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

16 - 31 March 1942

PG30305b

     
     
 
16.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
 - DP 75
U 129
- EE 12
U 373
- BB 99
U 578
- BD 74
 
68
 - Op(Freetown)
154
 - BE 98
404
 - Op(CB)
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
 
69
 - BF 48
155
 - CC 51
432
 - BF 60
588
 - CC 24
 
71
 - CB 27
156
 - BF 48
502
 - BF 60
593
 - Op(AM 18)
 
87
 - Op(AM 11)
158
 - CA 89
503
 - CC 34
594
 - Helgoland
 
94
 - CA 96
160
 - BC 86
504
 - DO 48
653
 - CD 28
 
96
 - BD 75
161
 - ED 37
505
 - Op(Freetown)
753
 - Op(AM 19)
 
105
 - CC 67
162
 - BE 99
506
 - AM 25
754
 - BD 53
 
123
 - CC 33
202
 - BE 82
507
 - AF 78
A
 - BF 49
 
124
 - Op(CA)
203
 - BE 67
552
 - BD 47
   
 
126
 - DN 36
213
 - BE 39
571
 - BE 49
   
 
128
 - CD 38
332
 - Op(CB)
572
 - BF 49
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 162 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653.
  Sailed:  - . -  
  Entered Port:  U 502 - Lorient;  U 432 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 404 sighted auxiliary cruiser and large tanker at 2200 in CA 8266 on course 800, speed 8 knots.  Sank tanker but lost contact with cruiser.  (see "intercept" reports).
    U 504 sank armed freighter of 7,000 BRT in DO 54.  Ship exploded.  On examination of wreckage discovered ship was carrying ammunition, trucks and aircraft parts destined for Bombay.
    U 753 examined "Iren Irishwillor" (1,000 BRT) in AL 6677.  Ship was in ballast bound from Dublin to St. Johns via Ardrossan.  Boat received instructions not to sink ship, though by all the rules of merchant warfare this would not have been out of order.
  b) None.
  c) Sighting reports from CB 4094 - DC 4963 - CA 8144 - CB 4894 - CA 5225.  Most of these reports can probably be attributed to a state of nervous tension.  Torpedoing reports:  
    Tanker "San Demetrio" (8,073 BRT) in CA 8244 (U 404)
    Tanker "Austrailia" (11,628 BRT) in CA 7991 (U 124)
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) As U 209 - 655 - 378 - 376 - are en route for Arctic, the 3 boats stationed in Herbrides-Iceland area, U 87 - 593 - 753 are permitted to operate freely.  They are given freedom of movement in whole area AM north of latitude 550 N.
  c) Escort duty U 202 according to plan.
       
- 131 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 404 reports 1 ship sunk.
    U 504 reports 1 ship 7,000 BRT sunk.
       
VI. General:
            In American waters at present there is a great scarcity of submarines.  In operations area there is only U 124 - 404 - 332 - 71.  In the next 7-10 days U 373 - 105 - 503 - 123 - and 160 are due to arrive.  This scarcity is due to withdrawal of U 87 - 753 - 593 - 569 - 135 - 701 and 553 to Iceland-Herbrides area to cover the drop in numbers there.  This removal is the more regrettable as the boats in question would have been in operations area at the new moon period.  Full moon period is unfavorable for necessary surface operations in an area where there is also night air patrol.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- DP 48
U 129
 - DO 88
U 373
- BB 99
U 588
- CC 26
 
68
 - Op(EV)
154
 - CF 32
404
 - CA 83 OP
593
 - Op(AM)
 
69
 - BF 67
155
 - CC 61
503
 - CC 27
594
 - Helgoland
 
71
 - CB 17
156
 - BF 67
504
 - DO 54
653
 - CE 11
 
87
 - Op(AM)
158
 - CA 96
505
 - Op(Freetown)
753
 - AL 66 Op
 
94
 - CB 58
160
 - BC 84
506
 - AM 19
754
 - BD 46
 
96
 - CB 81
161
 - ED 32
507
 - AM 11
A
 - BF 44
 
105
 - CC 72
162
 - BF 49
552
 - BC 68
   
 
123
 - CC 62
202
 - BE 96
571
 - BE 47
   
 
124
 - Op(CA)
203
 - BE 58
572
 - BF 48
   
 
126
 - DO 16
213
 - BF 42
578
 - BD 76
   
 
128
 - CE 16
332
 - Op(CB)
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 162 - 155 - 653 - 69 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 504 - 129 - 213 - 161.
  Sailed:  U 84 - Lorient.
  Entered Port:  U 156 - Lorient;  U 69 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 158 sighted aircraft carrier in CB 7272 at 1440, course 400, speed 16 knots.  No further report.
     Situation U 404:  In CB 63 - 61, CA 86 - 88, CA 87 - 53 no shipping on 200 meter line.  From CA 77 - 73 in vicinity of 20 meter line, medium traffic, ships well darkened; ceased for a while after sinkings. Neutral traffic continued as usual.  One destroyer distinguished.  Single depth charges dropped regularly after noon each day.  Fishing boats fitted with small cannons.  On 12.3 ore steamer sunk in CA 5186.  17.3 tanker"San Demetrio" sunk in CA 8163.  Protracted return passage with 51 cbm.
  b)  None.
       
