U-boat Archive - U-boat KTB - U-594 3rd War Patrol

U-594 - 3rd War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
St. Nazaire	4 August 1942	St. Nazaire	28 September 1942	56

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
13 Sep 42	14.36	48°09'N, 39°35'W	STONE STREET	6,131	Panamanian	ON-127

			Total = 6,131
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

                                    Unterseeboote " U 594 "

Kommandant: Kapitänleutnant Friedrich Mumm

Beginning:       26. 6.42

Concluding:       28. 9.42

Distribution:

7. Unterseebooteflottille Copy No. 1

Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote     "    " 2

2. Admiral der Unterseboote     "    " 3

[illegible entry]     "    " 4

[illegible entry]     "    " 5

[illegible entry]     "    " 6

[illegible entry]     "    " 7

Enclosures:

1 Track chart Copy No. 1 - 4

4 Torpedo firing reports     "    " 1 - 2

4 Excerpt of the Radio Log     "    " 2 - 4

1 General Radio Log     "    " 1

1 Officer-Only Radio Log     "    " 1



© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved

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

- 1 -

26.07.42 [St. Nazaire] Change of command.

30.07.42 Shipyard sea trial.

01. - 03.08.42 Outfitting.



04.08.42

19.55 Made fast in the lock.

20.15 Cast off from the lock. Departed in accordance with Outbound Orders with outer escort.

22.42 Released Sperrbrecher.

22.42 - 23.04 Test dive.

24.00 NE 2, Sea 1, 8/10, 1022 mb, +18°C, cloudy, clear, Vis. good

05.08.42

04.00 NNE 2, Sea 1, 7/10, 1023 mb, +19°C, clear

06.42 Released escort.

06.47 Dived to proceed submerged.

12.00 BF 6778 Day's run: Surfaced 116 nm, Submerged 15 nm

13.34 Surfaced to charge. Afterwards proceeded on the surface, 2 x HF.

16.00 BF 5889

NW 1, Sea 0-1, 3/10, 1027 mb, +22°C, clear, Vis. very good

20.00 BF 5797

NW 1, Sea 0-1, blue sky, 1027 mb, +21°C, Vis. very good

22.44 Test dive (crash dive for training).

Deep dive to depth A +20 meters.

24.00 BF 5745 Proceeded submerged.



06.08.42

04.00 BF 9966

08.00 BF 4961

08.31 Surfaced to charge. Proceeded on the surface.

12.00 BF 4917 Day's run: Surfaced 182 nm, Submerged 33 nm

W 1, Sea 1, blue shy, 1026 mb, +21.5°C, Vis. very good

16.00 BF 4819

WSW 1, Sea 0-1, 1/10, 1027 mb, +22°C, Vis. good

17.41 BF 4739 Crash dive for aircraft in approach, course about 200°. 6 far off aircraft bombs. After 1/2 hour aircraft with the same course observed flying off in the periscope.

20.00 BF 4738

20.30 Surfaced to proceed on the surface.

22.41 Crash dive for training, proceeded submerged.

Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 05.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42

- 2 -

continued

06.08.42

24.00 BF 4727

07.08.42

04.00 BF 4718

08.00 BE 6939 Surfaced to charge. Believe that surface transit is correct under these weather conditions, to pass through the air endangered area as soon as possible.

SSW 1-2, Sea 1-2, fog, 1024 mb, +22°C, Vis. very low

12.00 BE 6927 Day's run: Surfaced 136 nm, Submerged 35 nm

SW 1-2, Sea 1, 9/10, 1024 mb, +22°C, clear, strong visibility improvement

13.35 After passing 13°W, most economical transit speed.

16.00 BE 6835

WSW 2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, 1023 mb, +21.5°C, clear Vis. medium

20.00 BE 6813

SW 3, Sea 2-3, 1020 mb, +21°C, 2/10, Vis. good

22.07 Sent Short Signal (Passing Report):

My position is naval square BE 68.

22.46 Incoming Radio Message 2207/7/83:

Confirmation of passing report.

24.00 BE 6733

SW 3, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +20°C, 8/10, dark

08.08.42

04.00 BE 6725

SW 4, Sea 3-4, 1014 mb, +20°C, overcast, rain showers, dark

06.49 - 08.30 Test dive.

08.00 BE 6742

10.07 Switched to "Ireland Circuit".

12.00 BE 5969 Day's run: Surfaced 146 nm, Submerged 7 nm

W 3-4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +20°C, 1/10, Vis. good

16.00 BE 5983

W 3, Sea 2-3, 1021 mb, +20°C, 5/10, Vis. good

20.00 BE 5979

W 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +20°C, 2/10, Vis. good

24.00 BE 8233

W 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, +20°C, 6/10, Vis. good

09.08.42

04.00 BE 8237

W 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, +20.5°C, 3/10, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 07.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 08.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 09.08.42

- 3 -

continued

09.08.42

07.15 Test dive (crash dive for training).

08.00 BE 8251

08.18 Surfaced.

12.00 BE 8247 Day's run: Surfaced 132 nm, Submerged 4 nm

WSW 4, Sea 2-3, 1023 mb, +21.5°C, 5/10, Vis. good

16.00 BE 8186

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1021,5 mb, +21.5°C, 3/10, Vis. good

20.00 BE 8412

SW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

24.00 BE 7638

W 4, Sea 3, 1022 mb, +21°C, 9/10, Vis. low



10.08.42

04.00 BE 7655

W 4, Sea 3, 1023 mb, +21°C, 4/10, Vis. good

07.x9 - 08.22 Test dive (crash dive for training).

08.00 BE 7649

10.40 BE 7671 Mastheads in sight bearing 200°T, bow left, slight target angle. The bridge comes out quickly, yet at this target angle the steamer is not clearly recognized. Unexpectedly, he gets target angle zero, however zigzags every 10 minutes about 30° to both sides of main course 30°. Despite own speed AK distance was decreasing.

WNW 5, Sea 4, 1025 mb, +21°C, 8/10, Vis. medium, high Swell

11.43 I dove about 6-7 nm ahead of him on his main course line. He approaches quickly, but it takes about an hour with large zigzags up to 90° and subsequently speed changes in my immediate vicinity. On the outside camouflage is not visible. It is a modern freighter of medium size with a free-standing stern cannon. With a heavy heart I decide to let him go because attack is forbidden on Route "Anton".   At about 13.00 hours the steamer passes out of sight in 20°T with a broad target angle.

14.01 Because contact keeping is not possible, after surfacing I continue transit into the ordered square.

14.53 Outgoing Radio Message 1300/10/109:

Naval square BE 7642 armed freighter, suspiciously changing course, possible trap. WNW 5, Sea 4, 1028 mb, Vis. 12 nm.

12.00 BE 7642 Day's run: Surfaced 153 nm, Submerged 5 nm

15.57 Incoming Radio Message 1540/10/110:

Attack free on reported ship.

16.00 BE 7563

W 4, Sea 3, 1029 mb, 3/10, +21°C, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 09.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42

- 4 -

continued

10.08.42

20.00 BE 7573

WNW 3, Sea 3, 1028 mb, 3/10, +20.5°C, Vis. good

20.42 Incoming Radio Message 1955/10/113/295:

1.) Ites, Lohmann, Mumm, report weather.

24.00 BE 7499

W 2-3, Sea 2, 1031 mb, +21°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. good



11.08.42

01.35 Outgoing Short Signal weather report:

44°N, 24°W, rising, 1030 mb, +20°C, W 3, 3/10, Vis. over 10 nm, medium-high NW-Swell.

04.00 BE 7726

W 3, Sea 2-3, 1031 mb, +21°C, 3/10, medium Swell, Vis. good

07.14 - 08.15 Test dive, drills.

08.00 BE 77x9

12.00 BD 9965 Day's run: Surfaced 161 nm, Submerged 8 nm

WNW 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +21°C, 9/10, flat Swell, Vis. good

13.25 BD 9967 Incoming Radio Message 1246/44/126:

Mumm, Feiler, Remus, Reeder, Prätorius, Dieterichs new objective BD 79.

16.00 BD 9958

WNW 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +24°C, 7/10, flat Swell, Vis. good

19.21 BD 9947 Incoming Radio Message 1821/11/48/129:

To Mumm, Feiler, Remus, Prätorius, Dieterichs Serial No. 44/126 concerning objective is settled. New objective naval square CF 84.

20.00 BD 9947

WNW 1-2, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +24°C, 8/10, Vis. good

24.00 CE 3235

N 2, Sea 1, 1034 mb, +23°C, overcast, dark Vis. low



12.08.42

04.00 CE 3371

ESE 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark Vis. low

08.00 CE 3624

ENE 1, Sea 0-1, 1032 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

08.x1 - 08.46 Test dive (crash dive for training).

Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42

- 5 -

continued

12.08.42

12.00 CB 3655 Day's run: Surfaced 165 nm, Submerged 2 nm

NNE 3, Sea 2, 1033 mb, +24°C, 7/10, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3931

NE 1-2, Sea 1, 1032 mb, 5/10, +25.5°C, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3991

NE 3, Sea 2, 1032 mb, 6/10, +24.5°C, Vis. good

24.00 CE 6336

ENE 3, Sea 2, 1032 mb, 6/10, +24°C, dark, misty



13.08.42

04.00 CF 4249

NE 3, Sea 2, 1031 mb, +23°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. good

08.00 CF 4522

E 2, Sea 1, 6/10, 1030 mb, +23°C, Vis. good

08.15 - 08.55 Test dive.

12.00 CF 4565 Day's run: Surfaced 176 nm, Submerged 2 nm

ENE 1-2, Sea 1, 1030 mb, +23°C, Vis. good

16.00 CF 4677

NE 2, Sea 1-2, 1030 mb, +25°C, 9/10, Vis. good

20.00 CF 4942

NE 2, Sea 1, 1028.5 mb, +25.5°C, 1/10, Vis. good

24.00 CF 4985

ENE 3, Sea 2, 1028 mb, +23°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. medium



14.08.42

04.00 CF 7334

ENE 3, Sea 2, 1028 mb, +24°C, 6/10, dark, Vis. medium

08.00 CF 7369

ENE 3, Sea 2, 1027 mb, +22°C, 5/10, Vis. medium

Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42

- 6 -

continued

14.08.42

08.13 - 09.18 Test dive (crash dive for training).

Drills.

11.24 CF 8178 Radio Message 0958/14/93/149:

1.) Mumm, Remus, Feiler, Reeder, Dieterichs, Edzards form Group "Blücher".

2.) Intentions: Transit to the south in reconnaissance line to detect independent and convoy traffic.

3.) Until arrival of last boats temporary attack areas: Mumm occupy naval square CE 93 and 96, Reums naval square 72 and 75, Feiler 73 and 76, Reeder 81 and 84, Dieterichs 82 and 85. All naval square CF.

12.00 CF 8146 Day's run: Surfaced 155 nm, Submerged 3 nm

NE 3, Sea 2, 3/10, 1027 mb, +26°C, Vis. good

16.00 CF 7632

NE 3, Sea 2, 4/10, 1027 mb, +26°C, Vis. good

20.00 CF 7616

N 3, Sea 2, 7/10, 1026 mb, +26°C, Vis. good

24.00 CF 7532

N 3, Sea 2, 5/10, 1026 mb, +23°C, dark, Vis. good



15.08.42

04.00 CF 7287

WNW 2-3, Sea 1-2, 1027 mb, Vis. medium

04.10 Lighthouse "Santa Maria" Lighthouse in sight, afterwards search courses in ordered area in accordance with orders.

08.00 CE 9296

W 1-2, Sea 0, 1026 mb, +23°C, 9/10, Vis. good

09.15 - 09.44 Test dive (crash dive for training).

12.00 CE 9652 Day's run: Surfaced 180 nm, Submerged 2 nm

NW 0-1, Sea 0, 1027 mb, +27°C, 7/10 Vis. good

15.52 CE 9685 Steamer bearing 140°T.

N 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 6/10, +27°C, Vis. good Matched speed (course from Lisbon to arrival point Spanish Route, speed 12 knots) and maneuvered ahead.

Dived. It is the Greek in Swiss service "MASTER ELIAS KULUHUNDIS" 5548 GRT, prescribed markings.

19.37 Surfaced. Steamer sets Identification signal. Stopped by megaphone. Ships papers were

Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 15.08.42

- 7 -

continued

15.08.42

brought on board by the Captain.

The steamer was on journey from Lisbon to Baltimore with 30 tons of piece goods in accord with the enclosed loading list, back grain for the Swiss.

The captain assumed his ship was reported to German U-boats.

20.38 Because all seemed in order (doubtful they are only machine parts for the firms "W. Bartholomew & Co, Inc."), he was released.

20.00 CE 9835

N 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 4/10, +27°C, Vis. clear

24.00 CE 9912

NNE 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, +25°C, Vis. good



16.08.42

04.00 CE 9684

NW 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 4/10, +24°C, Vis. medium

08.00 CE 9642

N 0-1, Sea 0, 1028 mb, +23°C, clear sky, light ground fog, Vis. low

12.00 CE 9378 Day's run: Surfaced 185 nm, Submerged 5 nm

W 1, Sea 0, 1029 mb, 8/10, +24C, Vis. clear

16.00 CE 9397

SE 1, Sea 0, 1030 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good

17.34 CE 9636 Incoming Radio Message 1710/16/175:

From Feiler:

Several smoke clouds naval square CF 7357, was forced off to the NE, northerly course.

I operated on the report from Feiler, initially however on the old speed setting, to save fuel while awaiting orders.

18.45 CF 7511 Incoming Radio Message 18x2/16/176:

Group "Blücher" go. Probably "Freetown-England" convoy.

Went to GF.

20.00 CF 7276

SSE 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 2/10, +26°C, Vis. good

20.10 Incoming Radio Message 1945/16/178:

From Feiler: Convoy 7319, northerly course 9 knots.

Sun and Moon Data 15.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 16.08.42

- 8 -

continued

16.08.42

22.40 "Cremer" joins Group "Blücher" in accordance with Radio Message 2148/16/35/180.

23.13 Incoming Radio Message 2250/16/183:

From Feiler, convoy 4987.

24.00 CF 4896

SW 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 9/10, +24°C, dark, Vis. poor, at times strong mist.



17.08.42

01.05 CF 4972 2 star shells directly ahead.

01.15 Shadows bearing 340°T, very close. Immediately passed out of sight by briefly turning away. I angle in again and shortly thereafter distinguish 2 destroyers silhouettes ahead to starboard. I suspect the destroyers are behind the convoy and attempt to maneuver ahead while holding contact on them. Though it seems to me impossible to be seen by them, they unexpectedly assume target angle zero and follow in my wake for about 3/4 hours, despite own speed setting AK. During this time they repeatedly shoot poorly placed star shells and explosive ammunition, the impacts were not observed. I believe in this case surface locating is proven.

04.00 CF 4916

SSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 9/10, +24°C, very dark, individual rain showers, Vis. very bad

04.07 Outgoing Radio Message 03x0/17/185:

Two destroyers 4951. Star shells.

04.11 Incoming Radio Message 0345/17/186:

From Remus, request bearing signals.

04.40 Incoming Radio Message 0337/17/187:

From Feiler. Only still contact on remote escort 4927.

04.47 Dived for sound bearings.

05.58 Without results, surfaced.

08.00 CF 4654

SW 1, Sea 0, 1026 mb, 7/10, +24°C, Vis. good

08.12 CF 4654 "U 566" in sight bearing 270°T. Passes out of sight on N-course.

Sun and Moon Data 16.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42

- 9 -

continued

17.08.42

10.x2 Incoming Radio Message 0940/17/190:

From Feiler. No contact since 04.50 hours. Searching on N-Course. Square 4659.

Initially I decide to search at high speed and sweeping legs to the west of the main course line because on the basis of his speed of advance I expect him to the south.

11.05 CF 4616 Many smoke clouds in sight bearing 220°T, course about N. I am ahead to starboard. In this position I am able to maintain contact the entire day without difficulty, without being forced off.

12.00 CF 4378 Day's run: Surfaced 317 nm, Submerged 3 nm

WNW 1, Sea 0, 1026 mb, 4/10, +26°C, clear horizon, Vis. very good, flat Swell

11.38 Outgoing Radio Message 1120/17/192:

Convoy 4617.

13.22 Outgoing Radio Message 1300/17/193:

4611. Course N, 7-8 knots, high smoke clouds.

13.40 Incoming Radio Message 1112/17/194:

From Reeder. Smoke clouds and destroyer naval square CF 4617. Northeasterly course, was forced off.

14.35 Incoming Radio Message 1350/17/195:

From Dieterichs. Smoke clouds naval square CF 4376 inexact.

15.35 Incoming Radio Message 1515/17/197:

From Remus. 14 freighters, 6 destroyers, general course 20°, 8 knots, naval square 4357, remote escort.

16.00 CF 4372

SW 1, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 4/10, +26°C, Vis. conditions unchanging good

16.29 Incoming Radio Message 1607/17/199:

From Feiler. Correct position 4384, course 30°.

17.43 Incoming Radio Message 1708/17/101:

To Group "Blücher". Do not wait only on the night, also attack by day. Utilize every chance. Further north difficulties from aircraft must be expected.

