U-509 - 1st War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
Kiel	25 June 1942	Lorient	12 September 1942	80

 

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Ships Hit

None

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.

---

	Copy No. . . 1 . . .
			K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h                          -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-                                                  of                                  Unterseebootes    "U  5  0  9"                              -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
			Kommandant        :	Korv. Kapt.    W  o  l  f  f
			Beginning:             :	2 November 1941.
			Concluding           :	24 June 1942.
			- - - - - - -
			Distribution           :
			Oberkommando der Kriegsmarine Copy No. 1 and 2 Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote     "      " 3 2. Admiral der Unterseeboote     "      " 4 10. Unterseebootesflottille     "      " 5
				© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved

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

	- 1 -
		04.11.41	Hamburg,	Commissioning.
			Deutsche Werft	Duties:  Damage control drills, gunnery exercises, cleaning ship, gear service.
		08. - 28.11.41	Kiel	U.A.K. balancing the boat, radio direction finder calibration, degaussing, pressure test in the pressure dock, artillery shooting, training torpedo shooting, U.K. and T.V.A. testing.
				Duties:  Seamanship, damage control drills, gunnery exercises, gun cleaning, gear service, sports, cleaning ship, Tauchretter testing in the immersion pan.
		28.11.41	Transit Kiel-Hiddensee	Anchored Hiddensee.
		29. - 30.11.41	Hiddensee-Rönne	U.A.G. sound trials.
				Duties:  Training, cleaning ship.
		01.12.41	Transit Rönne-Arcona	Anchored Arcona.
				Duties:  Celestial navigation.
		02.12.41	Transit Arcona-Stettin	Training, cleaning ship, provisions loading, superfluous gear unloaded.
		03.12.41	Transit Stettin-Swinemünde	Duties:  Sports, Seamanship, cleaning ship, gunnery exercises.
		05.12.41	Transit Swinemünde-Gotenhafen	T.E.K. testing.
				Duties:  Torpedo loading, gunnery exercises, damage control exercises, cannon cleaning, gear service, cleaning ship, sports.
		14.12. - 18.12.41	Danzig	U.A.G. measured mile, RPM indexing, AK cruise.
				Duties: Training at sea, damage control exercises, buoy maneuvers, gear service, cleaning ship.
		20.12.41	Hela	Agru-Front.  Diving training, crash dive training with mechanical failures.
				Duties: Training at sea, seamanship, infantry service, cleaning ship, gunnery exercises.
		30.12.41		Rammed by destroyer Z.Y. in square 10
				Damage to stern.
		31.12.41 -	Danzig, Holmwerft	Duties:  Lessons, damage control exercises, sports, cleaning ship, gunnery exercises, cannon cleaning, gear service.
		13.01.42
		16. - 20.01.42	Memel	Torpedo shooting with the 24. Flottille, shooting broken off due to ice conditions.
				Duties: Torpedo loading, training at sea, cleaning ship, torpedo offload.
		21. - 26.01.42	Hela	Agru-Front continued.
				Duties:  Training at sea, gear service, cleaning ship.
		27. - 28.01.42	Gotenhafen	To take over the Ice protector.  However the ice protector had been given to another boat.
				Duties:  Work service, training, lessons, cleaning ship.
		31.03.42		Trim test.
		01.04. - 20.04.42	Danzig, Holmwerft	Duties:  Cleaning ship, lessons, damage control drills, gunnery exercises, cannon cleaning, gear service, work service.
		21. - 22.04.42	Danzig Bay	Trim test, measured mile, artillery exercises.

	- 2 -
		23.04. - 03.05.42	Danzig Bay	Torpedo shooting with the 25. U-Flottille.  Deep dive, crash diving, throwing of depth charges.
		04.05.42	Danzig	Ammunition loading
				Duties:  Gunnery exercises and gun cleaning.
		05.05.42	Danzig Bay	Gunnery exercises.
				Duties: Gun cleaning.
		06. - 09.05.42	Danzig, Holm Basin	Duties:  Ammunition loading, provisions loading, damage control exercises and cleaning ship.
		10.05.42	Gotenhafen	Torpedo loading.
		11. - 19.05.42	Central Baltic	Tactical training.
		20.05.42	Gotenhafen	Torpedo offload.
			Danzig, Holm Basin	Duties:  Took over the boat.
		21.05.42	Danzig - Stettin
		22.05. - 12.06.42	Stettin	Mooring maneuver.
				Duties:  Cleared the boat, cannon offload, ammunition offload, lessons, sports, gear service, cleaning ship.
				Duties:  Cannon onload, ammunition loading, provisions loading, torpedo loading.
		13.06.42	Stettin	Transit to Hela.
		14. - 15.06.42	Agru-Front.
		16. - 17.06.42		Transit to Kiel.
		18. - 24.06.42		Outfitting for patrol.
				(K.Kapt and Kmdt.)