- 132 -
 
 
     

     
     
 
  c) 1) USA tanker"Acme" 6,878 BRT torpedoes off Diamond Shoals.
    2) Submarine sightings:
      a) by USA tanker "Gulfwave" in CA 7991 (Cape Hatteras).
      b) by unknown ship in CA 53.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 202 freedom of action in CB and CC.  Indication of possible refueling by "UA" (see para. IVc).
    2) U 506 and U 507 received orders to proceed Lorient with all speed.
  c) U 202 reports failure to meet homeward-bound "Germania".  Strong westerly gale raged for four days at meeting point.
  d) Nothing.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 404 reports 2 ships of 14,073 BRT sunk.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
 - DP 19
U 129
 - EE 22
U 404
- CA 68
U 593
- Op(AM)
 
68
 - Op(EV)
154
 - CF 53
503
 - CC 42
594
 - AN 93
 
71
 - Op(CA)
155
 - CD 17
504
 - DO 37
653
 - CE 21
 
84
 - BF 50
158
 - CB 73
505
 - Op(Freetown)
753
 - Op(AM)
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CC 28
506
 - AL 62
754
 - BD 45
 
94
 - CB 64
161
 - DO 96
507
 - AM 26
A
 - BE 65
 
96
 - BD 83
162
 - BF 60
552
 - BC 83
   
 
105
 - CB 93
202
 - CD 28
571
 - BD 68
   
 
123
 - CC 53
203
 - BE 49
572
 - BE 69
   
 
124
 - Op(CA)
213
 - BF 46
578
 - BD 58
   
 
128
 - CE 23
332
 - Op(CB)
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
   
 
126
 - DO 23
373
 - CB 35
588
 - CC 36
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 213 - 161 - 156 - 67 - 128 - 404 - 162.
  Sailed:  U 334 - Kiel.
  Entered Port:  U 162 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 507 reports 0810 convoy No. 16 in sight position AM 4525, south westerly course, slow speed.  (see para. IVa)
    2) Situation report U 68:  Heavy traffic at intervals yesterday entering "Palmas" close inshore.  At the beginning
       
- 133 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      of every second week apparently a convoy assembly.  Fast land-based machines off "Palmas".
      Successes:  17th March, EU 8143 freighter, EU 8511 "Ile de Batx", EU 8513 "Scottish Prince", EU 8523 "Allende" sunk.  All ships returning from India.  120 cbm., 1 air driven, 2 electric torpedoes.  It has therefore paid to keep the boats (U 505 and 68) in this area.
  b) None.
  c) Submarine sightings:
    1) CA 53 (U 332 - 71?)
    2) CA 79 (U 124?)
    3) CA 5169 (U 332 - 71?)
    Submarine warnings:
    4) For area around "Cape Palmas" (sinkings of U 68)
    5) DC 1160
    6) English aircraft sighted suspicious patch of oil in AM 19 (U 87 - 593?)
    7) English aircraft together with destroyer ordered to attack submerged submarine in AL 6947 (U 507 - 753?)
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy No. 16:  Convoy sighting report from U 507 was first received at 1613 hours.  The boat was contacted during attack, and hunted with depth charges.  U 507 picked up contact again at 1924 in position AM 4723, course 2000, speed 7 knots.  U 507 then received orders to attack convoy, having reported his own position at 1756 hours as AM 4647.  At 0307 U 753 asked for D/F bearings.  U 507 continued to shadow until 0516 hours.
  b)- d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 68 reports 4 ships sunk, together 26,753 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- EP 23
U 129
- DO 92
U 503
- CB 63
U 594
- AN 34
 
68
 - Op(EV)
154
 - CF 51
504
 - DP 11
653
 - BD 98
 
71
 - Op(CA)
155
 - CD 24
505
 - Op(Freetown)
753
 - AL 92
 
84
 - BF 49
158
 - CB 59
506
 - AM 71
754
 - BC 64
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CC 19
507
 - AM 69
A
 - BE 59
 
94
 - CC 41
161
 - DP 49
552
 - BC 87
   
 
96
 - BE 48
202
 - CD 18
571
 - BD 59
   
 
105
 - CB 91
203
 - BE 47
   
   
 
- 134 -
  
     
     

 

     
     
 
 
 
 
123
 - CC 54
213
 - BF 60
572
 - BE 91
   
 
124
 - Op(CA)
332
 - Op(CB)
578
 - BD 65
   
 
126
 - DD 85
373
 - CB 28
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
   
 
128
 - BD 99
334
 - Brunsbüttel
588
 - CD 36
   
 
   
404
 - CB 47
593
 - Op(AM)
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 155 - 213 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 156 - 67 - 128 - 404.
  Sailed:  U 582 - Brest.
  Entered Port:  U 213 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 129 reports large 2 funnel steamer in DC 9642 at 1224, 3200, 19 knots.
    2) Convoy "U 507" see para. IVa.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Torpedoing or attacking reports
      USA tanker "W.E. Hutton" DC 1160.  Submarine warning.
      Steamer "Liberator" CA 7968.  Submarine warning.
      Tanker "Gulf of Mexico" DC 1160, tanker "Mercury Sun" DC 1160.
    2) Submarine sighting reports:
      Steamer "City of Exeter" EU 48 (U 505)
      Tanker "Chester Sun" CA 7938
      USA freighter CA 7991
      Steamer "Argon" DB 3390.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy No. 16:  U 506 - 507 - 753 searched in vain on west and southwest courses.  Position reports show that boats were proceeding at only about 5 knots.  They were given order to search on general course and at enemy speed up to 8 knots, U 753 on 2500, U 507 on 2250 and U 506 on 2000.  U 593 reported position AL 9617.  Contrary to original plan to break off operations on the evening of 19th, the four boats received orders to continue search until after dark on 20.3.
  b) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- 135 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
20.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
 - DE 86
U 129
- DO 96
U 503
- CB 64
U 593
- Op(AL)
 