Because the Junkers-compressor has been completely out of service since 14 August, and the E-compressor only works at 20% power, i.e. practically only the loss-rate of leaking air, I decide to attack at night, to avoid diving if at all possible.

Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42

- 10 -

continued

17.08.42

Passed on a corresponding message under the assumption that at least one compressor will be in operation again.

17.58 CF 4346 High water column bearing 120°T (water column of a hit steamer) observed and for about an hour afterwards depth charge detonations were heard.

19.50 Outgoing Radio Message 1930/17/103:

- 4359 -

I am not sure of the course at the moment, apparently he steers to the NE.

20.00 CF 4352

WSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 6/10, Vis. good

22.20 Incoming Radio Message 2200/17/108:

From Feiler. Contact on screen square 5x41.

22.43 Outgoing Radio Message 2230/17/109:

Naval square 4363, NE-course.

23.14 WSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1022 mb, 5/10, +28°C, dark Vis. good Incoming Radio Message 2300/17/110:

From Remus. Was shot at by 2 destroyers with artillery. Naval square CF 1999.

After sunset I close, without losing contact, carefully reducing the distance to the gathering convoy. About 15 widely separated steamer silhouettes are clearly distinguished in the twilight. Because no destroyers are recognized, I decide to attack immediately after darkness despite the moon. I initiate attack on 4 steamers set off ahead. About 3000 meters from then a port forward screening destroyer with a broad target angle was recognized. While I am attempting to get more clear of him by turning away slightly he suddenly comes closer quickly at target angle 0° smoking heavily. By taking him astern I am illuminated at a disadvantage, so that without star shells already in a short time he begins well-placed effective fire from a forward cannon. Since escape on the surface is not possible, I dive with course change towards the convoy.

23.50 CF 4333 The first depth charge series lies far off. I go to depth A +60 meters. The destroyer stops and throws after perfect Asdic sounds the second, very close by depth charge series, from the first two the following damage resulted: battery automatic switch failed, lighting, gyro compass, air search periscope.

Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42

- 11 -

continued

17.08.42

Additionally it was later determined that both over deck canisters were flooded and the aft one is dented.

In the course of about 1 1/2 hours depth charge pursuit there were five more series thrown (a total of 23 depth charges), well placed on the basis of proper locating data, however obviously too shallow to cause great damage. Diving depth A +90 meters, Sea State and water conditions appeared very favorable for the locating. While turning away hard during the run in of the destroyers appeared to be of little use, the enemy's locating was obviously badly disturbed by the wake.

24.00 CF 4335



18.08.42

01.20 Nothing more heard of the enemy.

03.30 When attempting to surface, the starboard exhaust gas valve can no longer be opened. The standard revisiting great depth is also unsuccessful. Only an unexplained loud bang occurred, which however may also be related to the denting and flooding of the aft over deck canister.

04.00 CF 4333

04.37 W 2, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 9/10, +22°C, dark, Vis. medium Surfaced with one operable diesel. I operated on the convoy again with one diesel 2 x HF. About 07.00 hours the starboard exhaust gas valve opened normally without explanation. Due to the still low air supply of 140 kilos the negative buoyancy tanks were pumped and and for negative buoyancy 2 tons was taken into the regulating tanks. In addition, all air consumption is stopped except for the diesel clutches in case of a crash dive.

08.00 CF 2742

W 2, Sea 2, 1018 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

08.12 Incoming Short Signal:

Enemy position CF 2844. Reeder.

08.28 Incoming Short Signal:

Enemy steers to the north. Reeder.

09.42 Incoming Radio Message 0915/18/123:

From B.d.U.: "U-214" reports course change of the enemy to 45°.

Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

- 12 -

continued

18.08.42

09.58 Incoming Short Signal:

Enemy position CF 2587. Reeder.

1129 Incoming Short Signal:

Enemy position CF 2584. Reeder.

11.50 Incoming Radio Message: 1135/18/128:

From Remus. Convoy 2391, course 20°, 8 knots.

12.00 CF 2499 Day's run: Surfaced 164 nm, Submerged 10 nm

SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 6/10, +25°C, sunny, misty, Vis. medium

12.30 Incoming Radio Message 1250/18/131:

From Reeder. Convoy 2582, course 40°, speed 8 knots, Vis. 8 nm, exact navigation.

13.26 CF 2573 Smoke cloud bearing 130°T. There are still 2 U-boats in sight.

13.24 Incoming Radio Message 1233/18/132:

From Remus. Convoy 2564, course 10°, 8 knots.

14.10 CF 2549 Destroyer bearing 160°T, appeared suddenly on the misty horizon. I run off in 345°T together with Remus, who is in my immediate vicinity. After an hour long hunt at AK without coming closer the destroyer shoots explosive shells whose yellow impacts lie in the vicinity of "Remus". I want to avoid diving again at all costs because of my air and run off further. The destroyer heads for the diving location for "Remus" and is slowly smaller.

16.08 CF 2519 Destroyer out of sight.

14.37 Incoming Radio Message 1416/18/62/130/232 from B.d.U.:

Subject: Diving before destroyers by day and night.

15.07 Incoming Radio Message 1415/18/34:

From Remus: Was forced off by destroyer.

15.12 Outgoing Radio Message 1430/18/135:

Convoy 2564. During night attack artillery fire and depth charge pursuit. Serious failures corrected except for air search periscope and Junkers compressor.

15.19 Incoming Radio Message (Short Signal):

Enemy located CF 2529. Reeder.

16.00 CF 2519

WSW 2-3, Sea 2, 1016 mb, 7/10, +25°C, Vis. medium, horizon indistinct, flat Swell

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

- 13 -

continued

18.08.42

16.50 Incoming Short Signal:

New position of the enemy is CF 2583.

17.21 Incoming Short Signal:

Enemy steers to the east.

14.34 Incoming Short Signal:

New position of the enemy is 2593

Came to southeasterly course, because according to the latest reports on the enemy I am to the north.

18.34 Incoming Radio Message 1754/18/139:

From Reeder. Convoy course east.

18.47 CF 2526 Mastheads ahead bearing 140°.

In the assumption that it is destroyers initially I turn away and come to the old course until they pass out of sight.

19.42 CF 2563 Independent steamer bearing 130°T with southwesterly course. I believe it is with the convoy and hold contact on it. However, its significance is not clear to me. It runs very slowly and has strikingly high widely separated masts.

20.30 Shortly thereafter smoke clouds sighted bearing 100°T, that I take as the convoy.

20.51 Outgoing Radio Message 2030/18/142:

Smoke clouds 2648.

I let the independent go and held for the smoke clouds. After 1/4 hour several masts and smokestacks are recognized, which a destroyer suddenly coming in sight heads for Obviously the convoy assembles at the beginning of twilight.

22.43 Outgoing Radio Message 2220/18/145:

2643 a destroyer and several steamers, course 40°.

At the same time one U-boat in sight, which was Dieterichs, as is evident from the radio message. His dive was observed by me however the concerned aircraft was not sighted.

00.22 Incoming Radio Message 2335/18/150:

From Dieterichs. Forced to submerged by aircraft and destroyer, 21.22 hours naval square 2654. Smoke clouds sighted.

After turning away briefly for the destroyer I close up again at high speed. My intention, based on the failure of both compressors (air inventory 140 kilos),

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

- 14 -

continued

18.08.42

while avoiding diving if possible, is to shoot 5 targeted shots, as far as the visibility allows.

23.30 Incoming Radio Message 2313/18/147:

To Mumm. Immediately report exact enemy position.

24.00 CF 2621

WSW 5, Sea 2, 1016 mb, 8/10, +24°C, Vis. changing, rain shower



19.08.42

00.30 Outgoing Radio Message 2345/18/151:

Naval square CF 2624, approximate course 30°. Changing visibility, rain showers, both compressors out of service, so far not fixable.

Unfortunately,visibility deteriorates after the onset of the darkness due to rain showers so that contact is broken. By energetic closing about 01.00 hours I get a destroyer silhouette in sight briefly at close range. I believe that this destroyer is the port forward escort and attempt to gain contact on the convoy by angling in strongly.

At times the visibility is less than 1 nm.

02.05 CF 2397
A new faint shadow abeam to starboard. Shortly thereafter a second destroyer silhouette astern to port. I attempt to get clear of both ahead at KF, due to the low visibility it is out of the question that I was seen, yet both turn towards me and begin to shoot well-placed star shells, followed by individual live rounds. Despite my attempt to get out of star shell and firing range with highest speed and zigzags the already small distance slowly decreases, while both destroyers share in the star shell and live round shooting. I am convinced that both the detection of the U-boat and the accurate star shell shooting were only possible by the destroyers by means of surface locating [radar].

When I realize that escape on the surface is impossible and the well-placed shells seriously endanger the boat, I order "Crash dive"!

Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 19.08.42

- 15 -

continued

19.08.42

02.33 On the basis of yesterday's experience I go to immediately to depth A +00 meters where it is possible to pump the additional 2 tons of negative buoyancy with the pump without difficulty. During the approximately 1 hour listening pursuit with strong Asdic and Echolot impulses, in which one destroyer is mostly stopped and the others overrun the boat, no depth charges were thrown. Therefore I do not attempt to out maneuver, ran off at LF on westerly course.

03.15 No further sound bearings.

Because the G.H.G. is only limitedly operations and only at relatively low ranges, I continue to run off submerged at depth A +60 meters.

08.00 CF 2384

09.15 CF 2376 Surfaced.

WNW 2, Sea 1-2, 6/10, +20°C, 1021 mb, Vis. medium On the horizon an aircraft is distinguished, type not recognized, on easterly course. I continue to the west at 2 x HF. Both compressors are out of service. Air inventory 100 Kilos.

12.00 CF 2581 [typo CF 2381]

WNW 2, Sea 1-2, 1022 mb, 5/10, +20°C, Vis. good, medium Swell

12.29 Outgoing Radio Message 1130/19/161:

02.30 hours in bad visibility detected by destroyers, forced to submerged by star shells and artillery, listening pursuit, no depth charges. Set off to repair the E-compressor, Junkers compressor out of service. 09.30 hours aircraft 2395.

16.00 CF 2197

WNW 2, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 9/10, +22°C, medium Swell, Vis. good

18.05 CF 2188 Smoke clouds in sight bearing 0°T.

18.49 Outgoing Radio Message 1809/19/170:

[probably typo CF 2188] Naval square CF 2158 several smoke clouds in sight.

By the number of smoke clouds it is without doubt a convoy, course NE. I suspect a division of the old convoy, however, it is also possible it may be the trap convoy, reported in BE. The high, especially heavy smoke clouds, which can be seen at a distance of at least 40 nm are particularly striking.

19.30 CF 2184 Destroyer in sight, which runs behind me about half an hour and then passes out of sight after turning away.

Sun and Moon Data 19.08.42

- 16 -

continued

19.08.42

20.00 CF 2176

NW 2, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 4/10, +21°C, Vis. very good, long Swell

20.58 Outgoing Radio Message 1950/19/175:

Convoy naval square CF 2156, course NE, 8 knots, was forced off by destroyer.

With the improving weather conditions it will not be difficult to get contact again.

20.40 CF 2184 Destroyer comes over the horizon again. When I take him astern, to move off to his south, he approaches at target angle 0° and follows me about 2 hours until the beginning of darkness without significantly reducing the distance. On several occasions he shoots with artillery too short and inexact and apparently attempts to draw us off to the SW.

During the entire time the smoke clouds remain in sight, which suggests a strong course change to SE to S.  With darkness about 23.00 hours it is no longer in sight.

21.48 Incoming Radio Message 2123/19/176:

To Mumm. Check position, suspect CF 31.

22.57 Outgoing Radio Message 2215/19/180:

New convoy naval square CF 2244 out of sight. Course E. Was persistently forced off again by artillery fire. Limitedly clear to dive, because only 100 Kilos air. E-compressor also out of service.

24.00 CF 2249 Went to diesel-electric drive, course SW. Because up to now no further instructions follow, I move off further.

W 1, Sea 1, 1025 mb, +21°C, Vis. good, flat Swell



20.08.42

00.51 Incoming Radio Message 2330/19/181:

To Mumm. Move off to the west. Report if E-compressor will be operable again, or what spare parts are required.

03.34 Incoming Radio Message 0126/20/183:

Group "Blücher". Whoever cannot close by lightness break off operation and head for naval square CF 84. When breaking off report position, fuel, torpedoes and operational readiness. "Edzards" return transit, for Mumm orders follow.

04.00 CF 1694

SW 1, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 2/10, 2/10, +21°C, Vis. good, flat Swell

Sun and Moon Data 20.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 21.08.42

- 17 -

continued

21.08.42

08.00 CF 1913

W 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +20°C, Vis. good

10.18 Incoming Radio Message 0951/20/189:

To Group "Blücher" break off operation. Dieterichs, Mumm, Feiler immediately give ordered report concerning position, fuel, torpedoes and operational readiness.

11.53 Outgoing Radio Message 1105/19/192:

From Mumm:

1.) Naval square CF 1839, 73 cbm, 12 + 2 torpedoes.

2.) Failures: air search periscope, listening gear limitedly operable, E-compressor cannot be repaired with on board means. Necessary spare parts: cylinder for stage 3, bushing for 1, working piston for 1 and 3. Repairs to Junkers compressor still not completed after installation of all spare valves. Report follows.

12.00 CF 1838 Day's run: Surfaced 114 nm

SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +24°C, Vis. good

14.24 Incoming Radio Message 1345/20/195:

To Mumm. Bülow departs 22 August with spare parts for E-compressor. If spare parts are necessary for Junkers compressor, report immediately. Afterwards set off to naval square CE 30.

15.00 After day-long repairs succeed in getting the Junkers compressor in operation again and fill the air inventory.

16.00 CF 1827

SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +26°C, Vis. good

18.12 - 18.50 Test dive.

19.39 Incoming Radio Message 1818/20/199:

1.) To Group "Blücher" dissolved.

2.) "Remus" fuel supply from Mumm in naval square CE 1825 from 22 August 12.00 hours, without bearing signals. "Remus" after setting off about 200 nm report fuel by Short Signal.

3.) Dieterichs . . .

After successfully filling the air inventory with the Junkers compressor, running perfectly for several hours, I decide to report myself as operational.

20.00 CE 3936

SSW 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 5/10m +24°C, Vis. good

20.41 Outgoing Radio Message 1932/20/200:

From Mumm.

Sun and Moon Data 20.08.42

- 18 -

continued

20.08.42

Junkers compressor operable again for the first time since 18 August. Air filled. Spare parts required: One set of spare parts, copper gaskets and piston rings stage 3, pressure control valves, bushing stage 2 with lubrication nozzle. Naval square CF 1811. SW 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 5/10, Vis. good.

24.00 CE 3923

SW 3, Sea 2, 6/10, 1023 mb, 1024 mb, bright moon, Vis. good

21.08.42

03.55 To Feiler Remus, Dieterichs, Mumm.

2) Fuel giving for Mumm canceled. Further operations after spare parts handover from "Bülow".

04.00 CE 3918

WSW 2-3, Sea 1-3, 1026 mb, +23°C, dark, Vis. good

08.00 CE 3862

SW 4, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 3/10, +25°C, Vis. good

12.00 CE 3857 Day's run: Surfaced 144 nm, Submerged 2 nm

SW 3, Sea 2, 1026 mb, 3/10, +25°C, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3842

SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +27°C, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3733

SW 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 3/10, +27°C, Vis. good

24.00 CE 3467

SW 2, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 3/10, +25°C, bright moon, Vis. very good

Shortly after reporting operational the Junkers compressor fails again. Further repair attempts then lead to the apparently final break, which is reported by radio message.



Sun and Moon Data 20.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 21.08.42

- 19 -

22.08.42

01.32 Outgoing Radio Message 0115/22/129:

From Mumm. Junkers compressor out of service again. Bushing and piston with studs stage 3 cracked, piston rod stage 3 bent, drive work still not checked. Corresponding spare parts also necessary, repairs questionable. Naval square CE 3467. High pressure weather.

03.10 Outgoing Radio Message 0255/22/120:

Encoding for Radio Message 0115/22/129 must mean: Otto Xant Paula Fritz.

04.00 CE 3469

SSW 2, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 3/10, +23°C, bright moon, Vis. very good

08.00 CE 3582

SW 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, +24°C, Vis. good

12.00 CE 3596 Day's run: Surfaced 150 nm

SW 2-3m Sea 1-2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +27°C, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3679

SW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3936

SW 2, Sea 1-2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +27°C, a bit misty

20.20 CE 3936 Independent steamer in sight bearing 260°, course about 90°. Maneuvered ahead and dive before the beginning of darkness. It is properly marked Portuguese "MIRANDELLA", on course for Lisbon. Stopping not thought necessary.

22.54 Surfaced. The steamer has lights and searchlight set.

24.00 CF 1814 Afterwards continued on northwest and southeast courses in area CE 30. Due to air inventory must forgo a test dive.

