U-506 - 2nd War Patrol
Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster
Departed |
Date |
Arrived |
Date |
Days at Sea |
Lorient |
6 April 1942 |
Lorient |
15 June 1942 |
71 |
Click the icon to download a KMZ file displaying the U-boat track, significant events and locations for this patrol. You must have Google Earth loaded on your computer to view this file. Download Google Earth here |
Ships Hit |
||||||
Date |
KTB Time |
Position |
Ship |
Tons |
Nationality |
Convoy |
3
May 42 |
08.19 |
25°15'N,
79°45'W |
SAMA |
567 |
Nicaraguan |
|
10
May 42 |
09.31
- 10.57 |
28°33'N,
90°06'W |
AURORA
(damaged) |
7,050 |
American |
|
13
May 42 |
21.38 |
28°21'N,
89°34'W |
GULFPENN |
8,862 |
American |
|
14
May 42 |
05.46 |
28°09'N,
90°22'W |
DAVID
MCKELVY (damaged) |
6,821 |
American |
|
16
May 42 |
11.01
|
28°27'N,
90°14'W
|
SUN |
9,002 |
American |
|
16
May 42 |
11.10
- 11.21 |
28°27'N,
90°14'W |
WILLIAM
C. MC TARNAHAN (damaged) |
7,306 |
American |
|
17
May 42 |
05.35 |
28°09'N,
89°50'W |
GULFOIL |
5,189 |
American |
|
19
May 42 |
08.58 |
28°33'N,
91°02'W |
HEREDIA |
4,732 |
American |
|
20
May 42 |
07.58 |
28°09'N,
89°58'W |
HALO |
6,986 |
American |
|
28
May 42 |
03.12
- 04.22 |
29°51'N,
72°38'W
|
YORKMOOR |
4,457 |
British |
|
31
May 42 |
02.52
- 04.50 |
30°27'N,
61°18'W |
FRED W.
GREEN |
2,292 |
British |
|
Total = 63,264 |
||||||
Note: The positions in the table above and in the Google Earth patrol summary are derived from the KTB and in many cases do not match those set forth in authoritative references such as Jürgen Rohwer, Axis Submarine Successes of World War Two or the Uboat.net website. The goal here is to present the picture relative to the U-boat and not the absolute position that the ship was attacked or sank. |
K r i e g s t a g e b u c h . | |||||
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - | |||||
of | |||||
Unterseebootes - " U 506 ". | |||||
Kommandant: Kapitänleutnant Würdemann. | |||||
Beginning: 26 March 1942 | |||||
Concluding: 15 June 1942. | |||||
© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved | |||||
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB |
- 1 - |
|||||
K r i e g s t a g e b u c h | |||||
of | |||||
Unterseebootes "U - 506" | |||||
Kommandant: Kapitänleutnant Würdemann | |||||
Beginning: 26 March 1942 | |||||
Concluding: 15 June 1942 | |||||
26.03.42 | Shipyard repairs and outfitting. | ||||
to | Lorient | 03 April Sea trial. | |||
05.04.42 | 4 and 5 April Degaussing. | ||||
06.04.42 | Lorient | ||||
19.30 | Cast off from Berth A 3 for war patrol. | ||||
20.00 | SW 4, Sea 3, Vis. good | Followed Sperrbrecher. | |||
21.03 | Point Lucie 2 | Released Sperrbrecher. | |||
22.02 | Point Rb. 1 | Transit on Route "Cedernland"/"Tannenadel". | |||
07.04.42 | |||||
00.30 | Point Ceder | Avoided many fishermen. | |||
SW 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good | |||||
03.00 | Point Tanne | ||||
07.15 | Dived. | ||||
11.15 | Passed the 200-meter line. | ||||
12.00 | BF 3370 46° 35'N | Day's run: 142 nm 12 nm = 154 nm. | |||
5° 07'W | |||||
16.00 | BF 5570 | ||||
20.00 | BF 5490 | ||||
21.26 | Surfaced. - Transit speed 12 knots. - | ||||
08.04.42 | Bay of Biscay | ||||
00.00 | BF 5480 | ||||
W 3, Sea 2-3, cloudy, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | BF 4690 | ||||
08.00 | BF 4680 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | |||
12.00 | BF 4670 46° 31'N | Day's run: 86 nm 35 nm = 121 nm | |||
7° 55'W | 142 " 12 " | ||||
228 nm 47 nm | |||||
13.30 | Deep diving test. Reached diving depth = A +32 meters. | ||||
- No issues. - | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 06.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 07.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.42 |
- 2 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
08.04.42 | |||||
16.00 | BF 4670 | ||||
20.00 | BF 4590 | ||||
21.24 | Surfaced. - Transit speed 12 knots. - | ||||
09.04.42 | Western Bay of Biscay | ||||
00.00 | BF 4580 | ||||
SW 4-5, Sea 4, short, heavy Swell, changing cloudiness, Vis. medium | |||||
04.00 | BF 4570 | ||||
07.25 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | ||||
08.00 | BF 4490 | ||||
12.00 | BF 4720 46° 26'N | Day's run: 71 nm 34 nm = 105 nm | |||
10° 21'W | 228 " 47 " | ||||
299 nm 81 nm | |||||
13.30 - 15.10 | Surfaced. | ||||
16.00 | BF 4720 | ||||
20.00 | BF 4470 | ||||
21.34 | Surfaced. - Transit speed 12 knots. - | ||||
10.04.42 | Northwest of Spain | ||||
00.00 | BF 4740 | ||||
SW 2-3, Sea 2, long Swell, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | BF 4740 | ||||
08.00 | BE 6990 | ||||
11.00 | Dived. | ||||
12.00 | BE 9350 45° 05'N | Day's run: 103 nm 18 nm = 121 nm | |||
12° 15'W | 299 " 81 " | ||||
402 nm 99 nm | |||||
13.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
16.00 | BE 9370 | ||||
20.00 | BE 9530 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 10.04.42 |
- 3 - |
|||||
11.04.42 | |||||
00.00 | BE 9540 | Short Signal sent: "My position is square BE 94." | |||
Shifting to the S 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. medium, Swell | |||||
04.00 | BE 9490 | ||||
08.00 | BE 9720 | Diesel-electric transit speed. Changing RPM to determine the most economical power setting. | |||
12.00 | BE 9710 43° 40'N | Day's run: 168 nm 3 nm = 171 nm | |||
15° 36'W | 403 " 99 " | ||||
571 nm 102 nm | |||||
16.00 | BE 8930 | ||||
20.00 | BE 8920 | ||||
12.04.42 | West of Spain | ||||
00.00 | BE 8940 | ||||
SW 4-5, Sea 4, long, large Swell, clear, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | BE 8860 | ||||
08.00 | BE 8850 | ||||
12.00 | BE 8870 42° 53'N | Day's run: 148 nm - nm = 148 nm | |||
18° 32'W | 571 " 102 " | ||||
719 nm 102 nm | |||||
13.30 | Proceeded submerged due to large Swell. | ||||
16.00 | CF 2330 | ||||
17.55 | Surfaced. - Proceeded on the surface. - | ||||
20.00 | CF 2350 | ||||
13.04.42 | Northeast of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CF 2380 | ||||
WSW 4-5, slowly abating, Sea 3-4, long Swell, Vis. over 10 nm | |||||
04.00 | CF 2610 | ||||
08.00 | CF 2530 | ||||
12.00 | CF 2550 41° 23'N | Day's run: 116 nm 11 nm = 127 nm | |||
20° 25'W | 719 " 102 " | ||||
835 nm 113 nm | |||||
16.00 | CF 2810 | ||||
20.00 | CF 2760 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 11.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 12.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 13.04.42 |
- 4 - |
|||||
14.04.42 | Northeast of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CF 5120 | ||||
W 1, Sea 1, long Swell, totally overcast, hazy, Vis. low | |||||
04.00 | CF 5140 | ||||
08.00 | CF 4390 | Diesel-electric transit speed 8-9 knots. | |||
(Diesel 230 RPM, E-motor 200 RPM) | |||||
Due to continual W-Swell decided to proceed south of the Azores. | |||||
12.00 | CF 4650 38° 48'N | Day's run: 197 nm - nm = 197 nm | |||
22° 52'W | 835 " 113 " | ||||
1032 nm 113 nm | |||||
16.00 | CF 4670 | ||||
Scattered fog | |||||
20.00 | CF 4860 | ||||
15.04.42 | Azores | ||||
00.00 | CF 7220 | ||||
NW 1, smooth Sea, Swell, overcast, misty, fog banks | |||||
04.00 | CF 7240 | ||||
08.00 | CE 9630 | Switched to Greenland Circuit. | |||
12.00 | CE 9650 36° 05'N | Day's run: 200 nm - nm = 200 nm | |||
25° 15'W | 1032 " 113 " | ||||
1232 nm 113 nm | |||||
13.10 - 14.00 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | CE 9670 | ||||
20.00 | CE 9820 | ||||
16.04.42 | South of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CE 9840 | ||||
NE 1, smooth Sea, cloudy, Vis. medium | |||||
04.00 | CE 9780 | ||||
08.00 | DG 2310 | ||||
12.00 | DG 2240 34° 22'N | Day's run: 198 nm 2 nm = 200 nm | |||
28° 50'W | 1232 " 113 " | ||||
1430 nm 115 nm | |||||
16.00 | DG 2270 | ||||
20.00 | DG 2420 | ||||
17.04.42 | Southwest of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | DG 2440 | ||||
N 1, Sea 1, cloudy, Vis. good | |||||
00.30 | DG 1660 | Light in sight bearing 220°T. Turned towards and held on. Distinguished as a steamer, side lights set in accordance with rules of the road and hull and stern are brightly illuminated with lights. | |||
Sun and Moon Data 14.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 16.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.42 |
- 5 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
17.04.42 | |||||
01.30 |
Medium freighter with 4 loading hatches. Course 85-90°. The glare of the lights is so dazzling, the name and nationality are not distinguished. Did not stop and came to old course 250°. | ||||