68
 - Op(EV)
154
 - CF 47
504
 - DD 94
594
 - AN 28
 
71
 - Op(CA)
155
 - BD 76
505
 - Op(Freetown)
653
 - CE 13
 
84
 - BF 47
158
 - Cb 65
506
 - AL 97
753
 - AL 82
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CC 41
507
 - AL 98
754
 - BC 58
 
94
 - CC 19
161
 - DP 51
552
 - BC 18
A
 - BE 42
 
96
 - BE 58
202
 - Op(CB-CC)
571
 - BD 57
   
 
105
 - CB 85
203
 - BD 68
572
 - BE 82
   
 
123
 - CC 48
332
 - Op(CB)
578
 - BE 45
   
 
124
 - Op(CA)
373
 - Op(AM)
582
 - BF 50
   
 
126
 - DD 91
334
 - Helgoland
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
   
 
128
 - BE 59
404
 - CB 57
588
 - BC 86
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 156 - 67 - 128 - 404.
  Sailed:  - . -  
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) Submarine sighting reports:
      USA tanker "Argon" in DB 3390.
    2) Submarine warning in area CA 9619.
    3) Torpedo - distress - attacking reports:
      English tanker "Dairla" in CB 9144.
      "Monisa" in CA 4950.
    4) American Navy Office instructed all north and southbound shipping along the American coast to pass east of Diamond Shoals lightship at a distance of 15 miles, and to leave the coast at Cape Lookout and return at Wimble Shoals, and vice versa.  A minefield is probably suspected off Diamond Shoals.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Boats operating on Convoy No. 16 received orders to break off at dusk if no contact or information about enemy position.  U 593 in previous operations area, U 506 - 507 - and U 753 return passage to western France.  At 2337 U 507 reported six torpedoes fired at convoy, four probable hits.
  b) - c) None.
  d)  U 67 reports hole, hitherto unexplainable, in pressure hull caused by corrosion, bilges, battery II.  After sealing able to dive to 30 meters.
       
- 136 -
 
 
     

     
     
 
V. Reports of Success:
    U 507 reports 4 probable hits on convoy.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 67
- DE 68
U 129
- DO 36
U 503
- CB 58
U 593
- Op(AM)
 
68
 - Op(EV)
154
 - CE 68
504
 - DD 69
594
 - AF 70
 
71
 - Op(CA)
155
 - BD 83
505
 - Op(Freetown)
653
 - BD 97
 
84
 - BE 68
158
 - CC 42
506
 - AL 77
753
 - Op(AM)
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CB 62
507
 - AL 78
754
 - BC 73
 
94
 - CC 26
161
 - DE 88
552
 - BB 98
A
 - BD 62
 
96
 - BE 68
202
 - CC 29
571
 - BD 72
   
 
105
 - CB 76
203
 - BD 58
572
 - BE 49
   
 
123
 - CB 69
332
 - Op(CB)
578
 - BE 54
   
 
124
 - Op(CA)
334
 - Helgoland
582
 - BF 50
   
 
126
 - DD 65
373
 - Op(AM)
587
 - Op(BB-BC)
   
 
128
 - BE 69
404
 - CB 69
588
 - BC 93
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 588 - 155 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 156 - 67 - 128 - 404 - 506 - 507.
  Sailed:  U 66 - Lorient;  U 85 - St. Nazaire;  U 459 - Kiel;  U 654 - Brest;  U 657 - 702 - 703 - Hamburg;  U 455 - Bergen
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) Situation U 587:  operated from 11-17.3 in CC 20 and 30, passage over BC 80, 92 to 60 from 18-21.3.  Nothing sighted.  34 cbm.  On return passage.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Torpedoing reports:
      Tanker "Atlantic Sun" (11,600 tons) in DC 1460
      Unknown ship in CC 5456 (submarine warning).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d)  No report from U 503 since 10.3 in spite of repeated calls.  The loss of this boat must be reckoned with.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- 137 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
22.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BF 50
U 126
 - DE 17
U 404
- CC 43
U 587
- BC 69
 
67
 - DF 41
128
 - BF 49
455
 - AN 23
588
 - BD 49
 
68
 - Op(Freetown)
129
 - DD 86
459
 - Br'büttel
593
 - Op(AM)
 
71
 - Op(CA)
154
 - CE 83
504
 - DE 42
594
 - AF 77
 
84
 - BE 59
155
 - BD 93
505
 - Op(Freetown)
653
 - BD 96
 
85
 - BF 50
158
 - CC 25
506
 - BE 37
654
 - BF 60
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CB 56
507
 - BE 25
657
 - Helgoland
 
94
 - BC 87
161
 - DE 79
552
 - CC 11
702
 -         "
 
96
 - BF 47
202
 - CC 51
571
 - BC 98
703
 -         "
 