SW 2, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 3/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good



23.08.42

04.00 CE 3697

W 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 6/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good

08.00 CE 3649

SW 3, Sea 2, 9/10, 1022 mb, +24°C, dark, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 22.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 23.08.42

- 20 -

continued

23.08.42

12.00 CE 3563 Day's run: Surfaced 135 nm, Submerged 5 nm

WSW 3, Sea 2, 1022 mb, 3/10, +26°C, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3526

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +26°C, clear sky, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3279

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1019 mb, 1/10, +25°C, Vis. good

24.00 CE 3192

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, 6/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good

24.08.42

04.00 CE 3155

SW 3, Sea 2-3, 1019 mb, +23°C, clear sky, bright moon, Vis. good

08.00 CE 3142

WSW 2, Sea 1, 1018 mb, 1/10, +24°C, light Swell, Vis. good

12.00 CE 3158 Day's run: Surfaced 155 nm

SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3198

SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3543

SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 6/10, +26°C, Vis. good

24.00 CE 3583

SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +26°C, overcast, dark, Vis. good

25.08.42

04.00 CE 3833

NW 0-1, Sea 0-1, 1020 mb, 8/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. good

08.00 CE 3919

N 1, Sea 1, 8/10, 1019 mb, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 23.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 24.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 25.08.42

- 21 -

continued

25.08.42

12.00 CE 3958 Day's run: Surfaced 158 nm

NNW 2-3, S 2, 1015 mb, 1/10 +26°C, Vis. good

16.00 CE 3994

N 3, Sea 2, 5/10, 1015 mb, +26°C, Vis. good

20.00 CE 3994

NNE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, 1022 mb, +22°C, Vis. good

24.00 CE 3994

NNE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, 1022 mb, +22°C, Vis. good

26.08.42

04.00 CE 3958

N 5, Sea 3, 7/10, 1023 mb, +22°C, bright moon

08.00 CE 3918

N 4, Sea 3, 1022 mb, 4/10, +21°C, bright moon, Vis. good

12.00 CE 3598 Day's run: Surfaced 156 nm

N 4, Sea 3, 1024 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

13.01 Incoming Radio Message 1218/26/107:

Mumm and Wolfbauer report position immediately. Wolfbauer stop.

14.27 Outgoing Short Signal:

My position is naval square CE 3594

16.00 CE 3558

N 4, Sea 3, 1025 mb, 7/10, +24°C, Vis. medium

19.42 Incoming Radio Message 1746/26/117:

Meeting point for Wolfbauer and Mumm on 27 August at lightness in naval square CE 3363. Bearing signals from Wolfbauer if meeting does not take place by 17.00 hours. Wolfbauer be ready to give from the Junkers compressor: bushing and piston with stud stage 3, piston rod stage 3. After completion Wolfbauer continue return transit. Orders for Mumm follow.

20.00 CE 3516

W 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +23°C, overcast, Vis. medium

Sun and Moon Data 25.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42

- 22 -

continued

26.08.42

20.10 - 20.34 Test dive.

24.00 CE 3551

N 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +23°C, overcast, dark, misty

27.08.42

04.00 CE 3375

N 1, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 9/10, +22°C, bright moon, Vis. good

07.32 "U-463" in sight bearing 300°T.

08.00 CE 3365

N 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 7/10, +22°C, moonlit, Vis. good

09.25 - 13.30 Completed transfer of requested Junkers compressor parts plus 10 cbm fuel oil, Wolfbauer's remaining inventory. 4 minor patients treated by the Doctor.

12.00 CE 3362

N 2, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 4/10, +24°C, Vis. good

13.58 Incoming Radio Message 1158/27/37/146:

2.) Mumm after taking over spare parts head for naval square BE 71, Bülow same square.

14.45 Incoming Radio Message 1357/27/149:

From Wolfbauer:

1.) To Mumm Junkers gave compressor parts and 10 cbm. Mumm inventory 69 cbm.

16.00 CE 3362

N 3-4, Sea 2-3, 1024 mb, +23°C, overcast, Vis. medium

17.13 Outgoing Radio Message 1628/27/155:

From Mumm. E-compressor in service again. Spare parts no longer required from Bülow.

18.43 Incoming Radio Message 1757/27/38/163:

1.) Bülow, Mumm, Deecke, Hellrigel, Struckmeier head for AL 74.

2.) Spare parts task for Bülow settled.

20.00 BE 777

N 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, 7/10, +23°C, Vis. medium

24.00 BE 7741

N 3, Sea 1, 1024 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 27.08.42

- 23 -

28.08.42

04.00 BE 7477

NNW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low

08.00 BE 7441

NNW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low

12.00 BD 9396 Day's run: Surfaced 142 nm

NNW 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 9/10, +21°C, Vis. medium

16.00 BD 9339

W 2, Sea 2, 1021 mb, 7/10, +25°C, Vis. medium

16.23 - 16.56 Test dive.

20.00 BD 6996

SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 8/10, +23°C, Vis. medium

24.00 BD 6939

NW 5, Sea 3, 1016 mb, +20°C, overcast, Vis. medium

29.08.42

04.00 BD 6696

NW 5, Sea 4, 1016 mb, +17°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. low

08.00 BD 6662

NW 7, Sea 6, 1015 mb, +17°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. low

09.00 Matr.Gefr. Looser had an accident on the bridge from an especially heavy over coming breaker, suspect lower leg fracture.

09.15 Dived for treatment and bedding of the patient.

12.00 BD 6638 Day's run: Surfaced 129 nm, Submerged 11 nm

15.23 Surfaced.

16.00 BD 6398

NNW 7, Sea 5, 8/10, 1012 mb, +17°C, Vis. medium, rain showers

Sun and Moon Data 28.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42

- 24 -

continued

29.08.42

16.56 Incoming Radio Message 1124/29/64/111:

Struckmeier, Mumm, Röther, Bülow, Deecke, Hellriegel at economical transit speed occupy patrol line from naval square AL 7128 to 7851, depth 15 nm. Boats form Group "Stein".

19.29 Due to failure of reduction in pain and unclear examination findings

Outgoing Radio Message 1835/29/114:

From Mumm.

1.) Matr.Gefr. Looser lower leg break above the ankle, strong swelling and pain. Question possibility of disembarking.

2.) Naval square BD 6395, 63 cbm, N 7, Sea 6, 1013 mb, Vis. changing, rain showers.

20.00 BD 6392

N 5, Sea 5, 1013 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. medium

24.00 BD 6338

NE 5, Sea 4, 1016 mb, +17°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. low

30.08.42

00.32 Incoming Radio Message 2311/29/121:

Schütze and Mumm patient transfer on 30 August 10.00 hours in naval square BD 3986. Schütze from 12.00 hours bearing signals, if meeting has not taken place.

04.00 BD 3998

NNE 3-4, Sea 3, 1017 mb, +17°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low

08.00 BD 3968

N 1, Sea 2, 1017 mb, +14°C, 7/10, dark, Vis. medium

12.00 BD 3937 Day's run: Surfaced 130 nm, Submerged 10 nm

NE 2, Sea 2, 1016 mb, +16°C, 9/10, Vis. good

Despite outstanding visibility meeting succeeds only by bearing signals (See Radio Log) due to previous bad weather conditions and missing navigation fix. New navigation fix gives a difference between dead reckoning and actual position of 31 nm in 7°T.

15.15 BD 3986 Meeting with "U-604" for ordered patient transfer. Afterwards briefly took over remaining provisions from "U-604" mostly canned bread.

16.00 BD 3986

NNE 1-2, Sea 1, 1014 mb, +18°C, 6/10, Vis. medium

Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42

- 25 -

continued

30.08.42

20.00 BD 3953

SSW 2, Sea 2, 1011 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. medium

24.00 BD 3686

W 2, Sea 1, 1009 mb, +17°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low

31.08.42

04.00 BD 3653

WNW 5, Sea 4, 1008 mb, +15°C, dark, Vis. low

08.00 BD 3389

NW 5, Sea 4, 1008 mb, +15°C, 9/10, Vis. medium

12.00 BD 3356 Day's run: Surfaced 140 nm

W 5, Sea 4, 1009 mb, +12°C, 5/10, Vis. medium

16.00 AL 7723

W 6, Sea 5, 1010 mb, +13°C, overcast, Vis. medium

20.00 AL 7759

W 6, Sea 5, 1010 mb, +13°C, overcast, Vis. medium

24.00 AL 7726

W 5, Sea 4, 1011 mb, +12°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low

01.09.42

04.00 AL 7483

NW 5, Sea 4, 1009 mb, +12°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. low

08.00 AL 7429

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1006 mb, +14°C, overcast, Vis. medium

12.00 AL 7194 Day's run: Surfaced 146 nm

WSW 4, Sea 4, 1003 mb, +14°C, overcast, Vis. medium Reached position in patrol line.

16.00 AL 7242

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1003 mb, +14°C, 8/10, Vis. changing, rain showers

17.27 - 18.01 Test dive.

20.00 AL 7168

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1002 mb, +14°C, 9/10, Vis. changing, rain showers

Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42

Sun and Moon Data 01.09.42

- 26 -

continued

01.09.42

24.00 AL 7184

W 4, Sea 3, +14°C, 8/10, Vis. low, rain showers

02.09.42

04.00 AL 7168

SW 4, Sea 3, 999 mb, +14°C, overcast, dark, rain showers, Vis. low

04.19 Incoming Radio Message 0130/2/165/259:

[bad position] From Bülow. Small convoy, 6 destroyers, naval square AL 7685, course west, 8 knots.

04.22 Incoming Radio Message 0132/2/164:

From Bülow. Small convoy, 6 destroyers, naval square AL 7468, course west, 8 knots.

04.27 AL 7169 Incoming Radio Message 0352/2/166:

To Group "Stier" go. Bülow immediately check position and report composition of convoy.

The 3 hours late arrival of the radio report is unimaginable to me despite the sending of the first Radio Message on America Circuit.

06.49 Incoming Radio Message 0617/2/168:

From Bülow. Contact lost at 05.08 hours in naval square AL 7488. Suspect zigzag to the south. About 8 steamers, screen 4 destroyers.

Because of the weather situation is deteriorating very quickly, is seems to me operation on the convoy and regaining contact is questionable. Initially I reduce speed, to await a new enemy report or orders.

08.00 AL 7184

SSW 4, Sea 4, 994 mb, +13°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. changing

12.00 AK 9666 Day's run: Surfaced 173 nm, Submerged 2 nm

SSW 6, Sea 5, 986 mb, +14°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. changing

16.00 AK 9925

W 6-7, Sea 6, 9/10, 992 mb, +11°C, Vis. medium

16.23 Incoming Radio Message 1159/2/172/286:

From Bülow. Pursued on course 250°, after very bad visibility cleared no contact. W 8, 987 mb, rising.

Sun and Moon Data 01.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42

- 27 -

continued

02.09.42

20.00 AK 9945

W 9-10, Sea 8, 996 mb, +15°C, 6/10, rain showers, Vis. changing

20.35 Incoming Radio Message 2005/2/176:

Concerning direct intercommunication by Morse Befehlshaber with Bülow.

Discussion was received and went to economical transit speed accordingly.

23.45 AK 9892 Incoming Radio Message 2207/2/180/214:

1.) Group "Stier" break off operation. Boats join Group "Vorwärts" in order "Harney", "Ölrich", "Litterscheid", "Stock", "Walkerling", "Hause", "Bülow", "Brüller", "Röther", "Deecke", "Mumm", "Struckmeier" and "Hellriegel" occupy patrol line from naval square AK 0391 to AL 7284.

24.00 AK 9892

W 9-10, Sea 8, 999 mb, +12°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. low

03.09.42

00.07 Dived due to large seas to proceed submerged because no time is lost.

04.00 AK 9949

08.00 AK 9951

08.59 Surfaced after lightness. Slight weather improvement is noted.

12.00 AK 9926 Day's run: Surfaced 95 nm, Submerged 27 nm

W 7, Sea 6, 1004 mb, +11°C, 8/10, rain showers, Vis. medium

16.00 AK 9693

NNW 6-7, Sea 7, 1004 mb, +12°C, 9/10, Vis. medium, very high Swell

20.00 AL 7412

W 7, Sea 6, 1005 mb, +12°C, overcast, Vis. low, very high Swell

24.00 AL 7182

W 5-6, Sea 4-5, 1004 mb, +12°C, high Swell, Vis. low

04.09.42

04.00 AL 7162

SSW 6, Sea 5, 999 mb, +14°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low, rain showers

Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 03.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 04.09.42

- 28 -

continued

04.09.42

07.00 AL 7215 Arrived at ordered position. Weather situation unchanged, air pressure falling.

08.00 AL 7125

SW 6, Sea 5, 996 mb, +15°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. low

12.00 AL 7214 Day's run: Surfaced 160 nm

SW 6, rain showers, Sea 5, 993 mb, +14°C, Vis. medium

13.22 Incoming Radio Message 1226/4/104:

Group "Vorwärts" each boat according to weather and visibility conditions back and forth at increased speed or dived to monitor own area.

16.00 AL 7214

WSW 6, Sea 5, 994 mb, +14°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. changing

20.00 AL 7212

W 7, Sea 6, 997 mb, +13°C, 8/10, Vis. medium

20.21 Incoming Radio Message 1908/4/106:

1.) Group "Vorwärts" from 22.00 hours as reconnaissance line on course 250° and speed 6 knots. 5 September 09.30 hours stop, and remain in position as patrol line.

2.) Struckmeier between 02.00 and 05.00 hours report weather, Mumm about 10.00 hours visibility in miles. Alternate frequency.

24.00 AL 7136

W 10, Sea 8, 1001 mb, +12°C, 5/10, rain showers, dark, Vis. low

05.09.42

04.00 AL 7137

WNW 9-10, 8/10, 1007 mb, +12°C, 4/10, rain showers, Vis. changing

07.08 - 09.23 Due to large seas and low visibility weather dived to listen.

08.00 AL 7151 Despite slight abating, arrival in patrol line at the ordered time is no longer possible. However, in my opinion, the speed of advance of the convoy was also significantly reduced.

Sun and Moon Data 04.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42

- 29 -

continued

05.09.42

09.58 Outgoing Short Signal:

From "U-594". 5 nm.

10.00 WNW 7, Sea 6, 4/10, +14°C, 5/10, Vis. medium, high Swell

12.00 AL 7145 Day's run: Surfaced 140 nm, Submerged 6 nm

WNW 7, Sea 6, 1017 mb, +11°C, 8/10, Vis. medium, high Swell

16.00 AK 9396 Arrived at ordered position, afterwards at economical speed back and forth in the patrol line.

WNW 6, Sea 5, 1020 mb, +11°C, overcast, Vis. medium, high Swell

20.00 AK 9365

W 4, Sea 4, 1021 mb, +11°C, Vis. medium, long Swell

24.00 AK 9362

WNW 3-4, 1022 mb, +15°C, overcast, Vis. low

06.09.42

04.00 AK 9396

S 1, Sea 2, 1019 mb, +14°C, overcast, Vis. low, light Swell

08.00 AK 9369

S 3, Sea 3, 1015 mb, +13°C, overcast, rain, Vis. low

09.48 AK 9369 Destroyer bearing 100°T at low range, quickly out of sight again in the mist.

Outgoing Short Signal:

Destroyer AK 9369.

09.57 Incoming Short Signal (from Struckmeier):

2 destroyers naval square AK 9399, course 220°.

I believe that the convoy is between me and Struckmeier, and we have detected the outer screen.

10.45 Incoming Radio Message 1030/6/127:

Deecke, Mumm, Struckmeier, Hellriegel immediately operate on Struckmeier report, probably a convoy.

11.17 Incoming Radio Message 1056/6/130:

To Group "Vorwärts".

Operate on Mumm and Struckmeier reports. "Go".

Sun and Moon Data 05.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 06.09.42

- 30 -

continued

06.09.42

11.32 AK 9391 Destroyer comes out of the mist again bearing 90°T. The attempt to hold contact on him fails due to the constantly decreasing visibility.

11.45 Incoming Radio Message 1125/6/132:

From Struckmeier.

Destroyer square 1632, holding contact. Sea 5, Sea 5, Vis. 900 meters, 1010 mb, drizzle.

12.00 AK 9386 Day's run: Surfaced 156 nm

S 5, Sea 4, 1012 mb, +13°C, overcast, rain, Vis. low

12.44 Outgoing Radio Message 1132/6/133:

From Mumm. Destroyer 9391, Vis. 1 nm, rain.

14.17 Incoming Radio Message 1400/6/134:

From Hellriegel. Fog, Vis. 400 meters, no sound bearings, AK 9634.

14.56 Incoming Radio Message 1420/6/135:

From Struckmeier.

By sound bearings, 1 steamer, 2 destroyers, course 250°, speed 8 knots. Naval square AK 1625, 1007 mb, falling, fog, Vis. 300 meters.

15.19 AK 9619 Dived for sound bearing.

Fog, Vis. 200 meters Despite the only limitedly operable G.H.G. (depth charge effect, failure of several receivers strong noise) destroyer sounds in the immediate vicinity, apparently was overrun.

16.00 AK 6919

16.47 Nothing more heard. Surfaced. At LF steered on suspected convoy course (245°), to catch up with the convoy to listen again, and and to be in the vicinity when visibility improves. I believe search courses are hopeless under these visibility conditions.