 

			K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h
				of
			"  U  -   5  0  9  "
			Kommandant:  Korvettenkapitän Wolff.
			Distribution    :     Oberkommando der Kriegsmarine Copy No. 1 and 2 Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote     "       " 3 2. Admiral der Unterseeboote     "       " 4 10. Unterseebootesflottille     "       " 5
			E  n  c  l  o  s  u  r  e  s  :     Beginning:  25 June 1942.       Concluding:  12 Sept. 1942. 1  Track chart                              to Copy No. 1, 3, 4, and 5   2  Torpedo firing reports                      "       " 3, 4, and 5   1  Excerpt of the Radio Log                 "       " 3, 4, and 5

	- 2 -
		25.06.42	NNW 5, Sea 3, few clouds to overcast, rain in the evening
		07.00		Departed Kiel
		10.30		Taken in convoy by Sperrbrecher.
		19.00		In convoy through the Great Belt and onward, until relieved by two Vorpostenboote.
				Day's run:  166 nm = 9.8 knots
		26.06.42	NW 6, Sea 4-5, overcast and rain
		07.00		Skagen abeam.
				With Vorpostenbooten in convoy up to Kristiansand.
		18.10		Made fast Kristiansand.
				Fuel oil supply (11 tons).
				Day's run:  163 nm = 9.1 knots
		27.06.42	N 1-2, Sea 1-2, overcast, up to midday freshening and clear
		06.00		Ready for sea.
		06.30		Test dive.
		07.00		Taken in convoy by a Vorpostenboot.  Escorted up to Skudesnes.
		12.00		Position naval square AN 3528.
		12.05		Crash dive for aircraft.
		14.00		Lister Lighthouse abeam.
		22.00		Released from convoy.  Continued on the surface in accordance with Outbound Orders.

	Sun and Moon Data 25.06.42
	Sun and Moon Data 26.06.42
	Sun and Moon Data 27.06.42

	- 3 -
		continued
		27.06.42
		00.00		Position naval square AN 3122.
				Day's run:  130 nm = 6.8 knots
		28.06.42	NW 1-2, Swell 1-2, overcast, foggy
		08.55		Test dive, deep dive (A plus 40 meters).
		11.00		Surfaced.
		12.00	Constant visibility deterioration	Naval square AN 2394.
		18.16		Dived due to fog, proceeded submerged until 20.00 hours.
		00.00		Naval square AF 8743.
				Day's run:  152 nm = 6.3 knots
		29.06.42	SW 4, Sea 4, overcast, foggy, rain showers
		09.30		Test dive.
				Continued transit in accordance with outbound orders.
		12.00		Position naval square AF 8174.
		00.00		"     naval square AF 4934.
				Day's run:  181 nm = 7.5 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 27.06.42
	Sun and Moon Data 28.06.42
	Sun and Moon Data 29.06.42

	- 4 -
		30.06.42	W 3-4, Sea 3-4, Swell, overcast, rainy
		09.30		Test dive.
		10.37		In so doing on the the entire port side in the Underwater Telephone sounds Volume 3-4.  Various characters a a a a . . . then n n n n . . .  finally to conclude one long. All around sweep in the periscope clear.  Continued on the surface.
		12.00		Naval square AF 4585.
		00.00		Naval square AF 4586.
				Day's run:  154 nm = 6.4 knots
		01.07.42	NW 5-6, Sea 4-5, overcast
		09.30	North of the Faroe Islands	Test dive.
				Went to both diesels (LF), because we are off the Iceland narrows.  (up to now diesel-electric).
		12.00	Continual weather improvement.  In the evening NW 2, Sea 1-2, clear sky	Naval square AE 6942.
		12.53		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.:
				New objective for "Kettner" "Staats" and "Wolff" is naval square 30 of the large square east of LC.  [hand written] CC
		00.00		Naval square AE 9137.
				Day's run:  186 nm = 7.8 knots
		02.07.42	S 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, hazy
		09.30		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square 8642.

	Sun and Moon Data 30.06.42
	Sun and Moon Data 01.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 02.07.42

	- 5 -
		continued
		02.07.42
		14.45		Crash dive before a destroyer.  At depth A -30 all around listening. With G.H.G. and K.D.B. impulses from 2 vessels were heard at Volume 4.  Sound bearing avoided.  Because the sounds weakened, all around visual sweep and surfaced.  Continued transit.
				Radio Message to B.d.U.:
				Sighted" 1 destroyer, naval square AE 8591, course 290°.  SW 2, overcast.    Wolff.
		00.00	East of the Faroe Islands	Naval square AE 8795.
				Day's run:  220 nm = 9.2 knots
		03.07.42	ESE 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, rainy
				Continued up to 00.00 hours on diesel electric.
		10.00		Test dive.  Proceeded submerged briefly for repairs to the G.H.G.
		12.00	Rapid visibility and weather improvement, E 2, Sea 2, nearly clear sky	Surfaced.
		12.00		Naval square AL 3152.
		24.00		"         "    AL 2284.
				Day's run:  148 nm = 6.1 knots
		04.07.42	N 2-3, Sea 2, clear, partial overcast
		10.00		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square AL 2375.
		16.13		Crash dive for aircraft (Sunderland).
		24.00		Naval square AL 1731.
				Day's run:  186 nm = 7.8 knots
		05.07.42	NNW 4-5, Sea 4-5. overcast,scattered rain showers
		09.55		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square AK 0329.
		24.00		"         "    AK 6228.

	Sun and Moon Data 02.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 03.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 04.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 05.07.42

	- 6 -
		continued
		05.07.42
				Day's run:  168 nm = 7.0 knots
		06.07.42	W 4-5, Sea 4, overcast in the morning, clearing by midday, Cumulus clouds, wind and sea abating
		02.44		Dived.  Proceeded submerged for repairs to 7 high pressure valves in the control room.
		16.15		Surfaced.  Continued on diesel-electric.
		12.00	North Atlantic	Naval square AK 6434.
		21.28		Incoming Radio Message from "Kettner"
				Corvette sighted AK 8195, course NE, no attack possibility.
				Operated in intercept point.  Nothing seen.  Continued transit.
		24.00		Naval square 5873.
				Day's run:  164 nm = 6.8 knots
		07.07.42	NW 3, Sea 1-2, wind and sea abating, Cumulus clouds
		12.00		Nave square AK 8276.
		13.01		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square AK 8719.
				Day's run:  180 nm = 7.5 knots
		08.07.42	NE 1-2, Sea 1, clear, partial overcast
		10.00		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square BD 1249.
		18.54		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				On 9 July at 08.00 hours switch to Greenland Circuit.
		24.00		Naval square BD 1479.
				Day's run:  186 nm = 7.6 knots
		09.07.42	SSE 2-3, Sea 2-3, both increasing, Vis. changing, partly clear horizon, partly misty and rainy

