on tanker on 25 January, 6 misses, cause of 2 undetermined.  6 torpedoes left.
    4) U 753 reports contact with convoy number 5 lost on 26 January.  2 depth charges from destroyer in the evening.  Ran over us as we dived, damaging top deck, all antennae and starboard exhaust caps damaged, interior of boat not in order.
      Fired on tanker having air cover but missed (27 January).
    5) U 572 reported being shot up by attack on troop transport 0000 hours in CF 7357.  Depth charges also.
    6) U 505 and reported regarding "Rotterdam" route: No movements, no patrols.  Distant scatter bombing some distance away during the day.
    7) U 440 bombed by aircraft in AM 4496.  Attack periscope knocked out.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Wreck with bow sticking up in CA 5430 on 25 January (U 130?).
    2) Steamer "Hado" attacked by U-boat in CA 7952.
    3) American "Pan Maine" sent "SSS" in CA 7350 on 28 January.
       
  d) Sailing of "Malaya" from Gibraltar (repairs in England? Torpedoed by U 81 on 14 November 1941).
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
 
 
 
- 38 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) At request of U 109, fuel will be transferred to her from U 130 on night of 29 January in CA 4845.  U 109 freedom of attack in same coastal area.
    2) Attack area for U 751 and U 566 is BB 70 and farther southwest.  U 564 - 98 have freedom to move as far west as possible, giving situation reports on the boats.
    3) U 85 and 82 given liberty to extend their attack areas to the south in case weather or cold makes their operational areas unfavorable.
    4) U 432 assigned area off Cape Hatteras after completing special operation and following refueling.  In case refueling is impossible she is to have freedom of movement according to fuel situation.
       
      Iceland area:
      U 435 - 455 - 352 took positions in sectors off Seydisfjord between 300 and 1800.  Fjord is suspected assembly place for N. Atlantic (Russia) convoy.
       
  c) 1) Convoy operation of U 432 going according to plan.
    2) U 575 reports air recce on 2 and 3 February by Condor and Heinkel 115.  Picked up just outside territorial waters by 2 sweepers.
  d) U 123 requests transfer of her wounded to the Spreewald.  Received orders to steer for middle of CD 37 (meeting point of U 575 and Spreewald).  Further directions from High Command.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 130 reported sinking 1 tanker 7,500 BRT.
  U 754        "        "            4 ships total 16,876 BRT.
  U 125        "        "            1 freighter 7,000 BRT.
  Sinking of 4,000 BRT ship not reported previously was claimed by U 553.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CB 82
U 123
- CD 71
U 402
- Op(Azor. Gibral.)
U 578
 - BF 50
 
67
 - CF 49
125
 - CA 83
404
 - BE 32
581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
 
82
 - Op(BB/BC)
128
 - BD 35
432
 - BD 72
582
 - Op(Neufundl.)
 
84
 - BC 61
129
 - BF 71
435
 - AE 55
586
 - Op(AM)
 
85
 - Op(BB/BC)
130
 - CA 64
455
 - AE 55
587
 - BE 30
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
502
 - CF 46
588
 - BE 30
 
87
 - BF 40
135
 - BE 54
504
 - BF 40
591
 - BE 30
 
94
 - BE 30
136
 - AN 20
505
 - AM 20
654
 - CB 51
 
98
 - BD57
156
 - CE 93
553
 - BC 88
656
 - BF 50
 
103
 - CA 56
161
 - BE 99
563
 - BE 25
701
 - BC 68
 
105
 - BE
203
 - BF 45
   
   
 
- 39 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
 
106
 - Op(CA)
213
 - AN 34
564
 - BC 93
751
 - BC 57
 
107
 - CB 54
332
 - BF 50
566
 - BC 68
753
 - AM 40
 
108
 - CG 24
333
 - BD 47
572
 - CF 73
754
 - BC 47
 
109
 - Op(Nova Scotia
352
 - AE 55
575
 - CD 30
   
 
 
 
576
-
 BD 68
 
 
  On Return Passage:    U 505 - 404 - 501 - 656 - 578 - 94 - 588 - 587 - 654 - 553 - 754 - 130 - 333 - 701 - 66 - 203 - 87 - 135 - 123 - 84.
  Sailed:      - . -    
  Entered Port:    U 656 - Brest; U 578 - St. Nazaire.
       
