U-73 - 8th War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with the help of Andi Forster

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
La Spezia	4 August 1942	La Spezia	5 September 1942	33

 

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
11 Aug 42	02.17	19°41'N, 74°13'W	HMS Eagle (94)	22,600	British	WS-21S
			Total = 22,600
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.

---

				Kriegstagebuch of Unterseebootes  "U  73"
				Kommandant:  Kaptlt.  R  o  s  e  n  b  a  u  m.
				8th War Patrol.
				Beginning:  27 March 1942
				Ending:        5 September 1942
				Sea days:  from  4.8.42
				to      5.9.42
				© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved

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

	- 1 -
		27.03.42	La Spezia	Cleared the boat.  Took stock of the damage.
		to	U-boat Base	Decision:  recover full operational capability through major pressure hull repairs.
		31.03.42
				Duration: 4 months.
		01.04.42	La Spezia	In dry dock.
		to	Arsenal	Replaced torpedo tubes I - IV, new torpedo hatch forward and forward pressure hull, conning tower for strengthened anti-aircraft armament, batteries replaced, Vacha-cable for antenna ducts.  Normal overhaul work.
		17.07.42
				Officers ordered away except for Second Watch Officer.
				Kommandant temporarily at the disposal of II.A.d.U.-Boote.
				Crew reduced to 30 men.
				Leave, training on land.
		18.07.42	La Spezia	Undocked.  Further work, in so doing determined difficulty completion on schedule.  Multiple date shifts.  Despite rushed sloopy work everywhere.
		to	Arsenal
		31.07.42
				Reorganization of the crew.  Testing, positive results except for acceptable normal issues.
		01.08.42	La Spezia	Outfitting, final adjustments, individual training.
		to	U-boat Base	Shooting of the 13.2 mm Italian double mounts in pressure-proof canisters successful.
		04.08.42
		04.08.42	La Spezia
		11.00		Departed with shipyard personnel for deep dive test and 8th war patrol.
				In effect:  Operations Order No. 6 for the Mediterranean and Enclosure IV to Operations Order No. 6.
				Crew replacement:
				Ordered away:  First Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, 1 Midshipman, 7 men
				Ordered in:  First Watch Officer, Chief Engineer (without confirmation cruise), 2 Midshipman, 2 Petty Officers, 7 men, 1 PK.
		13.04	Off La Spezia	Deep dive test.
			Zone " A "	Results:  Starboard exhaust gas valve leaks heavily as before, radio direction finder leaks internally therefore no reception, speed measurement completely out of service, main drain pump packing forced out and leaking, loud contraction bangs in attack periscope bushing from depth A -10 meters, port diesel clutch slips.  A variety of other minor work such as lack of bunk holders, hanging hooks etc. reinforce the feeling

Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42

	- 2 -
		continued
		04.08.42	Off La Spezia	that now technically and in terms of the shipyard - as well as in terms of the crew - things are quite unfinished and not very fit to go to sea.  But I finally want to get out!
		13.04
		14.50		Surfaced.  Began repair of the shipyard damage by our own people.  Due to the Sea State return transit under land.
		16.45		Disembarked the shipyard personnel.
		17.10	SW 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, Vis. 8 nm	Passed Tino.  On prescribed outbound route to point:
				= 43° 16'N
				= 08° 20'E
		19.05		1st crash dive for training:  exhaust gas valve port diesel remained open.  Operational error.
		19.30		Announced the destination.  Submerged training.
		20.00	CJ 1621
			SW 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		21.07		Surfaced.  From 22.00 hours transit speed 14.5 knots.
		24.00	CJ 1564	Sick call:  4 fever paitents between 38.6° and 40°C; light shivering.  Kommandant ans several people stomack and/or intestinal catarrh with cramps and abdominal pain.  Still from the last base [remaining few words obscured by tape]
		05.08.42	Gulf of Genoa
		01.10		New course 215° to ordered objective square CH 9155.
		04.00	CJ 1763
			SW 4-5, Sea 4, 4/10, 1018 mb, Vis. dark 3 nm
		from 04.30		No further reception on short wave the entire day only very low frequency reception.  Interference from nearby Corsica?
		07.11	West of Corsica	Crash dive for training.  Urgently needed submerged training for the Chief Engineer and men.
		08.00	CJ 1786
			WbyS 4, Sea 3, 4/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 10 nm
		11.33		Surfaced. Proceeded on the surface at 12 knots.
		12.00	CJ 4122	Day's run:  Surfaced      163 nm
			W 4-5, Sea 4, 5/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm	Submerged  17.5 nm   = 180.5 nm
		15.26		Two late arriving Radio Message from F.d.U. 0919 and 1109 of 5 August gives information that except for 1 Cairo cruiser now also "EAGLE".

	Sun and Moon Data 04.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 05.08.42

	- 3 -
		continued
		05.08.42	West of Sardinia
		15.26		"CHARYDBIS" and 4 destroyers departed Gibraltar today at 03.00 hours.
		16.00	CJ 4171	New transit speed 14.5 knots, then 16 knots.
			NW 4-5, 7/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm	Intention:  In any case seize every opportunity that arises.
		20.00	CH 6333	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix = 22 nm in 61°T; way too much off, new helmsman.
		21.15 - 21.50		Crash dive for training.  Thereafter continued at 16 knots.
		24.00	CH 6387
		06.08.42	Western Mediterranean, southeast of the Balearic Islands
		02.41		Incoming Radio Message from F.d.U.:
				1.)  According to V.-Mann [intelligence agent] carrier formation has departed to the west.
				2.)  Position for Rosenbaum center third CH 91.
				Will maintain transit speed for now.
		04.00	CH 6595
			NNW 3, Sea 3, 4/10, 1021 mb, Vis. dark 5000 meters
		06.57	CH 6827	Keyword "Flieger" - all anti-aircraft weapons ready - 2-engined aircraft from 85°T at 2000 meters approaching out of the morning haze.  Turns away without Recognition Signal exchange.  Made out as Breda Ba 88, course 250°.
				This example shows that with haze and low sun remaining unseen on the surface is not assured.
		07.02		Therefore crash dive for training.  At depth 40 meters and periscope depth, depth control training and fire control training.
		08.00	CH 6854
			NbyW 3, 8/10, 1021 mb, Vis. 6-10
		10.58		Surfaced for Program time.
		11.01	CH 6849	Unseen crash dive for 2-engined combat aircraft, 6000 meters away, easterly course.
				Possibly the same Italian reconnaissance aircraft as in the morning, which carried out a 400 kilometer/hour journey to the level of Alboran and now flies back to Sardinia.
		11.15		Due to the flooding of the inner radio direction finder even at depth 13 meters, no very low frequency reception.  Failed the entire patrol, complete short.
		12.00	CH 6872	Day's run:  Surfaced      238 nm
			NNW 2, Sea 2, Sea 2, Swell 3, 6/10, 1021 mb, haze, Vis. 6-8 nm	Submerged    18 nm   = 256 nm  Total:  436.5 nm
		13.52		Surfaced.  Visibility is better.  Continued at 10 knots on the surface, to get an impression of aerial reconnaissance.
		14.35	CH 6877

	Sun and Moon Data 05.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42

	- 4 -
		continued
		06.08.42
		14.35	CH 6877	Masts bearing 125°T.  Tanker about 4000-5000 GRT, 2 masts at great spacing on the foreship, no tanker island, bridge, engine, long smokestack aft.  Course 10-20°, 8-9 knots.
				May actually be French.  Avoided on the surface.
		16.00	CH 9139	At ordered waiting station.
			N 3, 2/10, 1022 mb, Vis. 10 nm
		18.18		Crash dive for training and to proceed submerged, because sun glare is too great.  Course 270°.
				A total of about 1/3 of the crew has come down with fever and diarrhea.  Slow improvement from Castor oil and milk diet and/or quinine.
		20.00	CH 9159
		20.57	CH 9182	Surfaced.  On the horizon bearing 180°T a German U-boat (Reschke) on easterly course.  Continued on 1 diesel LF on westerly course.
		22.00	CH 9185 upper-center	Suddenly a U-boat shadow bearing 320°T, apparently just surfaced, while blowing.  Straight course about 60-80°, 2-3 knots. We went to E-motors, showed the stern, readied tubes and artillery to let him pass at about 1500 meters.  Long foreship, relatively small, round coning tower,
			Nearly completely dark
				[the next three lines are obscured]
				Moved off to the SW.
				Suspect not German, possibly an Italian boat on return transit, probably by silhouette former Dutch boat of the O 10-15 Class.  A sure kill opportunity!
		24.00	CH 9181
		07.08.42	Western Mediterranean
		04.00	CH 9145	Back and forth in the operations area.
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, 1022 mb, Vis. 6000 meters
				Day partially surfaced, partially submerged, according to the sun glare and haze and for missing Serial Nos:
		06.20 - 10.04		Submerged depth A -40 meters.
		10.20 - 11.01		Submerged depth A -50 meters.
		11.30 - 17.02		Submerged depth A -50 meters.
		12.00	CH 9161	Day's run:  Surfaced      109.1 nm
			SE 0-1, 2/10 (mist), 1023 mb, Vis. 8-9 nm	Submerged  28.4 nm   = 137.5 nm  Total:  574 nm
				Radio Message 0912/7/534 received 11.19 says:
				1)  That Kraus is going to the east now.
				2)  Our boat from yesterday was surely an Italian.