17.30 Outgoing Radio Message 1550/6/137:

From Mumm. 9616 destroyer by sound bearing.

19.07 Incoming Radio Message 1907/6/141:

To Group "Vorwärts".

Visibility improvement is expected.

20.00 AK 9565

SSW 3, Sea 3, 1007 mb, +15°C, fog, Vis. 200 meters

20.25 - 21.12 Dived for sound bearings. Nothing!

21.20 Incoming Radio Message 2114/6/146:

To Group "Vorwärts".

According to convoy situation suspect convoy in area Mumm Struckmeier. Continue searching on southwesterly courses.

Accordingly came to southwesterly course.

Sun and Moon Data 06.09.42

- 31 -

continued

06.09.42

24.00 AK 9582

SW 2, Sea 2, 1007 mb, +14°C, fog, Vis. 100 meters

07.09.42

04.00 AK 9811

SSW 4, Sea 3, 1000 mb, +15°C, fog, Vis. 500 meters

08.00 AK 9761

SSW 4, Sea 3, 1009 mb, +15°C, fog, Vis. 250 meters

08.32 Incoming Radio Message 08.07/7/154:

From Struckmeier.

Contact lost. Last sound bearing 05.00 hours naval square AK 9468.

11.32 AK 9719 Incoming Radio Message 1054/7/162:

Group "Vorwärts" break off operation, occupy in old order patrol line from naval square AK 6664 to AL 7854. Expect the next convoy about 9 September.

Headed for new position at economical speed.

12.00 AK 9715 Day's run: Surfaced 165 nm, Submerged 8 nm

SSW 4, Sea 3, 1008 mb, +15°C, fog, Vis. 300 meters

12.14 - 13.10 Test dive. No sound bearings.

16.00 AK 9722 In the course of the afternoon the expected visibility inprovement.

SSW 4, Sea 3, 1007 mb, +15°C, fog, Vis. 800 meters

20.00 AK 9732

SW 2, Sea 2, 1010 mb, +15°C, 8/10, Vis. medium

20.27 AK 9735 Destroyer in sight bearing 10°T, course about 250°, apparently no zigzags, with medium visibility nothing else distinguished. Nevertheless, it seems probable to me it is connected with the convoy and so I maintain contact.

21.35 Struckmeier in sight.

21.46 Incoming Radio Message 2130/7/173:

From B.d.U.:

1 destroyer naval square AK 9813 course 290°. From Struckmeier 21.20 hours.

It is the same destroyer sighted by me.

Sun and Moon Data 06.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 07.09.42

- 32 -

continued

07.09.42

22.34 Incoming Radio Message 2209/7/175:

To Struckmeier.

Continue transit to patrol line.

Meeting with Struckmeier, afterwards continued transit to ordered patrol line.

24.00 AK 9811

WSW 3, Sea 3, 1014 mb, +15°C, 2/10, Vis. good, dark

08.09.42

04.00 AK 9823

SW 3, Sea 2, 6/10, 1016 mb, +14°C, 2/10, Vis. good, dark

08.00 AK 9678

WSW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, +13°C, 2/10, Vis. good

12.00 AL 7448 Day's run: Surfaced 169 nm, Submerged 3 nm

WSW 5, Sea 4, 1020 mb, +14°C, 2/10, Vis. good

16.00 AL 7483 Old drifting mine sighted. Attempt to shoot with 2 cm fails.

SW 4-5, Sea 3-4, 1022 mb, +15°C, 3/10, Vis. good

20.00 AL 7575 Arrived at ordered position in patrol line. Back and forth at economical speed.

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1025 mb, +14°C, 4/10, Vis. good

24.00 AL 7584

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1025 mb, +14°C, 7/10, Vis. good, dark

09.09.42

04.00 AL 7573

WSW 2, Sea 2, 1027 mb, +14°C, 9/10, Vis. good, dark

08.00 AL 7572

WSW 3, Sea 3, 1029 mb, +14°C, 3/10, Vis. good

12.00 AL 7571 Day's run: Surfaced 95 nm

SSW 3, Sea 4, 1029 mb, +15°C, 2/10, Vis. good

16.00 AL 7493

S 4, Sea 3, 1025 mb, +17°C, 2/10, Vis. good

20.59 AL 7571 Incoming Radio Message (Short Signal)

From Deecke. A convoy, 11-15 steamers AL 7463.

Sun and Moon Data 07.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 08.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 09.09.42

- 33 -

continued

09.09.42

Operated at high speed on Deecke report. Contact is still possible before darkness.

After previous good visibility and weather conditions strongly freshening wind and visibility deterioration.

21.40 Incoming Radio Message 2130/9/109:

Group "Vorwärts" go now. Suspect course southwest. Deecke report course immediately.

21.40 Incoming Short Signal:

From Deecke. Convoy speed 5-7 knots, steers course 220°.

22.23 Incoming Radio Message 2136/9/111:

1.) Mumm report weather from 22.00 to 02.00, Breithaupt from 02.00 to 05.00 hours.

22.59 Outgoing Short Signal weather report:

52N, 25W, falling, 1014 mb, +14°C, S 7-8, rain showers, Vis. 1/2 nm, medium-high SW-Swell.

23.46 Incoming Radio Message 2214/9/112:

From Deecke.

No contact. Last position of the convoy square 7461, course 230°, 7 knots, S 5, Sea 5, Vis. 100 meters, rain.

24.00 AL 7465 Dived for sound bearings, nothing!

S 9-10, Sea 7-8, 1012 mb, +13°C, rain showers, overcast, Vis. up to 100 meters, dark

10.09.42

01.00 Surfaced. Afterwards economical speed in the advance direction of the convoy. I believe that search courses are hopeless in this weather conditions and on the basis of my fuel situation (33 cbm) not acceptable.

01.53 Incoming Short Signal:

From Deecke. Enemy located AL 7458.

Steered corresponding course.

01.31 Incoming Radio Message 0028/10/115:

1.) Group "Vorwärts" despite bad weather and lost contact again operate on Deecke convoy. Stay tough.

04.00 AL 7458

S 9, Sea 7, 1009 mb, +15°C, overcast, rain showers, dark, Vis. 300 meters

05.51 Incoming Radio Message 0523/10/117:

From Deecke.

Short Signal 0452 invalid, since 02.30 hours no contact.

Sun and Moon Data 09.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42

- 34 -

continued

10.09.42

08.00 AL 7472

WSW 8, Sea 7, 1014 mb, +14°C, overcast, dark, Vis. 1500 meters

10.20 AK 9696 Smoke clouds in sight bearing 250°T. Held contact and maneuvered ahead and tried to reach shooting position soon due to my fuel situation. Mastheads come far out again however escort vessels are not detected.

W 5, Sea 5, 1016 mb, overcast, Vis. good

11.08 Outgoing Short Signal:

Convoy naval square AK 9699, course 240°.

11.48 Incoming Radio Message 1000/10/120:

Kr Kr from Deecke.

Convoy located square AK 9695, course 250°, 6 knots, forced to submerge by aircraft.

12.00 AK 9697 Day's run: Surfaced 143 nm, Submerged 2 nm

NW 6, Sea 5, 1019 mb, +15°C, overcast, Vis. good

12.50 Outgoing Short Signal:

Convoy AK 9931

13.18 AK 9925 U-boat bearing 220°T.

14.30 AK 9925 2 U-boats bearing 280°T.

14.46 Outgoing Short Signal:

Convoy AK 9928.

16.00 AK 9943

W 4, Sea 4, 1019 mb, +14°C, 4/10, Vis. good

16.01 Another U-boat bearing 200°T.

About 17.00 hours two high water columns (probably hits) observed in convoy and afterwards two large zigzags in a short time interval.

17.55 Outgoing Radio Message 1735/10/130:

Convoy 9951, large zigzags.

17.55 AK 9951 Dived for submerged attack. Convoy steers course 260°.

Boat is 4 tons too heavy on diving, later a leak in the flood valve of the starboard negative buoyancy tank was determined.

My intention to shoot from outside into the broad formation of the convoy cannot be carried out despite angling away energetically. The too high swell and no longer clear periscope from the effect of depth charges do not let me see the target angle of the convoy until too late. Shortly before turning to shoot I was

Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42

- 35 -

continued

10.09.42

positioned to the left ahead of the first and second columns of the convoy proceeding in broad formation, the sweeper stationed ahead to port lies abeam bow left. I can make out about 25 steamers and 2 corvettes as sweepers. When at about 2000 meters ahead of the convoy I turn to port to attack course (= 350° for bow left, course of the convoy as before 260°), the port forward sweeper becomes bow right small target angle. The range was quickly smaller, however I believe I have not been noticed and continue turning at LF to attack course.

While still about 200 meters away he comes to target angle 0° and at depth A -60 meters throws 10 close depth charges in quick succession. Aside from the temporary failure of a battery automatic switch and both diving planes there is only minor damage. After resetting the automatic battery switch at AK quickly reached the ordered depth of A +80 meters.

A further depth charge attack does not occur, I suspect because the convoy overran the boat. Destroyers and steamer sounds in various directions show no clear picture. After half an hour only faint Asdic sounds are heard.

Later examination showed the following over deck damage:

1.) The cladding is torn over a length of 2 meters at the after edge of main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 2 starboard (probably by the splitter effect).

2.) On the port side at the level of the aft diving plane it is heavily dented.

3.) Loose plates and brackets under the over deck in large part explain the noise in the G.H.G.

20.00 AK 9954

21.00 Surfaced.

The smoke clouds of the convoy are still in sight bearing 250°T. While catching up about 22.00 hours a corvette comes in sight stationed behind the convoy, which, despite having hauled off to port, caught me half an hour later (presumably radar) and forced me off to the east until dark.

22.51 Incoming Radio Message 2224/10/140:

Mumm, Walkerling, Ölrich immediately five contact keeper reports. If there are no reports other boats jump in.

Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42

- 36 -

continued

10.09.42

23.55 Outgoing Radio Message 2255/10/146:

Last position of the convoy 9892. Forced off by corvette.

24.00 AK 9974

W 2, Sea 2, 1026 mb, +12°C, 3/10, Vis. good, dark

At darkness I pursue in the direction of the last convoy sighting (245°T) and from 00.50 hours continuously have star shells and rockets in sight in large numbers which slowly shift out to port. Afterwards I do not succeed in gaining contact, request bearing signals to check the star shells, however this remains without results.

11.09.42

00.47 Outgoing Short Signal:

Request bearing signals from contact keeper.

03.15 Incoming Radio Message 0209/11/155:

From Walkerling.

Position of the convoy naval square AK 9887, course 240°. Surroundings of the convoy are continually illuminated by 20-30 star shells.

04.00 BD 3116

W 2, Sea 1-2, 1025 mb, +11°C, 6/10, dark, a bit misty

06.20 BD 3141 Suddenly an elongated shadow comes in sight abeam to starboard. At first I turn away for a moment, because I believe, due to the unfavorable visibility conditions (dark, misty) that I have pushed into the convoy. However, apart from a seemingly thick smoke cloud far ahead nothing is distinguished. Therefore I decided to attack the shadow seen first, which during the approach seemed like a very large tanker silhouette. Due to the broad target angle I maneuvered ahead again and decide at 07.43 hours at about 1000 meters, to shoot a 4-fan with a small spread angle (3°), to be certain of 2 hits.

07.43 BD 2364

Set values:

Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = left 70°, range = 1000 meters, depth = 3 meters, spread angle = 3°.

Also I believe with regard to my fuel situation that the torpedo usage is appropriate. No effect was observed, although the fan was shot with proper data.

Sun and Moon Data 10.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42

- 37 -

continued

11.09.42

I believe the shot is completely unexplained. It is not thought that the torpedoes suffered from the depth charges of the previous day. Subsequent maintenance of the remaining torpedoes in stowage and in tube V showed no indications. The approaching dawn no longer allows a second approach with the stern torpedo.

08.00 BD 2364

W 1, Sea 1, 1025 mb, +11°C, overcast, Vis. good

08.10 While moving off a small very fast vessel (motor boat) comes up which apparently turned away when it saw us.

08.29 BD 2365 Heavy smoke cloud bearing 240°T, which indicates the proximity of the rest of the convoy.

08.33 Immediately thereafter a destroyer comes in sight at first with a broad target angle. Because is getting light quickly now, he detects me immediately despite running off at AK and approaches at high speed (target angle 0°).

08.38 BD 2361 Crash dive.

No depth charges. At 09.00 hours no more destroyer sounds are heard.

10.13 BD 2361 Surfaced.

Carried out repair of vent 3 port, which can only be closed with force submerged.

10.59 Incoming Radio Message 1031/11/167:

From Walkerling.

Convoy 10.15 hours naval square BD 2385, course southwest, holding contact on smoke cloud.

11.05 BD 2353 Smoke cloud in sight bearing 220°T.

11.24 Incoming Radio Message 0957/11/169:

From Bülow.

Convoy located 10.00 hours naval square BD 2388, SW 2, light Swell, 1027 mb, rising, Vis. 10 nm.

12.00 BD 2356 Day's run: Surfaced 160 nm, Submerged 15 nm

WSW x, Sea 8, 1027 mb, +14°C, 7/10, Vis. good

13.28 Incoming Short Signal:

From Deecke.

Hold contact BD 2539.

13.38 Incoming Radio Message 1255/11/177:

From U-92.

Convoy square 2377, SEbyE x, light Swell, 1027 mb, rising, Vis. very good.

Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42

- 38 -

continued

11.09.42

13.47 Incoming Radio Message 1305/11/179:

From Walkerling.

Convoy 13.00 hours, naval square BD 2299, course 260°, holding contact.

Because my fuel inventory (= 25 cbm) does not allow further operation on the convoy, and on the basis of the good visibility conditions enough boats can hold contact, steered on the general course of the convoy, to await orders from Control concerning the possibility of supply.

15.19 Outgoing Radio Message:

14.30 BD 2335 Sailing vessel in sight bearing 240°T on southerly course, I suspect a trap due to the occurrence in the vicinity of the convoy.

15.31 Dived.

It turns out to be a 4-masted schooner (gaff-rigged schooner) with Portuguese markings. Peculiar superstructure and tarpaulins on the over deck seem to confirm the assumption that it is a trap.

16.00 BD 2349

17.19 Surfaced.

17.42 Sailing vessel out of sight.

15.19 Outgoing Radio Message 1425/11/184:

From Mumm:

1.) During day attack depth charged by corvette. Damage repaired. With night attack 4-fan miss on large tanker, unexplained, forced to submerge by destroyer.

2.) BD 2357, 8 Etos, canisters dented, 25 cbm. Question supply.

17.42 Incoming Radio Message 1723/11/190:

From B.d.U.

Struckmeier in naval square BD 2615. Contact on convoy.

18.45 Incoming Short Signal:

From Hause.

Convoy BD 2548, speed 8-10 knots, steers course 230°.

20.00 BD 2373

SSW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +15°C, 3/10, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42

- 39 -

continued

11.09.42

21.00 Incoming Radio Message 1506/11/105:

Group "Vorwärts".

1.) Break off at 15 cbm. Tanker is on outbound transit to naval square BC.

2.) Occasionally, if not already done, add fuel and torpedo inventory to contact keeper reports.

21.30 BD 2381 Went to "2 x HF" and operated again on the lasr contact keeper reports.

21.42 Second sailing vessel of the same appearance in sight bearing 275°T.

23.34 Incoming Radio Message 2300/11/102:

From U-218.

BD 2748. Hold contact, am positioned to the southwest of the convoy.

23.45 Incoming Radio Message 2305/11/103:

From U-92.

23.00 hours convoy 2488, could not reach shooting position due to zigzag. 22.00 hours zigzag to course 200°.

24.00 BD 2298

SSW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +15°C, overcast, Vis. good

12.09.42

00.44 - 01.08 BD 2531 Fiery glow in sight bearing 223°T.

01.44 Incoming Short Signal:

From Hause.

Star shells over convoy.

03.35 BD 2464 Fiery glow bearing 230°T.

04.00 BD 2456

S 3, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +15°C, overcast, Vis. good

05.17 Incoming Radio Message 0449/12/115:

From U-92.

Group "Vorwärts" give contact keeping reports.

06.29 BD 2712 Fiery glow and star shells in sight ahead.

08.00 BD 2717 Although proceeding at 2 x HF on the general course of the convoy and repeated fiery glow and star shells were observed ahead, gaining contact will not take place until the afternoon.

SSW 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +15°C, 9/10, Vis. good

09.22 Incoming Radio Message 0720/12/119:

From Bülow.

1.) Convoy 07.00 hours naval square BD 1994.

Sun and Moon Data 11.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 12.09.42

- 40 -

continued

12.09.42

11.10 Incoming Radio Message 1044/12/126:

From Litterscheid.

4337 10-15 smoke clouds, southwest course. Strong voice traffic on convoy wavelength. Signal code.

11.31 Incoming Radio Message 0832/12/118:

Bülow and Ölrich immediately, Mumm and Brüller from 12.00 to 16.00 hours report weather.

12.00 BD 1997 Day's run: Surfaced 230 nm, Submerged 10 nm

SSW 3, Sea 2, 1020 mb, +15°C, 5/10, Vis. good

12.47 BD 4331 U-boat bearing 180°T, course about 240°.

13.00 Incoming Radio Message 1154/12/134/263:

To Group "Vorwärts".