105
 - CA 99
203
 - BD 73
572
 - BD 69
753
 - BE 13
 
123
 - CB 93
332
 - Op(CA)
578
 - BE 64
754
 - BC 47
 
124
 - Op(CA)
334
 - AN 95
582
 - BF 49
A
 - BD 53
 
   
373
 - Op(CA)
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 507 - 506 - 753 - 653 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67 - 128.
  Sailed:  - . -  
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Situation report U 332:  Heavy coastal shipping from Cape Hatteras.  Medium sea and air patrol.  Shipping following new route since 22.3.
      Sunk:  4 mast schooner carrying dynamite on 13.3 in CA 86, also "Trepca" (5,042 BRT).
      16.3 tanker "Gallia" class (9,970 BRT) off Hatteras.
      19.3 freighter. both ships attacked during day.  Finally hunted with hydrophone and depth charges.
      22.3, 3 misses on tanker with sea way 5-6.
      Total of 22,016 BRT.
    2) U 404:  Homeward bound, sighted convoy No. 17 at 1500 in CC 5119, consisting of 2 cruisers, 6 destroyers, and 5 other large ships.  Course 2300, speed 12 knots.  Cruisers belonging to "Boise" class with 3 legged mast.  2 thuds heard after 52 seconds.  No explosions, probably pistol failures.  Continued passage on account of fuel supply.
  b)  None.
  c)  SSS report from "John Cabot" (939 BRT) in CA 4997, "Ohio" (9,625 BRT) in DC 1160, "Peter Hurll" (10,871 BRT) in DC 83.
     Attacking report:  "Pan Amoco" (9,862 BRT) in DB 97.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 505 freedom of action in area Lagos-Tacoradi.
  c) - d) None.
       
- 138 -
 
 
     

     
     
 
V. Reports of Success:
    U 332 - 4 ships - 22,016 BRT sunk.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BF 49
U 126
- DE 16
U 373
 - Op(CA)
U 582
- BF 47
 
67
 - DF 16
128
 - BF 60
404
 - CC 28
587
 - BD 49
 
68
 - Op(Freetown)
129
 - DD 93
455
 - AF 77
588
 - BD 58
 
71
 - Op(CA)
154
 - DC 21
459
 - Helgoland
593
 - Op(AM)
 
84
 - BE 57
155
 - BE 72
504
 - DE 27
594
 - AM 33
 
85
 - BF 49
158
 - CC 32
505
 - Op(Freetown)
653
 - BE 75
 
87
 - Op(AM)
160
 - CB 72
506
 - BF 41
654
 - BF 54
 
94
 - BC 87
161
 - BE 93
507
 - BE 38
657
 - Helgoland
 
96
 - BF 60
202
 - CC 42(Op)
552
 - CB 31
702
 - Helgoland
 
105
 - Op(CA)
203
 - BC 59
571
 - BC 88
703
 - Helgoland
 
123
 - CB 83
332
 - BC 69
572
 - BD 67
753
 - BE 29
 
124
 - Op(CA)
334
 - AN 34
578
 - BE 66
754
 - BB 90
 
   
   
   
A
 - BD 45
 
  On Return Passage:  U 506 - 753 - 332 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 96 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67 - 128 - 507.
  Sailed:  - . -  
  Entered Port:  U 128 - Lorient;  U 96 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 552 sighted convoy in CB 2984 at 0130 (Convoy No. 18) steering course 3000, then 2700 and last 2500, speed 12-14 knots heading into sea.  Boat had to break off pursuit in CB 5232.
    2) Situation report U 124:
      Heavy traffic off Hatteras, a number of tankers at intervals in mornings and evenings.  Night stretch from Hatteras to Cape Fear.  No night shipping between Cape Fear and Charleston.  Ships steering straight course from buoy to buoy.  No mines off Hatteras, so diversion is probably on account of wrecks or because the Americans suspect German mines.  Single destroyers occasionally patrol shipping route, air patrol towards evening.
      Sunk:
      14.3 tanker "British Resource" (7,209 BRT) in CB 7593.
      17.3 freighter "Ceiba" (1,698 BRT) in CA 8585.  One freighter of 3,000 BRT in CA 7893.
      18.3 freighter of 3,000 BRT in CA 7891.
      19.3 tanker "Papoose" (5,939 BRT) in CD 1168, tanker "W.E. Hutton" (7,076 BRT) in DC 1183.
       
- 139 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      21.3 tanker "Gulfring" class (10,208 BRT) in DC 1418.  Tanker "Atlantic Sun" (11,615 BRT) torpedoed.
      23.3 tanker (7,000 BRT) sunk in DC 1189.
      All torpedoes fired - on return passage.
    3) U 105 can reach operations area by 27.3 at the earliest, with 73 cbm.  High fuel consumption on account of continuous bad weather.  Use of electric diesels limited on account of high temperatures of batteries.  Operated twice on neutral shipping.  (Judging by the weather reports, boat sailed for Hatteras on a course about 600 south of the great circle.  Contrary to previous experience he found prevailing westerly winds in this area in January and February, and therefore consumed considerably more fuel than U 552 and 754, who in circle sailing met with very much better weather.)
  b) None.
  c) Torpedoing reports:
    "Peter Bogen" (not indexed) in DP 19 (Italian?).
    "Empire Steel" (8,150 BRT) in CB 8412 (U 123?).
    "Bayou-Chico" (5,401 BRT) in BB 90.
    Life boat and crew in BB 9114 (U 754?).
    Submarine sighting report from English aircraft in AM 0289 (U 87).
    Boats have received instructions concerning convoy which sailed from Halifax on 21.3 on following route:  BB 8748 - BB 8842 - BB 6695.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 105 - 123 - 160 given freedom of action along entire coastal area from New York to Florida Straits.
    2) U 455 and 594 received orders to sail for west coast of France with all speed, and will be detailed to American coastal areas as soon as possible.
  c) First refueling operation of UA is planned for U 203 at 1300/29.3 in BC 9455.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 124 9 ships sunk, totaling 53,130 BRT
      "      1 ship torpedoed, 11,615 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- BF 47
U 129
- DE 48
U 455
 - AM 32
U 588
- BD 91
 