II Air Reconnaissance:
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 654 reports situation from area BB 70:  Boat saw nothing on outbound voyage.  Sub chaser activity near the coast, evidently a U-boat trap in BB 99.  Total of 9 misses, of which 3 were on a freighter lying hove to.  4 torpedoes and 65 cubic meters of fuel left.  Returning to port.
    2) U 132 reported situation in area west of Reykjavik:  Medium air patrols, heavy patrol activities.  Gaps in mine defenses in AE 4764.  So far no ship movement.  Limited use of weapons because of weather.Sea 7, wind NE 7-8, high swells.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Abandoned ship reported in CA 57.
    2) Abandoned tanker "Onley" (7294 BRT) stalked by U-boat in CA 5740 as well as American steamer "Serva la Bari" and English tanker "British Corfòral" (6972 BRT) in BB 5890.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 125 received orders to return to port, reloading from deck containers to be attempted.
    2) The impression is, that U 753 is unseaworthy due to damage and on these grounds she was ordered to return to western France.
  c)  Convoy operation of U 432 going according to plan.  U 575 is at Spreewald rendezvous point.
  d)  U 123 received new information regarding meeting of "Spreewald".  In case the ship has not passed the meeting place she has taken course so that she will reach the point not earlier than the morning of 30 January.  U-boat is to wait until 1 February at 2400 hours and in case ship is not found, will proceed.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- 40 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
29.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CB 67
U 123
- CD 55
U 402
- Op(Azor. Gibr.)
U 581
- Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
 
67
 - CA 95
125
 - CA 93
404
 - BE
582
 - BB 90
 
82
 - Op(BC/BB)
128
 - DD 25
432
 - CE 47
586
 - Op(AM northern part)
 
84
 - BD 41
129
 - CG 11
435
 - Op(AE 50)
587
 - BE 10
 
85
 - Op(BC/BB)
130
 - CA 60
502
 - CE 92
588
 - BF 40
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
132
 - AE 47(OP)
504
 - BE
591
 - AM 78
 
87
 - BF 50
135
 - BE 60
505
 - AM 42
654
 - CB 61
 
94
 - BF 40
136
 - Bergen
553
 - BC 94
701
 - BD 48
 
98
 - BD 48
156
 - CE 86
563
 - BE 22
751
 - BC 71
 
103
 - Op(CA)
161
 - CF 33
564
 - BC 83
753
 - AM 74
 
105
 - BE
203
 - BF 50
566
 - BC 59
754
 - BC 48
 
106
 - Op(CA)
213
 - AN 20
572
 - Op(Azor. Gibr.)
   
 
107
-
 CB 45
332
-
 BF 40
575
-
 CD 30
 
 
108
 - CC 18
333
 - BD 57
576
 - BD 59
   
 
109
 - CB 40
352
 - Op(AE 50)
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 505 - 404 - 753 - 94 - 588 - 587 - 654 - 553 - 754 - 130 - 333 - 701 - 66 - 87 - 203 - 135 - 123 - 84 - 582 - 125.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 87 - La Pallice; U 203 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 84 reports from BC 89:
      Three torpedo spread and other shots missed "Alpera" - reason undetermined.  Firing data perfect.  Quiet sea.  After spread shot fired while submerged 2 distinct blows were heard.
    2) U 753 gives situation report from Rockall area:  No constant air or sea patrols.  Fast convoy with aircraft and destroyer protection in AM 45 on 26 January.  On 27 January a tanker and airplane in AM 4483.  Westerly course.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boats were sighted and reported:
              AM 7645 - AM 1881.        DA 9947 (not ours)  CB 1466.
    2) USA tanker "Gulfstar" sent "SSS" from CA 5740.
       
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) Operation for U 504 planned in Straits of Florida.
      Boat received new course for DB 98.
       
- 41 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) U 654, returning with 65 cubic meters of fuel, ordered to move at will in areas BB-BC-CD as fuel permits.
  c) Convoy operation of U 432 and 575 evidently going according to plan.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:
 