1.) The reporting discipline must be better. Contact keeping reports are not an end in themselves, instead should bring up all boats. Request bearing signals if necessary.

2.) Success reports with next opportunity to transmit. Are important for evaluation by Leadership and boats.

3.) Sink no sailing vessels, the are mostly legitimately proceeding Portuguese.

4.) Be careful estimating tonnage especially at night, our motto: a sound enterprise.

13.15 Incoming Radio Message 1230/12/135:

From Litterscheid.

Naval square 4355 corvette far behind.

13.37 Incoming Radio Message 1202/12/136:

From Deecke. Have contact on smoke cloud BD 4263

13.46 Incoming Radio Message 1346/12/137:

From Brüller:

Convoy naval square 4354, westerly course.

14.55 Incoming Radio Message 1418/12/141:

From "U-92".

Enemy 4344, SW 3, 1020 mb, Vis. over 10 nm.

15.52 Outgoing Radio Message 1535/12/144:

From Mumm.

Naval square BD 4554, no contact. WSW 3, Sea 2-3, 1021 mb, steady, Vis. over 10 nm.

16.00 BD 4553

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +18°C, 5/10, Vis. good, light Swell

16.35 BD 4328 Smoke clouds in 260°T, that due to visibility deterioration soon disappear again..

Sun and Moon Data 12.09.42

- 41 -

continued

12.09.42

For fuel reasons I operate further at only 2 x HF on the smoke clouds, especially since maneuvering ahead for a day attack is no longer in question.

17.40 The U-boat remains behind and passes out of sight. As emerges from Radio Message 2130/12/161 it is probably Röther.

19.06 BD 4354 Smoke clouds in sight again. The smoke cloud of one vessel which seems to be moving out to starboard and falling back, seems particularly strong. Initially I suspect a damaged steamer left behind.

19.37 Incoming Radio Message 1832/12/152/268:

2.) Group "Vorwärts", Brandi and "U-216" from 13 August 08.00 hours switch to America Circuit.

20.00 BD 4266

WSW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +17°C, 6/10, Vis. good, medium Swell

21.50 BD 4255 Several depth charge detonations heard.

In the smoke cloud the mast of a steamer is distinguished while at the same time a corvette comes in sight in the direction of the distant smoke clouds of the convoy. The set off independent, which previously steered a northerly course, does not shift further out and probably steers the general course of the convoy (250°) again. The corvette passes out of sight in the direction of the convoy.

Later statements of the captured Captain confirm that the steamer had to drop out of the convoy due to heavy smoking (boiler damage) and was led a little to the north by a corvette, which before leaving the steamer threw a series of depth charges. During the night the steamer initially steered to the west, temporarily northwest courses, to move off further from the convoy. He had orders to run into St. Johns for repairs.

At the beginning of darkness the smoke clouds of the convoy passed out of sight. I operate further on the steamer.

24.00 BD 4244 About 01.00 hours I am at the same level and attempt to match the speed exactly to determine shooting data to be able to judge with certainty the operability of the torpedoes. For the same reason, I decide on a two-fan. Until the shot the steamer steered course 260°, 7 knots.

WSW 2, Sea 2, 1022 mb, +15°C, 3/10, Vis. good



Sun and Moon Data 12.09.42

- 42 -

13.09.42

04.00 BD 4162

WSW 1, Sea 1, 1023 mb, +14°C, 3/10, dark, at times a bit misty

04.45 BD 4152 2-fan miss.

Set data: Target speed = 9 knots, target angle = left 70°, range = 1000 meters, depth = 3 meters, spread angle = 3 meters.

Because no course or speed changes were observed by me once again I believe the fan is completely unexplained. After the shot a course change to the northwest was determined by me, according to the statement of the Captain without being noticed on the steamer.

05.13 One half hour after the shot shortly after another two torpedo detonations were heard, presumably originating from the two fired torpedoes, however the cause was not clear to me.

In order to eliminate possible unmanageable faults in the system, I decide to fire a further single shot without the system with a fixed shooting angle, after I have determined the course and speed of the steamer again (course was as before 260°, speed 8 knots).

08.00 BD 4114

WSW 2, Sea 2, 1022 mb, +15°C, 4/10, Vis. good

08.55 BC 6338 Single shot miss.

Shooting data: Target speed = 10 knots, target angle = left 70°, range = 800 meters, depth 3 meters, fixed angle 0°, fixed shooting angle = 341°.

Due to the fast breaking dawn I ran off at high speed and maneuver ahead for a day attack. My intention is, to shoot the remaining bow torpedoes as a 3-fan with enemy data checked once again, to finally get clarity concerning the torpedoes. Fuel inventory 11 cbm.

12.00 BC 6328 Day's run: Surfaced 285 nm

SW 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +17°C, 9/10, Vis. good

During the maneuver ahead the steamer steers an unchanging westerly course, 10-11 knots.

13.42 When an unclearly distinguished vessel comes in sight in the west, I dive to attack without having completely ended the maneuver ahead. The enemy comes closer quickly, however he is so shrouded in smoke that his target angle is difficult to make out at first.

Sun and Moon Data 13.09.42

- 43 -

continued

13.09.42

I believe I see a course change towards me and therefore move further off to port to increase the abeam distance.

14.36 BC 6316 3-fan.

After 2 minutes 2 torpedo detonations and 1 Pistol impact were heard in the boat. In the periscope one high water column at the level of the bridge and afterwards strong overtaking to port observed.

Set values were: Target speed = 12 knots, target angle = left 70°, range = 500 meters, depth = 2.5 meters, spread order = 2.5°.

The large shooting range was due to angling away on the basis of the supposed change of course of the enemy, which actually did not take place.

The steamer quickly takes a strong list, the crew attempts with difficulty get the ready boats away. It is a medium sized armed freighter in ballast.

15.50 Sinking observed in the periscope and the listening gear.

15.58 Surfaced and took the Captain of the steamer on board. The crew drifted in partly damaged boats and rafts.

16.00 BC 6316

SW 3, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +18°C, 3/10, Vis. good

The Captain only revealed himself when he learns that I intend to take the oldest officer.

16.30 Met at the sinking location with Hellriegel. This probably explains the appearance of the vessel I had seen before diving.

In addition to the credible points set out in Radio Messages 1945/13/242, 2130/13/247, 1516/14/290, the Captain's credible statements give the following clarification as to the possible shooting miss: During the night he steered mostly west, occasionally NW-course. The speed of advance changed greatly between 5 and 10 knots due to repair work on the boiler. After lightness he purported to maintain a steady westerly course at 8-9 knots. (The speed given appears to be too low for the 12 knot setting for the shot and on the basis of the plotting results.)

17.08 Incoming Radio Message 1608/13/219:

To Group "Vorwärts".

Report weather Mumm, Ölrich by 20.000 hours, Röther, Brüller between 20.00 and 04.00 hours.

Sun and Moon Data 13.09.42

- 44 -

continued

13.09.42 BC 6315 Course since leaving the sinking location SW (general course of the convoy) at economical diesel speed to charge the battery.

SW 3, Sea 2-3, 1020 mb, +19°C, Vis. good

Fuel inventory still 8 cbm.

21.43 and 22.40 Outgoing Radio Message 1945/13/242 and 2139/14/247:

From Mumm.

1.) 15.00 hours American freighter "STONE STREET", earlier Italian "CLARA", 6131 GRT, by 3-fan sunk, suspect 1 pistol failure. Night 3 unexplained misses. Captain on board. Statement: due to strong smoking (boiler damage) released to proceed to "St. Johns". Convoy direct to "New York" 12 September evening of 35 steamers 11 sunk, 2 tankers torpedoes, the journey continued. 1 remained behind (torpedoed 2 times). 2 destroyers and 3 corvettes depth charge damage. 1 Corvette missing.

2.) Naval square BC 6316, 2 stern torpedoes, 9 cbm, request orders.

3.) SSW 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, steady, Vis. over 10 nm.

24.00 BC 6253

SSW 3, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +19°C, 6/10, Vis. good

14.09.42

01.58 BC 6254 Incoming Radio Message 0052/14/111/255:

Mumm and Stiebler supply in BC 9355. Stiebler report arrival by Short Signal.

Set off on course for the supply square.

04.00 BC 6257

SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +12°C, 1/10, Vis. good

04.56 Incoming Radio Message 0423/14/266:

To Mumm.

Question American Captain about the name of the sunken ships and report.

08.00 BC 6258

S 4, Sea 3, 1016 mb, +18°C, 1/10, Vis. good

09.45 Incoming Radio Message 0438/14/271:

Stiebler will be at meeting point on 16 September 22.00 hours.

12.00 BC 6294 Day's run: Surfaced 144 nm, Submerged 6 nm

S 5, Sea 4, 1014 mb, +19°C, 2/10, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 13.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 14.09.42

- 45 -

continued

14.09.42

16.00 BC 6535

S 4, Sea 3, 1014 mb, +19°C, 7/10, Vis. good

16.38 Outgoing Radio Message 1516/14/290:

From Mumm.

Names not known, only tactical No. About 20 tankers total of 35, average size freighters 5000-8000, tankers 9000-12000 loaded tons.

Formation basically columns of 4, possibly tightly closed, tankers inside, speed 8.5 knots. With hits 45° course change away from shooting location, illumination only when U-boat sighted or after hits.

20.00 BC 6563

S 6, Sea 5, 1014 mb, +20°C, 9/10, Vis. medium, a bit misty

24.00 BC 6672

S 4-5, Sea 3-4, 1015 mb, +20°C, overcast, heavy rain showers, Vis. low

15.09.42

02.09 BC 6678 A star shell apparently exactly over the boat, that went out after about 5 seconds. In the dark, rain and very poor visibility night however nothing is distinguished. I suspect locating and dive for sound bearing.

02.30 Destroyer sounds abeam to port (own course 54°), which initially were louder and disappeared ahead to starboard, confirmed my suspicion.

Because I will reach the supply place ahead of time anyway, due to the bad visibility I continued the transit submerged.

04.00 BC 6679

08.00 BC 6919

09.53 Surfaced.

11.20 Incoming Radio Message 1014/15/2x9:

2.) Mumm report immediately if weather conditions do not allow supply.

The Completion of supply seems assured by the continuously improving weather conditions.

12.00 BC SSW 3, Sea 2, 1017 mb, +21°C, overcast, Vis. good Day's run: Surfaced 102 nm, Submerged 18 nm

12.45 Incoming Radio Message 116/15/22x:

Group "Vorwärts".

1.) On return transit: Litterscheid, Ölrich, Mumm, fuel supply from Stiebler up to 32 cbm.

Sun and Moon Data 14.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 15.09.42

- 46 -

continued

15.09.42

16.00 BC 6782

S x, Sea 0-1, 1019 mb, +23°C, 7/10, Vis. good

19.37 BC 9322 U-boat briefly in sight in the mist.

20.00 BC 9322 In the course of the evening several U-boats were sighted.

S 0-1, 1019 mb, +22°C, 9/10, fog, Vis. 100 meters

24.00 BC 9355 Reached the supply place.

S 1, Sea 0-1, 1020 mb, +21°C, 9/10, Vis. changing, summer lightening

16.09.42

04.00 DC 9356

S 1, Sea 0-1, 9/10, +21°C, overcast, Vis. poor, rain showers

04.19 Incoming Radio Message 0154/16/11/176/256:

Concerning division of America Circuit into I and II. Circuit America I: entire Group Lohs and Group Vorwärts.

08.00 BC 9356

S 2, Sea 1, 1018 mb, +21°C. overcast, dark, Vis. good

09.44 BC 9356 Meeting with "U-92", "U-217", "U-218", "U-411".

12.00 BC 9355 Day's run: Surfaced 130 nm

S 1, Sea 0, 1018 mb, +22°C, 5/10, Vis. good

16.00 BC 9355

S 1, Sea 0-1, 1017 mb, +25°C, overcast, at times fog

17.30 After exact navigation fix in reconnaissance line (signal range width). headed for the center of the supply square.

After about an hour meeting with all boats ordered to the supply place except Deecke. Weather conditions excellent.

20.00 BC 9355

S 1, Sea 0-1, 1016 mb, +25°C, 6/10, Vis. good

21.48 Tanker in sight to the east.

Sun and Moon Data 15.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 16.09.42

- 47 -

continued

16.09.42

22.30 - 02.00 BC 9355 Supply completed first because of the low fuel inventory (3 cbm). Took over 30 cbm and 8 days provisions, although the latter was not necessary and not requested.

Return transit cannot be started immediately due to the task of giving a cylinder head to Bülow which cannot be carried out in darkness.

24.00 BC 9355

ENE 1, Sea 0-1, 1017 mb, 7/10, darkness, Vis. good.

17.09.42

04.00 NNE 3-4, Sea 2, 1017 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark, Vis. poor, rain showers

08.00 BC 9355 Due to increasing sea, high Swell preparing for the task of the cylinder head presented some difficulties, especially opening the torpedo hatch.

NE 4, Sea 2-3, 1017 mb, +20°C, overcast, dark, Vis. poor, long Swell

12.00 BC 9355 Day's run: Surfaced 60 nm

NE 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +19°C, overcast, Vis. medium, long Swell

16.00 BC 9355

NNE 3-4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +20°C, 4/10, Vis. good

17.00 Began return transit.

20.00 BC 9396

NE 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +20°C, 3/10, Vis. good

22.44 - 23.12 Test dive.

24.00 BD 7143

NE 3, Sea 2, 1020 mb, +18°C, overcast, Vis. good

18.09.42

04.00 BD 7152

NE 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +18°C, 7/10, Vis. good

08.00 BD 7139

NE 3, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. good

12.00 BD 7219 Day's run: Surfaced 138 nm, Submerged 2 nm

NE 2-3, Sea 1-2, 1020 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. good

Sun and Moon Data 16.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 17.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 18.09.42

- 48 -

continued

18.09.42

16.00 BD 7237

NE 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +20°C, 9/10, Vis. good

20.00 BD 7316

NE 3, Sea 2, 1020 mb, +20°C, 5/10, Vis. good

24.00 BD 7352

NE 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +18°C, overcast, Vis. good

19.09.42

04.00 BD 8113

E 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +19°C, overcast, Vis. good

08.00 BD 8132

NE 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +20°C, 4/10, Vis. good

12.00 BD 5887 Day's run: Surfaced 176 nm

NE 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +18°C, 7/10, Vis. good

15.02 Incoming Radio Message 1447/19/25x/325:

Stiebler and Mumm report position immediately.

16.00 BD 5997

E 2, Sea 1, 1021 mb, +9°C, 6/10, Vis. good

16.25 Outgoing Short Signal:

My position is naval square BD 5896.

20.00 BD 5977

ESE 2, Sea 1, 1020 mb, +20°C, 9/10, Vis. good

22.20 Incoming Radio Message 2029/19/37/x54/266/333:

1.) Purkhold and Mumm report weather, Hoffmann weather and fuel, Reeder tomorrow between 08.00 and 12.00 hours visibility conditions.

2.) Circuits from 20 September 08.00 hours Fechner, Pfeffer, Schacht and Gräf America I, Mumm and Juli Ireland.

23.35 Incoming Radio Message 2x37/19/272:

Bülow immediately report by Short Signal:

1.) Position,

2.) If Stiebler sighted,

3.)  Which boats are there.

Sun and Moon Data 18.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 19.09.42

- 49 -

continued

19.09.42

Mumm report immediately, if supplied from Stiebler, if arrival of other boats at Stiebler was observed.

24.00 BD 5985

ESE 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +20°C, 7/10, Vis. good

20.09.42

01.21 Outgoing Radio Message 0045/20/282:

From Mumm.

1.) 16 September 22.00 hours all boats except Deecke at location. Own supply completed up to 17 September 02.00 hours. 07.00 hours at departure after task cylinder head to Bülow still all gathered except Ölrich and Deecke.

2.) Naval square BD 5986, SE 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, steady, Vis. good.

04.00 BD 5996

NE 2, Sea 1, 1017 mb, +20°C, overcast, Vis. good

08.00 BD 6781

NE 3, Sea 2, 1017 mb, +20°C, overcast, Vis. good

12.00 BD 6793 Day's run: Surfaced 165 nm

NNW 3, Sea 2, 1019 mb, +20°C, clear sky, Vis. very good

16.00 BD 6973

NW 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +21°C, 5/10, Vis. good

20.00 BD 6868

NW 3, Sea 2, 1022 mb, +21°C, overcast, Vis. good

20.24 - 20.58 Test dive.

24.00 BD 6949

NNE 2-3, Sea 1-2, +24°C, 1025 mb, 4/10, Vis. good, bright moon

21.09.42

00.24 Incoming Radio Message 2305/20/53/180/236:

Return harbors for Struckmeier and Mumm is Nazaire, for Ölrich Brest, for Steinhoff Lorient.