	Sun and Moon Data 05.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 06.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 07.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 08.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 09.07.42

	- 7 -
		continued
		09.07.42
		10.50		Test dive.
		12.00	East of Newfoundland	Naval square BC 6328.
		22.00		"Laura Ethel Bank" abeam.
		24.00		Naval square BC 6617.
				Day's run:  145 nm = 6 knots
		10.06.42	S 0-1, Sea 0-1, thick fog, Vis. changing, 100-200 meters, at times breaking up to 2000 meters
		10.01		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square BC 6843.
		14.45		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				Meeting point for supply "Bauer", "Wolff", "Staats" from "Schäfer" in naval square 9773 of the large square east of disguised square WS.  [handwritten] CC  "Wolff" and "Staats" fill completely, "Bauer" take over only enough for economical return transit!
		24.00		Naval square BC 9158.
				Day's run:  178 nm = 7.4 knots
		11.07.42	Weather conditions as on 10 July in the afternoon increasing wind and seas up to 3, at 15.00 hours heavy rain
		10.00		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square BC 8698.
		24.00		"         "     BC 8955.
				Day's run:  140 nm = 5.8 knots
		12.07.42	W to S 1-2, light Swell, clear, Vis. good
		09.30		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square CD 1542.
		24.00		"         "     CD 4125.
				Day's run:  200 nm = 9.1 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 09.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 10.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 11.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 12.07.42

	- 8 -
		13.07.42	SSW 3, Sea 2-3, partial overcast, Cumulus clouds
		09.00		Test dive.
				After surfacing training alarm for artillery.
		10.29	Central Atlantic	Sighted a modern freighter.  Moved off, held contact, determined course and speed.  Enemy shifts ahead despite AK speed, due to the counter seas.  Course 260°, speed 16-17 knots.  After 6 hours at AK the freighter passed out of sight.
		11.06		Outgoing Short Signal to B.d.U. concerning arrival at meeting point:  15th day of the current month, 11.00 hours.
		11.36		Received confirmation Radio Message from B.d.U. U-509 will arrive 15 July 11.00 hours at supply point.
		12.00		Naval square CC 6652.
		13.25		Sent the first Radio Message concerning the sighted freighter to B.d.U.
				From Wolff, hunted for 3 hours initially without results at AK large fast freighter, independent, estimated 10000 GRT.  Course 260°, 16 knots, no zigzags.  Am still on it.  Square CC 6615.  SSW 4-5, Sea 3, increasing.
		16.05		Sent second Radio Message to B.d.U.:
				After 6 hour hunt at AK enemy out of sight because it was faster.  Naval square CC 6543, course 260°, 16-17 knots, question pursuit or head for "Schäfer".
		18.32		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.:
				"Wolff" go to "Schäfer".
				Continued to supply point.
		24.00		Naval square CC 6853.
				Day's run:  223 nm = 9.3 knots
		14.07.42	SW 2, Sea 2-3, rain, thunder/ lightening, overcast
				Sighted a small steamer in the twilight.  Initiated surface attack immediately.  1 Eto unexplained miss.
		12.07		Radio Message to B.d.U.:
				In the morning twilight suspicious vessel, about 1000 GRT, 2 smokestacks, 1 combat mast, 1 mast on the forecastle. Attacked immediately (after sighting) 1 miss unexplained, depth 2 meters possibly undershot, vessel gave "british pucled [pursued?] by a submarine", held course 115°, 9 knots.  Definitely a trap.  Naval square CC 9253.  SW 2, Sea 1, overcast, 1022 mb.

	Sun and Moon Data 13.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 14.07.42

	- 9 -
		continued
		14.07.42
		17.30		Test dive.
		24.00	Central Atlantic	Naval square CC 9457.
				Day's run:  160 nm = 7 knots
		15.07.42	SSW 2, Sea 1-2, Cumulus clouds
		09.30		Sighted the U-tanker in ordered square.  Fuel oil and provisions supply (60 cbm plus 24 days).
		12.00		Naval square CC 9749.
		21.30		End of supply.  Continued on southerly course, because there are no further orders at hand.
		24.00		Naval square DE 2312.
				Day's run:  67 nm = 3 knots
		16.07.42	SSW 1-2, Sea 1, clear, lightly cloudy, Vis. and horizon clear
		00.20		Test dive.
				Continued on southerly course.
		12.00		Naval square DE 2672.
				About 19.00 incoming Radio Message from B.d.U. Objectives:  1.  Wolff square RQ 96. [handwritten] DN 76  2.  Staats naval square 51 of the large square west of disguised square VX. [handwritten] DM
				On diesel electric on new course to ordered point.
		24.00		Naval square DE 5614
				Day's run:  220 nm = 9.2 knots
		17.07.42	SW 1-2, Sea 1, partly cloudy
		12.00		Naval square DE 5485.
		17.15		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DE 4658.
				Day's run:  190 nm = 8 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 14.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 15.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 16.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 17.07.42