	Sun and Moon Data 06.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 07.08.42

	- 5 -
		continued
		07.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands	With today's weather - completely flat, misty horizon, strong sun, to guarantee remaining unseen the disadvantage of prolonged underwater stays must be accepted.
				- Surfaced for Program time. -
		16.00	CH 9163
		17.21 - 19.30		Submerged depth A -50 meters.
		20.06 - 21.01		Submerged depth A -50 meters.
				Night with 1 diesel LF back and forth.
		24.00	CG 9154
			E 1, Sea 0-1, 2/10, 1022 mb, Vis. 4 nm
		08.08.42
		04.00	CG 9151
			EbyS 1-2, Sea 0-1, 2/10, 1023 mb, Vis. 8-11 nm
		06.33 - 10.25		Submerged depth A -50 meters.
		10.37		Submerged depth A -40 meters.
		12.00	CH 9164	Day's run:  Surfaced      79 nm
				Submerged  36 nm   = 115 nm  Total:  689 nm
		14.58		Surfaced.
		15.50 - 19.30		Submerged depth A -40 meters.
		20.00	CH 9147
			SE 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		19.51 - 21.17		Dived.  Nothing in particular, the entire day except for 2 distant underwater detonations about 19.00 hours.  Night with 1 diesel LF back and forth.
		24.00	CH 9154
			SE 2-3, Sea 2, 1/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 3 nm
		09.08.42
		04.00	CH 9165
		07.11		Dived, to depth A -40 meters.  Torpedo maintenance etc.
		08.00	CH 9244
			SE 2-3, Sea 2, 2/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 8 nm
		10.48 - 11.41		Surfaced for Program time.
		12.00	CH 9165	Day's run:  Surfaced      79.8 nm
				Submerged  40.7 nm   = 120.5 nm  Total:  809.5 nm
				I stick to my convictions regarding current behavior in the operations area even though I have determined no or obviously only light aerial reconnaissance by the enemy:
				1.)  Continuously remaining on the surface brings continual danger of being sighted, as advantage at the moment only fresh air and immediate Radio Message reception.

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

	- 6 -
		continued
		09.08.42		2.)  Remaining submerged continuously results in Radio Messages much too late and irritates the men.
				3.)  Surfacing for Program time to ventilate and receive Radio Message satisfies all requirements.  In particular, remaining on the surface 1-2 hours after sunrise and the same time before sunset is very unsafe due to strong sun blindness effect.
		15.00 - 16.07		Surfaced for Program Time.
		16.00	CH 9153	We find an explanation for the detonations from yesterday at 19.00 hours from a Radio Message 10.30 hours from Tiessenhaussen.  So the position of the boats was compromised beforehand after all.
			SE 2-3, Sea 2, 1/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		20.00	CH 9152	Surfaced.  Program time and evening navigation fix.
		20.58		Radio Message from F.d.U.:  To West Boats.  According to B-Diesnt U-boat hunt . . . . is to be expected.
				Prompt work!
		24.00	CH 9155
			E 2, Sea 2, 1/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm	A diarrhea patient since departure who has been suffering from very pronounced dysentery for three days is now in greater distress.
		10.08.42
		00.55		Radio Message Orders:  Rosenbaum northern half . . . CH 91.
				[Two or three lines of text are covered by tape]
		04.00	CH 9169
			E 3, Sea 2, overcast 1018 mb, Vis. 5000 meters
		06.12		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9273
		10.58		Surfaced for Program time.
		11.02	CH 9153	Crash dive for (floats ?) aircraft bearing 220°T, easterly course, 6000 meters away, flying 10 meters above the water.  Was probably unseen,  Typical U-boat hunt.
		12.00	CH 9243	Day's run:  Surfaced      70 nm
				Submerged  36.3 nm   = 106.3 nm  Total:  915.9 nm
				Remained at depth A -30 meters until the next Program time.  Another sighting and the area will be completely stirred up!
		14.59 - 15.25		Surfaced for Program time!  No air hunt seen, nothing in the listening gear.
		16.00	CH 9217
			NNE 2, Sea 1, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 14 nm
		20.00	CH 9216
		21.03		Surfaced.  Back and forth on 1 diesel.

	Sun and Moon Data 09.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42

	- 7 -
		continued
		10.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		24.00	CH 9133
		11.08.42
		00.15		Incoming Radio Message:  According to V-Mann 9 August on 10 August a convoy of 36 units passed Gibraltar to the east.         Aha!
		04.00	CH 9121
			SE 1, Sea 1, overcast, 1818 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm
		07.18		Dived, depth A -40 meters.
		08.00	CH 9125
		10.45		At periscope depth.
		10.55		Prepared to surface.  Sound bearing was reported.  All around sweep - nothing.
		11.00	CH 9118	Masts in the periscope bearing 180°T, destroyer, 5000 meters.
		11.05		Bearing 200-230°T 1 very long vessel - carrier?  Freighter? = With 5 destroyers of the H - I Class and an escort boat.  Range = 8000 meters.  Zigzags around course 90°, 12 knots.  No attack possibility.
				Ran with.
		11.50		1 Destroyer G-Class, two masts, at high speed (25 [1 line obscured by tape] 7 aircraft [few words obscured by tape] in periscope.
		12.00	[weather partly obscured by tape], 1021 mb, Vis. 10 nm	Day's run:  Surfaced      68.6 nm
				Submerged  44.6 nm  = 113.4 nm  Total:  1029.2 nm
		12.10		The same destroyer comes about, Morses with searchlight, comes back at target angle 0°.  Passes 6000-8000 meters behind the stern to the west.  In the searchlight direction at 2 1/2 meters periscope exposed.
		12.24		View:
		12.26		Forest of masts from 270° to 330°T, already close, screen.
		12.29		Escort boat "ATHERSTONE-type" passed, 600 meters.
		12.35		Watch boat "KINGFISHER-type" Asdic locating, passed at 400 meters.
		12.36		Periscope impression:  Combat masts, about 8-10 large merchant ships 7000-10000 GRT, 2 cruisers, 8 destroyers and 3 escort boats, bow right, target angle 10-20°, easterly course.
		12.40		Went around on attack course 0° at GF, then angled in against.
		12.50		Discovered "EAGLE" as final ship of the starboard (southerly) outer column.
		12.56	[hand written comment below]	To all stations:  "Full commitment!  Target "EAGLE"!"
		13.00	They probably interfered with each other then.	Destroyer screen of 7 destroyers.  By turning hard, broke through from the south between the 3rd and 4th destroyers, each 300-400 meters away, Asdic from all sides.

	Sun and Moon Data 10.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42

	- 8 -
		continued
		11.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		13.02		Starboard column distinguished clearly:  1 cruiser type "CHARYBDIS" and "EAGLE" in echelon each with 1 destroyer V and W Class in relative bearing 45° or 135° as close escort, course 100°, target angle 0° (See sketch).
		13.04		Foremost ship center column (8 freighters and transports of 7000 - 10000 tons) passes at a distance of 500 meters, then one after the other.
				If only there were more tubes!
		13.05		Initiated attack on "EAGLE" from the inside, range decreases quickly.  I reduce fan angle from 14 to 6 and shoot with (settings) range = 800 meters, target speed 12 knots, target angle = 64°, depth 6 meters, a four shot each with 6° spread.
		13.15	CH 9119
			ESE 3, Sea 2-3, 2/10, Vis. 10-12 nm, water depth 2400-2600 meters
				After 32 seconds running time (480 meters) first then every 2.5 seconds at firing interval second, third and fourth very loud detonations!  Made to order!
		13.17		Cut under at the shot, then to course 26°, quickly to depth 2A meters.
				While doing so loud sinking sounds, cracking, bursting and rattles.
		13.29		1 dull, strong explosion (boiler?).
		13.30		In addition continual haphazard depth charges, initially 13 units, haphazard Asdic use.
		13.50		Another 6 depth charges, moderately well placed. Due to water leaks up to depth A -20. Pumped. Approximately 700 liters/hour just through the starboard exhaust valve.
		14.10		Came to course 300°, then moved off on course 0°.
		14.28		3 closer depth charges, then still 2 x 2 in an hour. Faint sound bearings.  With 5 tons bilge water, both regulating tanks pumped out except for 700 liters, slowly to periscope depth.  Listening gear out of service, therefore very carefully.
		16.45		Through a fundamental error of the Chief Engineer -pumped the diesel bilge into the regulating and fuel oil tank and later outboard, as well as finally contaminating main ballast tank 3 with bilge water.  Strong oil trace.
		18.15	CH 9115	Surfaced.
		18.24		Outgoing Alfa Signal:  1145/515:  Enemy convoy square 9118, runs 12 knots, steers 90°.
		18.28		Outgoing Radio Message:  1314/516/11:  Convoy 15 destroyers and escort boats, 2 cruisers, 9-10 freighters, EAGLE, 1 battleship likely.  Square 9119 4 hits EAGLE from 500 meters, strong sinking sounds.  Depth charges, all operable.  Rosenbaum.
		18.32		Thereafter dived to re-balance the boat and correct oil trace and minor engine damage.
		20.00	CH 6778
			E 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 14 nm

Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42

	- 9 -
		continued
		11.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		21.00		With two reloaded tubes, continued reloading to the east course 90° and 100°.
		22.00 - 22.25		Countless reports!
				Approximate overview of the flood of Radio Messages.  That was a whopping affair!
		22.50		Incoming Radio Message 2224/525 from F.d.U. with last convoy position at 19.10 in CH 9162 and request for Short Signal positions for Rosenbaum and Reschke.
		22.56		Radio Message from F.d.U.:  Rosenbaum Bravo !!
		23.23		Short Signal:  My position is CH 9122.    U-73.
		24.00	CH 9123	Pursued, although with 70 nm head start and 2-3 knot speed excess little prospect.
			E 2-3, Sea 1-2, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 4000-5000 meters
				The isolated dysentery case is on the way to recovery. Everything is good today!
		12.08.42
		01.35		Radio Message request to Rosenbaum, Reschke, the sinking of "EAGLE" should have been reported by Short Signal.
				Strange!
		01.57		With Signal Group " LQAF " betrayed ourselves as the culprit.
				Announced air bearing signals were not heard.  Evaluation impossible because bearing direction finder antenna has a full short.
		04.00	CH 9252
			E 3, Sea 1-2, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 2-3 nm
		06.17		Short Signal:  Position CH 9241.  Up to now no bearings heard.    U-73.
				Intention:  Indicate to Leadership hopeless position behind.
		07.00		Dived due to unmanageable sun blindness.
		08.00	CH 9354
		09.01		Surfaced.  Followed at 16 knots.  Received convoy reports confirm my hopeless position astern.
		12.00	CJ 7445	Day's run:  Surfaced      181.5 nm
			E 2-3, Sea 2, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm	Submerged    32.5 nm   = 214 nm  Total:  1243.2 nm
		12.24		Outgoing Radio Message:  1157/538:  CH 7445.  Believe pursuit with 2 knot speed excess pointless. Request disposition for the return transit to Gibraltar.
				Rosenbaum.
		12.35	CJ 7446	Crash dive for aircraft from 220°T.  No attack.
		13.00	[O.B.S.? - perhaps U-boat search group]	While cruising one can hear the O.B.S.-formation work.

	Sun and Moon Data 11.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42

	- 10 -
		continued
		12.08.42	Western Mediterranean
		13.31		By Radio Message from F.d.U. limit of the operations area in the east established at 9°30'E and operation in French territorial waters authorized.
		15.10	CJ 7467	Incoming Radio Message 1314/542:  Rosenbaum occupy CJ 7570.
				I also wanted to go there  under the coast.
		15.52		Incoming Radio Message 1518/543 tasks me on wounded 15000 GRT in square 7599.
				Operation not carried out because at 14.00 hours this square was passed within 12 nm without seeing a masthead or smoke clouds.
		16.00	CJ 7571	In ordered square.
			E 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 14 nm
		16.40	CJ 7571	Crash dive for aircraft, approaching in 100°T.  No attack.
		16.50 - 19.00		Proceeded submerged through the time of strongest sun glare.
		20.00	CJ 7578
			NE 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		20.15	CJ 7578	Crash dive for aircraft out of the low sun.
		20.58		Surfaced again.  Am missing 6 Serial Nos.
				Search courses square 7570.
		21.17	[from U-205 KTB: square 7459, operate on wounded.]	Radio Message from F.d.U. damaged cruiser square [line obscured by tape] cruiser in same square [few words obscured] target, operated on him course 290°, 15 knots.
		21.38		New waiting station square 7580 ordered in Radio Message 2034/12, if by 22.00 hours no wounded detected.  Despite this initially operated on cruiser.
		22.00		By News Service heard award of the Knights Cross to the Kommandant.  A cheer in the boat.
		22.30		Congratulatory Radio Messages from Ob.d.M., B.d.U. and F.d.U.
		22.34	CJ 7571	Anti-aircraft shells bearing 180°T.  Turned towards on course 180°, 15 knots for 1/2 hour.  Nothing.
		23.09		Again on course 270°, 16.5 knots.
		23.28	CJ 7574	Green light rockets to the northeast.  Headed there on course 10°, 16.5 knots.  Sea emergency signal from a flier?
		23.47		New Radio Message from F.d.U.:  Returners located in CJ 7691 at 19.40 hours.  Course 270°, 11-17 knots.  Operate on formation.

Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42

	- 11 -
		continued
		12.08.42	Western Mediterranean
				It is possible that the observed rockets could bring us in contact.  Intention:  Advance further to the northeast up to the course line of the reported formation then search along its course.
		23.59		Stopped to listen.  Nothing.
		24.00	CJ 7547
			E 0-1, Sea 0, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 2-3 nm, very misty, no horizon
		[hand written comment]   [Operation Torch]	That's the big problem of Leadership when U-boats are in a confined area. (See later 8.11.42 and following days during the landing at Algiers)	Given the many operational possibilities and the cascade of operational oders, the situation is no longer clear.  It is impossible for leadership ashore to know the position of the boats. Therefore I believe it is better only to pass on all available reports - possibly on which targets special value is put - however otherwise to leave the Kommandant to pick the most favorable possible approach depending on his position.
		13.08.42
		00.42		New Radio Message reports 3 warships 22.50 hours in CJ 8789, course 270°, 18 knots.
		00.44		Search legs 220°, LF.
		01.47	CJ 7547	Dived to listen.  Despite the very bad listening conditions: clear sound bearing in 40-50°T.
		02.02		Surfaced. Blew.
		02.05		With E-motors HF waited on course 0°.
		02.10	CJ 7468	Shadow bearing 35°T, sharp target angle.  Several destroyers, among them medium and large shadows.  In total about 12 vessels.  Quite high speed, about 18 knots.  I fail in the search for a place to break in despite high speed the target angle is always bigger.  The formation zigzags from about 240°-310° around the main course 270°.  Targets are not clearly distinguished in the heavy mist, from outside the screen:  cruisers at a minimum, possibly a battleships.
		03.50		Despite all efforts soon in a hopeless astern position.
		04.00	CJ 7419	Formation runs slowly but surely out of sight: about 16 knots on main course, 18 knot transit speed.
			Wind calm, Sea 0, overcast (mist), 1017 mb, Vis. 2-3 nm
		04.36		Short Signal:  Heavy and light enemy warships position square 7483.  U-73.
		05.09		Short Signal:  Enemy steers 270°, runs at 16 knots.    U-73
				Ran along on course 270°, at LF waiting on 2nd formation in accordance with Radio Message 0027/554/13.