04.00 N 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +18°C, Vis. good, bright moon

Sun and Moon Data 19.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 20.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 21.09.42

- 50 -

continued

21.09.42

08.00 BE 4754

NW 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +17°C, 5/10, Vis. good

12.00 BE 4763 Day's run: Surfaced 187 nm, Submerged 1 nm

NW 3, Sea 2, 1028 mb, +18°C, 6/10, Vis. good

16.00 BE 4887

NNW 2, Sea 2, 1027 mb, +20°C, 9/10, Vis. good

20.00 BE 4949

NNW 2, Sea 2, 1027 mb, +18°C, 5/10, Vis. good

19.20 Incoming Radio Message 1836/21/190/273:

1.) Hoffmann, Dickson, Mumm on 22 September between 04.00 and 07.00 hours report weather.

24.00 BE 4968

N 1, Sea 1, 1028 mb, +19°C, 4/10, bright moon, Vis. good

22.09.42

04.00 BE 5758

NW 2, Sea 1, 1027 mb, +18°C, 4/10, bright moon, Vis. good

04.22 Outgoing Short Signal weather report:

46°N, 20°W steady, 1027 mb, +19°C, NW 2, 5/10, Cumulus, Vis. over 10 nm, low NW-Swell.

08.00 BE 5871

W 3, Sea 1, 1025 mb, +18°C, 2/10, Vis. good

12.00 BE 5885 Day's run: Surfaced 233 nm

W 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +19°C, 5/10, Vis. good

13.00 U-boat briefly in sight bearing 30°T, outbound.

16.00 BE 5973

W 4, Sea 3, 1023 mb, +22°C, 2/10, Vis. good

20.00 BE 6777

W 4, Sea 3, 1022 mb, +20°C, 9/10, Vis. good

22.30 In accordance with new Standing Order No x3 (Officer-Only) dived to proceed submerged.

24.00 BE 6797

Sun and Moon Data 21.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 22.09.42

- 51 -

23.09.42

04.00 BE 6798

08.00 BE 6799

10.38 N 4, Sea 3, 1014 mb, +21°C, 3/10, Vis. good Surfaced.

11.20 BE 6878 Crash dive for aircraft ("Consolidated"), course about 200°. No attack.

12.00 BE 6878 Day's run: Surfaced 147 nm, Submerged 21 nm

12.54 Surfaced to charge. Good visibility and favorable cloud formations preclude surprise.

16.00 BE 6898

N 4, Sea 3, 1013 mb, +21°C, 3/10, Vis. good, high Swell

20.00 BE 9323

N 4, Sea 3, 1011, +18°C, 5/10, Vis. good, high Swell

20.54 Dived to proceed submerged.

24.00 BE 7171

24.09.42

04.00 BF 7113

08.00 BF 7124

1054 NW 4, Sea 4, 1008 mb, 4/10, Vis. good, high Swell Surfaced.

11.36 BF 7123 Crash dive for aircraft (land-based, type not recognized), course about 250°. No attack.

12.00 BF 713x Day's run: Surfaced 113 nm, Submerged 39 nm

12.45 NW 4, Sea 4, 1008 mb, 3/10, Vis. good, high Swell Surfaced.

13.45 BF 7133 Crash dive for aircraft in approach. (flying boat, type not recognized), course 240°.

14.14 4 distant aircraft bombs.

16.06 NW 4, Sea 4, 1008 mb, 4/10, Vis. good, high Swell

17.56 Dived due to strongly increasing cloudiness (rain clouds). Afterwards proceeded submerged until the next day.

Sun and Moon Data 23.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 24.09.42

- 52 -

continued

24.09.42

20.00 BF 7235

24.00 BF 7236

25.09.42

04.00 BF 7314

08.00 BF 7313

08.25 3 distant depth charges.

12.00 BF 7316 Day's run: Surfaced 132 nm, Submerged 31 nm

15.18 NNW 4, Sea 3, 1012 mb, 2/10, Vis. good, high Swell

16.00 BF 7326

NNW 4. Sea 3, 1012, 3/10, Vis. good, short Swell

18.35 NW 4, Sea 3, 1012 mb, 5/10, rain showers, Vis. changing Dived to proceed submerged (due to cloudiness, rain showers)

20.00 BF 812x

24.00 BF 8125

26.09.42

04.00 BF 8126

08.00 BF 8154

12.00 BF 8153 Day's run: Surfaced 44 nm, Submerged 36 nm

14.36 Surfaced to charge.

16.00 BF 8213

NNW 8, Sea 7, 1012 mb, +15°C, 5/10, Vis. good

19.40 Outgoing Radio Message 1935/26/174:

From Mumm. Position 28 September 15.00 hours Nanni 1.

20.00 BF 5878

WNW 8, Sea 7, 1012 mb, +15°C, 7/10, Vis. good

20.30 Dived.

20.20 Incoming Radio Message 2005/26/77:

"U-594" from 7.U.-Flottille.

Escort will be at Nanni I on 28 September at 14.00 hours.

24.00 BF 5887

Sun and Moon Data 24.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 25.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 26.09.42

- 53 -

27.09.42

04.00 BF 5888

08.00 BF 5889

12.00 BF 5897 Day's run: Surfaced 69 nm, Submerged 33 nm

15.49 Surfaced.

16.00 BE 5898

NW 1, Sea 1, 1011 mb, +17°C, 7/10, Vis. good

17.20 Several smoke clouds bearing 90°T. Suspect mine searchers.

18.22 Dived.

20.00 BE 6779

20.28 Surfaced to take a celestial navigation fix.

20.48 Dived to proceed submerged.

22.00 Reached Point "Morgen"

One distant detonation. Probably a mine.



28.09.42

08.47 Surfaced to proceed on the surface.

12.00 S 2, Sea 1-2, 1012 mb, +16°C, 6/10, Vis. very good Day's run: Surfaced 105 nm, Submerged 50 nm

15.40 Convoy intake at "Nanni 1".

16.30 Made fast St. Nazaire lock.



In conclusion reported:

1.) The boat, which departed on patrol on 4 August 1942, was taken over by me on 26 July 1942.

At sea succeeded very quickly in getting to know the crew and taking them in hand.

2.) Due to the short time before departure it was not longer possible for me to get an in-depth knowledge and control over the material and check the technical readiness of the boat and the work carried out by the shipyard.

In its essential machinery the boat proved to be absolutely reliable.

Sun and Moon Data 27.09.42

Sun and Moon Data 28.09.42

- 54 -

I was very concerned about both compressors, apart from depth charge damage in the course of the patrol. Regarding the Junkers compressor, it is assumed that the overhaul was not been carried out appropriately. Observance of the basic overhaul schedule of the compressor seems absolutely necessary to me.

3.) The missed shots, above all the four-fan, are unexplained. To what extent damage from depth charges was possible (at times with open outer tube doors) can not be determined here. Subsequent minor adjustments gave no indication. There was nothing wrong with the fire control system.

4.) During the first convoy operation (Group "Blücher") had to break off due to the failure of both compressors, during the second (Group "Vorwärts") operation was limited by fuel shortage.

5.) Convoy experience: Apart from encounters with locating aircraft the advantage of the night attack over the day attack was lost due to surface locating and the employment of star shells on the part of the escort vessels. Even on dark and low visibility nights, where up to now safety of the boats was assured, allow surprise by destroyers.

The above experience was demonstrated most of all in the Freetown-England convoy of Group "Blücher" in the area of naval square CF. In general it seemed the protection of this convoy was much stronger than that of the England-America convoy of Group "Vorwärts".

	Enclosure to U-594's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document

Chart	Track chart covering entire war patrol

Radio	Excerpt of the Radio Log

Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote

on the Kriegstagebuch of "U-594" from 26.7. - 28.9.42.

1.) The first patrol of the Kommandanten with an experienced boat brought valuable convoy experience.

2.) During operation on the Feiler-convoy it would have been better to attack the in sight slow moving independents. The behavior of the Kommandanten in such cases must be determined by the magnitude of the loss of time, and the number of own boats in the vicinity of the convoy.

3.) During the day convoy attack on 10 September the destroyer probably saw the periscope.

4.) The four-fan miss on the large tanker on 11 September is unexplained. It would have been better to maintain the torpedoes after the depth charges.

For the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote

- the Chief of the Operations Department -

signed in draft Godt.

Click the icons to view the associated records

Return to the U-boat KTB page

- 1 -




	26.07.42	[St. Nazaire]	Change of command.

	30.07.42		Shipyard sea trial.

	01. - 03.08.42		Outfitting.

	04.08.42
	19.55		Made fast in the lock.
	20.15		Cast off from the lock. Departed in accordance with Outbound Orders with outer escort.
	22.42		Released Sperrbrecher.
	22.42 - 23.04		Test dive.
	24.00	NE 2, Sea 1, 8/10, 1022 mb, +18°C, cloudy, clear, Vis. good
	05.08.42
	04.00	NNE 2, Sea 1, 7/10, 1023 mb, +19°C, clear
	06.42		Released escort.
	06.47		Dived to proceed submerged.
	12.00	BF 6778	Day's run: Surfaced 116 nm, Submerged 15 nm
	13.34		Surfaced to charge. Afterwards proceeded on the surface, 2 x HF.
	16.00	BF 5889
		NW 1, Sea 0-1, 3/10, 1027 mb, +22°C, clear, Vis. very good
	20.00	BF 5797
		NW 1, Sea 0-1, blue sky, 1027 mb, +21°C, Vis. very good
	22.44		Test dive (crash dive for training).
			Deep dive to depth A +20 meters.
	24.00	BF 5745	Proceeded submerged.

	06.08.42
	04.00	BF 9966
	08.00	BF 4961
	08.31		Surfaced to charge. Proceeded on the surface.
	12.00	BF 4917	Day's run: Surfaced 182 nm, Submerged 33 nm
		W 1, Sea 1, blue shy, 1026 mb, +21.5°C, Vis. very good
	16.00	BF 4819
		WSW 1, Sea 0-1, 1/10, 1027 mb, +22°C, Vis. good
	17.41	BF 4739	Crash dive for aircraft in approach, course about 200°. 6 far off aircraft bombs. After 1/2 hour aircraft with the same course observed flying off in the periscope.
	20.00	BF 4738
	20.30		Surfaced to proceed on the surface.
	22.41		Crash dive for training, proceeded submerged.

	Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 05.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42

- 2 -



	continued
	06.08.42
	24.00	BF 4727

	07.08.42
	04.00	BF 4718
	08.00	BE 6939	Surfaced to charge. Believe that surface transit is correct under these weather conditions, to pass through the air endangered area as soon as possible.
		SSW 1-2, Sea 1-2, fog, 1024 mb, +22°C, Vis. very low
	12.00	BE 6927	Day's run: Surfaced 136 nm, Submerged 35 nm
		SW 1-2, Sea 1, 9/10, 1024 mb, +22°C, clear, strong visibility improvement
	13.35		After passing 13°W, most economical transit speed.
	16.00	BE 6835
		WSW 2, Sea 1-2, 5/10, 1023 mb, +21.5°C, clear Vis. medium
	20.00	BE 6813
		SW 3, Sea 2-3, 1020 mb, +21°C, 2/10, Vis. good
	22.07		Sent Short Signal (Passing Report):
			My position is naval square BE 68.
	22.46		Incoming Radio Message 2207/7/83:
			Confirmation of passing report.
	24.00	BE 6733
		SW 3, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +20°C, 8/10, dark

	08.08.42
	04.00	BE 6725
		SW 4, Sea 3-4, 1014 mb, +20°C, overcast, rain showers, dark
	06.49 - 08.30		Test dive.
	08.00	BE 6742
	10.07		Switched to "Ireland Circuit".
	12.00	BE 5969	Day's run: Surfaced 146 nm, Submerged 7 nm
		W 3-4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +20°C, 1/10, Vis. good
	16.00	BE 5983
		W 3, Sea 2-3, 1021 mb, +20°C, 5/10, Vis. good
	20.00	BE 5979
		W 3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, +20°C, 2/10, Vis. good
	24.00	BE 8233
		W 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, +20°C, 6/10, Vis. good

	09.08.42
	04.00	BE 8237
		W 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, +20.5°C, 3/10, Vis. good

	Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 07.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 08.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 09.08.42

- 3 -



	continued
	09.08.42
	07.15		Test dive (crash dive for training).
	08.00	BE 8251
	08.18		Surfaced.
	12.00	BE 8247	Day's run: Surfaced 132 nm, Submerged 4 nm
		WSW 4, Sea 2-3, 1023 mb, +21.5°C, 5/10, Vis. good
	16.00	BE 8186
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1021,5 mb, +21.5°C, 3/10, Vis. good
	20.00	BE 8412
		SW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	24.00	BE 7638
		W 4, Sea 3, 1022 mb, +21°C, 9/10, Vis. low

	10.08.42
	04.00	BE 7655
		W 4, Sea 3, 1023 mb, +21°C, 4/10, Vis. good
	07.x9 - 08.22		Test dive (crash dive for training).
	08.00	BE 7649
	10.40	BE 7671	Mastheads in sight bearing 200°T, bow left, slight target angle. The bridge comes out quickly, yet at this target angle the steamer is not clearly recognized. Unexpectedly, he gets target angle zero, however zigzags every 10 minutes about 30° to both sides of main course 30°. Despite own speed AK distance was decreasing.
		WNW 5, Sea 4, 1025 mb, +21°C, 8/10, Vis. medium, high Swell
	11.43		I dove about 6-7 nm ahead of him on his main course line. He approaches quickly, but it takes about an hour with large zigzags up to 90° and subsequently speed changes in my immediate vicinity. On the outside camouflage is not visible. It is a modern freighter of medium size with a free-standing stern cannon. With a heavy heart I decide to let him go because attack is forbidden on Route "Anton". At about 13.00 hours the steamer passes out of sight in 20°T with a broad target angle.
	14.01		Because contact keeping is not possible, after surfacing I continue transit into the ordered square.
	14.53		Outgoing Radio Message 1300/10/109:
			Naval square BE 7642 armed freighter, suspiciously changing course, possible trap. WNW 5, Sea 4, 1028 mb, Vis. 12 nm.
	12.00	BE 7642	Day's run: Surfaced 153 nm, Submerged 5 nm
	15.57		Incoming Radio Message 1540/10/110:
			Attack free on reported ship.
	16.00	BE 7563
		W 4, Sea 3, 1029 mb, 3/10, +21°C, Vis. good

- 4 -



	continued
	10.08.42
	20.00	BE 7573
		WNW 3, Sea 3, 1028 mb, 3/10, +20.5°C, Vis. good
	20.42		Incoming Radio Message 1955/10/113/295:
			1.) Ites, Lohmann, Mumm, report weather.
	24.00	BE 7499
		W 2-3, Sea 2, 1031 mb, +21°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. good

	11.08.42
	01.35		Outgoing Short Signal weather report:
			44°N, 24°W, rising, 1030 mb, +20°C, W 3, 3/10, Vis. over 10 nm, medium-high NW-Swell.
	04.00	BE 7726
		W 3, Sea 2-3, 1031 mb, +21°C, 3/10, medium Swell, Vis. good
	07.14 - 08.15		Test dive, drills.
	08.00	BE 77x9
	12.00	BD 9965	Day's run: Surfaced 161 nm, Submerged 8 nm
		WNW 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +21°C, 9/10, flat Swell, Vis. good
	13.25	BD 9967	Incoming Radio Message 1246/44/126:
			Mumm, Feiler, Remus, Reeder, Prätorius, Dieterichs new objective BD 79.
	16.00	BD 9958
		WNW 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +24°C, 7/10, flat Swell, Vis. good
	19.21	BD 9947	Incoming Radio Message 1821/11/48/129:
			To Mumm, Feiler, Remus, Prätorius, Dieterichs Serial No. 44/126 concerning objective is settled. New objective naval square CF 84.
	20.00	BD 9947
		WNW 1-2, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +24°C, 8/10, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 3235
		N 2, Sea 1, 1034 mb, +23°C, overcast, dark Vis. low

	12.08.42
	04.00	CE 3371
		ESE 1, Sea 1, 1033 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark Vis. low
	08.00	CE 3624
		ENE 1, Sea 0-1, 1032 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	08.x1 - 08.46		Test dive (crash dive for training).

	Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42

- 5 -



	continued
	12.08.42
	12.00	CB 3655	Day's run: Surfaced 165 nm, Submerged 2 nm
		NNE 3, Sea 2, 1033 mb, +24°C, 7/10, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3931
		NE 1-2, Sea 1, 1032 mb, 5/10, +25.5°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3991
		NE 3, Sea 2, 1032 mb, 6/10, +24.5°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 6336
		ENE 3, Sea 2, 1032 mb, 6/10, +24°C, dark, misty

	13.08.42
	04.00	CF 4249
		NE 3, Sea 2, 1031 mb, +23°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. good
	08.00	CF 4522
		E 2, Sea 1, 6/10, 1030 mb, +23°C, Vis. good
	08.15 - 08.55		Test dive.
	12.00	CF 4565	Day's run: Surfaced 176 nm, Submerged 2 nm
		ENE 1-2, Sea 1, 1030 mb, +23°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CF 4677
		NE 2, Sea 1-2, 1030 mb, +25°C, 9/10, Vis. good
	20.00	CF 4942
		NE 2, Sea 1, 1028.5 mb, +25.5°C, 1/10, Vis. good
	24.00	CF 4985
		ENE 3, Sea 2, 1028 mb, +23°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. medium

	14.08.42
	04.00	CF 7334
		ENE 3, Sea 2, 1028 mb, +24°C, 6/10, dark, Vis. medium
	08.00	CF 7369
		ENE 3, Sea 2, 1027 mb, +22°C, 5/10, Vis. medium

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

- 6 -



	continued
	14.08.42
	08.13 - 09.18		Test dive (crash dive for training).
			Drills.
	11.24	CF 8178	Radio Message 0958/14/93/149:
			1.) Mumm, Remus, Feiler, Reeder, Dieterichs, Edzards form Group "Blücher".
			2.) Intentions: Transit to the south in reconnaissance line to detect independent and convoy traffic.
			3.) Until arrival of last boats temporary attack areas: Mumm occupy naval square CE 93 and 96, Reums naval square 72 and 75, Feiler 73 and 76, Reeder 81 and 84, Dieterichs 82 and 85. All naval square CF.
	12.00	CF 8146	Day's run: Surfaced 155 nm, Submerged 3 nm
		NE 3, Sea 2, 3/10, 1027 mb, +26°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CF 7632
		NE 3, Sea 2, 4/10, 1027 mb, +26°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CF 7616
		N 3, Sea 2, 7/10, 1026 mb, +26°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CF 7532
		N 3, Sea 2, 5/10, 1026 mb, +23°C, dark, Vis. good

	15.08.42
	04.00	CF 7287
		WNW 2-3, Sea 1-2, 1027 mb, Vis. medium
	04.10	Lighthouse	"Santa Maria" Lighthouse in sight, afterwards search courses in ordered area in accordance with orders.
	08.00	CE 9296
		W 1-2, Sea 0, 1026 mb, +23°C, 9/10, Vis. good
	09.15 - 09.44		Test dive (crash dive for training).
	12.00	CE 9652	Day's run: Surfaced 180 nm, Submerged 2 nm
		NW 0-1, Sea 0, 1027 mb, +27°C, 7/10 Vis. good
	15.52	CE 9685	Steamer bearing 140°T.
		N 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 6/10, +27°C, Vis. good	Matched speed (course from Lisbon to arrival point Spanish Route, speed 12 knots) and maneuvered ahead.
			Dived. It is the Greek in Swiss service "MASTER ELIAS KULUHUNDIS" 5548 GRT, prescribed markings.
	19.37		Surfaced. Steamer sets Identification signal. Stopped by megaphone. Ships papers were

- 7 -



	continued
	15.08.42
			brought on board by the Captain.
			The steamer was on journey from Lisbon to Baltimore with 30 tons of piece goods in accord with the enclosed loading list, back grain for the Swiss.
			The captain assumed his ship was reported to German U-boats.
	20.38		Because all seemed in order (doubtful they are only machine parts for the firms "W. Bartholomew & Co, Inc."), he was released.
	20.00	CE 9835
		N 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 4/10, +27°C, Vis. clear
	24.00	CE 9912
		NNE 1, Sea 1, 1027 mb, +25°C, Vis. good

	16.08.42
	04.00	CE 9684
		NW 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 4/10, +24°C, Vis. medium
	08.00	CE 9642
		N 0-1, Sea 0, 1028 mb, +23°C, clear sky, light ground fog, Vis. low
	12.00	CE 9378	Day's run: Surfaced 185 nm, Submerged 5 nm
		W 1, Sea 0, 1029 mb, 8/10, +24C, Vis. clear
	16.00	CE 9397
		SE 1, Sea 0, 1030 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good
	17.34	CE 9636	Incoming Radio Message 1710/16/175:
			From Feiler:
			Several smoke clouds naval square CF 7357, was forced off to the NE, northerly course.
			I operated on the report from Feiler, initially however on the old speed setting, to save fuel while awaiting orders.
	18.45	CF 7511	Incoming Radio Message 18x2/16/176:
			Group "Blücher" go. Probably "Freetown-England" convoy.
			Went to GF.
	20.00	CF 7276
		SSE 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 2/10, +26°C, Vis. good
	20.10		Incoming Radio Message 1945/16/178:
			From Feiler: Convoy 7319, northerly course 9 knots.

- 8 -



	continued
	16.08.42
	22.40		"Cremer" joins Group "Blücher" in accordance with Radio Message 2148/16/35/180.
	23.13		Incoming Radio Message 2250/16/183:
			From Feiler, convoy 4987.
	24.00	CF 4896
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1028 mb, 9/10, +24°C, dark, Vis. poor, at times strong mist.

	17.08.42
	01.05	CF 4972	2 star shells directly ahead.
	01.15		Shadows bearing 340°T, very close. Immediately passed out of sight by briefly turning away. I angle in again and shortly thereafter distinguish 2 destroyers silhouettes ahead to starboard. I suspect the destroyers are behind the convoy and attempt to maneuver ahead while holding contact on them. Though it seems to me impossible to be seen by them, they unexpectedly assume target angle zero and follow in my wake for about 3/4 hours, despite own speed setting AK. During this time they repeatedly shoot poorly placed star shells and explosive ammunition, the impacts were not observed. I believe in this case surface locating is proven.
	04.00	CF 4916
		SSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1027 mb, 9/10, +24°C, very dark, individual rain showers, Vis. very bad
	04.07		Outgoing Radio Message 03x0/17/185:
			Two destroyers 4951. Star shells.
	04.11		Incoming Radio Message 0345/17/186:
			From Remus, request bearing signals.
	04.40		Incoming Radio Message 0337/17/187:
			From Feiler. Only still contact on remote escort 4927.
	04.47		Dived for sound bearings.
	05.58		Without results, surfaced.
	08.00	CF 4654
		SW 1, Sea 0, 1026 mb, 7/10, +24°C, Vis. good
	08.12	CF 4654	"U 566" in sight bearing 270°T. Passes out of sight on N-course.

- 9 -



	continued
	17.08.42
	10.x2		Incoming Radio Message 0940/17/190:
			From Feiler. No contact since 04.50 hours. Searching on N-Course. Square 4659.
			Initially I decide to search at high speed and sweeping legs to the west of the main course line because on the basis of his speed of advance I expect him to the south.
	11.05	CF 4616	Many smoke clouds in sight bearing 220°T, course about N. I am ahead to starboard. In this position I am able to maintain contact the entire day without difficulty, without being forced off.
	12.00	CF 4378	Day's run: Surfaced 317 nm, Submerged 3 nm
		WNW 1, Sea 0, 1026 mb, 4/10, +26°C, clear horizon, Vis. very good, flat Swell
	11.38		Outgoing Radio Message 1120/17/192:
			Convoy 4617.
	13.22		Outgoing Radio Message 1300/17/193:
			4611. Course N, 7-8 knots, high smoke clouds.
	13.40		Incoming Radio Message 1112/17/194:
			From Reeder. Smoke clouds and destroyer naval square CF 4617. Northeasterly course, was forced off.
	14.35		Incoming Radio Message 1350/17/195:
			From Dieterichs. Smoke clouds naval square CF 4376 inexact.
	15.35		Incoming Radio Message 1515/17/197:
			From Remus. 14 freighters, 6 destroyers, general course 20°, 8 knots, naval square 4357, remote escort.
	16.00	CF 4372
		SW 1, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 4/10, +26°C, Vis. conditions unchanging good
	16.29		Incoming Radio Message 1607/17/199:
			From Feiler. Correct position 4384, course 30°.
	17.43		Incoming Radio Message 1708/17/101:
			To Group "Blücher". Do not wait only on the night, also attack by day. Utilize every chance. Further north difficulties from aircraft must be expected.
			Because the Junkers-compressor has been completely out of service since 14 August, and the E-compressor only works at 20% power, i.e. practically only the loss-rate of leaking air, I decide to attack at night, to avoid diving if at all possible.

- 10 -



	continued
	17.08.42
			Passed on a corresponding message under the assumption that at least one compressor will be in operation again.
	17.58	CF 4346	High water column bearing 120°T (water column of a hit steamer) observed and for about an hour afterwards depth charge detonations were heard.
	19.50		Outgoing Radio Message 1930/17/103:
			- 4359 -
			I am not sure of the course at the moment, apparently he steers to the NE.
	20.00	CF 4352
		WSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 6/10, Vis. good
	22.20		Incoming Radio Message 2200/17/108:
			From Feiler. Contact on screen square 5x41.
	22.43		Outgoing Radio Message 2230/17/109:
			Naval square 4363, NE-course.
	23.14	WSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1022 mb, 5/10, +28°C, dark Vis. good	Incoming Radio Message 2300/17/110:
		WSW 1-2, Sea 1, 1022 mb, 5/10, +28°C, dark Vis. good	From Remus. Was shot at by 2 destroyers with artillery. Naval square CF 1999.
			After sunset I close, without losing contact, carefully reducing the distance to the gathering convoy. About 15 widely separated steamer silhouettes are clearly distinguished in the twilight. Because no destroyers are recognized, I decide to attack immediately after darkness despite the moon. I initiate attack on 4 steamers set off ahead. About 3000 meters from then a port forward screening destroyer with a broad target angle was recognized. While I am attempting to get more clear of him by turning away slightly he suddenly comes closer quickly at target angle 0° smoking heavily. By taking him astern I am illuminated at a disadvantage, so that without star shells already in a short time he begins well-placed effective fire from a forward cannon. Since escape on the surface is not possible, I dive with course change towards the convoy.
	23.50	CF 4333	The first depth charge series lies far off. I go to depth A +60 meters. The destroyer stops and throws after perfect Asdic sounds the second, very close by depth charge series, from the first two the following damage resulted: battery automatic switch failed, lighting, gyro compass, air search periscope.

- 11 -



	continued
	17.08.42
			Additionally it was later determined that both over deck canisters were flooded and the aft one is dented.
			In the course of about 1 1/2 hours depth charge pursuit there were five more series thrown (a total of 23 depth charges), well placed on the basis of proper locating data, however obviously too shallow to cause great damage. Diving depth A +90 meters, Sea State and water conditions appeared very favorable for the locating. While turning away hard during the run in of the destroyers appeared to be of little use, the enemy's locating was obviously badly disturbed by the wake.
	24.00	CF 4335

	18.08.42
	01.20		Nothing more heard of the enemy.
	03.30		When attempting to surface, the starboard exhaust gas valve can no longer be opened. The standard revisiting great depth is also unsuccessful. Only an unexplained loud bang occurred, which however may also be related to the denting and flooding of the aft over deck canister.
	04.00	CF 4333
	04.37	W 2, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 9/10, +22°C, dark, Vis. medium	Surfaced with one operable diesel. I operated on the convoy again with one diesel 2 x HF. About 07.00 hours the starboard exhaust gas valve opened normally without explanation. Due to the still low air supply of 140 kilos the negative buoyancy tanks were pumped and and for negative buoyancy 2 tons was taken into the regulating tanks. In addition, all air consumption is stopped except for the diesel clutches in case of a crash dive.
	08.00	CF 2742
		W 2, Sea 2, 1018 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	08.12		Incoming Short Signal:
			Enemy position CF 2844. Reeder.
	08.28		Incoming Short Signal:
			Enemy steers to the north. Reeder.
	09.42		Incoming Radio Message 0915/18/123:
			From B.d.U.: "U-214" reports course change of the enemy to 45°.

- 12 -



	continued
	18.08.42
	09.58		Incoming Short Signal:
			Enemy position CF 2587. Reeder.
	1129		Incoming Short Signal:
			Enemy position CF 2584. Reeder.
	11.50		Incoming Radio Message: 1135/18/128:
			From Remus. Convoy 2391, course 20°, 8 knots.
	12.00	CF 2499	Day's run: Surfaced 164 nm, Submerged 10 nm
		SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 6/10, +25°C, sunny, misty, Vis. medium
	12.30		Incoming Radio Message 1250/18/131:
			From Reeder. Convoy 2582, course 40°, speed 8 knots, Vis. 8 nm, exact navigation.
	13.26	CF 2573	Smoke cloud bearing 130°T. There are still 2 U-boats in sight.
	13.24		Incoming Radio Message 1233/18/132:
			From Remus. Convoy 2564, course 10°, 8 knots.
	14.10	CF 2549	Destroyer bearing 160°T, appeared suddenly on the misty horizon. I run off in 345°T together with Remus, who is in my immediate vicinity. After an hour long hunt at AK without coming closer the destroyer shoots explosive shells whose yellow impacts lie in the vicinity of "Remus". I want to avoid diving again at all costs because of my air and run off further. The destroyer heads for the diving location for "Remus" and is slowly smaller.
	16.08	CF 2519	Destroyer out of sight.
	14.37		Incoming Radio Message 1416/18/62/130/232 from B.d.U.:
			Subject: Diving before destroyers by day and night.
	15.07		Incoming Radio Message 1415/18/34:
			From Remus: Was forced off by destroyer.
	15.12		Outgoing Radio Message 1430/18/135:
			Convoy 2564. During night attack artillery fire and depth charge pursuit. Serious failures corrected except for air search periscope and Junkers compressor.
	15.19		Incoming Radio Message (Short Signal):
			Enemy located CF 2529. Reeder.
	16.00	CF 2519
		WSW 2-3, Sea 2, 1016 mb, 7/10, +25°C, Vis. medium, horizon indistinct, flat Swell

- 13 -



	continued
	18.08.42
	16.50		Incoming Short Signal:
			New position of the enemy is CF 2583.
	17.21		Incoming Short Signal:
			Enemy steers to the east.
	14.34		Incoming Short Signal:
			New position of the enemy is 2593
			Came to southeasterly course, because according to the latest reports on the enemy I am to the north.
	18.34		Incoming Radio Message 1754/18/139:
			From Reeder. Convoy course east.
	18.47	CF 2526	Mastheads ahead bearing 140°.
			In the assumption that it is destroyers initially I turn away and come to the old course until they pass out of sight.
	19.42	CF 2563	Independent steamer bearing 130°T with southwesterly course. I believe it is with the convoy and hold contact on it. However, its significance is not clear to me. It runs very slowly and has strikingly high widely separated masts.
	20.30		Shortly thereafter smoke clouds sighted bearing 100°T, that I take as the convoy.
	20.51		Outgoing Radio Message 2030/18/142:
			Smoke clouds 2648.
			I let the independent go and held for the smoke clouds. After 1/4 hour several masts and smokestacks are recognized, which a destroyer suddenly coming in sight heads for Obviously the convoy assembles at the beginning of twilight.
	22.43		Outgoing Radio Message 2220/18/145:
			2643 a destroyer and several steamers, course 40°.
			At the same time one U-boat in sight, which was Dieterichs, as is evident from the radio message. His dive was observed by me however the concerned aircraft was not sighted.
	00.22		Incoming Radio Message 2335/18/150:
			From Dieterichs. Forced to submerged by aircraft and destroyer, 21.22 hours naval square 2654. Smoke clouds sighted.
			After turning away briefly for the destroyer I close up again at high speed. My intention, based on the failure of both compressors (air inventory 140 kilos),

- 14 -



	continued
	18.08.42
			while avoiding diving if possible, is to shoot 5 targeted shots, as far as the visibility allows.
	23.30		Incoming Radio Message 2313/18/147:
			To Mumm. Immediately report exact enemy position.
	24.00	CF 2621
		WSW 5, Sea 2, 1016 mb, 8/10, +24°C, Vis. changing, rain shower

	19.08.42
	00.30		Outgoing Radio Message 2345/18/151:
			Naval square CF 2624, approximate course 30°. Changing visibility, rain showers, both compressors out of service, so far not fixable.
			Unfortunately,visibility deteriorates after the onset of the darkness due to rain showers so that contact is broken. By energetic closing about 01.00 hours I get a destroyer silhouette in sight briefly at close range. I believe that this destroyer is the port forward escort and attempt to gain contact on the convoy by angling in strongly.
			At times the visibility is less than 1 nm.
	02.05	CF 2397	A new faint shadow abeam to starboard. Shortly thereafter a second destroyer silhouette astern to port. I attempt to get clear of both ahead at KF, due to the low visibility it is out of the question that I was seen, yet both turn towards me and begin to shoot well-placed star shells, followed by individual live rounds. Despite my attempt to get out of star shell and firing range with highest speed and zigzags the already small distance slowly decreases, while both destroyers share in the star shell and live round shooting. I am convinced that both the detection of the U-boat and the accurate star shell shooting were only possible by the destroyers by means of surface locating [radar].
			When I realize that escape on the surface is impossible and the well-placed shells seriously endanger the boat, I order "Crash dive"!