04.00 | DG 1650 | ||||
08.00 | DG 1670 | ||||
12.00 | DG 1830 32° 50'N | Day's run: 190 nm - nm = 190 nm | |||
31° 11'W | 1430 " 115 " | ||||
1620 nm 115 nm | |||||
16.00 | DG 1810 | ||||
20.00 | DG 1760 | ||||
18.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DG 1780 | ||||
NE 2-3, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DF 3990 | ||||
08.00 | DF 6320 | ||||
10.05 - 11.05 | Test dive. | ||||
12.00 | DF 6340 31° 45'N | Day's run: 193 nm 4 nm = 197 nm | |||
35° 28'W | 1620 " 115 " | ||||
1813 nm 119 nm | |||||
14.30 - 15.30 | DF 6260 | Artillery combat training with all weapons. | |||
SSE 2, Sea 1 | (First artillery firing of the boat) | ||||
Target: a raft with a circular target 2 x 1 meter. | |||||
1. Approach: Bow (initial range = 3200 meters) with turn off (range = 1000 meters) to running combat. | |||||
2. Approach: Armed attack at range = 800 meters. | |||||
Fired ammunition: | |||||
10.5 cm = 20 rounds | |||||
3.7 cm = 32 rounds | |||||
M.G. C/30 = 80 rounds | |||||
M.G. 34 = 450 rounds | |||||
16.00 | DF 6250 | ||||
20.00 | DF 6270 | ||||
19.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DF 6180 | ||||
SW 1-2, Sea 1, Vis. very good | |||||
04.00 | DF 6410 | ||||
08.00 | DF 5620 | ||||
12.00 | DF 5560 30° 45'N | Day's run: 200 nm - nm = 200 nm | |||
39° 25'W | 1813 " 119 " | ||||
2013 nm 119 nm | |||||
16.00 | DF 5550 | ||||
20.00 | DF 6270 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 18.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 19.04.42 |
- 6 - |
|||||
20.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DF 5720 | ||||
SSW 2, Sea 1, cloudy, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DF 5710 | ||||
08.00 | DF 4950 | ||||
12.00 | DF 4970 29° 30'N | Day's run: 173 nm - nm = 173 nm | |||
42° 35'W | 2013 " 119 " | ||||
2186 nm 119 nm | |||||
13.05 - 13.55 | Dived. Crew muster. Commandant's speech to mark the Führer's birthday. | ||||
16.00 | DF 7230 | ||||
17.46 | Incoming Radio Message (1630/203): "Schacht and Würdemann. Head for naval square Dora Anton 90 by the shortest route. Conserve fuel. Fuel supply on return transit is intended, however not certain. Notification will be timely." | ||||
20.00 | DF 7210 | Came to most economical cruise. Diesel-electric 6-7 knots. | |||
(Diesel 220 RPM) | |||||
(E-motor 130 RPM) | |||||
Decide to head for the ordered square via the Bahamas Islands and Florida Straits. | |||||
21.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DF 7150 | ||||
SSW 3, Sea 2, cloudy, Vis. changing | |||||
04.00 | DF 7140 | ||||
04.58 | Short Signal Sent: "Position is DE 9360." | ||||
05.07 | Short Signal sent: "Still have 183 cbm fuel." | ||||
08.00 | DE 9360 | Both Short Signals confirmed. | |||
12.00 | DE 9350 28° 49'N | Day's run: 178 nm 2 nm = 180 nm | |||
48° 33'W | 2186 " 119 " | ||||
[typo DE 9350 = 28° 57'N 45° 42'W] | 2364 nm 121 nm | ||||
16.00 | DE 9340 | ||||
20.00 | DE 9250 | ||||
22.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DE 9230 | ||||
SW 3-4, Sea 2, cloudy, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DE 9150 | ||||
08.00 | DE 9140 | ||||
12.00 | DE 9130 28° 49'N | Day's run: 156 nm - nm = 156 nm | |||
48° 33'W | 2364 " 121 " | ||||
2520 nm 121 nm | |||||
16.00 | DE 8390 | ||||
20.00 | DE 8370 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 20.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 21.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 22.04.42 |
- 7 - |
|||||
23.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DE 8290 | ||||
SSW 2-3, Sea 2, cloudy, Vis. good, scattered rain | |||||
04.00 | DE 8280 | ||||
08.00 | DE 8270 | ||||
DE 8190 28° 36'N | Day's run: 149 nm - nm = 149 nm | ||||
51° 21'W | 2520 " 121 " | ||||
2669 nm 121 nm | |||||
15.03 - 15.27 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | DE 8180 | ||||
20.00 | DE 8170 | ||||
24.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DE 7380 | ||||
S-SW 3-4, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. changing, rain showers | |||||
04.00 | DE 7610 | ||||
08.00 | DE 7530 | ||||
12.00 | DE 7520 28° 20'N | Day's run: 145 nm 1 nm = 146 nm | |||
54° 04'W | 2669 " 121 " | ||||
2814 nm 122 nm | |||||
16.00 | DE 7510 | ||||
20.00 | DE 7430 | ||||
25.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DE 7420 | ||||
SW 3, Sea 2-3, cloudy, Vis. medium-good | |||||
04.00 | DD 9630 | ||||
08.00 | DD 9620 | ||||
12.00 | DD 9640 28° 08'N | Day's run: 146 nm - nm = 146 nm | |||
56° 50'W | 2814 " 122 " | ||||
2960 nm 122 nm | |||||
1354 | Incoming Radio Message (1241/291): "To Schacht and Würdemann. Heavy traffic is suspected from square DM 19 and 43 to DA 6850, 8120, 5850. Very heavy tanker traffic from both of the last points. Attempt to interdict traffic routes in constricted areas. Attention is called to situation reports as soon as noticed, possibly through radio repeaters." | ||||
16.00 | DD 9560 | ||||
20.00 | DD 9550 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 23.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 24.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 25.04.42 |
- 8 - |
|||||
26.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DD 9540 | ||||
WSW 5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DD 9460 | ||||
08.00 | DD 9440 | ||||
11.03 | Dived to proceed submerged. | ||||
12.00 | DD 8660 27° 55'N | Day's run: 145 nm 2 nm = 147 nm | |||
59° 35'W | 2960 " 122 " | ||||
3105 nm 124 nm | |||||
16.00 | DD 8660 | ||||
16.50 | Surfaced. | ||||
18.05 | Dived again to proceed submerged. | ||||
20.00 | DD 8660 | ||||
27.04.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DD 8650 | ||||
Shifting from SW to WNW 3, Sea 3, rain showers, Vis. good, bright moon | |||||
04.00 | DD 8670 | ||||
08.00 | DD 8590 | ||||
12.00 | DD 8580 27° 45'N | Day's run: 73 nm 25 nm = 98 nm | |||
61° 25'W | 3105 " 124 " | ||||
3178 nm 149 nm | |||||
16.00 | DD 8490 | ||||
20.00 | DD 8480 | ||||
28.04.42 | South of Bermuda Islands | ||||
00.00 | DD 8470 | ||||
NW 2-3, Sea 2, Vis. good, bright moonlit night | |||||
04.00 | DD 7690 | ||||
08.00 | DD 7680 | ||||
12.00 | DD 7910 27° 32'N | Day's run: 146 nm - nm = 146 nm | |||
64° 12'W | 3178 " 149 " | ||||
3324 nm 149 nm | |||||
16.00 | DD 7820 | ||||
20.00 | DD 7810 | ||||
29.04.42 | East of the Bahamas Islands | ||||
00.00 | DD 7720 | ||||
Trade Wind weather, NE 2-3, Sea 2, clear, Vis. good, very bright moonlit night | |||||
04.00 | DC 7710 | ||||
08.00 | DC 9920 | ||||
12.00 | DC 9910 27° 31'N | Day's run: 197 nm - nm = 197 nm | |||
67° 40'W | 3324 " 149 " | ||||
3521 nm 149 nm | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 26.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 27.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 28.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.42 |
- 9 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
29.04.42 | |||||
16.00 | DC 9820 | ||||
20.00 | DC 9810 | ||||
30.04.42 | East of the Bahamas Islands | ||||
00.00 | DC 9750 | ||||
Trade Wind weather, night bright as day | |||||
04.00 | DC 8960 | ||||
08.00 | DC 8940 | ||||
12.00 | DC 8860 27° 03'N | Day's run: 209 nm - nm = 209 nm | |||
71° 37'W | 3521 " 149 " | ||||
3730 nm 149 nm | |||||
16.00 | DC 8880 | ||||
17.05 - 18.35 | Test dive and damage control exercises. | ||||
20.00 | DC 8790 | ||||
23.17 | DC 8780 | Crash dive for aircraft. (3-eingined land-based aircraft). - Was unsighted. - | |||
23.31 | Surfaced. | ||||
01.05.42 | East of the Bahamas Islands | ||||
00.00 | DC 8780 | ||||
Trade Wind weather, ENE 2, night bright as day | |||||
04.00 | DN 1330 | ||||
08.00 | DN 1310 | ||||
12.00 | DN 1230 26° 19'N | Day's run: 203 nm 4 nm = 207 nm | |||
75° 00'W | 3730 " 149 " | ||||
3933 nm 153 nm | |||||
16.00 | DN 1240 | ||||
15.10 - 16.38 | Test dive. | ||||
20.00 | DN 1180 | ||||
22.24 | Vis. 15 nm | "Man Island" lighthouse (Grand Bahama Island) in sight. - Moved back and forth at the limit of visibility. - | |||
02.05.42 | Bahamas Islands, Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 3630 | ||||
NE 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. good, clear, bright as day night | |||||
02.00 | Ran with both diesels 2 x HF (14-15 knots) in the NE Providence Channel. | ||||
04.00 | DM 3610 | ||||
04.45 | "Abaco" Lighthouse bearing 0°T, 5 nm. | ||||
08.00 | DM 3270 | Ran through the NW Providence Channel. Except for 2 small sailing vessels, nothing seen. All lighthouses as in peacetime. | |||
12.00 | DM 3140 26° 14'N | Day's run: 218 nm 4 nm = 222 nm | |||