	Sun and Moon Data 12.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42

	- 12 -
		continued
		13.08.42	West of the Channel de la Galite
		06.07	CJ 7445	Convoy out of sight bearing 260°T.  U-73 reported by Short Signal.
		06.10		Dived to listen.  No results.  Remained submerged due to sun blindness and to allow the crew and myself 3 hours of sleep.
		08.00	CH 9366
			NE 3-4, Sea 2, 1/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 10 nm
		10.00		Surfaced.  Because there is no more enemy contact, headed to waiting station in accordance with last orders -square 7480 - 12 and 14 knots.
		10.15		In corresponding Radio Message orders F.d.U. confirms this course of action.
		10.16		In NE square 9362 and 63 much wreckage and wooden parts.
		11.25	CJ 7445	Recognition Signals exchanged with 2 Ju 88.  Circled around the boat.  Shot machine guns, stars and flew off, all in direction 130°T.  Followed at high speed on course 130°.
		11.55		Radio Message 1117/561:  Italian aircraft report 08.00 hours CJ 7839 formation on course 270°.    F.d.U.
				Course to their presumed current location  is course 130°.  Good on the Ju 88s!
		12.00	CJ 7448	Day's run:  Surfaced      215 nm
			NE 2-3, Sea 2, 1/10, 1018 mb	Submerged    12.8 nm   = 227.8 nm  Total:  1471 nm
		12.14		[2 line entry obscured by tape]
		13.18	CJ 7472	Low flying aircraft bearing 160°T, westerly course.  Escort of the formation?  Contact keeper?
		13.22		Crash dive to remain unseen.  To the south at increased submerged speed.
		13.32		Sound bearing 84°T.
		13.37		Destroyer mast, then hull in target angle 0°, then turned away to target angle 50°, range = 1500 meters.  "TRIBAL destroyer".  ("TARTER"?)  G 34 high speed 20-22 knots.  Further sound bearings in the east, suspect the formation is there.  Because with passing of G 34 could only be reached with a stern tube at range = 1200-1500 meters, did not shoot.
		14.00		Destroyer out of periscope range.  The other sound bearings diminish with the range of G 34.  Echo sound bearings!
		13.36		Surfaced.  Empty horizon.  Course 90°, 12 or 14 knots.  Southerly difference of 12 nm between dead reckoning position and actual position after a navigation fix.
				The destroyer G 34 was therefore a trailer and not the suspected forward sweeper!  Very exasperating!
		14.40	CJ 7478	4 Savoia S 79 bearing in 150°T, westerly course.

Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42

	- 13 -
		continued
		13.08.42
		14.41		1 Cant Z 506 B, course west, close behind.
		15.10		Radio Message 1333/563 reports: 10.00 hours in CJ 7838 one unit stopped, one underway.
				We should search around La Galite, there is a traffic concentration point there!
		16.00	CJ 7716	Proceeded about 12 nm from off coast to the east.
			NE 2-3, Sea 1-2, 1/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 10 nm	Multiple high flying aircraft on east west courses.  Probably own.
		16.30	CJ 7724	U-boat - by painting recognized as U-Reschke" bearing 20°T.  Comes closer.
		17.10		By flag message together eastward rake up to Galite as before, U-205 at visibility range to sea.
		17.40		One Cant Z 506 B from 0°T, closing.  Circles around the boat, flies off in a certain direction and bumps into the water. The same game several times.
		17.45		I follow this course at 16 knots - 105°.  A second aircraft of this type bearing 120°T.
		18.00		Radio Message 1742/569:  Rosenbaum occupy square 7580, Reschke square 7810.
		18.15		Destroyer mast directly ahead on the horizon, was larger quickly.  Impeccable instruction by the aircraft.
		18.16		Crash dive - initiated attack.
		18.25		In total 2 destroyers G, F or H-Class, westerly course, 10-16 knots, 1 with leak canvas or something similar, zigzagging, in lose port echelon.
		18.48	CJ 7739	On course 25° from the south, four-fan, depth 2 meters, target speed - 12 knots, target angle = 103.5°, range = 800 meters, spread angle 6°.
			NE 2, Sea 2, 2/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 10-11 nm
				Shortly after the shot it appeared the destroyer shot at increased speed, the others turn.
		18.49		At AK to course 0° to depth A +60 meters.  Silent running.  After 61 seconds a torpedo detonation, 8 minutes later 3 bottom detonations of the other torpedoes.  No sinking sounds, no idea of propellers from the start with the listening gear.  Due to listening gear failure only cautiously.
		19.25		To periscope depth.  Nothing.
		19.35		Surfaced.  Nothing seen.  Went back to the shooting location.  A small oil slick and oil trace in direction 260° was all.
				The observation of the Cant Z 506 was essential for this.  Reloaded the last 2 bow torpedoes.
		20.00	CJ 7739
			NNE 2, Sea 1-2, 1/10, 1017 mb, Sea 2, Vis. 10 nm
		20.15		U-Reschke in sight.  Had not noticed the shot.

Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42

	- 14 -
		continued
		13.08.42
		20.30		With Radio Message 1955/570 were two alarming reports concerning an aircraft carrier in square 7699 and 7932.
		20.55	CJ 7739	Went within hailing range of Reschke.  Decide to both operate on the carrier.  Reschke with all torpedoes should stay in the vicinity of the coast, I want to run a bit to the north.
		21.05		Radio Message 2017/571:  Carrier square CJ 7932 apparently lying stopped. Operate on it.  In so doing do not cross 10°E to the east.  Expect own S-boats.    F.d.U.
		21.30		After the boats drew apart on course 90°, both diesels AK.
		24.00	CJ 7835	Through the Canal de la Galite.
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, 1017 mb, 7.5, Vis. 4000-6000 meters
		14.08.42	Off the Strait of Sicily north of Bizerta
		00.03		While sounded our position was clarified by a navigation fix, both LF.
		00.23		Again AK, course 80°.
		00.26		Oil slick of 2-3 nm through square 7835.  Despite strengthened lookouts nothing discovered of the carrier.
		03.20	CJ 7930	Arrived in the square, where he was "stopped".  Search legs up to 2 nm off the coast, to the north, around Cap Blanc and Cap Bizerte without results.
		04.00	CJ 7931
			WNW 3, Sea 2-3, overcast (mist), 1016 mb, Vis. 3000-4000 meters
		04.30	CJ 7935	Just off the coast suddenly illuminated bow sea and wake.  5 destroyers, course west, passing around Cap Blanc within the 3 nm zone into the Galite Straits.  Despite running in immediately no shooting opportunity.
		04.45		The entire scare was over.
		05.09		Outgoing Radio Message 0445/573:  5 destroyers, course west, entrance to the Galite Strait.    Rosenbaum.
				20 minutes later Reschke positioned behind me sent the same thing.
		05.15		Moved off on northerly course to deeper water.
		05.49		Outgoing Radio Message 0515/576:  18.48 2 destroyers square 7739.  Four-fan, 1 hit, no sinking indications.
				2.)  00.30 hours square 7935 oil slick 2 nm diameter.
				3.)  No carrier in Galite Strait and east therefrom to square 7936.    Rosenbaum.
		05.55		Quick dive, with course 290° to depth A -50 meters. Morning calm.

	Sun and Moon Data 13.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42

	- 15 -
		continued
		14.08.42	Western Mediterranean
		08.00	CJ 7697	Intention:  Go around Galite into last ordered attack area square 7580.
		10.06	NWbyN 1, Sea 0-1, 1019 mb, overcast (mist), Vis. 10-12 nm	Surfaced, proceeded on course 280° at 12 knots.
		10.09		1 aircraft, altitude 300° meters, flying away.
		10.20	CJ 7689	2 Ju 88 bearing 20°T, altitude 2500 meters flying past on easterly course.
		10.23		1 minimum 500 kg bomb 600-800 meters behind the stern thrown from an altitude of about 800 meters, Ju 88 turns away, smoke Recognition Signal sighted.  That was something!
		10.25		Radio Message 0928/579 with report concerning main formation in square 7832 at 07.15 hours.
				Too far to the west.
		10.48		Again I see a Ju 88 at an altitude of 2500 - 3000 meters arching around, then diving from directly ahead.  Tense situation!  Turned with AK and hard rudder, red smoke Recognition Signal launched.  Ju caught it 1000 meters away and without throwing, circled and then wagging happily, the boat was quite harmless.
		11.00		Continuous Ju 88 and Italian aircraft at very great altitude on east-west courses.
		11.12		Ordered to waiting station square 7650 and 7680 by Radio Message 0952/580.  Once again I am right.
		11.40		Dived.
		12.00	CJ 7684	Day's run:  Surfaced    227.1 nm
			NWbyN 1-2, Sea 1, (Swell), 1015 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm	Submerged   25.4 nm = 252.5 nm  Total:  1723.5 nm
		13.25		Surfaced.  Back and forth in waiting station.
		13.44	CJ 7684	A U-boat surfacing bearing 100T:  Reschke going to waiting station.
		14.26		Received "Brief situation at the end of the battle".
				That would be great results:  3 aircraft carriers ! ?
		14.27		CJ 7656 large oil slick.  Otherwise except for own air formations on the horizon nothing.
		16.00	CJ 7656
			NW 1, Sea 0-1, 6/10 (misty), 1019 mb, Vis. 1-10 nm
		17.27		Dived due to cloudiness and sun.
		19.30		Surfaced.  All Serial Nos. picked up.  Nothing going on.
		20.00	CJ 7689	Dove again.
		20.58		Surfaced.  With 1 diesel LF in to the southern part of the waiting station.
		21.19		Incoming Radio Message 1949/591:  Rosenbaum CJ 7590, . . . . occupy as waiting station.  2.)  On return transit dispersed units are still to be expected.    F.d.U.

Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42

	- 16 -
		continued
		14.08.42	Western Mediterranean west of La Galite.
		21.20		Reschke reports by Radio Message 1901/592: Square 7583 5 Italian fliers rescued. . . .
		21.30		Around Galite at 10 nm to new area.
		24.00	CJ 7648
			EbyS 2, Sea 1, 1/10 (mist), 1018 mb, Vis. 2000-5000 meters	First calm night for the Kommandant and crew since 11 August.
		15.08.42
		03.00		At ordered waiting station.
		04.00	CJ 7591
			E 2, 3/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 2-4 nm	Again low clouds and misty horizon remained mostly submerged.
		06.18 - 09.31		To depth A -40 meters.
		10.22 - 11.00		To depth A -50 meters
		12.00	CJ 7593	Day's run:  Surfaced    122.3 nm
			E 2-3, Sea 1, 2/10, 1017. Vis. 12 nm	Submerged  33.7 nm = 156 nm  Total:  1979.5 nm
		15.00		Surfaced for Program time.
		15.07	CJ 7671	Crash dive for approaching land-based aircraft, 2-engined, bearing 330°T, altitude 150 meters.  No bombs.  Type?
		16.00	CJ 7647
			E 2, Sea 1, 6/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		16.55		Surfaced.
		17.33 - 19.30		Submerged depth A -40 meters.
		19.38		Reschke reports rescuing 5 more fliers.
		20.00	CJ 7568
			SE 1-2, Sea 0-1, 7/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 4-6 nm
		20.41		Radio Message 1121/599 from F.d.U. (only one missing Serial No.)
	[Proceed to the west parallel to the coast in equal strips up to 4°E, northern limit 60 nm from the coast.]			First received now:  Rosenbaum, Reschke, Tiesenhausen in named order . . . equal width strips  . . . . 4°E.
		21.30		Radio Message 2027/15 says that after reaching 4°E we should move into the CH 9270 and 9510 waiting positions.
				Came to course 270°, 10 knots.
		23.00		To cover for Reschke's dropping out came to course 260°, 12 knots to be a little closer to U-331.
		24.00	CJ 7557

	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 15.08.42

	- 17 -
		16.08.42	Western Mediterranean Phillippeville, Bougie
		04.00	CJ 7482
			NE 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm
		05.40	CJ 7476	A shadow bearing 265°T.  U-boat!  at a range = 1200 meters distinguished as probably Italian.  Passed without Recognition Signals.
		07.40		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9398
		10.45		Surfaced.  Transit speed 10 knots.
		12.00	CH 9387	Day's run:  Surfaced    155.3 nm
			NW 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1022.5 mb, Vis. 12 nm	Submerged  30.7 nm = 186 nm  Total:  2065.5 nm
		14.20		Radio Message from B.d.U.:
				1.)  Rosenbaum go to Spezia for torpedoes. . . . .
				2.)  Tiesenhausen . . . .
				3.)  Reschke, Tiesenhausen etc.
		14.35		New course 25°, 12 knots.  Began return transit.
				Perfect because we will be ready for operations shortly after the full moon.
		16.00	CH 9374
			N 1-2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1021.5 mb, Vis. 12-14 nm
		20.00	CH 6987	Transit speed 10 knots because otherwise we will be early for ordered arrival day 19 August.
		24.00	CH 6934
			NNE 1, Sea 0-1, 1/10. 1021 mb, Vis. 500-3000 meters
		17.08.42
		04.00	CJ 4744
			NE 1, Sea 0, overcast, 1020 mb, Vis. 3000-5000 meters, no horizon
		08.00	CJ 4484
		09.00		Dived.  Proceeded submerged. Course 5°.
		12.00	CJ 4455	Day's run:  Surfaced    182 nm
			NE 1, Sea 0, (mist), 1020 mb, Vis. 10 nm	Submerged    8.7 nm = 189 nm  Total:  2255.2 nm
		13.43		Surfaced, transit speed 7 knots.
		16.00	CJ 4421
			Calm, Sea 0, overcast (mist), 1021 mb, Vis. 3-6 nm
		17.31		Outgoing Radio Message:  19 August 00.30 hours North Entry, 08.00 hours Point C.  Dry-dock and shipyard requested for G.H.G. (total failure), radio direction finder (complete short), flooding mechanism (outer valve blocked open) and inner exhaust gas valve.
				- Rosenbaum -
		17.45 - 20.22		Proceeded submerged.

	Sun and Moon Data 16.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42

	- 18 -
		continued
		17.08.42	Western Mediterranean
		from 20.50		Several Serial Nos. are received one after another.
		21.30		Radio Message 2025/17/539 from F.d.U.:
				To Rosenbaum, Tiesenhausen.  New advance by enemy warships in western Mediterranean.  1 battleship, 1 aircraft carrier, 5-8 units 09.00 hours 40 nm north of Algier.  Tiesenhausen head for . . . square CJ . . . . Rosenbaum square CJ 9155.  Highest speed!
				Large square given does not agree.  Taken as CH to avoid using a Radio Message
		21.44		Second Radio Message:  Come about highest speed.
		21.54	CJ 4154	Course 217°, both diesels AK.  Return transit settled.
		24.00	CJ 4149	Incoming Officer-Only Radio Message with situation report.
			NE 1-2, Sea 1, overcast (mist), 1019 mb, Vis. 2000-5000 meters
		18.08.42
		04.00	CH 6359	Proceeding at AK on course 217°.
			SE 2, Sea 1, 2/10, 1017.5 mb, Vis. 2-3 nm
		08.00	CH 6568
			NEbyE 2-3, Sea 2, 4/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 13 nm
		12.00	CH 6848	Day's run:  Surfaced    266.5 nm
			NEbyE 3, Sea 2, 4/10, 1016,5 mb, Vis. 8 nm	Submerged 13.8 nm = 280.3 nm  Total:  2535.5.5 nm
		12.12		Mast and smokestack bearing 220°, steamer on northerly course in allowed French area.  Went around.
		15.00	CH 9150	Received objective square as temporary waiting station.
		15.15	CH	Dived due to visibility and clouds.
		16.00	CH 9153	After 14 hours propulsion system check at AK:  Except for minor issues without complaint.
			NE 0-1, Sea 0, Swell 3, 1015 mb, 8/10 (mist), Vis. 5-8 nm
		16.08		Surfaced to check for Radio Message.
		16.30 - 17.58		Submerged depth A -40 meters.
		18.00		Surfaced for Radio Messages.
		18.36		Incoming Radio Message 1735/18:  From F.d.U.:
				1.)  FURIOUS" with a cruiser and 10 destroyers came back to Gibraltar, battleship missing.
				2.)  At transit speed occupy waiting stations:  Rosenbaum north and center third of square CH 91.

	Sun and Moon Data 17.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42

	- 19 -
		continued
		18.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands	Reschke northern third square CH 94 and southern third of CH 91.
				With repetition expect aircraft overflight.
				Therefore my position is correct.  Hopefully we won't have to wait too long.
		18.45 - 20.34		Dived due to sun glare.
		20.35	Moon	Back and forth with 1 diesel LF.
		24.00	CH 9142
			NNE 1-2, Sea 1, 4/10 (mist), 1016 mb, Vis. 2-5 nm
		19.08.42
		04.00	CH 9134
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, 1016 mb, Vis. 2/4 nm
		06.39		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9139	Due to morning mist and glare to depth A -40 meters.
		10.09		Surfaced.  Course 280°, 10 knots.
		10.30	CH 9137	Drifting, half sunken aircraft life raft.
		11.25		Radio Message 1032/10 from F.d.U.  Italian aircraft sighted 3 destroyers in CJ 7683 at 08.00 hours.
				2.)  Focal point in the south of the attack areas.
				Course 240°.
				Thus there is uncertainty: yesterday ordered to waiting stations, today focus of attack areas. Am I now free to operation on reported targets?
		12.00	CH 9129	Day's run:  Surfaced    145.5 nm
			NE 1, Sea 0-1, 7/10 (mist), 1018 mb, Vis. 7-9 nm	Submerged  25.0 nm = 170.5 nm  Total:  2706.0 nm
		14.52		Incoming Radio Message 1214/19:  From F.d.U.:
				1.)  Rosenbaum as waiting station occupy naval square CH 14 (finally corrected) northern third.
				2.)  . . . . . . . .  3.)  . . . . . . . . etc.
		15.30		Course 180°, 10 knots.
		16.00	CH 9114	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix = 12°T, 22.3 nm, unexplained large value in 23 hours.
			NE 1-2, Swell 1-2, 2/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 9-10 nm
		18.23		Incoming Radio Message 1723/19:  To West Boats:
				1.)  Free to attack against all enemy warships.
				2.)  Reported enemy warships are destroyers, 14.00 hours CJ 7718, course 298° (?) 25 knots.
				3.)  Square from Radio Message 1214 must mean CH 94!
				F.d.U.
		18.26		Dived due to the sun.  To pick up the destroyer group I must cover ground [make up the extra distance from the large navigation offset above].
		19.02		Surfaced, course 180°, 12 knots.