	- 10 -
		18.07.42	S 2, Sea 1, few clouds with isolated rain showers
		12.00		Naval square DE 4874.
		14.55		Test dive.
		24.00	Central Atlantic	Naval square DD 9399.
				Day's run:  195 nm = 8.1 knots
		19.07.42	SSW 1, Sea 0-1, few clouds with rain showers
				About 02.25 hours a shadow came in sight to starboard, on coming closer recognized as a steamer of about 6000 GRT.  The boat ran to maneuver ahead on the dark horizon (first quarter moon) in the process determined the course and speed of the enemy.  Light seas prevailed, Vis. clear, bright moonlit night.  At 02.29 hours the enemy zigzagged for the first time 40° away.  At 02.32 hours the radio room reported radio traffic up to Volume 5, therefore in the vicinity.  There existed the possibility that the steamer had seen us, because with the speed increase our wake stands out from the otherwise smooth sea, however we already had to run at the highest speed level because enemy speed was plotted at 15 knots and the bearing was shifting ahead slowly.
				At this high enemy speed we do not succeed in completing the maneuver ahead in a timely manor, so that when turning to attack the enemy would be the bright moon bearing.  If the boat wanted to reach shooting position at all, there is no other option, than to run at AK and perpendicular to the moon track.  In the meantime the enemy already had target angle 100° and turned away hard 50°, as we got closer to the shooting distance when the bearing was stationary.  So there is a good possibility that he saw us which is explained by the radio traffic reported by the radio room in the meantime.  A little while later the enemy passed out of sight, and we continued our transit, richer by a hard lesson, to the ordered objective point.
		12.00		Naval square DD 9589.
		17.00	Test dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 18.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 19.07.42

	- 11 -
		continued
		19.07.42
		19.00	Central Atlantic	Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.:
				To U-509.  New objective if square KC 11[hand written] ED
		24.00		Naval square DD 9796.
				Day's run:  213 nm = 8.8 knots
		20.07.42	SW 2-3, Sea 2, in the morning lightening, later breaking up, partly overcast sky
		12.00		Naval square DP 1195.
		19.01		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DO 3685.
				Day's run:  190 nm = 7.5 knots
		21.07.42	Lightening, wind strength and Sea State increasing 9-10 and 8, evening.  By day high clouds.
		12.00		Naval square DO 3884.
		24.00		Naval square DO 6139.
				Day's run:  120 nm = 5 knots
		22.07.42	Sea State and wind abating, probably brushed against a hurricane track
		11.25		Abeam to port a U-boat conning tower in sight for a short time.  Probably an opposite sailer.
		11.30		Radio Message to B.d.U.:
				Naval square DO 6416 U-boat coning tower seen briefly.  Question is own possible.
		12.00		Naval square DO 5638.
		13.38		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				To Wolff.  Own likely.
		18.20		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DO 5912.
				Day's run:  130 nm = 5.4 knots
		23.07.42	Wind 1, Sea 1, clear cloudless sky
		12.00		Naval square DO 8211.
		18.02		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DO 7653.
				Day's run:  192 nm = 8 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 19.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 20.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 21.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 22.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 23.07.42

	- 12 -
		24.07.42	SSE 1-2, Sea 1, Stratocumulus
		12.00	Mona Passage	Naval square DO 7833.
		12.50 - 14.00		Crash dive for aircraft in the Mona Passage.
		20.35 - 23.10		"                "                      "
		24.00		Naval square ED 1155.
				Day's run:  185 nm = 7.7 knots
		25.07.42	SE 1-2, Sea 1, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square EC 3658.
		18.12		Test dive
		24.00		Naval square EC 3824.
				Day's run:  152 nm = 6.3 knots
		26.07.42	E 3, Sea 2, low individual clouds with rain showers
		12.00		Naval square EC 3735.
		18.00		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EC 2596.
				Day's run:  115 nm = 4.7 knots
		27.07.42	E 2-3, Sea 2-3, Cumulus
		00.30		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				1. For 36 hours oil trace, up to now unexplained.
				2.  Mona air, no sea.
				3.  Naval square EC 2594, East Trade Winds, Vis. clear, 1020 mb.    Wolff.
				Oil trace on both sides.  Probably main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 7.
		12.00		Naval square EC 1947.
		18.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EC 1858.
				Day's run:  172 nm = 7.1 knots
		28.07.42	E 2-3, Sea 2, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square EB 3959.
		18.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EB 3769
				Oil trace constant.  Seems to decrease at times.
				Day's run:  196 nm = 8.1 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 24.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 25.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 26.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 27.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 28.07.42

	- 13 -
		29.07.42	E 1-2, Sea 2, Nimbus, Cirrostratus
		12.00	Caribbean Sea	Naval square EB 2685.
		18.15		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EB 2271
				Day's run:  185 nm = 7.7 knots
		30.07.42	NE 1-2, Sea 2, in the night Summer lightening, Cirrostratus	Pumped out main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 7 into the Regulating bunker.  Oil trace is gone.
		12.00		Naval square DM 7839
		18.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DM 7821
				Day's run:  146 nm = 6 knots
		31.07.42	NE 2-3, Sea 1-2, night Summer lightening
		12.00		Naval square 7178.
		18.30		Test dive.
				Oil trace started again.
		24.00		Naval square DL 9324
				Day's run:  165 nm = 7 knots
		01.08.42	NE 2, Sea 1, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square DL 6941
		14.15		Smoke cloud in sight ahead to starboard.  By results from course and speed determination a small steamer.  Initiated submerged attack.  Shortly after sighting he makes a course change and has target angle 0°.  Good shooting data.  Unfortunately later turned out to be neutral Argentinian "RIO CHUBUT".  After getting out of sight surfaced.  Continued transit on the surface.
		24.00		Naval square DL 6269
				Day's run:  142 nm = 6 knots
		02.08.42	NE to SE 2-3, Sea 1, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square DL 3965
		13.33		Test dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 29.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 30.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 31.07.42
	Sun and Moon Data 01.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 02.08.42