79° 08'W | 3933 " 153 " | ||||
4151 nm 157 nm | |||||
12.35 | Entered the Florida Straits. Dived. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 01.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.42 |
- 10 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
02.05.42 | |||||
16.00 | DM 2360 | ||||
NE 1, Sea 1, Vis. good | |||||
16.20 | Surfaced. | ||||
17.15 | Crash dive for aircraft. (Sea plane.) | ||||
17.40 | Surfaced. Course 200°. Surface transit 8-9 knots. | ||||
19.30 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
20.00 | DM 2350 | Surfaced. | |||
20.10 | Crash dive for aircraft. (Slow land-based aircraft.) | ||||
22.09 | Surfaced. Slow land-based aircraft in sight which flies back and forth on the American coast. | ||||
22.58 | Crash dived for the land-based aircraft. May have been seen. | ||||
03.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 2350 | ||||
ESE 2, Sea 1, changing cloudiness, Vis. good, very bright moonlit night | |||||
02.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
02.13 | Crash dive for aircraft. (Sea plane.) | ||||
02.33 | Surfaced. Ran to the SW at high transit speed (14 knots). All lighthouses on the Florida coast as in peacetime. Bright light glow is seen over the city of Miami. | ||||
04.00 | DM 2380 | ||||
07.24 | DM 2658 | Steamer in sight bearing 160°T. (course 345°) Maneuvered ahead. | |||
08.00 | DM 2650 | ||||
08.15 | DM 2658 | Dived for submerged attack. | |||
08.19 | Single shot from tube 5 with: | ||||
Target speed = 8 knots, target angle = 90°, depth = 2 meters. | |||||
Hit after 29 seconds. (440 meters) in forward third. | |||||
08.23 | Surfaced. | ||||
08.29 | Steamer sinks slowly over the forestem. | ||||
Appearance: clipper bow, 2 masts, 1 long thin smokestack, 4 cargo hatches, 110 meters long. Size 3500 GRT. | |||||
After surfacing nothing heard on the 600 meter wave. | |||||
09.00 | Carysfort Reef lighthouse in sight. | ||||
09.23
10.02 |
Carysfort Reef bearing 315°T, 15 nm away |
Steamer in sight bearing 270°T. Steamer proceeds close under the coast, about course 20° and displays a strong bow and stern sea. Apparently a modern passenger steamer estimated at 10000-12000 GRT. Because the bearing shifts steadily ahead abandoned pursuit. | |||
10.31 | Cloudless moon | Shadow in sight bearing 280°T. Large loaded modern tanker on NNE course proceeding along the Florida reefs. Maneuvered ahead. | |||
11.21 | Carysfort Reef bearing 262°T, 10 nm away | Pursuit broken off at range 4000-5000 meters, target angle = 90°, due to the beginning of twilight. | |||
Moved away from the coast. | |||||
11.50 | Freighter on NNE course in sight, proceeding close under the coast. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.42 |
- 11 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
03.05.42 | |||||
12.00 | DM 2670 25° 07'N | Day's run: 95 nm 22 nm = 117 nm | |||
80° 02'W | 4151 " 157 " | ||||
4251 nm 179 nm | |||||
12.10 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DM 2670 | ||||
17.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
17.30 | Crash dive for 6 fighter aircraft in 2 formations. | ||||
18.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
20.00 | DM 2670 | ||||
20.15 | Crash dive for land-based aircraft. | ||||
22.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
23.15 | DM 2673 | Crash dive for land-based aircraft. | |||
23.19 | 2 aircraft bombs at depth 60 meters. No damage. | ||||
04.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 2670 | ||||
ESE 2, Sea 1, Vis. good, bright moon | |||||
02.46 | Surfaced. - Proceeded on the surface to the southwest. - | ||||
04.00 | DM 2910 | ||||
08.00 | DM 2850 | ||||
12.00 | DM 2870 24° 02'N | Day's run: 92 nm 12 nm = 104 nm | |||
80° 57'W | 4246 " 179 " | ||||
4338 nm 191 nm | |||||
12.16 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | ||||
16.00 | DM 2870 | ||||
20.00 | DM 2870 | ||||
05.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 5130 | ||||
ENE 2, Sea 1, cloudy, at times rain, Vis. medium, bright moon | |||||
02.35 | Surfaced. Due to heavy navigation offset after a fix (35 nm) intended search tonight of the Florida reefs within the 200-meter line is not possible. | ||||
04.00 | DM 5120 | ||||
08.00 | DM 2770 | ||||
10.15 | Misty | Sand Key lighthouse in sight | |||
11.30 | Cosgrove Shoal in sight. | ||||
12.00 | DM 1990 24° 18'N | Day's run: 72 nm 12 nm = 84 nm | |||
82° 10'W | 4338 " 191 " | ||||
4410 nm 203 nm | |||||
12.15 | Dived. - Submerged transit. - | ||||
16.00 | DM 1990 | ||||
20.00 | DM 1990 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 04.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 05.05.42 |
- 12 - |
|||||
06.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 1980 | ||||
ENE 1-2, Sea 1, Vis good, clear bright moonlit night | |||||
02.36 | Surfaced. - Ran towards the coast. - | ||||
04.00 | DM 1950 | Nothing seen between Rebecca Shoal and Sand Key inside the 200-meter line. | |||
04.40 | Incoming Radio Message (1542/217): "Schacht and Würdemann. | ||||
1.) To deliver pain killers be at naval square DL 31 upper-right corner on 6 May at 15.00 hours. Würdemann report later arrival by Short Signal if meeting at this time is not possible. No bearing signals. | |||||
2. . . . . . . . . " | |||||
06.30 | Short Signal sent: "Will be at ordered meeting point later, namely 1 day." | ||||
08.00 | DM 4130 | Surface transit to ordered meeting point. | |||
10.05 | DM 4420 | Crash dive for aircraft with set lights. Aircraft turned hard towards the boat. | |||
10.50 11.03 |
Surfaced. Aircraft is still in sight and circles the diving location. Lights are still set. As the aircraft again turns towards the boat, crash dive. | ||||
12.00 | DM 4220 24° 06'N | Day's run: 99 nm 13 nm = 112 nm | |||
83° 25'W | 4410 " 203 " | ||||
4509 nm 216 nm | |||||
16.00 | DM 4220 | Due to failure of the starboard diesel (oil cooler torn) can not reach the meeting point at the ordered time anyway, proceeded submerged. | |||
20.00 | DM 4210 | ||||
07.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DM 4210 | ||||
N 1, smooth Sea, clear, Vis. 15 nm | |||||
03.00 | Surfaced. Proceeded on the surface to the meeting point. | ||||
04.00 | DM 1870 | ||||
07.04 | Sent Radio Message (0637/251): "To Schacht. Due to air meeting first possible on 8 May at 15.00 hours." | ||||
08.00 | DM 1750 | ||||
12.00 | DL 3690 25° 06'N | Day's run: 86 nm 29 nm = 115 nm | |||
84° 56'W | 4509 " 216 " | ||||
4595 nm 245 nm | |||||
16.00 | DL 3650 | ||||
20.00 | DL 3530 | ||||
08.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DL 3250 | ||||
Wind calm, smooth Sea, hazy, Vis. poor | |||||
04.00 | DL 3210 | Proceeded on the surface to the meeting point. | |||
08.00 | DL 3130 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 07.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.42 |
- 13 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
08.05.42 | |||||
12.00 | DB 7870 26° 47'N | Day's run: 168 nm - nm = 168 nm | |||
86° 48'W | 4509 " 245 " | ||||
4677 nm 245 nm | |||||
15.00 | DL 31 upper-right corner | At meeting point. | |||
15.10 15.16 | Vessel in sight in the haze. Distinguished as U-boat hunter type "PC-450". Crash dive. | ||||
U-boat hunter circles at the diving location. No depth charges, no S-gear. | |||||
16.00 | DL 3130 | Ran off at silent running. | |||
18.00 | At some distance each 1 depth charge series. | ||||
18.30 | |||||
19.30 | Surfaced. | ||||
20.00 | DL 3130 | ||||
21.02 | Incoming Radio Message (1853/278) from Schacht: "8 May square DB 7885 armed Norwegian "TORNY" sunk. Würdemann not found at meeting point to now. Going 10 nm to the west due to air." | ||||
Headed for new meeting point. Schacht is not found up to the beginning of darkness. | |||||
09.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DL 3120 | ||||
NNE 1-2, Sea 1-2, clear, Vis. changing | |||||
04.00 | DB 7870 | Surfaced transit to the Mississippi Delta. | |||
08.00 | DB 7750 | ||||
12.00 | DB 7720 27° 37'N | Day's run: 130 nm 5 nm = 135 nm | |||
87° 50'W | 4677 " 245 " | ||||
4807 nm 250 nm | |||||
16.00 | DA 9690 | ||||
16.32 | Incoming Radio Message (1525/298): | ||||
"1.) . . . . . . . . | |||||
2.) . . . . . . . . | |||||
3.) Folkers report successes, Würdemann situation. | |||||
4.) . . . . . . . . " | |||||
18.25 | Incoming Radio Message (1411/201) from Schacht: "Würdemann not met. Because about 18.00 hours distant detonations as from torpedoes, 18.33 hours close in succession detonations as from aircraft bombs heard, report position. Positioned 10 nm west of meeting point." | ||||