	Sun and Moon Data 18.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 19.08.42

	- 20 -
		continued
		19.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		20.00	CH 9177
			NE 1, Sea 1, 1/10, 1015 mb, Vis. 9 nm
		21.50		To intercept point in accordance with last report course 270°, 25 knots.  Therefore ran with on course 270° and 230°, then ran against to search on course 80°. No success.
		24.00	CH 8361
			ENE 1, Sea 0-1, overcast (mist), 1017 mb, Vis. 2-6 nm, moon!
		20.08.42	North of Algier
		04.00	CH 9427	1 diesel LF.
			E 1, Sea 0-1, 9/10 (mist), 1018 mb, Vis. 2-3 nm
		06.29		Dived due to clouds, early morning mist and sun glare.
		08.00	CH 9434
			E 1, Sea 1, 8/10, 500-3000 meters, misty!
		09.50		Surfaced.  Because at times visibility is only 2 nm and there are low clouds, dived again.
		09.52
		10.58 - 11.42		Surfaced for Program time.
		12.00	CH 9436	Day's run:  Surfaced    178.4 nm
			WNW 1-2, Swell 2, 9/10 (mist), 1018 mb, Vis. 4-8 nm	Submerged 15.6 nm = 194 nm  Total:  2900.0 nm
		13.56		Surfaced.  10 knots, westerly course.
				New Radio Messages received, including
		14.19		Radio Message 1121/20:  From F.d.U.:  02.30 hours with unknown course out of Gibraltar:  "ARGUS", "FURIOUS", "NELSON", 2 medium units and several destroyers.  According to V.-Mann 02.00 hours departed Gibraltar to the east in convoy with 20 steamers.
		14.52		Radio Message 1123/20:  West Boats occupy old attack areas again.  Rosenbaum etc.
		16.00	CH 9189	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix = 24°T, 7.5 nm, again north-northeast.
			W 1, Sea 0-1, 2/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 9-10 nm
				Wind current?  Course 0°, 10 knots into old square.
		18.10	CH 9159	Drifting lifeboat - empty.
		18.29		Dived.
		20.00	CH 9153
			NE 2, Sea 2, 3/10, 1017 mb, 5/10, Vis. 12-14 nm
		20.58		Surfaced, 1 diesel LF easterly course.
				It is amazing that the British would make an another attempt so soon  after only 10 days have passed.
		24.00	CH 9163
			NNE 1, Sea 0-1, 9/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 3000-5000 meters, moon!

	Sun and Moon Data 19.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 20.08.42

	- 21 -
		21.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		04.00	CH 9252	Came about, course 270°.
			Calm, Sea 0, 4/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm
		06.40		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9243
		08.54		Coastal steamer bearing 310°T, on northerly course.  Certain to be French.
		09.30		Surfaced.
		09.43	CH 9243	Quick dive for aircraft bearing 300°T with sharp target angle approaching quickly.
		10.20		It turned out to be a well illuminated French steamer "CAP PINODE", 1300 GRT, passed on course 160 ° at 11 knots.
		10.59		Surfaced for Program time.
				No new reports concerning Gibraltar formation, no air sightings.
		12.00	CH 9241	Day's run:  Surfaced    111.3 nm
			N 2-3, Sea 2, 1020 mb, Vis. 9-12 nm	Submerged  26.2 nm = 1373.5 nm Total:  4037.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9129
			E 3-4, Sea 3, 3/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 8-11 nm
		18.58 - 20.36		Proceeded submerged due to sun glare.
		20.00	CH 9116
			NNE 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, 1020 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm
		24.00	CH 9118	What is actually going on with the convoy?
			E 2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, 1019.5 mb, Vis. 3-5 nm, moon
		22.08.42
		04.00	CH 9137
			E 1-2, Sea 1-2, 8/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 4 nm
		06.32		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9139
		09.18		Surfaced, 10 knots, westerly course.
		09.20	CH 9138	One smokestack coastal steamer bearing 30°T, on course 160°, French route.
		11.40		Smoke cloud bearing 270°T.
		12.00	CH 9155	Day's run:  Surfaced    145.1 nm
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, 1/10, 1022 mb, Vis. 14-16 nm	Submerged  13.4 nm = 158.5 nm Total:  3196 nm
		12.14		New smoke cloud bearing 300°T, both quickly shifting to the south.  Despite increased speed masts do not come in sight.  French steamer? or a destroyer for a change?

	Sun and Moon Data 21.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 22.08.42

	- 22 -
		continued
		22.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		12.38		Both smoke clouds out of sight.
		13.30		Easterly course, 10 knots.
		15.00	CH 9244	New smoke cloud, shifts far to the east of the waiting station to the south.
		16.00	CH 9245
			NE 1, Sea 0 (Swell), 3/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 13-15 nm
		16.37	CH 9246	Crash dive for low flying aircraft bearing 250°T, approaching.  No bombs.
		17.23		Surfaced.
		18.26 - 20.55	CH 9219	Proceeded submerged due to the sun.
				1 diesel LF westerly course.
		21.40	CH 9214	Passed an illuminated steamer on approximate course 340°.  French markings.
		24.00	CH 9132
			ENE 1-2, Sea 1, Swell, 1/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 3-5 nm
		23.08.42
		00.03		Incoming Radio Message 2316/22:  To West Boats:
				"ARGUS", "FURIOUS", 1 cruiser, 2 destroyers have passed Gibraltar to the west.
				Aha, finally clarification!
		03.00	CH 9212	Passed a northbound French steamer with lights, a second northbound lighted vessel on the horizon.
		03.35
		04.00	CH 9113
			Calm, Sea 0, 3/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 2-4 nm
		06.43		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9114
			Calm, Sea 0, 5/10 (mist), 1020 mb, Vis. 5-8 nm
		10.00		Surfaced, 10 knots, course 90°.
		11.30		Dove again due to visibility.
		12.00	CH 9124	Day's run:  Surfaced    137.4 nm
			Calm, Sea 0, 4/10 (mist), 1020 mb, Vis. 4-8 nm	Submerged  22.1 nm = 159.5 nm Total:  3355.5 nm
		13.59		Surfaced.
		16.00	CH 9135	A southbound French steamer bearing 60°T.
		18.42		Dived due to visibility and sun.
		20.00	CH 9134
			Calm, Sea 0, 9/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 5-7 nm
		20.35		Surfaced. Back and forth at waiting station at 7 knots.

	Sun and Moon Data 22.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 23.08.42

	- 23 -
		continued
		23.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		24.00	CH 9113
			N 0-1, Sea 0, overcast, 1017 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm
		24.08.42
		02.14	CH 9119	An illuminated steamer bearing 160°T on the French route, northerly course.
		04.00	CH 9146
			SEbyE 2, Sea 1, 9/10 (rain), 1017 mb, Vis. 1000-3000 meters
		05.35	CH 9152	Steamer bearing 350°T, on French route, southerly course.
		06.45		Dived.  Disassembly of the feed pump for lubricating oil on the port diesel (fuel in lubricating oil).  Nothing conclusive found.
		08.00	CH 9161
			SEbyE 2, Sea 1-2, 7/10, 1016 mb, Vis. 7-10 nm
		09.55		Surfaced.  At waiting station.
		12.00	CH 9139	Day's run:  Surfaced    134.1 nm
			NEbyE 2, Sea 1, 5/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 9-13 nm	Submerged  21.4 nm = 155.5 nm Total:  3511 nm
		16.00	CH 9127	Further diesel repairs.
			NEbyE 2-3, Sea 1-2, 3/10, 1016 mb, Vis. 12-14 nm
		20.00	CH 9121	The declaration of two French steamers which took place again today by Radio Message raises the suspicion that the extremely heavy traffic (on 22 August 5 steamers seen, on 23 August 3 steamers) was not declared and may be unauthorized.  Occasional observations revealed nothing suspicious: well marked and lighted etc.  I'll pay a little more attention.
			E 3, Sea 2, 1/10, 1015.5 mb, Vis. 12-14 nm
		24.00	CH 9133
		25.08.42
		04.00	CH 9164	At waiting station, by day back and forth at 10 knots, by night at 7 knots.
			E 2, Sea 1-2, 3/10, 1016 mb, Vis. 4-7 meters
		06.42		Dived.  Diesel and torpedo work.
		08.00	CH 9146
			E 2-3, Sea 1-2, 1/10, Vis. 10 nm
		09.48		Surfaced.
		10.20	CH 9143	Steamer bearing 100°T on course 200°, Algier route.
		12.00	CH 9119	Day's run:  Surfaced    174.8 nm
			E 3, Sea 2, 5/10, 1017.5 mb, Vis. 11-13 mb	Submerged  11.2 nm = 186 nm Total:  3697 nm
		16.00	CH 9136
			E 3-4, Sea 2-3, 1/10, Vis. 12-14 nm