	- 14 -
		continued
		02.08.42
		21.06		Crash dive for aircraft.  Out of the clouds with target angle 0°.
		21.08	[m.V. - unknown abbreviation probably mit Verzögerung = with delay]	Close to the boat 3 aircraft bombs (m.V.)  At first no damage noted.
				Proceeded submerged until 3 August 02.00 hours.
				Moved off to the west.
		24.00	Gulf of Mexico	Naval square DM 1497.
				Day's run:  140 nm = 6 knots
		03.08.42	NE 1-2, Sea 1-2, Stratocumulus
		02.00		After surfacing determined damage.
				Moved off for repairs at the same time with short tactical advance on suspected ship traffic Mississippi, New Orleans-Florida Strait.  After the beginning of darkness parachute flares and searchlight astern to starboard.  Suspect radar aircraft on a U-boat hunt.
		05.50		Radio Message to B.d.U.
			["m.V." was not included in the version of this message which was actually transmitted.]	Aircraft bombs (m.V.) possibly radar aircraft, set off for repairs, air search periscope, oil trace, main drain pump, sounder.  Naval square DM 1732, E 2, Sea 1, overcast, 1019 mb.  Am missing Serial No. 257.    Wolff.
		12.00		Naval square DL 3863
		13.30		Dived to proceed submerged.
		18.00		Dove again.  Continued submerged until 22.00 hours,  Afterwards on the surface.
		24.00		Naval square DL 3534
				Day's run:  113 nm = 4.7 knots
		04.08.42	NE 1, Sea 0-1, Stratocumulus
		07.11		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				1.  Damage:  Air search periscope, main drain pump, 200-Watt transmitter, Echolot sounder, Fu.M.G, oil trace suspected bunker seam cracked.  Not reparable:  Air search periscope, main drain pump, oil trace, others questionable.
				2.  EC 2890, EB 3847, DM 7197 nothing, DL 6941 Argentinian "RIO CHUBT" course 160°.  DM 1732 day air, nights aircraft searchlights, parachute flares, suspect radar.
				3.  DL 3863 weather unchanged, all naval squares.
				4.  Request orders.    Wolff.
		12.00		Naval square DL 3121.

	Sun and Moon Data 02.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 03.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42

	- 15 -
		continued
		04.08.42
		12.10		Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "U-509" and "Beucke" go to attack area naval square EE southern third and EO, see situation reports "Lassen", "Piening", "Markworth", "U-108".
				2.  "Beucke" after leaving previous attack area give short situation report.
		16.30		Brief sighting of U-boat conning tower on the horizon.  Probably U.S.A. boat.
		24.00	Gulf of Mexico	Naval square DL 3425
				Day's run:  174 nm = 7.2 knots
		05.08.42	SE 2, Sea 2, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square DL 3874
		22.00		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DL 6273
				Day's run:  142 nm = 6 knots
		06.08.42	E 2, Sea 1, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square DL 6586
		14.00		Crash dive for aircraft, at the same time test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DL 9366
				Day's run:  212 nm = 9 knots
		07.08.42	E 1, Sea 1, Cumulus
		12.00		DM 7585
		17.00		Test dive.
		18.15		Crash dive for aircraft.
		24.00		Naval square DL 7943
				Day's run:  168 nm = 7 knots
		08.08.42	E 2, Sea 1-2, Cumulus, rain showers
		03.00		During the entire day many oil traces running with our course, on both diesels HF, to pursue.
		12.00		Naval square EB 2275
		13.00		Switched to diesel-electric

	Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 05.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 07.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 08.08.42

	- 16 -
		continued
		08.08.42
		18.30		Test dive.
		24.00	Caribbean Sea	Naval square EB 2645
				Day's run:  178 nm = 7.4 knots
		09.08.42	E 4, Sea 3-4, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square EB 3717
		17.29		Test dive.
		19.41		Crash dive for flying boat.
		21.20		Crash dive for flying boat.
		24.00		Naval square EB 3766
				Day's run:  112 nm = 5 knots
		10.08.42	E 3-4, Sea 3-4, Cumulus, Cirrus
				To set off from land during the night went to both diesels HF.
		12.00	Naval square EB 6353
		21.48		Test dive.  Sound bearing ahead to starboard, Volume 3, shifted ahead.
				Surfaced, pursued in the direction of the sound bearing.  Nothing seen.  Later crossed an oil trace on the route ending in an oil trace to port.  Probably the boats oil trace at the diving location.
		24.00		Naval square EC 4591
				Day's run:  206 nm = 8.6 knots
		11.08.42	E 2, Sea 2, Cumulus
				Crash dive.  Light beam 200 meters to starboard.  Probably radar by aircraft.  No bombs.
		12.00		Naval square EC 5471.
		22.22		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Kölle", "Lohmann", "Hacklander", "U-660", report weather.
				2.  "Gilardone" 12 August 08.00 hours switch to Ireland Circuit.
				3.  "Rudloff", "Östermann", "Diggins", "Wolff" report situation.
		24.00		Naval square EC 5571
				Day's run:  133 nm = 5.5 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 08.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 09.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42