- 15 -



	continued
	19.08.42
	02.33		On the basis of yesterday's experience I go to immediately to depth A +00 meters where it is possible to pump the additional 2 tons of negative buoyancy with the pump without difficulty. During the approximately 1 hour listening pursuit with strong Asdic and Echolot impulses, in which one destroyer is mostly stopped and the others overrun the boat, no depth charges were thrown. Therefore I do not attempt to out maneuver, ran off at LF on westerly course.
	03.15		No further sound bearings.
			Because the G.H.G. is only limitedly operations and only at relatively low ranges, I continue to run off submerged at depth A +60 meters.
	08.00	CF 2384
	09.15	CF 2376	Surfaced.
		WNW 2, Sea 1-2, 6/10, +20°C, 1021 mb, Vis. medium	On the horizon an aircraft is distinguished, type not recognized, on easterly course. I continue to the west at 2 x HF. Both compressors are out of service. Air inventory 100 Kilos.
	12.00	CF 2581 [typo CF 2381]
		WNW 2, Sea 1-2, 1022 mb, 5/10, +20°C, Vis. good, medium Swell
	12.29		Outgoing Radio Message 1130/19/161:
			02.30 hours in bad visibility detected by destroyers, forced to submerged by star shells and artillery, listening pursuit, no depth charges. Set off to repair the E-compressor, Junkers compressor out of service. 09.30 hours aircraft 2395.
	16.00	CF 2197
		WNW 2, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 9/10, +22°C, medium Swell, Vis. good
	18.05	CF 2188	Smoke clouds in sight bearing 0°T.
	18.49		Outgoing Radio Message 1809/19/170:
		[probably typo CF 2188]	Naval square CF 2158 several smoke clouds in sight.
			By the number of smoke clouds it is without doubt a convoy, course NE. I suspect a division of the old convoy, however, it is also possible it may be the trap convoy, reported in BE. The high, especially heavy smoke clouds, which can be seen at a distance of at least 40 nm are particularly striking.
	19.30	CF 2184	Destroyer in sight, which runs behind me about half an hour and then passes out of sight after turning away.

- 16 -



	continued
	19.08.42
	20.00	CF 2176
		NW 2, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 4/10, +21°C, Vis. very good, long Swell
	20.58		Outgoing Radio Message 1950/19/175:
			Convoy naval square CF 2156, course NE, 8 knots, was forced off by destroyer.
			With the improving weather conditions it will not be difficult to get contact again.
	20.40	CF 2184	Destroyer comes over the horizon again. When I take him astern, to move off to his south, he approaches at target angle 0° and follows me about 2 hours until the beginning of darkness without significantly reducing the distance. On several occasions he shoots with artillery too short and inexact and apparently attempts to draw us off to the SW.
			During the entire time the smoke clouds remain in sight, which suggests a strong course change to SE to S. With darkness about 23.00 hours it is no longer in sight.
	21.48		Incoming Radio Message 2123/19/176:
			To Mumm. Check position, suspect CF 31.
	22.57		Outgoing Radio Message 2215/19/180:
			New convoy naval square CF 2244 out of sight. Course E. Was persistently forced off again by artillery fire. Limitedly clear to dive, because only 100 Kilos air. E-compressor also out of service.
	24.00	CF 2249	Went to diesel-electric drive, course SW. Because up to now no further instructions follow, I move off further.
		W 1, Sea 1, 1025 mb, +21°C, Vis. good, flat Swell

	20.08.42
	00.51		Incoming Radio Message 2330/19/181:
			To Mumm. Move off to the west. Report if E-compressor will be operable again, or what spare parts are required.
	03.34		Incoming Radio Message 0126/20/183:
			Group "Blücher". Whoever cannot close by lightness break off operation and head for naval square CF 84. When breaking off report position, fuel, torpedoes and operational readiness. "Edzards" return transit, for Mumm orders follow.
	04.00	CF 1694
		SW 1, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 2/10, 2/10, +21°C, Vis. good, flat Swell

- 17 -



	continued
	21.08.42
	08.00	CF 1913
		W 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +20°C, Vis. good
	10.18		Incoming Radio Message 0951/20/189:
			To Group "Blücher" break off operation. Dieterichs, Mumm, Feiler immediately give ordered report concerning position, fuel, torpedoes and operational readiness.
	11.53		Outgoing Radio Message 1105/19/192:
			From Mumm:
			1.) Naval square CF 1839, 73 cbm, 12 + 2 torpedoes.
			2.) Failures: air search periscope, listening gear limitedly operable, E-compressor cannot be repaired with on board means. Necessary spare parts: cylinder for stage 3, bushing for 1, working piston for 1 and 3. Repairs to Junkers compressor still not completed after installation of all spare valves. Report follows.
	12.00	CF 1838	Day's run: Surfaced 114 nm
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +24°C, Vis. good
	14.24		Incoming Radio Message 1345/20/195:
			To Mumm. Bülow departs 22 August with spare parts for E-compressor. If spare parts are necessary for Junkers compressor, report immediately. Afterwards set off to naval square CE 30.
	15.00		After day-long repairs succeed in getting the Junkers compressor in operation again and fill the air inventory.
	16.00	CF 1827
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +26°C, Vis. good
	18.12 - 18.50		Test dive.
	19.39		Incoming Radio Message 1818/20/199:
			1.) To Group "Blücher" dissolved.
			2.) "Remus" fuel supply from Mumm in naval square CE 1825 from 22 August 12.00 hours, without bearing signals. "Remus" after setting off about 200 nm report fuel by Short Signal.
			3.) Dieterichs . . .
			After successfully filling the air inventory with the Junkers compressor, running perfectly for several hours, I decide to report myself as operational.
	20.00	CE 3936
		SSW 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 5/10m +24°C, Vis. good
	20.41		Outgoing Radio Message 1932/20/200:
			From Mumm.

- 18 -



	continued
	20.08.42
			Junkers compressor operable again for the first time since 18 August. Air filled. Spare parts required: One set of spare parts, copper gaskets and piston rings stage 3, pressure control valves, bushing stage 2 with lubrication nozzle. Naval square CF 1811. SW 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 5/10, Vis. good.
	24.00	CE 3923
		SW 3, Sea 2, 6/10, 1023 mb, 1024 mb, bright moon, Vis. good

	21.08.42
	03.55		To Feiler Remus, Dieterichs, Mumm.
			2) Fuel giving for Mumm canceled. Further operations after spare parts handover from "Bülow".
	04.00	CE 3918
		WSW 2-3, Sea 1-3, 1026 mb, +23°C, dark, Vis. good
	08.00	CE 3862
		SW 4, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 3/10, +25°C, Vis. good
	12.00	CE 3857	Day's run: Surfaced 144 nm, Submerged 2 nm
		SW 3, Sea 2, 1026 mb, 3/10, +25°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3842
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1026 mb, 3/10, +27°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3733
		SW 2, Sea 2, 1025 mb, 3/10, +27°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 3467
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 3/10, +25°C, bright moon, Vis. very good
			Shortly after reporting operational the Junkers compressor fails again. Further repair attempts then lead to the apparently final break, which is reported by radio message.

- 19 -




	22.08.42
	01.32		Outgoing Radio Message 0115/22/129:
			From Mumm. Junkers compressor out of service again. Bushing and piston with studs stage 3 cracked, piston rod stage 3 bent, drive work still not checked. Corresponding spare parts also necessary, repairs questionable. Naval square CE 3467. High pressure weather.
	03.10		Outgoing Radio Message 0255/22/120:
			Encoding for Radio Message 0115/22/129 must mean: Otto Xant Paula Fritz.
	04.00	CE 3469
		SSW 2, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 3/10, +23°C, bright moon, Vis. very good
	08.00	CE 3582
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, +24°C, Vis. good
	12.00	CE 3596	Day's run: Surfaced 150 nm
		SW 2-3m Sea 1-2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +27°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3679
		SW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3936
		SW 2, Sea 1-2, 1024 mb, 4/10, +27°C, a bit misty
	20.20	CE 3936	Independent steamer in sight bearing 260°, course about 90°. Maneuvered ahead and dive before the beginning of darkness. It is properly marked Portuguese "MIRANDELLA", on course for Lisbon. Stopping not thought necessary.
	22.54		Surfaced. The steamer has lights and searchlight set.
	24.00	CF 1814	Afterwards continued on northwest and southeast courses in area CE 30. Due to air inventory must forgo a test dive.
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 3/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good

	23.08.42
	04.00	CE 3697
		W 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 6/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good
	08.00	CE 3649
		SW 3, Sea 2, 9/10, 1022 mb, +24°C, dark, Vis. good

- 20 -



	continued
	23.08.42
	12.00	CE 3563	Day's run: Surfaced 135 nm, Submerged 5 nm
		WSW 3, Sea 2, 1022 mb, 3/10, +26°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3526
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1021 mb, +26°C, clear sky, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3279
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1019 mb, 1/10, +25°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 3192
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1020 mb, 6/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. very good
	24.08.42
	04.00	CE 3155
		SW 3, Sea 2-3, 1019 mb, +23°C, clear sky, bright moon, Vis. good
	08.00	CE 3142
		WSW 2, Sea 1, 1018 mb, 1/10, +24°C, light Swell, Vis. good
	12.00	CE 3158	Day's run: Surfaced 155 nm
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3198
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 4/10, +29°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3543
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, 6/10, +26°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 3583
		SW 2, Sea 1, 1019 mb, +26°C, overcast, dark, Vis. good
	25.08.42
	04.00	CE 3833
		NW 0-1, Sea 0-1, 1020 mb, 8/10, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. good
	08.00	CE 3919
		N 1, Sea 1, 8/10, 1019 mb, +24°C, bright moon, Vis. good

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

- 21 -



	continued
	25.08.42
	12.00	CE 3958	Day's run: Surfaced 158 nm
		NNW 2-3, S 2, 1015 mb, 1/10 +26°C, Vis. good
	16.00	CE 3994
		N 3, Sea 2, 5/10, 1015 mb, +26°C, Vis. good
	20.00	CE 3994
		NNE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, 1022 mb, +22°C, Vis. good
	24.00	CE 3994
		NNE 4, Sea 3, 5/10, 1022 mb, +22°C, Vis. good
	26.08.42
	04.00	CE 3958
		N 5, Sea 3, 7/10, 1023 mb, +22°C, bright moon
	08.00	CE 3918
		N 4, Sea 3, 1022 mb, 4/10, +21°C, bright moon, Vis. good
	12.00	CE 3598	Day's run: Surfaced 156 nm
		N 4, Sea 3, 1024 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	13.01		Incoming Radio Message 1218/26/107:
			Mumm and Wolfbauer report position immediately. Wolfbauer stop.
	14.27		Outgoing Short Signal:
			My position is naval square CE 3594
	16.00	CE 3558
		N 4, Sea 3, 1025 mb, 7/10, +24°C, Vis. medium
	19.42		Incoming Radio Message 1746/26/117:
			Meeting point for Wolfbauer and Mumm on 27 August at lightness in naval square CE 3363. Bearing signals from Wolfbauer if meeting does not take place by 17.00 hours. Wolfbauer be ready to give from the Junkers compressor: bushing and piston with stud stage 3, piston rod stage 3. After completion Wolfbauer continue return transit. Orders for Mumm follow.
	20.00	CE 3516
		W 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +23°C, overcast, Vis. medium

- 22 -



	continued
	26.08.42
	20.10 - 20.34		Test dive.
	24.00	CE 3551
		N 3, Sea 2, 1025 mb, +23°C, overcast, dark, misty
	27.08.42
	04.00	CE 3375
		N 1, Sea 1, 1024 mb, 9/10, +22°C, bright moon, Vis. good
	07.32		"U-463" in sight bearing 300°T.
	08.00	CE 3365
		N 2, Sea 1, 1023 mb, 7/10, +22°C, moonlit, Vis. good
	09.25 - 13.30		Completed transfer of requested Junkers compressor parts plus 10 cbm fuel oil, Wolfbauer's remaining inventory. 4 minor patients treated by the Doctor.
	12.00	CE 3362
		N 2, Sea 1, 1025 mb, 4/10, +24°C, Vis. good
	13.58		Incoming Radio Message 1158/27/37/146:
			2.) Mumm after taking over spare parts head for naval square BE 71, Bülow same square.
	14.45		Incoming Radio Message 1357/27/149:
			From Wolfbauer:
			1.) To Mumm Junkers gave compressor parts and 10 cbm. Mumm inventory 69 cbm.
	16.00	CE 3362
		N 3-4, Sea 2-3, 1024 mb, +23°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	17.13		Outgoing Radio Message 1628/27/155:
			From Mumm. E-compressor in service again. Spare parts no longer required from Bülow.
	18.43		Incoming Radio Message 1757/27/38/163:
			1.) Bülow, Mumm, Deecke, Hellrigel, Struckmeier head for AL 74.
			2.) Spare parts task for Bülow settled.
	20.00	BE 777
		N 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, 7/10, +23°C, Vis. medium
	24.00	BE 7741
		N 3, Sea 1, 1024 mb, +22°C, overcast, Vis. medium

- 23 -




	28.08.42
	04.00	BE 7477
		NNW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low
	08.00	BE 7441
		NNW 3, Sea 2, 1024 mb, +21°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low
	12.00	BD 9396	Day's run: Surfaced 142 nm
		NNW 3, Sea 2, 1023 mb, 9/10, +21°C, Vis. medium
	16.00	BD 9339
		W 2, Sea 2, 1021 mb, 7/10, +25°C, Vis. medium
	16.23 - 16.56		Test dive.
	20.00	BD 6996
		SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, 8/10, +23°C, Vis. medium
	24.00	BD 6939
		NW 5, Sea 3, 1016 mb, +20°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	29.08.42
	04.00	BD 6696
		NW 5, Sea 4, 1016 mb, +17°C, 9/10, dark, Vis. low
	08.00	BD 6662
		NW 7, Sea 6, 1015 mb, +17°C, overcast, rain showers, Vis. low
	09.00		Matr.Gefr. Looser had an accident on the bridge from an especially heavy over coming breaker, suspect lower leg fracture.
	09.15		Dived for treatment and bedding of the patient.
	12.00	BD 6638	Day's run: Surfaced 129 nm, Submerged 11 nm
	15.23		Surfaced.
	16.00	BD 6398
		NNW 7, Sea 5, 8/10, 1012 mb, +17°C, Vis. medium, rain showers

- 24 -



	continued
	29.08.42
	16.56		Incoming Radio Message 1124/29/64/111:
			Struckmeier, Mumm, Röther, Bülow, Deecke, Hellriegel at economical transit speed occupy patrol line from naval square AL 7128 to 7851, depth 15 nm. Boats form Group "Stein".
	19.29		Due to failure of reduction in pain and unclear examination findings
			Outgoing Radio Message 1835/29/114:
			From Mumm.
			1.) Matr.Gefr. Looser lower leg break above the ankle, strong swelling and pain. Question possibility of disembarking.
			2.) Naval square BD 6395, 63 cbm, N 7, Sea 6, 1013 mb, Vis. changing, rain showers.
	20.00	BD 6392
		N 5, Sea 5, 1013 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	24.00	BD 6338
		NE 5, Sea 4, 1016 mb, +17°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. low
	30.08.42
	00.32		Incoming Radio Message 2311/29/121:
			Schütze and Mumm patient transfer on 30 August 10.00 hours in naval square BD 3986. Schütze from 12.00 hours bearing signals, if meeting has not taken place.
	04.00	BD 3998
		NNE 3-4, Sea 3, 1017 mb, +17°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low
	08.00	BD 3968
		N 1, Sea 2, 1017 mb, +14°C, 7/10, dark, Vis. medium
	12.00	BD 3937	Day's run: Surfaced 130 nm, Submerged 10 nm
		NE 2, Sea 2, 1016 mb, +16°C, 9/10, Vis. good
			Despite outstanding visibility meeting succeeds only by bearing signals (See Radio Log) due to previous bad weather conditions and missing navigation fix. New navigation fix gives a difference between dead reckoning and actual position of 31 nm in 7°T.
	15.15	BD 3986	Meeting with "U-604" for ordered patient transfer. Afterwards briefly took over remaining provisions from "U-604" mostly canned bread.
	16.00	BD 3986
		NNE 1-2, Sea 1, 1014 mb, +18°C, 6/10, Vis. medium

- 25 -



	continued
	30.08.42
	20.00	BD 3953
		SSW 2, Sea 2, 1011 mb, +17°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	24.00	BD 3686
		W 2, Sea 1, 1009 mb, +17°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low
	31.08.42
	04.00	BD 3653
		WNW 5, Sea 4, 1008 mb, +15°C, dark, Vis. low
	08.00	BD 3389
		NW 5, Sea 4, 1008 mb, +15°C, 9/10, Vis. medium
	12.00	BD 3356	Day's run: Surfaced 140 nm
		W 5, Sea 4, 1009 mb, +12°C, 5/10, Vis. medium
	16.00	AL 7723
		W 6, Sea 5, 1010 mb, +13°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	20.00	AL 7759
		W 6, Sea 5, 1010 mb, +13°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	24.00	AL 7726
		W 5, Sea 4, 1011 mb, +12°C, overcast, dark, Vis. low
	01.09.42
	04.00	AL 7483
		NW 5, Sea 4, 1009 mb, +12°C, 8/10, dark, Vis. low
	08.00	AL 7429
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1006 mb, +14°C, overcast, Vis. medium
	12.00	AL 7194	Day's run: Surfaced 146 nm
		WSW 4, Sea 4, 1003 mb, +14°C, overcast, Vis. medium	Reached position in patrol line.
	16.00	AL 7242
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1003 mb, +14°C, 8/10, Vis. changing, rain showers
	17.27 - 18.01		Test dive.
	20.00	AL 7168
		WSW 4, Sea 3, 1002 mb, +14°C, 9/10, Vis. changing, rain showers