20.00 | DA 9650 | ||||
20.30 - 22.03 | Test dive. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.42 |
- 14 - |
|||||
10.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9620 | ||||
NNE 1, smooth Sea, clear, hazy, Vis. changing | |||||
03.53 | Incoming Radio Message (0041/206) from Schacht: "Left meeting point due to heavy air and aircraft bombs. . . . . . . ." | ||||
04.00 | DA 9370 | ||||
05.00 | "Southwest Pass" lighthouse in sight bearing 28°T, 12 nm. Burns as in peacetime. Passes quickly out of sight again in the haze. New course 100° to the South Pass. | ||||
06.59 | Shadow in sight bearing 140°T. - Sending of ready situation report with new meeting point for Schacht was delayed - | ||||
Was distinguished as an unloaded tanker on a westerly course. | |||||
Maneuvered ahead. | |||||
09.23 | Incoming Radio Message (0854/213): "Würdemann immediately report position." | ||||
09.31 | Multiple shot from tubes 5 and 6 with: | ||||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 71°, depth = 2.5 meters. | |||||
Range was substantially underestimated, first after 188 seconds (2800 meters) a hit center. | |||||
Tanker shows little effect and continued on old course at slightly reduced speed. | |||||
He transmits torpedoed with exact position, whereupon "Commander Eighth Naval District" sends U-boat warning to all ships. - New maneuver ahead. - | |||||
10.57 | DA 9288 | Multiple shot from tubes 2 and 3 with: | |||
Mirror smooth Sea | Target speed = 8 knots, target angle = 63°, depth = 3 meters. | ||||
After 70 seconds (1050 meters) one each hit after edge of the bridge and engine room. | |||||
Tanker stops, lists to starboard and settled slowly aft. Crew goes to the boats. (4). | |||||
11.16 | 22 rounds 10.5 cm incendiary ammunition shot at low range. After multiple hits fire started in the fore ship. | ||||
11.37 | Ran off from the burning and sinking tanker due to the beginning of twilight. It goes by the call sign KERX of the U.S.A. tanker "AURORA". Size 7050 GRT. | ||||
12.00 | DA 9250 28° 30'N | Day's run: 194 nm 4 nm = 198 nm | |||
89° 57'W | 4807 " 250 " | ||||
5001 nm 254 nm | |||||
12.32 | Sent Position Short Signal. Was not acknowledged. | ||||
12.40 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9520 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9530 | ||||
20.20 | Surfaced. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 10.05.42 |
- 15 - |
|||||
11.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9560 | Surface transit to new meeting point. | |||
ENE 1-2, Sea 1, clear, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DA 9650 | ||||
04.59 | Outgoing Radio Message (0252/229): | ||||
"1.) Off and in Providence Channel no traffic. Lighthouses as in peacetime. | |||||
2.) Off Miami to Tortugas only on 3 May two independents sighted rounding Carysfort Reef to the north. Very heavy air by day. | |||||
3.) In the Gulf up to 9 May nothing seen. Schacht not found. At first meeting point forced to submerge by U-boat hunter type "PC". Position 11 May from 15.00 hours square DB 77 upper-left corner. | |||||
4.) Still 18 torpedoes, 123 cbm. High pressure weather. | |||||
5.) 3 May square DM 2650 freighter 3500 GRT sunk, course 345°. 10 May tanker "AURORA" (radio call sign KERX) left in flames, sinking condition in square DA 9288, course 270°." | |||||
08.00 | DB 7410 | ||||
12.00 | DB 7440 27° 57'N | Day's run: 116 nm 6 nm = 122 nm | |||
88° 16'W | 5001 " 254 " | ||||
5117 nm 260 nm | |||||
16.00 | DA 9690 | At meeting point. | |||
17.17 | DA 7477 [typo DB] | Crash dive for aircraft. Recognized too late by the bridge watch. (out of the sun range 3000 meters) | |||
Cloudless | |||||
17.18 | At depth 30 meters a heavy detonation. Boat was literally lifted. | ||||
Various failures. The only lasting failure is that tube 5 is out of service. (torpedo can not be launched) | |||||
20.00 | DA 9690 | ||||
12.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9690 | ||||
ESE 1, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. good | |||||
03.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9650 | ||||
08.00 | DB 7410 | ||||
12.00 | DB 7440 27° 56'N | Day's run: 107 nm 22 nm = 129 nm | |||
88° 20'W | 5117 " 260 " | ||||
5224 nm 282 nm | |||||
12.11 | Illuminated steamer in sight. | ||||
12.32 | Dived before steamer, proves to be the Mexican "DAXADA". Loaded, unarmed, course 325°. | ||||
13.48 | Surfaced. | ||||
13.57 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
16.00 | DB 7470 | ||||
20.00 | DB 7470 | ||||
22.30 | Surfaced. | ||||
23.02 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 11.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 12.05.42 |
- 16 - |
|||||
13.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9660 | ||||
S 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. changing, hazy, summer lightening | |||||
03.00 | Surfaced. Left meeting point to go to the mouth of the Mississippi. | ||||
04.00 | D 9620 | ||||
06.06 | Incoming Radio Message (0147/284) from Schacht: | ||||
"1.) . . . . . . . . | |||||
2.) Meeting point Würdemann settled." | |||||
07.30 | Fiery glow in sight. Apparently a burning tanker, that Schacht reported as exploded in Radio Message (0147/284). Fiery glow can be seen about 30 nm. | ||||
08.00 | DA 9350 | ||||
12.00 | DA 9370 28° 36'N | Day's run: 97 nm 28 nm = 125 nm | |||
89° 27'W | 5224 " 282 " | ||||
5321 nm 310 nm | |||||
12.10 | Dived. - Also submerged by day in the subsequent period due to air, with overcast skies and constant haze. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9530 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9530 | Multiple freighters and tankers with east or west courses in sight. In the prevailing haze ships first come in sight at low range with mostly unfavorable target angles. Sound gear reported propeller sounds before sighting in only one case. | |||
21.38 | DA 9536 | Multiple shot from tubes 1 and 4 on loaded tanker on easterly course with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 82°, depth 4 meters. | |||||
After 120 seconds (1800 meters) hit in the engine room. Tanker settled quickly by the stern and sank after 7 minutes. | |||||
Appearance: Older normal tanker (according to Gröner) about 125 meters long. Estimated size 6000 GRT. | |||||
After sinking the tanker until surfacing nothing further seen or heard. | |||||
14.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9530 | ||||
W 1, overcast, Vis. changing, hazy, marine phosphorescence | |||||
03.15 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9520 | ||||
05.15 | Shadow in sight bearing 260°T. Distinguished as a loaded tanker on an easterly course. | ||||
Maneuvered ahead. | |||||
05.46 | DA 9543 | Multiple shot from tubes 2 and 3 with: | |||
Vis. medium, heavy marine phosphorescence, smooth Sea | Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 65°, depth 4 meters. | ||||
After each 40 seconds (600 meters) hit in the bow only slight fiery glow and hit center. After a heavy detonation burning oil pours on the sea with a rush. | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 13.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 14.05.42 |
- 17 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
14.05.42 | Got clear of the burning oil with AK and hard rudder. | ||||
05.58 | Due to bright as day illumination dived to run off. | ||||
07.23 | Surfaced. Tanker is a large torch. Fiery glow is still distinguished at 25 nm. Sinking of the tanker is certain. | ||||
Appearance: Older tanker, bridge far forward, 2 masts, no king posts, 135 meters long. Estimated size: 7000 GRT. | |||||
08.00 | DA 9520 | ||||
12.00 | DA 9550 28° 11'N | Day's run: 36 nm 36 nm = 84 nm | |||
90° 04'W | 5321 " 310 " | ||||
5369 nm 346 nm | |||||
12.22 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
15.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9580 | ||||
SSE 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, dark low visibility night | |||||
03.13 | Surfaced. - Set off from the coast. - | ||||
04.00 | DA 9580 | ||||
04.30 - 09.00 | Down loaded 6 over deck torpedoes. No difficulties. | ||||
08.00 | DA 9540 | ||||
12.00 |
DA 9550 28° 03'N | Day's run: 61 nm 25 nm = 65 nm | |||
90° 10'W | 5369 " 346 " | ||||
5430 nm 371 nm | |||||
12.25 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9560 | At periscope depth nothing seen or heard. | |||