	- 17 -
		12.08.42	E 3, Sea 2, Cumulus
				Made repeated futile attempts to send a Radio Message.  Because the main transmitter is out of service, communications are very intermittent with the 40-Watt transmitter.
		02.00		Test dive.
		12.00	Caribbean Sea	Naval square EC 5591
		13.30		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Vogelsang" and "U-505", "U-129", report weather.
				2.  "Rudloff", "Diggins", "Östermann", "Schug", "Wolff" give situation report.
				3.  "Rehwinkel" immediately report position.
		24.00		Naval square EC 6472.
				Day's run:  154 nm = 6.4 knots
		13.08.42	E 1-2, Sea 0-1, clear, Cumulus
		01.45		Test dive.
		05.30		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				1.  DL 68, DM 79 "Windward" intermittent traffic suspected.  EB 21 and 37 to EC 44 and 54 nothing.  EC 4431 U-boat possible.  NS and EW traffic through the Central Caribbean unlikely.
				2.  Defenses:  no sea, air in the vicinity of the coast up to 100 nm from land and on line DL 65 and 69, EB 37 and EC 54.  DM 1732 EC 5447 radar.
				3.  EC 5559 east Trade Winds 4, Sea 3, Vis. good, 1019 mb, 141 cbm estimated, all naval squares.
				4.  Am missing:  268 from 2 August, 99 from 3 August, 05, 08 from 8 August.  29, 31 from 9 August.    U-509.
		12.00		Naval square EC 6581.
		21.45		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EC 4472.
				Day's run:  162 nm = 7 knots
		14.08.42	E 2-3, Sea 1-2, Stratocumulus
		12.00		Naval square ED 4591.
		21.45		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square ED 5455.
				Day's run:  174 nm = 7.3 knots
		15.08.42	E 2-3, Sea 1, Cumulus, Cirrus
		12.00		Naval square ED 5617.
		13.55		Crash dive for aircraft.  At the same time test dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 15.08.42

	- 18 -
		continued
		15.08.42
		18.30		Twice sighted one aircraft each.  Not distinguished if military of civil aircraft.  All three with southerly course.
		19.30		Thick periscope made out 200 meters away.  Suspect Italian, because it did not shoot.
		24.00	West of the Small Antilles	Naval square ED 6287
				Day's run:  213 nm = 9 knots
		16.08.42	E 2, Sea 0-1, Cumulus, rain showers
		12.00		Naval square EE 4417
		14.05		Crash dive for flying boat.  3 aircraft bombs.  Failures:  rod antenna, part of the conning tower cladding was slightly torn.
		20.14		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Scholz" sea area from EO 4620.
				2.  "Piening", "Beucke" south of the latitude of ED surveillance objective  to 9950 and EN 3340 and 70.
				3.  "Wolff", "Markworth", "Neitzel" north of the latitude of ED 9930 surveillance objective to 96.
				4.  "Wattenberg", "Suhren" west of the longitude of 9880.
				5.  Each according to defense situation close the focal point, report sightings and sinkings immediately.  All naval squares.
		24.00		Naval square EE 4543
				Day's run:  163 nm = 6.8 knots
		17.08.42	ENE 2-3, Sea 2, Cumulus, rain showers
		12.00		Naval square EE 4926
		17.25		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EE 5788
				Day's run:  147 nm = 6.1 knots
		18.08.42	NE 3, Sea 2-3, Cumulus, rain showers
		10.02		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  Boats in naval square ED 98 including "Suhren" and "Wattenberg" free to operate on the reported traffic line reported by "U-108" and "U-173".
				2.  Supply for "U-108" about naval square DE 54 anticipated.  "U-108" report arrival as soon as foreseen.
				Stated traffic was in naval square EO and

	Sun and Moon Data 15.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 16.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

	- 19 -
		continued
		18.08.42		operations area was shifted to EO and EP.
		12.00	East of the Antilles	Naval square EE 8455.
		13.07		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EE 8855.
				Day's run:  152 nm = 6.3 knots
		19.08.42	NE 1-2, Sea 1, Cumulus, rain squalls
		12.00		Naval square EO 2337.
		12.35		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EO 3432
				Day's run:  148 nm = 6.1 knots
		20.08.42	E 1, Sea 0, Cumulus, rain squalls
		12.00		Naval square EO 3919
		13.05		Test dive.
		17.50		Crash dive for aircraft.  3 depth charges far off.
		19.00		Proceeded submerged.  Several times 3 depth charges far off.
		24.00		Naval square EO 3958
				Day's run:  140 nm = 5.9 knots
		21.08.42	SSE 2, Sea 2, Cumulus, rain squalls
		12.00		Naval square ED 1874
		12.35		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square ED 5529
				Day's run:  150 nm = 6.2 knots
		22.08.42	SE 2-3, Sea 1, Stratocumulus
		12.00		Naval square ED 5216
		12.35		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EP 5529
				Day's run:  153 nm = 6.3 knots
		23.08.42	SE 1, Sea 0-1, Stratocumulus, rain showers

	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 19.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 20.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 21.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 22.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 23.08.42