        The first reports of boats operating off the American coast embrace a number of faulty shots as follows:  U 553 - 7 misses on a tanker of 8,000 tons, U 701 2 pistol failures, 3 undetermined misses, U 84 heard 2 impact noises among a number of faulty shots.  U 654 reports 7 out of 9 misses on targets lying motionless gave torpedo noises normal for running course of 1000 meters.  According to positions in which the faulty shots occurred and the fact that they were fired in different areas all along the coast, the influence of the cold cannot be the explanation.  Reports by the boats will be relayed to torpedo testing stations so that a rigid test can be made upon their return to port.  Following was reported:  U 203 fired 3 undetermined misses on what appeared to be a U-boat trap, a ship of 6,000 tons, hove to.As a result a patrol craft near by was hit although it was not fired at.  It is not certain whether it was a ship of especially shallow draft or not; moreover the torpedoes were set very shallow.
          U 552 had 5 unexplained misses which are of undetermined nature are; according to observations of boats which have put in and from statements of U 654, faulty depth settings which cause wide variations when operating in heavy seas or high swells.  On 31 January U 94 reported that ventilation of G7e builds up an excessive pressure on the depth setting gear reaching 0.5 kg. per square centimeter in 2 days, the pressure building up from the battery compartment because of bad torpedo bulkheads.  Henceforth ventilation and heating of G7e torpedoes is forbidden.  The fault is not totally due to this however, since a great number of boats have not ventilated their torpedoes.  The current problem will have to be solved by torpedo tests.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CC 44
U 123
- CD 37
U 402
- Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
U 576
- BD 57
 
67
 - CE 89
125
 - CB 49
404
 - BE 30
581
 - Op(Azor.-Gibr.)
 
82
 - Op(BB/BC)
128
 - DD 19
432
 - CD 90
582
 - BC 76
 
84
 - BD 47
129
 - CF 35
435
 - Op(AE 50)
586
 - Op(AM)
 
85
 - Op(BC/BB)
130
 - CB 48
455
 - Op(AE 50)
587
 - BF
 
86
 - Neufundland
132
 - Op(Reykjavik)
502
 - CE 86
588
 - BF 50
 
94
 - BF 50
135
 - BF
504
 - CG 11
591
 - AM 47
 
98
 - BC 69
136
 - AN 21
505
 - AL 96
654
 - CC 41
 
103
 - Op(CA 50
156
 - DG 13
553
 - BC 85
701
 - BD 41
 
105
 - BE 56
161
 - CF 34
563
 - AL 92
751
 - BB 92
 
106
 - Op(CA 50)
213
 - AM 11
564
 - BC 81
753
 - AM 77
 
107
 - CA 68
332
 - BF 40
566
 - BC 57
754
 - BC 59
 
108
-
 CB 38
333
-
 BD 81
572
-
 Op(Azor. Gibr.)
 
 
109
 - CB 48
352
 - Op(AE 50)
575
 - CD 37
   
     
 
- 42 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 505 - 404 - 753 - 94 - 588 - 587 - 654 - 553 - 754 - 130 - 333 - 701 - 66 - 135 - 123 - 84 - 582 - 125.
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 94 - St. Nazaire; U 588 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 82 off Cape Race on 26 January and in BB 87 on 29 January reports little activity, much bad weather, no air or sea patrols.  Has sunk 2 ships ("Athel Brown" and "Leisten") total 18,117 BRT.
    2) U 132 (West of Reykjavik) began return cruise to western France, diesel compressor out of order and other damage unable to be repaired.  Boat attacked convoy on 29 January, consisting of 1 steamer (3,000 tons), 2 destroyers, 1 sweeper, 2 patrol craft and 1 escort ship.  Detonation heard as result of 4 torpedo spread shot at destroyer.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boats sighted in DB 6178 - CA 81 - CA 3850 - CA 7486.
    2) In approximate position CA 73 a floating wreck was reported.  Bow stuck out of water about 30 meters.
    3) USA tanker Rochester (6,836 tons) sent "SSS" from CA 8163.  USA tanker "Vacumn" was torpedoed in the same position (7,020 tons).
      USA tanker "Yankee" (8,046 tons) reported attack by submarine CA 5198.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - b) None.
  c) Convoy operation of U 432 and 575 evidently going according to plan.
  d) 1) Fuel transfer from U 130 to U 109 impossible because of weather (see 9-10).  Both boats in CB 48.
    2) U 654 explained torpedo failures to C.O. U 130 as follows:  testing of 8 electric torpedoes showed fault in plugging in plus or minus cables, from battery to heater.  Result was quicker topping up and shorter runs.  After changing over these errors were completely corrected.
       
V. Success Reports:
            U 82 reported sinking new motor ship "Leisten" 6118 BRT.
            U 132 reported detonation from 4 shot spread on destroyer.  According to intercepts she hit a torpedoes steamer on 29 January in area AM 4750.
 