16.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9530 | ||||
NE 2-3, Sea 1, overcast, hazy, dark night, marine phosphorescence | |||||
03.15 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9530 | ||||
05.41 | Incoming Radio Message (1702/15/283): "Thurmann report situation as soon as possible. Würdemann send short situation report tonight." | ||||
08.44 | Sent Radio Message (0735/15/283): | ||||
"1.) Situation like Schacht. | |||||
2.) 13 May square DA 9536 loaded normal tanker 6000 GRT sunk. 14 May loaded tanker 7000 GRT naval square 9534 left as a torch. Sinking certain. Both course east." | |||||
09.59 | DA 9288 | Shadow in sight bearing 150°T. Maneuvered ahead. Distinguished as an unloaded tanker on a westerly course. | |||
Sun and Moon Data 14.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.42 |
- 18 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
16.05.42 | |||||
10.43 | Due to continuously decreasing water depth (less than 20 meters) initiated attack early. | ||||
10.45 | Second vessel in sight in the haze abeam with westerly course. Because this second steamer is already close by I can only run on attack course at low speed due to the heavy marine phosphorescence Therefore very large shooting range. (about 3500 meters). | ||||
10.49 | DA 9521 | Multiple shot from tube 2 and 3 with: | |||
Target speed = 12 knots, target angle = 87°, depth = 3.5 meters. | |||||
Both torpedoes probably passed ahead. The target was later determined to be the tanker "DAYLIGHT" from radio transmission. | |||||
10.55 | After missing initiated attack on the second tanker. Also an older tanker of about 8000 GRT. (length 140 meters) | ||||
11.00 | Further shadow in sight ahead to port. Also an unloaded tanker on a westerly course. | ||||
11.01 | DA 9521 | Single shot from tube 6 with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 75°, depth 3 meters. | |||||
After 74 seconds (1000 meters) hit in fore ship. Slight fiery glow, little effect. Tanker remains lying stopped for a minute and then runs at reduced speed towards land. During the attack the third tanker passes out of sight. | |||||
11.10 | DA 9521 | Multiple shot from tubes 1 and 4 on the 3rd target with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 72°, depth 3 meters. | |||||
Both torpedoes hit after 55 seconds (1000 meters) after edge of the bridge and engine room. Tanker remains lying stopped, lists to starboard and burns amidships. | |||||
11.14 - 11.21 | 24 rounds 10.5 cm from low range. Nearly all hits in the superstructure or in the water line. | ||||
11.21 | Ran off due to the beginning of twilight. Tanker strongly down by the stern with a steadily increasing list. After dawn at periscope depth at medium range nothing more is seen. Tanker sunk. | ||||
Appearance: Modern, about 150 meter long tanker with raked bow, cruiser stern and 1 masts. Smokestack not distinguished. Estimated size: 9000 GRT. | |||||
12.00 | DA 9520 28° 24'N | Day's run: 68 nm 26 nm = 94 nm | |||
90° 16'W | 5430 " 371 " | ||||
5498 nm 397 nm | |||||
12.15 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9520 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9550 | Nothing seen or heard. | |||
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.42 |
- 19 - |
|||||
17.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
SE 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, hazy, Vis. medium | |||||
03.21 | Surfaced. | ||||
03.30 | Shadow in sight bearing 180°T. Recognized as a loaded tanker on course 110°. Maneuvered ahead. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9560 | ||||
05.35 | DA 9661 | Multiple shot from tubes 2 and 3 with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 69°, depth = 4 meters. | |||||
After 34 seconds (680 meters) hit at the after edge of the bridge and engine room. | |||||
Tanker sinks very quickly and is under water after 3 minutes. No boats seen. | |||||
Appearance: Old construction, bridge far forward, 2 masts, 2 king posts just after the bridge, high smokestack, about 130 meters long. Estimated size: 7000 GRT. | |||||
07.46 | Outgoing Radio Message (0625/231): "On 16 May square DA 9521 in quick succession: | ||||
1.) 2 miss on tanker "DAYLIGHT" from long range. | |||||
2.) Hit in foreship on older 8000 ton tanker. Little effect. Tanker ran off in shallow water. | |||||
3.) Modern tanker of 9000 GRT sunk. All three tankers unloaded with westerly course. On 17 May square DA 9561 loaded tanker 7000 GRT sunk. Course 110°. Still 3 + 4 Atos. 110 cbm. Missing Serial Nos." | |||||
08.00 | DA 9560 | ||||
12.00 | DA 9280 28° 38'N | Day's run: 79 nm 25 nm = 104 nm | |||
89° 56'W | 5498 " 397 " | ||||
5577 nm 422 nm | |||||
12.16 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9280 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9280 | ||||
18.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9280 | ||||
SE 1, smooth Sea, Vis. medium, hazy | |||||
03.15 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9280 | Downloaded both of the remaining over deck torpedoes. Duration 2 hours, no difficulties. | |||
08.00 | DA 9270 | Many fishermen in sight. | |||
12.00 | DA 9430 28° 25'N | Day's run: 59 nm 23 nm = 92 nm | |||
90° 43'W | 5577 " 422 " | ||||
5636 nm 445 nm | |||||
12.20 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9430 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9430 | Unloaded tanker in sight. Course 300°. Due to long range did not reach shooting position. | |||
Sun and Moon Data 17.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 18.05.42 |
- 20 - |
|||||
19.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9460 | ||||
SSE 1, Sea 1, overcast, hazy, heavy marine phosphorescence | |||||
03.22 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | |||||
07.50 | Ship Shoal Lighted Buoy 2 not seen, apparently is extinguished. Ran on the 20-meter line on course 290°. | ||||
08.00 | DA 9180 | Shadow in sight bearing 260°T. | |||
Maneuvered ahead. | |||||
08.58 | DA 9197 | Multiple shot from tubes 2 and 3 with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle 67°, depth = 4 meters. | |||||
After each 30 seconds (600 meters) hit center and after ship. | |||||
Steamer settles astern quickly. Stern rests on the bottom. (water depth 25-30 meters). The foreship protrudes from the water up to the upper edge of the bridge but later also sinks. Several brightly illuminated lifeboats and rafts were set out. | |||||
Steamer was loaded and had course 120°. | |||||
Appearance: Type "MEXICO"/"MONTEREY" (5236 tons). Accepted size: 5200 GRT. | |||||
On 21 May an American Shipping Warning was issued with: Lat. 28° 30'N and Long. 90° 58' 30"W, with the addition that masts protrude from the water. | |||||
10.36 | Shadow in sight. A small freighter on an easterly course running in about 15-20 meters of water. - Can not approach before it gets light. - | ||||
12.00 | DA 9430 28° 28'N | Day's run: 75 nm 25 nm = 100 nm | |||
90° 56'W | 5636 " 445 " | ||||
5711 nm 470 nm | |||||
12.21 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9510 | ||||
20.00 | DA 9510 | Nothing seen and heard. | |||
20.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9540 | ||||
ESE 1, smooth Sea, cloudy, hazy | |||||
03.26 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
06.20 | DA 9551 | Shadow in sight bearing 20°T. | |||
Loaded tanker on course 90°. While maneuvering ahead the tanker passes out of sight several times for brief periods. | |||||
07.58 | DA 9553 | Multiple shots from tubes 2 and 3 with: | |||
Target speed = 11 knots, target angle = 66°, depth = 4 meters. | |||||
After each 21 seconds (420 meters) hits forward edge of the bridge and center. Tanker bursts into flames and in just a moment is a torch. | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 19.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.42 |
- 21 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
20.05.42 | |||||
A heavy internal explosion follows. Apparently the tanker is torn apart in the middle. Foreship capsizes and sinks. Details can not be distinguished in the bright fiery glare. | |||||
08.00 | DA 9550 | ||||
08.12 | Dived, ran off. | ||||
09.30 | Surfaced. Tanker is sunk. Burning oil can still be seen for some time on the water. | ||||
Appearance: Normal tanker about 145 meters. Estimated size: 8000 GRT. | |||||
12.00 | DA 9560 28° 20'N | Day's run: 63 nm 27 nm = 90 nm | |||