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

	- 24 -
		continued
		25.08.42
		20.00	CH 9115
			E 2-3, Sea 2, 1/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm
		22.35	CH 9143	Light bearing 80°T, turned towards.
		23.30		2-smokestack steamer about 5000-6000 GRT on course 180°,  deck lighting, no directed lights, French markings and flag, type like "SIDI-BELABBES", probably declared "MARSHAL LYAUTEY", however on the reverse route.
		24.00	CH 9127
		26.08.42
		04.00	CH 9139	At waiting station, by day back and forth at 10 knots, by night at 7 knots
			ESE 4, Sea 3, overcast, 1017 mb, Vis. 6000 meters
		05.00		Total lunar eclipse.
		06.44		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9137
		10.00		Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 9119	Day's run:  Surfaced    185 nm
			E 3, Sea 2, 6/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 9-13 mb	Submerged  10.5 nm = 195.5 nm Total:  3892.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9116
		20.00	CH 9123
			E 4, Sea 3-4, 4/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 8-10 nm
		24.00	CH 9125
			E 4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, 1018,5 mb, Vis. 3-4 nm
		27.08.42		At waiting station, by day back and forth at 10 knots, by night at 7 knots.
		01.10		Correctly illuminated and marked French steamer passed on course 20°.
		04.00	CH 9168
			SEbyE 4-5, Sea 3-4, 4/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 4000-7000 meters
		06.48		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9157
		10.00		Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 9155	Day's run:  Surfaced    182 nm
			E 4, Sea 3-4, 8/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 5-6 nm	Submerged  10.0 nm = 192 nm Total:  4084.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9135
			E 4-5, Sea 3-4, 8/10, 1017.5 mb, Vis. 6-7 nm
		18.43 - 19.58		Dived due to visibility and sun.

	Sun and Moon Data 25.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 26.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 27.08.42

	- 25 -
		continued
		27.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		20.00	CH 9126
		23.10	CH 9113	Illuminated steamer French flag and markings, course 190°.
		24.00	CH 9111
			E 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, 1017 mb, 3 nm
		28.08.42
		04.00	CH 9113
			SEbyE 5-6, 8/10, 1016.5 mb, Vis. 4000-5000 meters
		06.36		Dived.
		08.00	CH 91210.032	Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 9125	Day's run:  Surfaced    175.6 nm
			ESE 5, Swell 4, 9/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 5 nm	Submerged  14.4 nm = 190 nm Total:  4274.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9112
			SE 4-5. Sea 3-4, 9/10, 1015 mb, Vis. 6 nm
		20.00	CH 9122	Except for French traffic at the moment there is absolutely nothing here.
			SEbyE 3, Sea 2, Swell 3-4, 3/10, 1014 mb, Vis. 6-8 nm
		24.00	CH 9133
			Calm, changing in squalls up to 4 out of the SE or S to W, ESE-Swell 3, 9//10 (hail), 1017 mb, Vis. 2-4 nm
		29.08.42
		04.00	CH 9125	At waiting station, by day back and forth at 10 knots, by night at 7 knots.
			W 3, Sea 1, Swell 3, 5/10, 1015 mb, Vis. 4-5 nm
		06.48		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9115
		09.59		Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 9151	Day's run:  Surfaced    144.8 nm
			SE 2-3, Sea 1-2, overcast (lightening), 1016 mb, Vis. 3-5 nm	Submerged  13.7 nm = 158.5 nm Total:  4433.0 nm
		16.00	CH 9137
			E 2, Sea 1-2, 9/10 (rain), SE-Swell 2, 1015 mb, Vis. 5-7 nm
		20.00	CH 9145
			E 3-4, Sea 3, 4/10, 1012 mb, Swell 3, Vis. 8-10 nm
		21.45	CH 9152	Light bearing 53°T.

	Sun and Moon Data 27.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 28.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42

	- 26 -
		continued
		29.08.42	Western Mediterranean south of the Balearic Islands
		22.20		French steamer "G.G.LAFFERRIRE", correctly illuminated and course 195°.  Not declared.
		24.00	CH 9153
			SE 4-5, Sea 3-4, 8/10 (rain) lightening and Summer lightening, 1014 mb, Vis. 2-5 nm	The last of the provisions and fuel are slowly running out, many spoiled provisions caused by tainted goods: we still have 5 days.
		30.08.42
		04.00	CH 9136
			SWbyW 3, Sea 1, 4/10, E-Swell 2, 1015 mb, Vis. 5000 meters
		06.55		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9126
		09.54		Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 9114	Day's run:  Surfaced    163.3 nm
			SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, Vis. 9-13 nm	Submerged  11.2 nm = 174.5 nm Total:  4607.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9126
			SW 3, Sea 2, 1018 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix = 350°T, 10 nm.
		20.00	CH 9138
			SWbyW 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1017 mb, Vis. 10-12 nm
		22.36		Steamer lights bearing 350°T.
		23.05	CH 9127	French steamer "G.G.T" or "G.G.L." - "GENERAL GOUVERNEUR LEPINE" or "TILMANN", passenger steamer with 1 smoke stack on course 190°, properly illuminated.  Not declared.
		24.00	CH 9119
			SW 2, Sea 1, 5/10, 1018.5 mb, Vis. 4000-6000 meters
		31.08.42
		04.00	CH 9153	Back and forth at waiting station.
			SW 1, Sea 0-1, 1/10, 1018 mb, 4 nm	Cylinder I of the starboard diesel does not work.
		06.55		Dived, diesel repairs, in operation again.
		08.00	CH 9166
		10.00		Surfaced.
		11.14		Incoming Radio Message 0922/31/544:  West Boats from F.d.U.:
				1.  Further enemy operations in the western Mediterranean are to be expected.  2.  Intention:  Rosenbaum will be relieved on 6 September, Tiesenhausen on 12 September.

	Sun and Moon Data 29.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 30.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42

	- 27 -
		continued
		31.08.42		The first word to me since 22 August!  However, my inventories will not last that long:  still 17 cbm, enough food for 3 full days.
		12.00	CH 9161	Day's run:  Surfaced    288.8 nm
			SWbyW 2-3, Sea 1-2, 9/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 12 nm	Submerged     9.2 nm = 198 nm Total:  4805.5 nm
		16.00	CH 9118
			SWbyW 2-3, Sea 1-2, 9/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 12 nm
		18.58		Incoming Radio Message 1827/31:  Rosenbaum occupy CH 59 southern half, Tiesenhausen CH 83 northern half as attack area.
				Proceeded there at 10 and 7 knots.
		20.00	CH 9118
			3/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 12 nm
		24.00	CH 5956	Back and forth at 7 knots in new attack area.
			SWbyW 2, Sea 1, 1/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 4000 meters
		01.09.42	Western Mediterranean southwest of Pityusen
		04.00	CH 5972
			SWbyW 2, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 5000-6000 meters
		06.58		Crash dive for training.
		08.00	CH 5981
			WSW 4, Sea 3-4, 3/10, 1018.5 mb, Vis. 9-12 nm
		09.58		Surfaced, back and forth at 10 knots.
		12.00	CH 5968	Day's run:  Surfaced    175.28 nm
			WSW 4, Sea 3-4, 5/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 10 nm	Submerged     9.3 nm = 184.5 nm Total:  4990.0 nm
		16.00	CH 5982
			W 2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, 1018 mb, Swell, SW 2, Vis. 10-12 nm
		20.00	CH 5972
			NW 1, Sea 0-1, 2/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 9-12 nm
		24.00	CH 5995
			NEbyN 2, Sea 1, 2/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 3000-4000 meters
				The provisions are perilous:  only still bread, only leftovers of bread, potatoes are running out, lentils and samonila are scarce.  I decide to stay one more day and night, then head back.