67
 - DF 22
154
 - DG 14
459
 - Helgoland
593
 - AM 72
 
68
 - Op(Freetown)
155
 - BE 57
504
 - DE 34
594
 - AM 27
 
   
158
 - CD 12
   
653
 - BE 85
 
- 140 -
 
     
     

     
     
 
 
 
 
71
 - Op(CA)
160
 - Op(am. Küste)
505
 - Op(Freetown)
654
 - BE 66
 
84
 - BE 48
161
 - DF 48
506
 - BF 50
657
 - Helgoland
 
85
 - BE 68
202
 - Op(CB)
507
 - BF 50
702
 - Helgoland
 
87
 - AM 43
203
 - BC 94
552
 - CB 26
703
 - Helgoland
 
94
 - BC 97
332
 - CA 99
571
 - BC 79
753
 - BE 38
 
105
 - DC 33
334
 - AN 23
572
 - BD 58
754
 - BB 85
 
123
 - CB 81
373
 - Op(CA)
578
 - BF 50
A
 - BC 94
 
124
 - DC 21
404
 - CC 38
582
 - BE 65
   
 
126
 - DE 22
   
587
 - BD 58
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 455 - 594 - 507 - 506 - 753 - 87 - 332 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67 - 124.
  Sailed:  U 201 - Brest;  U 136 - 575 - St. Nazaire;  U 130 - Lorient.
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 19 see para. IVa.
    2) U 202 reports up to the present 1 tanker (10,000 BRT) sunk.  9 torpedoes left.  Position CC 52.  Refueling from UA has been provided for.
    3) U 587 sank drifting tanker of 12,000 BRT (of "Tanker Press" type without foremast) in BD 4226.
      Tanker had a large hole in the stern, perhaps caused by ramming.  Boat continued return passage, 1 air driven torpedo left.
  b) None.
  c) Submarine warnings:  EU 86 - EV 74 - EU 48 - EL 12(?).
    SSS reports from "Edward A. Messeck" in DC 11.
    USA tanker "Pan Rhode Island" (7,699 BRT) in DC 11.
    Torpedoing reports from English tanker "Narragansett" (10, 309 BRT) in DO 3345.
    On 23.3 English tanker "Athel Viking" (8,779 BRT) was probably in tow by an American unit.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy No. 19:  At 2230 U 94 sighted a convoy on southerly course and low speed in BC 6564.  On account of fuel supply boat could only shadow until 0600 hours.  Received orders to keep contact with convoy for U 203 which lay in the vicinity.  Eventual refuelling from UA arranged for.  Convoy consisted of 25 steamers in wide formation escorted by 5 destroyers .Course 220-2400, speed 8-9 knots.  U 94 attacked towards 0600 hours but was forced to retire, regaining contact about one hour later.  Last position BC 6768 at 0750 hours.
     This convoy was probably "ONS 77" which according to dead reckoning should also have been in this position.  It is
       
- 141 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     striking that each of the 4 last ONS-convoys have followed exactly the same route, employing circle-sailing.
    On an average the escort of these convoys has been 4-5 destroyers.
  b) 1) U 202 detailed operations area CC 10-20-40-50. (Further see para. IVc).
    2) U 105 remained stationary in CA 79 in order to conserve fuel, lying on the bottom during the day.
  c) Refueling operation between UA and 203 completed.  U 202 to be refueled next in CC 40.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 202 1 ship sunk 19,000 BRT.
    U 587 1 ship sunk 12,000 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CF 30
U 130
- BF 50
U 404
- CD 15
U 587
 - BD 34
 
67
 - BD 99
136
 - BF 50
455
 - AM 26
588
 - BE 56
 
68
 - Op(Freetown)
154
 - DF 62
459
 - Helgoland
593
 - AM 79
 
71
 - Op(CA)
155
 - BE 67
504
 - CE 26
594
 - AM 42
 
84
 - BD 69
158
 - BC 98
505
 - Op(Freetown)
653
 - BE 92
 
85
 - BE 59
160
 - Op(am. Küste)
506
 - BF 60
654
 - BF 61
 
87
 - AM 72
161
 - CD 69
507
 - BF 60
657
 - Helgoland
 
94
 - BC 67
201
 - vor Lorient
552
 - CB 42
702
 - Helgoland
 
105
 - DC 31
202
 - Op(CC)
571
 - CC 21
703
 - Helgoland
 
123
 - CB 74
203
 - BC 67
572
 - BD 49
753
 - BF 46
 
124
 - CA 97
332
 - CB 57
573
 - BF 50
754
 - BB 87
 
126
 - BE 71
334
 - AF 79
578
 - BF 60
A
 - BC 86
 
129
 - CD 86
373
 - Op(CA)
582
 - BE 56
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 455 - 594 - 507 - 506 - 593 - 753 - 87 - 124 - 332 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 578 - 158 - 126 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67.
  Sailed:  U 86 - Brest;  U 109 - Lorient.
  Entered Port:  U 507 - 506 - Lorient;  U 578 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 19 see para. IVa.
    2) Situation "U 71":
      Hatteras light out, stationary patrol.  Groups of ships in mornings and evenings with destroyer escort.  Medium active air patrol.
       