89° 34'W | 5711 " 470 " | ||||
5774 nm 497 nm | |||||
12.13 | Dived. | ||||
16.00 | DA 9560 | ||||
18.07 | DA 9561 | Propeller sounds heard. | |||
Freighter recognized on course 270°, 3 island type, about 3000 GRT, unarmed. | |||||
18.23 | From range = 800 meters single shot from tube 6 with: | ||||
Target speed = 12 knots, target angle = 79°, depth = 4 meters. | |||||
Miss. Probably speed overestimated (156 RPM in the sound gear), or under steered. | |||||
18.30 | DA 9561 | Another freighter in sight on westerly course. Type "BALFE", about 5000 GRT. Camouflaged, a cannon on the quarterdeck. | |||
Multiple shot from tubes 1 and 4 with: | |||||
Target speed = 9 knots, target angle 78°, depth = 3 meters. | |||||
Both missed, unexplained with the low range (600 meters) and the good data. From sound both torpedoes ran perfectly. | |||||
Therefore all torpedoes expended. Began return transit. | |||||
20.00 | DA 9561 | ||||
21.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DA 9640 | ||||
SSE 1, smooth Sea, hazy, heavy marine phosphorescence | |||||
03.20 | Surfaced. Transit on the surface. Course 150°, transit speed 8-9 knots. | ||||
04.00 | DA 9670 | ||||
06.49 - 07.19 | Sent Radio Message (0458/241 and 0517/244): | ||||
"1.) Off Mississippi continuous heavy independent traffic. Certainly worthwhile for other boats. Constant air, however no sea patrol determined. | |||||
2.) 19 May square DA 9197 fast armed passenger freighter type "MEXICO"/"MONTEREY" of 5200 GRT sunk in 25 meters water. Masts probably out of the water. In same area in 15 meters water could not get to shooting position on | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 21.05.42 |
- 22 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
21.05.42 | a freighter. Both course east. 20 May square DA 9553 loaded tanker of 8000 GRT sunk. Course 90°. Square DA 9561 miss on two freighters on westerly course. | ||||
3.) Out of torpedoes. All torpedoes ran perfectly. | |||||
4.) Return transit. A total of 8 ships of 52700 GRT plus a tanker of 8000 GRT damaged by a hit in the foreship | |||||
5.) Still 100 cbm. High pressure weather, frequent haze. | |||||
6.) Am missing . . . . . . . ." | |||||
08.00 | DA 9930 | ||||
09.28 | DA 9935 | Shadow in sight at low range. Patrol vessel with small silhouette lying stopped. | |||
Moved off, Shadow follows in wake. In heavy haze moved off in serpentine legs and at 2 x HF. Patrol vessel passes out of sight and was not seen again. | |||||
12.00 | DB 7740 27° 11'N | Day's run: 89 nm 27 nm = 116 nm | |||
88° 09'W | 5774 " 497 " | ||||
5863 nm 524 nm | |||||
12.02 | Dived. Proceeded submerged, Course 135°. | ||||
16.00 | DB 7740 | ||||
20.00 | DB 7750 | ||||
22.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DB 7750 | ||||
Wind calm, mirror smooth Sea, overcast, Vis. changing very heavily, hazy | |||||
03.33 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DB 7750 | Surface transit on course 135°. | |||
08.00 | DB 7790 | ||||
12.00 | DB 3130 26° 22'N | Day's run: 79 nm 27 nm = 106 nm | |||
86° 49'W | 5863 " 524 " | ||||
5942 nm 551 nm | |||||
12.50 | DL 3130 | Smoke feather in sight. Avoided to the north, as mast and a high smokestack came out. Course of the steamer about 315°. Not reported, because there is still no boat to the west. | |||
16.00 | DL 3130 | ||||
17.03 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
18.24 | Surfaced. | ||||
20.00 | DL 3520 | ||||
20.58 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
22.17 | Surfaced. | ||||
23.07 | Crash dive for aircraft. Was probably not noticed by any of the aircraft. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 21.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 22.05.42 |
- 23 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
23.05.42 | Gulf of Mexico | ||||
00.00 | DL 3640 | ||||
Wind calm, duck pond, Vis. very good, clear | |||||
01.12 | Surfaced. | ||||
03.00 | DL 3681 | Shadow in sight ahead. Probably a U-boat ("U-753"?). Shows a broad silhouette and returned to old course. Shadow passes out of sight. (Dived?) | |||
04.00 | DL 3680 | ||||
08.00 | DL 3930 | ||||
12.00 | DM 1750 24° 33'N | Day's run: 167 nm 13 nm = 180 nm | |||
84° 14'W | 5942 " 551 " | ||||
6109 nm 564 nm | |||||
16.00 | DM 1870 | ||||
16.05 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
18.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
20.00 | DM 4230 | ||||
20.05 | Cuban coast comes in sight ahead. (Distance 40 nm) - Came to new course 80°. - | ||||
23.03 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
24.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 1980 | ||||
ENE Sea 1, clear, Vis. very good, moonshine, marine phosphorescence | |||||
00.10 | Surfaced | ||||
03.49 | Crash dive for approaching aircraft. (Range = 800 meters). No lights, however illuminated cockpit and exhaust. | ||||
04.00 | DM 2750 | ||||
05.05 | Surfaced. | ||||
08.00 | DM 2840 | ||||
12.00 | DM 2860 24° 34'N | Day's run: 193 nm 16 nm = 209 nm | |||
80° 26'W | 6109 " 564 " | ||||
6302 nm 580 nm | |||||
12.09 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
16.00 | DM 2940 | Proceeded submerged. Central Florida Straits. | |||
20.00 | DM 2920 | ||||
25.05.42 | Florida Straits | ||||
00.00 | DM 2920 | ||||
Wind calm, smooth Sea, overcast, heavy marine phosphorescence, bright moon | |||||
02.19 | Surfaced. - Surface transit on the east coast of the Florida Straits. - | ||||
03.00 | Over flown by an aircraft with set lights. | ||||
04.00 | DM 2690 | ||||
04.30 | Crash dive for aircraft. No lights. Over flown at an altitude of 100 meters. | ||||
06.00 | Surfaced. | ||||
06.48 | "Gun Cay" lighthouse (Grand Bahama Island) in sight. | ||||
08.00 | DM 2630 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 23.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 24.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 25.05.42 |
- 24 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
25.05.42 | |||||
08.25 | DM 2638 | Shadow in sight bearing 270°T. Coast Guard boat of the "ARGO" class with low speed on a northerly course. Moved off to the east. | |||
08.35 | Patrol vessel passes out of sight. | ||||
09.37 | "Great Isaac" lighthouse in sight. | ||||
11.53 | Dived. | ||||
Proceeded submerged in the center of the Strait. | |||||
12.00 | DM 2360 20° 14'N | Day's run: 79 nm 59 nm = 138 nm | |||
[typo 26° 14'N] | 79° 28'W | 6302 " 580 " | |||
6381 nm 639 nm | |||||
16.00 | DM 2330 | ||||
20.00 | DB 9870 | ||||
26.05.42 | Florida Straits/north of the Little Bahama Islands | ||||
00.00 | DB 9840 | ||||
NNE 1, smooth Sea, Vis. good, bright moon, with sunrise heavy haze | |||||
02.39 | Surfaced. | ||||
04.00 | DB 9810 | ||||
06.00 | Passed through the Florida Straits. - Moved off from the American coast on NE course. - | ||||
08.00 | DB 9550 | ||||
12.00 | DB 9290 28° 31'N | Day's run: 74 nm 70 nm = 144 nm | |||
78° 55'W | 6381 " 639 " | ||||
6455 nm 709 nm | |||||
16.00 | DB 9380 | Diesel-electric transit speed 8-9 knots, course 80°. | |||
20.00 | DB 9360 | ||||
27.05.42 | Northeast of the Bahama Islands | ||||
00.00 | DC 7150 | ||||
Wind calm, smooth Sea, clear, hazy, bright moonlit night | |||||
04.00 | DC 7130 | ||||
08.00 | DC 7220 | ||||
12.00 | DC 4890 29° 26'N | Day's run: 210 nm - nm = 210 nm | |||
75° 06'W | 6455 " 709 " | ||||
6665 nm 709 nm | |||||
16.00 | DC 4980 | ||||
16.35 - 17.14 | Test dive and conversion of main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 2 and 6. [for use as ballast tanks] | ||||
20.00 | DC 4990 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 25.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 26.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 27.05.42 |
- 25 - |
|||||
28.05.42 | Northeast of the Bahamas | ||||
00.00 | DC 5760 | ||||
NNE 1, smooth Sea, changing cloudiness, Vis. good, bright moonlit night | |||||
02.49 | Steamer in sight bearing 110°T. Steers 340°. | ||||
03.12 | Opened fire on steamer in running artillery combat. Because of bright moonlit night and smooth Sea opening fire by surprise at low range is not possible. Opening fire range about 2500 meters. Freighter turns stern to and returns fire very quickly with a stern cannon (caliber at most 7.5 cm). | ||||
Evasion maneuvers of the steamer result in changing course with continually changing range. | |||||
It is very difficult to observe. Perfect hits can not be recognized. Only sudden ceasing of the Radio Message of the freighter (can only still send call sign) and the slow, uncertain, gradually silenced defensive fire are indicative of hits. | |||||