	- 20 -
		continued
		23.08.42
		12.00	East of the Brazilian coast	Naval square EP 5248.
		12.35		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EP 5644
				Day's run:  107 nm = 4.4 knots
		24.08.42	E 1-2, Sea 0-1, Stratocumulus, rain showers
		01.18		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Pfeffer", "Hartwich", report position immediately by Short Signal.
				2.  "Going" send weather report by 24.00 hours.
				3.  "Zur Mühlen", "U-509" report situation.
		12.00		Naval square EP 5257
		12.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EP 5217
				Day's run:  87 nm = 3.6 knots
		25.08.42	E 1-2, Sea 1, Cumulus, rain shower
		01.10		Situation report to B.d.U.
				1. 15 August thick periscope ED 5625, later three times aircraft, 17 and 18 August EE 44-81.  19 August EE 88.  20 August EO 34.
	[on 25 August Wolff reported he was ill and returning - presumably in a supplemental Officer-Only Radio Message]			2.  Operating since 20 August on traffic line between latitude EO 35 and 38 to EP 52.  Air, aircraft bombs and depth charges.
				3.  EP 5214, SE Trade Winds, light Swell, frequent rain, 1015 mb, 105 cbm, Up to now 5 cbm lost.  Naval squares.
				Am missing Serial No. 274, 75 of 16 August,01, 04 of 17 August, 33 of 18 August, 64, 67 of 19 August, 18, 24, 41 44.    U-509.
		12.00		Naval square EP 4333.
		12.30		Due to oil trace north of own courses and on the basis of the NE traffic reported by Wattenberg in EE 70 and 80 came to northerly course.
		12.35		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EP 1968
				Day's run:  98 nm = 4.1 knots

	Sun and Moon Data 23.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 24.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 25.08.42

	- 21 -
		26.08.42	E 0-1, light Swell, Cumulus, rain showers
		02.46		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				"Wolff" return transit, more to follow.
		12.00	East of the Brazilian coast	Naval square EP 1635.
		12.30		Test dive.
		19.10		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Wolff", "U-98", "Holtorf", "Scholz", "Zur Mühlen" return transit via naval square 80 of the large square west of JM.  [handwritten] CD.
				2.  "Markworth", "Steinhoff", "Wattenberg" begin return transit with 40 cbm.
				3.  "Horn" return transit.  No supply.
		24.00		Naval square EP 2112
				Day's run:  140 nm = 5.9 knots
		27.08.42	NE 0-1, Swell, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square EF 8435
		12.36		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EF 5849
				Day's run:  198 nm = 8.2 knots
		28.08.42	NE 1, Sea 1, Swell, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square EF 5263
		14.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square EF 2655
				Day's run:  232 nm = 9.6 knots
		29.08.42	NE 2, Sea 2, Cumulus, rain squalls
		12.00		Naval square DQ 9777
		14.30		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DQ 9192
				Day's run:  230 nm = 9.6 knots
		30.08.42	NE 2, Sea 1-2, Cirrus, Cumulus
		00.30		Shortly after the beginning of darkness a vessel came from astern to port with target angle 0°, with a silhouette like a destroyer. While maneuvering ahead enemy speed was plotted at 15 knots, ran in to attack.  Dark night, a little marine phosphorescence, the enemy did not zigzag, instead held course and speed.

	Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 27.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 28.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42

	- 22 -
		continued
		30.08.42		A 4-fan was ordered, all torpedoes depth 2 meters.  While running in it was clearly recognized that it was not a destroyer and also not a corvette, instead presumably a special vessel.  The fan was shot at 1500 meters range at target angle 70°.  While the torpedoes ran the radio room picked up the following signal at Volume 5
				"    s  s  s     i  f  p   i  f  p   etc."  -  therefore he had heard our torpedoes.  Strangely he did not make any avoidance maneuver or turn to attack, instead held course and speed.  All 4 torpedoes went past.  Therefore probably undershot again.  Appearance of the vessel, behavior during the attack and the likely undershooting of the target leads to the conclusion it was a trap.
				After turning away prepared for another approach to still shoot the stern tubes.  Although running at GF the enemy passed out of sight ahead and despite pursuing was not found again.  The boat continued at transit speed to the supply boat.
		02.42		Outgoing Radio Message to B.d.U.
				1.  Just now 4-miss in U-boat trap.  Depth 2 meters, good shooting data.  Suspect undershot. Naval square DQ 9192.  NE Trade Wind, Sea 2, 1018 mb.
				2.  200-Watt and bearing signal transmitter out of service.
				U-509.
		12.00	East of the Small Antilles	Naval square DQ 6579
		17.00		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square DQ 6262
				Day's run:  198 nm = 8.2 knots
		31.08.42	NE 1, light Swell, Cirrus, Cumulus
		11.04		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  Torpedo offload from "Wolff" to "Wiebe" in naval square 8555 of the large square west of SZ [handwritten] CD intended.  "Wolff" report arrival.  Bearing signals 4 hours later of by then no meeting has taken place.  "Wiebe" is located 31 August 08.00 hours in SZ 4670.
				2.  "Wiebe" immediately switch to America Circuit.  After following transfer, report torpedo and fuel inventory.
		12.00		Naval square DQ 3655
		14.30		Test dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42

	- 23 -
		continued
		31.08.42
		24.00		Naval square DF 3655
				Day's run:  219 nm = 9.2 knots
		01.09.42	E 1, light Swell, Cumulus
		01.06		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				Arrival 3 September 13.00 hours.    U-509.
		08.58		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				Wolff report by Short Signal, if giving 15 cbm fuel to Holtorf is possible.
				Transfer intended at meeting point with "Wiebe".
		12.00	Central Atlantic	Naval square DF 7287
		13.54		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				Fuel delivery is possible.  Request continued return transit afterwards due to Radio Message Serial No. 208 of 26 August and 271 of 28 August.    U-509.
		16.49		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				Wolff.
				1.  Carry out fuel delivery and if possible Ato-delivery to "Wiebe".  If weather conditions are favorable float over and exchange of over deck canisters.  With the torpedo [inside the canister] there is 400 kg of buoyant force.  Otherwise, make torpedo floatable with 2 rings of life jackets sewn together.
				2.  Afterwards return transit direct or free to proceed via "Vowe" for Doctor treatment.
		24.00		Naval square DF 4594
				Day's run:  212 nm = 8.8 knots
		02.09.42	SSE 1, Sea 1, Cumulus, Altostratus
		11.14		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  Torpedo delivery "Wolff" to "Wiebe" cancelled.
				2.  "Wolff" after meeting with Holtorf continue return transit possibly via "Vowe".
				3.  Torpedo delivery "Engelmann" to "Wiebe" intended.  Both boats head for same "Vowe" waiting point naval square 8155 for this.
		12.00		Naval square DF 1999
		13.40		Smoke cloud in sight ahead to starboard.  Bow left target angle 80°.