- 142 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Sunk:
      17.3 petrol tanker type "British Fidelity" (8,465 BRT) in CB 4941.
      20.3 USA "Oakmar" (5,766 BRT) in CA 9618.
      7 plus 2 torpedoes.
    3) U 332 - all torpedoes expended, sighted armed Russian (1,500 BRT) course 1850, 6 knots.
    4) U 68 reports convoy in EV 7533, consisting of 5 freighters, 3 escorts, course 200.  Spotted by land aircraft during submerged attack, and straddled with smoke bombs.  Forced to remain under water for 5 hours, but no depth charges.  (It was possibly an unreported French convoy.  Boats are aware nevertheless that French traffic is always to be expected in this area).
    5) U 455 on passage between Shetlands and Faroes reports nothing sighted in AM 31 apart from land-based aircraft.
  b) None.
  c) SSS report from motor tanker "Ocona" (6,256 BRT) in CB 1362; "Empire Piet" in BB 7773; unknown ship in CA 7399.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 19:  U 94 lost contact towards 1000 hours.  U 203 had arrived in the meanwhile and reported 1009 convoy in sight.  U 94 received orders to continue return passage, having only 2 stern torpedoes and short fuel supply.  Following ships sunk:  1 tanker (9,000 BRT) i freighter 8,000 BRT.  At 1140 U 203 reported convoy in BC 6785, speed 8 knots, course 2250; shadowed till 1715 in BC 9114.  Boat was forced off before attack, accurately contacted on hydrophones and received well aimed depth charges.  Contact lost and cannot be renewed until morning.  Boat in pursuit.
  b) None.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 471 - 2 ships sunk together 14,231 BRT.
       
VI. General:
            It is planned to relieve four boats belonging to Group York (U 701, U 135, U 569, U 552) by 4 from home i.e. U 334, U 657, U 702 and U 703.  The first to be replaced was U 135 by U 334, and has commenced return passage to west of France.
            Altogether 20 submarines are under command of Group North.  On review, the following picture of entire submarine situation presents itself:
     
Operational boats:
total
124
  
Atlantic:
84
  
Mediterranean:
20
  
Arctic area:
20
  
 
 
 
- 143 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
            That means 84 boats in the Atlantic.  During this month these boats have accounted for 520,000 BRT.  If one were able to include boats set aside for work in auxiliary theaters of war in the Atlantic, sinkings would reach at least the 800,000 ton mark.  Considering the fact that nearly all experienced commanders are at present operating in the Mediterranean one can reckon with a still higher figure.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CF 53
U 126
- BE 81
U 332
- CB 59
U 582
- BE 49
 
67
 - BE 78
129
 - CE 69
373
 - Op(CA)
587
 - BD 36
 
68
 - EV 70-Op
130
 - BF 49
404
 - CD 25
588
 - BE 65
 
71
 - Op(CA 79)
135
 - AM 32
455
 - AM 18
593
 - BF 42
 
84
 - BD 64
136
 - BF 49
459
 - Helgoland
594
 - AM 25
 
85
 - BE 57
154
 - DF 56
504
 - CF 12
653
 - BF 57
 
86
 - v. Lorient
155
 - BF 50
505
 - Op(Freetown)
654
 - BE 55
 
87
 - BF 50
158
 - BD 77
552
 - CA 63
701
 - AE 50
 
94
 - BB 71
160
 - Op(am. Küste)
553
 - AF 77
753
 - BF 60
 
105
 - Op(CA)
161
 - CE 43
569
 - AE 99
754
 - CB 21
 
109
 - BF 60
201
 - BF 60
571
 - CC 12
A
 - CC 35
 
123
 - CA 98
202
 - CC 54-Op
572
 - CD 28
   
 
124
 - CA 97
203
 - BC 80
575
 - BF 81
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 135 - 455 - 594 - 701 - 569 - 553 - 593 - 753 - 87 - 124 - 332 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 158 - 126 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67.
  Sailed:  U 252 - Kiel;  U 402 - St. Nazaire.
  Entered Port:  U 753 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 587 heard a fast convoy in BE 1970 on course 2000, and came in sight of same at 0800 in BE 4612.  Course south, speed 13 knots.
    2) U 701, up till now a member of Group York, reports strong sea and air patrol in area AE 50 (off Seydisfjord).  Probably unloading place in Fjord.
      Sunk:  1 freighter of 1,500 BRT, 1 patrol vessel, 2 A/S vessels.  
      Nothing sighted in Shetlands-Faroes area, numerous drifting mines.
    3) U 594 heard under-water explosions singly and in progression between 12-2100 on 25.3 in AM 24.
  b)  None.
  c) SOS from steamer "Carolyn" (3,209 BRT) in CA 9573.  Fore part of ship ablaze, torpedo attack completed.
     SSS from "Hamlin F. McCormick" (3,337 BRT) in CA 7695.
       
- 144 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  As U 203 established no contact with convoy, received orders to continue passage for operations area.
  c)  Refueling of U 202 by UA arranged for 28.3 at 1230 hours in CC 4955.
  d) U 552 - 701 - 569 (boats belonging to Group York) received orders for return passage to west of France with all speed.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 701, 1 freighter sunk - 1,500 BRT.
                 1 patrol ship - 2 A/S boats sunk.
       