04.25 | Steamer remains lying stopped, deep in the water. | ||||
04.22 | DC 5844 | Steamer sinks on an even keel. | |||
3 lifeboats are seen, of these one is heavily occupied (35-40 men). | |||||
It was the loaded British freighter "YORKMOOR" bound for New York. Size: 4457 GRT. | |||||
06.10 | Sent Radio Message (0412/280): "Just now square DC 5844 loaded, armed freighter "YORKMOORE" sunk with artillery, course 340°, for New York, NNE 1, smooth sea, 1022 mb, bright moon." | ||||
08.00 | DC 5850 | New course 90°. | |||
12.00 | DC 5910 30° 05'N | Day's run: 206 nm 2 nm = 208 nm | |||
71° 10'W | 6665 " 709 " | ||||
6871 nm 711 nm | |||||
13.03 - 13.36 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | DC 5930 | ||||
E 2, Vis. very good, Swell | |||||
20.00 | DC 6710 | ||||
29.05.42 | Southwest of Bermuda | ||||
00.00 | DC 6730 | ||||
ENE 2, Sea 1-2, changing cloudiness, Vis. good, bright moonlit night | |||||
04.00 | DC 6810 | ||||
08.00 | DC 6830 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 28.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 29.05.42 |
- 26 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
29.05.42 | |||||
12.00 | DC 6920 30° 10'N | Day's run: 193 nm 2 nm = 195 nm | |||
67° 27'W | 6871 " 711 " | ||||
7064 nm 713 nm | |||||
16.00 | DC 6930 | ||||
20.00 | DD 4720 | ||||
30.05.42 | South of Bermuda | ||||
00.00 | DD 4730 | ||||
ENE 2, Sea 1, light Swell, Vis. medium, full moon | |||||
04.00 | DD 4820 | ||||
08.00 | DD 4830 | ||||
12.00 | DD 4920 30° 16'N | Day's run: 197 nm - nm = 197 nm | |||
65° 40'W | 7064 " 713 " | ||||
7261 nm 713 nm | |||||
12.33 - 13.10 | Test dive. | ||||
13.15 | New course 60°. Transit speed both diesels HF (11-12 knots). | ||||
16.00 | DD 5470 | ||||
19.45 | Vis. 10 nm | Masts in sight 340°T. | |||
20.00 | DD 5450 | Maneuvered ahead at the limit of visibility. | |||
21.30 | Vessel in sight directly ahead in target angle 0°. Dived. | ||||
23.45 | Vessel abeam in target angle 90°, about 10 nm off. | ||||
It is a slow small freighter with 2 large cargo cranes (similar to a small lake steamer). On the stern there is a small covered cannon. | |||||
31.05.42 | South of Bermuda | ||||
00.00 | DD 5460 | ||||
E 2, Sea 1, light Swell, Vis. very good, bright moonlight | |||||
00.46 | Surfaced. | ||||
02.52 | DD 5585 | Opened fire by surprise at range = 1500 meters. | |||
03.00 | After several hits the steamer remained lying stopped and was apparently abandoned by the crew. (no Radio Messages determined). | ||||
03.06 | The only remaining incendiary ammunition sets the bow of the steamer on fire. | ||||
03.08 | Am out of 10.5 cm shells. (Inventory at opening fire 34 rounds.) | ||||
Gradually fire breaks out over the entire ship. | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 29.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 30.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 31.05.42 |
- 27 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
31.05.42 | Because no list or settling is determined, in several approaches at low range fired into the hull with machine gun armament. | ||||
04.00 | DD 5585 | ||||
04.20 | Steamer becomes down by the bow and lists to port. | ||||
04.50 | Steamer sinks over the forestem. | ||||
2 lifeboats with a total of 40 men and several unoccupied rafts are seen. | |||||
It is the U.S.A. freighter "FRED W. GREEN" loaded (vehicles among other things) from New York to Freetown on course 125°. Size: 2292 GRT. | |||||
(From statements of the crew 2756 GRT.) | |||||
05.42 | Sent Radio Message (0450/252): "With last ammunition square DD 5585 loaded armed freighter "FRED W. GREEN" sunk. Course 125° from New York for Freetown, E 2, Sea 1, 1025 mb." | ||||
08.00 | DD 5640 | ||||
12.00 | DD 5390 31° 28'N | Day's run: 235 nm 10 nm = 245 nm | |||
59° 37'W | 7261 " 713 " | ||||
7496 nm 723 nm | |||||
15.03 - 15.31 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | DD 6150 | ||||
20.00 | DD 3870 | ||||
01.06.42 | East of Bermuda | ||||
00.00 | DD 3860 | ||||
W 2-3, Sea 2, Swell, overcast, Vis. good, moonlit | |||||
04.00 | DD 3920 | ||||
08.00 | DE 1440 | ||||
12.00 | DE 1430 33° 48'N | Day's run: 259 nm 2 nm = 261 nm | |||
54° 50'W | 7496 " 723 " | ||||
7755 nm 725 nm | |||||
16.00 | DE 1280 | ||||
20.00 | DE 1260 | ||||
02.06.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | DE 1250 | ||||
Northerly wind, changing strength 1-5, Sea 2, overcast, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | DE 1330 | ||||
08.00 | CC 8880 | ||||
12.00 | CC 8860 35° 02'N | Day's run: 240 nm - nm = 240 nm | |||
51° 13'W | 7755 " 725 " | ||||
7995 nm 725 nm | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 31.05.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 01.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 02.06.42 |
- 28 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
02.06.42 | |||||
16.00 | CC 8950 | ||||
20.00 | CC 9710 | ||||
22.30 | Came to new course 60°. | ||||
03.06.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | CC 9490 | New transit speed 10 knots. | |||
N 2, Sea 1, changing cloudiness, Vis. over 10 nm | |||||
04.00 | CC 9540 | ||||
08.00 | CC 9560 | ||||
12.00 | CC 9620 36° 25'N | Day's run: 230 nm - nm = 230 nm | |||
46° 47'W | 7995 " 725 " | ||||
8225 nm 725 nm | |||||
12.47 - 13.23 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | CD 7190 | ||||
20.00 | CD 7190 | ||||
04.06.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | CD 7250 | ||||
NE 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. changing, scattered rain, low Swell | |||||
01.22 | Incoming Radio Message (0017/235): "Return harbors are:. . . . . . . . Lorient for Würdemann. . . . . . . ." | ||||
04.00 | CD 7310 | ||||
08.00 | CD 7330 | ||||
12.00 | CD 5790 37° 35'N | Day's run: 239 nm 1 nm = 240 nm | |||
41° 55'W | 8225 " 725 " | ||||
8464 nm 726 nm | |||||
13.00 - 13.25 | Test dive. | ||||
16.00 | CD 5870 | ||||
20.00 | CD 5860 | ||||
05.06.42 | Central Atlantic | ||||
00.00 | CD 5920 | ||||
NE 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. good | |||||
04.00 | CD 6470 | ||||
08.00 | CD 6460 | ||||
12.00 | CD 6520 39° 00'N | Day's run: 229 nm 1 nm = 230 nm | |||
37° 30'W | 8464 " 726 " | ||||
8693 nm 727 nm | |||||
16.00 | CD 6290 | ||||
20.00 | CD 6360 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 02.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 03.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 04.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 05.06.42 |
- 29 - |
|||||
06.06.42 | Southwest of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CE 4150 | ||||
NE 3, Sea 2-3, low Swell, overcast, Vis. good, occasional rain | |||||
04.00 | CE 4210 | ||||
08.00 | CE 1890 | Switched to Ireland Circuit. | |||
12.00 | CE 1950 40° 25'N | Day's run: 235 nm - nm = 235 nm | |||
32° 35'W | 8693 " 727 " | ||||
8928 nm 727 nm | |||||
12.00 | Incoming Radio Message (1050/104): "Transfer of gyro compass globe from Würdemann to Piening intended. For this purpose 8 June 11.00 hours meeting point in square WC 8465. If up to 14.00 there is no meeting, Piening send bearing signals. Long-term escort is not possible. Piening immediately switch to Ireland Circuit." | ||||
16.00 | CE 2740 | ||||
20.00 | CE 2730 | ||||
07.06.42 | Azores | ||||
00.00 | CE 2580 | ||||
NE 3, Sea 2-3, long Swell, rain showers, Vis. up to 10 nm | |||||
02.20 | Outgoing Radio Message (0123/109): "To 10. U-Flottille. On 11 May tube 5 out of service from aircraft bomb. Center section probably buckled. Tube center section kept clear." | ||||
04.00 | CE 2590 | ||||
08.00 | CE 2650 | ||||
12.00 | CE 3440 41° 36'N | Day's run: 221 nm - nm = 221 nm | |||
28° 10'W | 8928 " 727 " | ||||
9149 nm 727 nm | |||||
16.00 | CE 3430 | ||||
20.00 | CE 3270 | ||||
21.00 - 23.00 | Dived. - Depth control training. - | ||||
08.06.42 | North of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CE 3240 | ||||
NE 3, Sea 2, long Swell, overcast, Vis. medium | |||||
04.00 | CE 3270 | ||||
08.00 | CE 3430 | ||||
09.00 | CE 3465 | By dead reckoning at the ordered meeting point with "U-155". - Not found. - | |||
12.00 | CE 3460 41° 35'N | Day's run: 156 nm 5 nm = 161 nm | |||
27° 23'W | 9149 " 727 " | ||||
9305 nm 732 nm | |||||
Sun and Moon Data 06.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 07.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.42 |