	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 01.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42

	- 24 -
		continued
		02.09.42		While maneuvering ahead plotted with course 270° and speed 9-10 knots. Steamer held course and is positioned exactly on neutral merchant ship route.  After 2 hours dived to attack.  Steamer was a neutral Swiss.
		17.30		Surfaced.  Continued transit on the surface.
		18.54		Radio Message to B.d.U.
				Due to hunt of independent (later determined to be Swiss) arrival 3 September 18.00 hours,  Naval square DF 1869, S 2, Sea 1, Vis. clear, 1025 mb.    Wolff.
		24.00	Central Atlantic	Naval square DF 1655
				Day's run:  210 nm = 8.7 knots
		03.09.42	SSE 1, Sea 1, light Swell, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square CD 8848
		17.10		"Holtorf" in sight to starboard.
		18.30		Began oil transfer.
				Naval square CD 8555
		22.30		Delivery ended.  Continued return transit.
		24.00		Naval square CD 8539
				Day's run:  196 nm = 8.1 knots
		04.09.42	SSW 1, light Swell, clear, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square CD 9119
		14.15		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square CD 6911
				Day's run:  195 nm = 8.1 knots
		05.09.42	W-SW 1, light Swell, clear, Cumulus
		12.00		Naval square CE 4455.
		14.15		Test dive.
		20.26		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Giessler", "Scholz", "Mahn", "Sturs" report weather tonight.
				2.  "Staats", "Holtorf", "Wolff", "Senkel" on 6 September at 08.00 hours switch to Ireland Circuit.
				3.  "Würdemann", "Reichenbach" short situation report.

	Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 03.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 04.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42

	- 25 -
		continued
		05.09.42
		24.00	West of the Azores	Naval square CE 4233.
				Day's run:  202 nm = 8.3 knots
		06.09.42	SW 1, Sea 0, Cumulus, Altostratus
		12.00		Naval square CE 2488.
		14.15		Test dive.
		24.00		Naval square CE 2652.
				Day's run:  220 nm = 9.3 knots
		07.09.42	SW 1, Sea 0, Cumulus, Altostratus
		10.21		Incoming Radio Message to B.d.U. from "Senkel".
				1.  Enemy convoy Naval square CE 6167.  Enemy steers northerly course, medium speed 11-17 knots.    U-658.
		12.00		Naval square CE 3311.
		14.07		Test dive.
				Operated on reported convoy for 36 hours at HF because I was in a favorable position.  Nothing seen.  Convoy was later reported as a sham convoy.  Continued return transit.
		24.00		Naval square BE 7843.
				Day's run:  282 nm = 11.7 knots
		08.07.42	NW 2, Sea 1, fog, Vis. changing up to 100 meters
		10.16		Test dive.
		12.00		Naval square BE 8482.
		22.30		Incoming Radio Message from B.d.U.
				1.  "Giessler", "Staats", "Wolff" and "Brandi" report weather.
				2.  Switch on 9 September at 08.00 hours "Schnoor" America, "Kapitzki" and "Lilienfeld" Ireland.
				3.  "Wattenberg" report situation.
				4.  "Kapitzki" transit into the Atlantic vis OH 52.
		24.00		Naval square BE 8378.
				Day's run:  250 nm = 10 knots
		09.09.42	NW 2, Sea 1-2, fog, Vis. changing up to 1000 meters

	Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 06.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 07.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 08.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 09.09.42

	- 26 -
		09.09.42
		00.53	West of Spain	Short Signal weather report to B.d.U.:  45°N, 17°W, 1032 mb, steady, +20°C, fog, Vis. 1/2 nm, Wind NW 1-2, low NW-Swell.
				From 12°W proceeded submerged by day.
		12.00	BE 9272
		24.00	BE 9292	Day's run: Surfaced:     182 nm
				"       Submerged:  7.5 nm
		10.09.42	E 3-4, Sea 2-3, morning Altostratus, days clear
		12.00	BF 4778
		14.15		Crash dive for aircraft.
		24.00	BF 4877	Day's run: Surfaced:     131 nm
				"       Submerged:  5.5 nm
		11.09.42	Bay of Biscay
			Morning ENE 3-4, Sea 3, both abating, Altostratus, clear
		12.00	BF 5715
		24.00	BF 5721	Day's run: Surfaced:     130 nm
				"       Submerged:  5.3 nm
		12.09.42	E 0-1, Sea 0, clear
		11.00		Brief sighting of 2 aircraft.
		11.40		Escort in sight.
				Entered Lorient.
		15.15		Boat made fast.
				K.Kapt. and Kmdt.

	Sun and Moon Data 09.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 12.09.42

 

	Comments of the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote
	on the Kriegstagebuch of "U 509" from 25.6. - 12.9.42.
	The patrol was very greatly impaired by an un-repairable oil trace and the illness of the Kommandanten.
		Signed in draft:  D  ö  n  i  t  z
		For correctness
		Oberleutnant M.A. and Adjutant

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