VI. General:
            The Hitler decree that all submarine control stations shall occupy positions from which they will be able to direct forces under their control under any circumstances, means that our own control station will have to move.  Removal to station being prepared in Paris will be arranged.
            This regrettable step back where administration is concerned, since the direct contact with the front, that is, the personal touch between Commanding Officer and his operational boats and crews, will not be possible to anything like the same extent from Paris.
            I intend to find out immediately which area can be considered sufficiently secure and as soon as possible fit up and occupy a control station as far forward as possible; at the moment I am considering area around Angers.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
 - CF 54
U 130
- BF 72
U 504
- BE 87
U 701
 - AE 86
 
67
 - BE 87
135
 - AM 42
505
 - Op(Freetown)
754
 - CB 27
 
68
 - EU 90
154
 - DF 84
552
 - CA 67
A
 - CC 52
 
71
 - CA 79
155
 - BF 60
553
 - AM 32
402
 - BF 60
 
84
 - BD 85
158
 - BD 48
569
 - AM 25
   
 
85
 - BE 48
160
 - Op
571
 - CB 65
   
 
86
 - BF 57
161
 - CE 37
572
 - CC 39
   
 
87
 - BF 60
201
 - BF 49
575
 - BF 49
   
 
94
 - BD 49
202
 - CC 49
582
 - BE 47
   
 
105
 - Op
203
 - BC 76
587
 - BD 46
   
 
109
 - BF 81
252
 - Br'büttel
588
 - BF 60
   
 
123
 - CA 88
338
 - CB 66
593
 - BF 57
   
 
124
 - CB 74
373
 - Op
594
 - AM 18
   
 
126
 - BF 47
402
 - BF 50
653
 - BF 17
   
 
129
 - EE 49
404
 - BD 57
654
 - BE 43
   
 
   
455
 - AM 45
   
   
 
   
459
 - Helgoland
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 135 - 455 - 594 - 701 - 569 - 553 - 593 - 753 - 87 - 124 - 332 - 404 - 587 - 94 - 588 - 155 - 158 - 126 - 653 - 504 - 129 - 161 - 67.
       
- 145 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  Sailed:  - . -
  Entered Port:  U 87 - Brest;  U 588 - St. Nazaire;  U 155 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Situation report U 373:  No shipping observed in EA.  On passage out no patrol, on return both sea and air patrol confirmed.
      Sunk:
      17.3 in CB 3818 freighter of 5,000 BRT.
      22.3 in CA 6593 "Thursa Bank" 5,570 BRT.
    2) U 68 Guinea coast area.  Apart from convoy reported (see 25.3 IIIa 4) no traffic.
    3) U 505, 15-19.3 in EU 40 and ET 60 right half.  Medium air activity.  16.3 2 shots missed at freighter in ET 6690.  2 patrol vessels in (SU) (probably EU) 4730.  20-25.3 in ET 20 no traffic.  Plan to operate in EU 80.
    4) U 503 reports 3 English destroyers and 10 MTBs in BF 5468 on westerly course at 0720.  It is probable that this formation was returning from a mine-laying expedition off the French-Biscay coast.
  b) None.
  c) SSS and submarine sighting reports in DC 5334, CA 7381, and DB 98.  Addition to last report:  submarine leaving long trail of oil (probably none of our own boats in this square).  At 1325 English aircraft was sent on to submarine, which had been reported at 0906 in BE 4616.
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy U 587:  Boat received orders to shadow as long as possible.  Other boats in favorable position for this fast convoy to operate and report so doing by short position signal.  No reports were received.  U 587 was asked for position report during night.  No reply.
  b) - c) None.
  d) Attack on St. Nazaire.
     0250  28.3 - St. Nazaire reported by telephone landing operations by 20 enemy cruisers and destroyers.
    0254 - St. Nazaire lay under heavy gun fire, under impression enemy was about to carry out still larger operations with heavy units.
     0331 - W/T message to all boats east of 290 west.  Make for St. Nazaire with all speed, enemy landing in progress.
 
 
- 146 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
     Orders addressed for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th and 10th submarine flotillas.
    Proceed according to instructions given in B.d.U.'s Most Secret 1035 of 14.3.1942.  (Flotillas state readiness.  Boats ready for departure to put to sea immediately for battle in coastal waters; take measures to prevent boats falling into enemy hands, if necessary sink them.  Remove secret document or arrange for their destruction as the case may be.)  S.O. 7th Submarine Flotilla reported soldiers of the 7th and 10th Submarine Flotillas on way from La La Baule to La Rochebernard with all secret documents belonging to all boats in the flotilla.  Town in enemy hands.  Fighting in the harbor.
    Received orders to get through to the submarine pens and organize a defense.
     From reports received later it became apparent it was only a raid carried out by light forces.
    Our own air reconnaissance was due to fly at dawn.  Only single light units were sighted.
    U 109, 130, 654, 85 and 582 immediately received orders to continue westward passage, and at 0930 after conference with Group West this order was extended to all outward bound boats.
     So far as can be assessed no damage was done to the working of the 7th and 10th submarine flotillas.  No losses, no boats damaged.
    This attack on St. Nazaire underlines the necessity of removing the B.d.U. control station to a less dangerous position.  Certainly the control station has been safeguarded in the same way as a base for some time, with barbed wire, light weapons and attached (local defense) company, but in spite of this it would not have been equal to a raid carried out with similar strength as that on St. Nazaire.
     The removal to Paris will be hastened accordingly.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 373 2 ships sunk, together 10,570 BRT.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CF 72
U 135
- AM 48
U 505
- Op(Freetown)
U 754
 - CB 17
 
67
 - BE 89
136
 - BE 62
552
 - Op area
A
 - CC 49
 
68
 - EU 90
154
 - BF 78
553
 - AM 26
402
 - BF 58
 
71
 - CA 79
158
 - BD 57
569
 - AM 17
   
 
84
 - BD 37
160
 - Op area
571
 - CB 55
   
 
85
 - BD 69
161
 - BE 89
572
 - CC 29
   
 
86
 - BF 45
201
 - BF 47
575
 - BE 92
   
 
94
 - BD 58
202
 - CC 49
582
 - BD 68
   
 
105
 - Op(CA)
203
 - BC 77
587
 - BD 46 ?
   