- 30 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
08.06.42 | |||||
14.15 | First bearing signal received from "U-155" in 20°T. Further signals head at half hour intervals. | ||||
16.00 | CE 3430 | ||||
17.19 | "U-155" in sight ahead. | ||||
18.07 | Transfer of gyro compass globe completed. | ||||
00.50 |
Transit speed 10 knots. Course 75°. "U-155" stays with until the beginning of darkness, then runs by at higher speed and passes out of sight. | ||||
09.06.42 | Northeast of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | CE 3290 | ||||
NE 3-4, Sea 3, long Swell, Vis. changing, rain showers | |||||
04.00 | CE 3350 | ||||
08.00 | CE 3360 | ||||
12.00 | CE 1250 42° 25'N | Day's run: 203 nm - nm = 203 nm | |||
24°00'W | 9305 " 732 " | ||||
9508 nm 732 nm | |||||
16.00 | CF 1310 | ||||
20.00 | CF 1330 | ||||
10.06.42 | Northeast of the Azores | ||||
00.00 | BE 7970 | ||||
NNE 3, Sea 2-3, medium Swell, overcast, Vis. good, rain shower | |||||
04.00 | BE 7990 | ||||
08.00 | BE 8780 | ||||
12.00 | CE 8760 43° 15'N | Day's run: 215 nm - nm = 215 nm | |||
19° 13 'W | 9508 " 732 " | ||||
9723 nm 732 nm | |||||
16.00 | BE 8850 | ||||
20.00 | BE 8910 | ||||
11.06.42 | West of Finisterre | ||||
00.00 | BE 8920 | ||||
NNW 3, Sea 3, long Swell, Vis. changing, rain shower | |||||
04.00 | BE 9710 | ||||
08.00 | BE 9480 | ||||
08.35 - 09.05 | Test dive. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 08.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 09.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 10.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 11.06.42 |
- 31 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
11.06.42 | |||||
11.18 | Incoming Radio Message (1059/145): "To Löwe, Würdemann, Piening. Immediately go at highest speed to Schuch. All boats switch to Coastal Circuit and remain there. | ||||
11.55 | Switched to Coastal Circuit. | ||||
New course 100°. Speed higher than 10 knots not possible due to fuel. | |||||
12.00 | BE 9570 43° 55'N | Day's run: 212 nm 2 nm = 215 nm | |||
14° 25 'W | 9723 " 732 " | ||||
9935 nm 734 nm | |||||
16.00 | BE 9580 | ||||
20.00 | BE 9590 | ||||
21.54 | Crash dive for aircraft. | ||||
23.24 | Surfaced. | ||||
12.06.42 | Western Bay of Biscay | ||||
00.00 | BE 9670 | ||||
NW 3-4, Sea 3, high Swell, Vis. up to 5 nm, rain showers | |||||
02.36 | Incoming Radio Message (0146/66): | ||||
"1.) Würdemann, Löwe, Piening, Bigalk head for naval square BE 9945. Search for Schuch after it gets light is intended. More to follow. | |||||
2.) Expect increased air danger. | |||||
3.) Bigalk immediately switch Coastal Circuit." | |||||
04.00 | BE 9690 | ||||
04.18 | Incoming Radio Message (0331/170): | ||||
"1.) Schuch enter even if escort vessels are not present. | |||||
2.) Würdemann . . . . . . . . continue outbound or inbound transit." | |||||
06.28 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | ||||
08.00 | BF 7470 | ||||
12.00 | BE 7440 44° 01'N | Day's run: 158 nm 20 nm = 178 nm | |||
11° 01 'W | 9935 " 734 " | ||||
10093 nm 754 nm | |||||
14.05 - 14.15 | Surfaced. | ||||
16.00 | BF 7450 | ||||
20.00 | BF 7450 | ||||
23.11 | Surfaced. - Proceeded on the surface. - | ||||
13.06.42 | Bay of Biscay | ||||
00.00 | BF 7460 | ||||
W 2-3, Sea 1-2, medium Swell, Vis. medium, marine phosphorescence | |||||
04.00 | BF 7520 | ||||
07.04 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | ||||
08.00 | BF 7870 | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 11.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 12.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 13.06.42 |
-32 - |
|||||
continued | |||||
13.06.42 | |||||
12.00 | BF 7870 44° 52'N | Day's run: 73 nm 45 nm = 118 nm | |||
8° 51'W | 10093 " 754 " | ||||
10166 nm 799 nm | |||||
13.00 - 14.14 | Surfaced. | ||||
16.00 | BF 7350 | ||||
20.00 | BF 7360 | ||||
23.15 | Surfaced. - Proceeded on the surface. - | ||||
23.51 | Sent Short Signal: "Position 30 hours off return harbor." | ||||
14.06.42 | Bay of Biscay | ||||
00.00 | BF 8110 | ||||
SSE 1, Sea 1, overcast, rain showers, bright marine phosphorescence | |||||
00.57 | Incoming Radio Message (0031/100): "Entry route for Würdemann is Bogenlampe." | ||||
04.00 | BF 5740 | ||||
06.15 | Dived. - Proceeded submerged. - | ||||
08.00 | BF 5720 | ||||
12.00 | BF 5720 46° 31'N | Day's run: 104 nm 46 nm = 150 nm | |||
5° 58 'W | 10166 " 799 " | ||||
10270 nm 845 nm | |||||
16.00 | BF 5490 | ||||
20.00 | BF 5490 | ||||
20.30 - 20.40 | Surfaced. Sent Short Signal: "Request bearing signals from Lorient Transmitter I." | ||||
23.25 | Surfaced. - Proceeded on the surface. - | ||||
23.43 | Incoming Radio Message (2110/7): "Lorient Bearing Transmitter I runs for U-506 from 21.00 hours to dawn." | ||||
15.06.42 | |||||
00.00 | N 1, Sea 0-1, overcast, rain showers, Vis. changing | Reached the 200-meter line. Various fishermen avoided. | |||
02.35 | Incoming Radio Message (1037/14/3): "Escort positioned on 15 June at 06.00 hours at Point Lucie 2." | ||||
10. U-Flottille. | |||||
04.00 | At Point "Bogen". - Transit on entry route "Bogenlampe". - | ||||
05.30 | Ile de Groix in sight. | ||||
06.04 | Point Lucie 2 | Joined Sperrbrecher. | |||
07.20 | Released escort. | ||||
07.40 | Made fast Lorient Berth A 1. | ||||
Sun and Moon Data 13.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 14.06.42 | |
Sun and Moon Data 15.06.42 |
- 33 - |
|||||
Day's run: 102 nm 32 nm = 134 nm | |||||
10270 " 845 " | |||||
10372 nm 877 nm | |||||
10372 nm | |||||
877 " | |||||
Total: 11249 nm | |||||
Total results: | |||||
Damaged: | |||||
1 tanker of 8000 GRT. | |||||
(Unloaded tanker hit in the foreship showed only slight effect and is probably entered port without difficulty.) | |||||
Sunk: | |||||
6 tankers of 44050 GRT | |||||
1 passenger freighter 5200 " | |||||
3 freighters of 10249 " | |||||
10 ships of 59499 GRT. | |||||
All tonnage estimates for vessels sunk with unknown names were carefully determined. They were made mainly from the length of the vessel, which in most cases at low shooting ranges could be determined quite accurately and consistently. | |||||
General Remarks: | |||||
In the actual operations area the patrol took place in a favorable period of time (no moon) and was carried out under particularly favorable conditions. It was - together with "U-507" - the first appearance of U-boats in the Gulf of Mexico on the busy traffic routes to and from the Mississippi. Apparently it came as a surprise to the enemy and hit him unprepared. Only in this way can one explain the the lack of | |||||
a) Systematic sea patrol. | |||||
b) Convoy measures ( in the relatively small sea area this would be feasible in shallow water with a few escort vessels). | |||||
c) Instructions (course, zig zag schemes etc.) to merchant shipping. | |||||
- 34 - |
|||||
The ships proceed independently - sometimes in groups - unescorted, mostly unarmed, without camouflage, without zig zagging, steering normal peacetime courses. | |||||
The fact that this "peacetime operation" continued to run unstopped, even after the almost daily sinkings of valuable ships, underlines the vital importance of this traffic route for the enemy. | |||||
Undoubtedly boats will find aggravating circumstances in the future and can expect strong air and sea surveillance to be in place off the mouth [of the Mississippi]. | |||||
Complicating operations and attack was the constant heavy haze associated with an indistinct horizon, mostly smooth sea and strong marine phosphorescence. | |||||
The very young, mostly untraveled crew is well proven. Conveniently the long, quiet time of the outbound transit has an impact on this, training could be encouraged and the crew brought to a certain level of qualification. A decline in performance from the long submerged cruises (about 2 weeks at a minimum temperature of 35°C in the boat up to 16 hours per day) was not observed. | |||||
Kptlt. und Kommandant | |||||
Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote |
|||
to the Kriegstagebuch of "U-506" from 26.3 - 15.6.1942. | |||
|
|||
The
U-boats and crews participating in the Neuland operation were offered
numerous chances for success. The Kommandant exploited them well to
the last shell and achieved a very beautiful success. Very good
shooting performance in torpedo and artillery firing. |
|||
Signed in draft: D ö n i t z . |
|||
For correctness: | |||
Ob.Leutnant z.S. and Adjutant i.V. | |||
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