 
 
- 43 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.January 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CC 54
U 125
- CB 56
U 404
- BF 50
U 581
- Op(Azor.-Gibraltar)
 
67
 - DG 16
128
 - Bermudas
432
 - CD 90
582
 - BC 86
 
82
 - BB 85
129
 - CF 29
435
 - Op(AE 50)
586
 - Op(AM)
 
84
 - BD 54
130
 - CB 48
455
 - Op(AE 50)
587
 - BF 60
 
85
 - Op(BB-BC)
132
 - AD 86
502
 - DG 12
591
 - Op(AM)
 
86
 - Op(Neufundl.)
135
 - BF 60
504
 - CF 37
654
 - CB 33
 
98
 - BC 59
136
 - AF 74
505
 - BE 63
701
 - BD 51
 
103
 - Op(CA)
156
 - DG 14
553
 - BC 95
751
 - BB 82
 
105
 - BE 54
161
 - CF 52
563
 - AL 38
753
 - BE 30
 
106
 - Op(CA)
213
 - AM 33
564
 - BC 72
754
 - BC 68
 
107
 - Op(CA)
332
 - BE 95
566
 - BC 71
   
 
108
 - CB 53
333
 - BD 91
572
 - Op(Azor. Gibr.)
   
 
109
-
 CB 48
352
-
 Op(AE 50)
575
-
 CD 30
 
 
123
 - CD 30
402
 - Op(Azor. Gibr.)
576
 - BD 47
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 505 - 404 - 753 - 132 - 587 - 654 - 553 - 754 - 130 - 333 - 701 - 66 - 135 - 123 - 84 - 582 - 125.
  Sailed:  U 653 - Brest; U 69 - 96 = St. Nazaire; U 456 = Kiel.
  Entered Port:  U 135 - 587 = St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) See B.d.U. War Diary of 1 February for complete report on sinking of "Spreewald".
    2) U 586 reports convoy on NW course, low speed at 1121 hours.  Enemy sent 2 destroyers in at 1330 hours, speed 20 knots, general course 3150. Last position AM 2155.
    3) U 132 sighted 2 destroyers on southerly course at 1802 hours in AD 8929.
    4) U 213 met no patrols on the "Amsterdam" route.  Sighted floating mine in AM 3284.
    5) U 435 reports situation and activity in areas between Borgar and Vidfjord:  lights burning as in peacetime.  Inner anchorage of these fjords protected by patrol craft, lights and net defenses.  No movements.  No air patrols.  U 435 and 213 ordered to break radio silence.
    6) U 105 (outbound) sighted convoy (evidently OG) at 2359 hours in BE 2782.  Course 400, low speed.  Boat attacked and sank a steamer, had to sheer off and lost contact, received orders to cease attack and to make for area where "Spreewald" was sunk at high speed.
       
- 44 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    7) U 161 reports destroyer on northeast course in CF 5415 at 1705 hours.  2 smoke plumes aft.  Boat set out for operational area after destroyer forced it to submerge causing it to lose contact with the enemy.
    8) At 1532 hours U 82 sighted a large transport with destroyers course 1100, speed 14 knots in BB 8873.  Enemy force, according to later reports, consisted of 2 transports and 2 destroyers.  Boat made contact and sank one destroyer.  Follow up under way.  Last report 0801 hours from CC 1296, speed 14 knots, still has 2 stern torpedoes, wind N 7, sea 6, bright night.
    9) U 130 (in position to transfer fuel to U 109) made contact with British steamer "Tacoma Star" (7924 BRT) at 1542 hours in CB 4842.  Course east, low speed.  Since U 130 has no more torpedoes, she is keeping contact until U 109 arrives.  U 109 stalked the ship and sank it at 0400 in approximate position CB 46.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-warning given for BE 1945, CF 4626, AM 5230, BE 6654.
    2) British steamer "Tacoma Star" (U 109 reported she was torpedoed CA 6897.  SSS signals picked up in Holland: steamer "Salland" (6,447 BRT) in FF 3430.  French steamer "Maurienne" (3,259 BRT) in BB 7550 and American tanker "Hahira" (6,855 BRT) in CA 7352.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) After U 575 relieved from convoy operation she took up areas CC and BC for attack squares.
    2) U 435 - 455 - 352 make up Group Hecht.
      U 213 - 86 - 591        "        "        "   Schlei.
      Home port for both groups is Bergen unless large scale repairs are necessary. Attack area for U 213 is AL 30.
  c)  Convoy operation of U 432 going according to plan.
  d) U 130 plans to transfer fuel to U 109 in CD 4965 on 1 February at 1500 hours.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 105 reports sinking 1 steamer out of convoy.
    U 109        "        "        "Tacoma Star: 7924 BRT.
    U 82          "        "         1 destroyer from convoy.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
       
                                                                                                   Dönitz.
       
       
 
 
 
- 45 -