	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.42
	Sun and Moon Data 01.09.42

	- 28 -
		02.09.42	Western Mediterranean southwest of Pityusen
		00.10		Operated on apparent cone of light bearing 310°T, nothing.
		01.00		Old course, 7 knots.
		04.00	CH 5995
			Calm, Sea 0, 7/10, Swell 1, 1019 mb, Vis. 4000-6000 meters
		07.02		Dived.  Diesel maintenance.
		08.00	CH 5984
		09.57		Surfaced, back and forth at waiting station.
		12.00	CH 5896	Day's run:  Surfaced    185 nm
			NE 2, Sea 1-2, 4/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 12 nm	Submerged     9 nm = 194 nm Total:  5184 nm
		12.40	CH 5997	Crash dive for unknown aircraft bearing 250°T, easterly course.
		13.09		Surfaced, enemy, Italian reconnaissance?
		16.00	CH 5988
			ENE 1, Sea 0-1, 4/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 10-14 nm
		20.00	CH 5977
		21.40		Incoming Radio Message 2009/597:  To West Boats:
				1.)  Occupy old attack areas again.
				2.)  etc.  3.)  etc.          Unfortunately pointless for me.
		24.00	CH 5973
			ESE 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, 1018 mb, Vis. 3000-4000 meters
		03.09.42	Western Mediterranean southeast of the Balearic Islands
		01.00		Began return transit, 10 knots.  Course 40°.
		04.00	CH 5955
			ESE 2, Sea 1, 5/10, 1018 mb, Vis. 5000 meters
		07.30		Dived.
		08.00	CH 9114
			E 2, Sea 1, 4/10, 1019 mb, Vis. 12-14 nm
		08.35		Surfaced.
		12.00	CH 6758	Day's run:  Surfaced     213 nm
			E 2, Sea 0-1, 3/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 14 nm	Submerged    7.0 nm = 220.5 nm Total:  5404.5 nm
		13.00		Balearic Islands in sight.
		16.00	CH 6812
			ESE 2-3, Sea 2, 1021 mb, Vis. 14 nm
		17.00		Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix - 283°T, 18 nm.  Either current or main gyro-compass failure.  Azimuth at sunset gave = -3° !

	Sun and Moon Data 02.09.42
	Sun and Moon Data 03.09.42

	- 29 -
		continued
		03.09.42	Western Mediterranean west of Sardinia
		19.32	CH 6558	Bearing 100°T, U-boat conning tower with odd shape.
		19.35		U-boat dove bearing 105°T.
		20.00	CH 6555
			E 2, Sea 1, 7/10, 1020 mb, Vis. 12 nm
		24.00	CH 6296	Return transit, 10 knots.
			1022 mb, Vis. 3000-4000
		04.09.42
		04.00	CH 6328
			E 2, Sea 1-2, 3/10, 1022 mb, Vis. 6000 meters
		06.24		Dived.
		08.00	CH 3994
		09.30		Deep dive to depth 2A -20 meters.
		10.00		Surfaced, 10 knots transit speed.  Course 40°.
		11.12	West of Corsica	Radio Message 0921 from F.d.U.:  1.)  Dommes . . . . 2.)  Rosenbaum proceed so that you do not make fast before 09.30 hours.
		12.00	CJ 4144	Day's run:  Surfaced     221.5 nm
			NEbyN 1, Sea 0, 3/10, 1024.5 mb, Vis. 12 nm	Submerged   11.5 nm = 233 nm Total:  5637.5 nm
		16.00	CJ 1794
		17.00		Check fire of all weapons, all in order.
		18.35		Crash dive for training.
		20.00	CJ 1844
			NEbyN 1, Sea 0, 1024 mb, 4/10, Vis. 12 nm
		21.22		Incoming Radio Message 1825:  To Rosenbaum:  Italian U-boat "CORALLO" will be at Point Cäsar at 08.30 hours on 5 September.        F.d.U.
		24.00	CJ 1587
		05.09.42	Western Mediterranean Gulf of Genova	Via entrance point Nord to Gorgona and Point Cäsar.
		04.00	CJ 1651
			ENE 1-2, Sea 0-1, 1/10, 1021 mb, Vis. 6000 meters
		05.30		One diesel out of service, 11 knot with diesel-electric.
		06.08 - 06.48		Test dive.
		08.00	CJ 1389
		10.20		Made fast La Spezia base pier.
				Remaining day's run:  Surfaced  206.2 nm
				Submerged  4.8 nm = 211 nm Total:  5848.5 nm
				Kapitänleutnant and Kommandant

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

	- 30 -
			Summary.
		1.) Boat and weapons as well as engines generally in good order, G.H.G. failure and lack of very long wavelength reception submerged as well as the possibility of bearings limited behavior.     2.) Crew despite little experience for the most part in order, no particular stresses except for temperatures.     3.) Operations:  Area CH 91 and 94 seemed favorable as attack areas against transfer operations by carriers.  For convoys it seems separation in depth  - about CH 91 and CJ 74/75 seem relatively promising if the number of boats is sufficient.  Picking up returners:  CJ 7810/20 for light units, 7580/90 for heavy units.  7630/90 against both types and as reporting boat (rod antenna).  Enemy air encounters in area beyond Sicily Strait and in the vicinity of convoys (carrier aircraft) only occasionally, probably appearing a few days before planned operations.   At the moment in the area S-gear is not very dangerous due to water temperature layers, for the same reason, listening conditions are bad for the enemy, especially in the Galite sea area.     4.) Suggestions for West Boat operations in general:  a)  Possibly the same boats, because with experience in these convoy battles an almost brazen operation is possible, b)  Torpedo supply etc. as soon as possible.  Boats only remain at sea, if Gibraltar occupancy indicates operations.  Otherwise long periods completely idle.     5.) Suggestions for direct cooperation with Axis aircraft at convoys:  a)  Recognition Signal calls from aircraft as early as possible.  b)  White star in indicated direction and fly off on the same course.  Reinforced by brushing the water surface: an attackable sea target for the boat.  c)  Red and green stars only for sea emergency in accordance with sea emergency table.  To introduce the same procedure as under b) with corresponding star color, circle the accident location.     6.) Success:  Aircraft carrier "EAGLE" 22600 tons 4 hits, sunk.                  One destroyer G, F or I-Class one hit torpedoed, no sinking indications.
			Total distance covered:  5848.5 nm
		At sea, 5 September 1942
				Kaptlt.and Kmdt.

 

	Enclosures to U-73's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Radio	Excerpt of the Radio Log
Sketches	Track charts/combat sketches

 

	Comments of the F.d.U.-Italian on the K.T.B. "U 73"
	from 27.3. - 5.9.42
	8th War Patrol.
	1.) The attack on the aircraft carrier "EAGLE" can be described as exemplary for its dashing and well considered approach.  The torpedo firing was equally calm and steady.  The Kommandant had his boat ready for action, the target firmly in mind, which led to a beautiful success.  The good work of the entire crew deserves all the more appreciation, deserves all the more appreciation as it was reconstituted to a considerable extent after a long docking time, initially overcoming epidemic illness, first coming together at sea. 2.) Under 12 August 24.00 hours, the Kommandant spoke of "the cascade of operational oders" from Leadership.  These remarks are militarily and factually objectionable. 3.) On the course of events - also on the K.T.B. of "U-73" there is the following   a) After receiving the sighting and success report from the "U-73", the Western Boats were requested to report their position, at the same time they were given the position of the enemy.  An operational order by the F.d.U. to pursue was omitted in the confident expectation, that the boats would so this themselves. The positions reported by the boats confirmed the correctness of this view.  It was not expected that the boats would catch up with the formation.  They were to take care of any damaged vessels.   b) F.d.U. ordered 9°30'E as eastern limit in regard to German/Italian surface warship operations.   c) On 12 August at 13.14 hours the boats were stopped, to hold them in the supposed return movement of the enemy forces in hand.  U-73 was assigned to square CJ 7570.

	d) From the abundance of sometimes contradictory reports by the Luftwaffe the F.d.U. recognized there were worthwhile targets in square 7495.  "U-73" must be near or have only a transit of 50 nm from the ordered position square 7570.  This was tasked by Radio Message 1518 (1st operational order)   e) Order from F.d.U. 2034 hours if by 22.00 hours no wounded ships are detected, waiting stations square 7580.   f) 23.47 hours a Radio Message was received from F.d.U. concerning returners with orders "operate on formation" (2nd operational order).  "U-73", as repeated contact with the enemy showed, was in the correct position. 4.) The suggestion regarding communication between U-boats and Axis aircraft (Paragraph 5 of the Summary) is useful and will be pursued.

	Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
	on the Kriegstagebuch of "U-73" from 27.3. to 5.9.1942.
	Concur with the comments of the F.d.U. Italien.
		Signed in draft: D  ö  n  i   t  z  .
		For correctness:
		Leutnant (V) and Adjutant i.V.

 

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