 
109
 - BF 71
252
 - Helgoland
593
 - BF 60
   
 
123
 - Op area
332
 - CC 46
594
 - AM 42
   
 
124
 - CB 84
   
   
   
 
- 147 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
 
126
 - BF 55
373
 - CB 44
653
 - BF 54
   
 
129
 - CE 53
404
 - BD 55
654
 - BE 41
   
 
130
 - BF 95
455
 - AM 78
701
 - AM 12
   
 
   
459
 - Helgoland
   
   
 
   
504
 - BE 89
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 124 - 332 - 129 - 161 - 158 - 94 - 404 - 587 - 504 - 67 - 653 - 126 - 593 - 455 - 135 - 594 - 569 - 701 - 553.
  Sailed:  U 593 - St. Nazaire.
  Entered Port:  U 752 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)
U 71 petrol tanker of 7,000 BRT sunk in CA 7992 on 26.3.
U 160 sank armed coastal freighter or patrol boat of 1,500 BRT in CA 8454 on 27.3.
U 105 sank tanker "Narragansett" 10,389 BRT in CB 7779 on 24.3. Tanker of 7,000 BRT, probably "Scott Isle" class on 26.3.  Also freighter of 4,000 BRT in DC 3126, though sinking a matter of doubt.
U 754 tanker of 10,000 BRT sunk in BB 8631 on 23.3.  Tanker was on course for Cape Race.
U 553 Situation report:  In AM strong sea and air patrol only on 11.3, otherwise nothing sighted in vicinity of coast.  In area AF 17 between 12 and 26.3 medium air activity, drifting mines.  Bad weather, no fix for 12 days.
  b) None.
  c) SSS report from cable ship "Worseman" 1,844 BRT in DO 69 (not a German submarine).
    SSS from unknown ship in DB 3660.  
    Submarine warning:  according to American report "Ocana" drifting in CB 2441 (boats received report).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U 582 received detailed instructions for homeward escort of "Rio Grande" meeting point CD 6579 on 3.4.  Boat to wait there until 7.4.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 71 petrol tanker 7,000 BRT sunk.
       
- 148 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    U 160 armed coastal freighter 1,500 BRT sunk.
    U 105 2 ships 17,309 BRT sunk.
    U 105 1 ship 4,000 BRT, sinking doubtful.
    U 754 1 ship 10,000 BRT sunk.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
- CE 98
U 126
- BF 60
U 332
- CC 55
U 572
- CC 27
 
67
 - BF 49
129
 - CE 39
373
 - CB 54
575
 - BE 59
 
68
 - EU 86
130
 - CF 36
402
 - BF 49
582
 - BD 83
 
71
 - CA 76
135
 - BE 33
404
 - BD 69
587
 - BE 56
 
84
 - CD 76
136
 - BE 62
455
 - BF 67
594
 - BF 57
 
85
 - BD 85
154
 - DQ 35
459
 - Helgoland
653
 - BF 60
 
86
 - BE 69
158
 - BF 54
504
 - BE 96
654
 - BD 63
 
94
 - BD 92
160
 - Op(CA 81)
505
 - Op(Freetown)
701
 - AM 01
 
105
 - CA 99
161
 - CF 22
552
 - Op(CA 57)
752
 - BF 67
 
109
 - BE 92
201
 - BE 65
553
 - AM 74
754
 - CA 67
 
123
 - CA 87
202
 - CC 49
569
 - AM 48
A
 - CC 49
 
124
 - CB 91
203
 - CC 11
571
 - CB 46
   
 
   
252
 - Helgoland
   
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 124 - 332 - 129 - 161 - 158 - 94 - 404 - 587 - 504 - 67 - 455 - 135 - 594 - 569 - 701 - 553.
  Sailed:  U 576 - St. Nazaire.
  Entered Port:  U 126 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:  
  a) - b) None.
  c)  Submarine sighted in ET 68 and CA 84.  Unknown ship sent SSS in CA 84, also English steamer "Hertford" (11,785 tons); ship was torpedoed in CB 27.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d)  Boats received details of areas endangered by mines, caused by the exploding of an English destroyer off St. Nazaire with captured material aboard.
     Area 1:
      Between 470 N - 50 30 mins. W,
      470 30 mins. N - 50 30 mins. W,
      470 40 mins. - 70 20 mins. W,
      480 20 mins. N - 70 20 mins. W
       
- 149 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     Area 2:
      Between 480 N - 90 W
      490 N - 100 W
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:
            From 29.3 in the morning onwards control station in Paris will be ready to take over control with Chief of Operational Division, 2 staff officers and after transference of practically all material.  Switch-over is scheduled for 1000 hours on 30.3.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
 - CF 95
U 129
- CF 22
U 332
- CC 65
U 575
- BE 94
 
67
 - BF 64
130
 - CF 37
373
 - CB 64
576
 - BF 64
 
68
 - EU 86
135
 - BF 41
402
 - BF 47
582
 - BD 88
 
71
 - CA 76
136
 - BE 53
404
 - BE 48
587
 - BE 66
 
84
 - CC 66
154
 - DQ 53
455
 - BF 60
654
 - BD 53
 
85
 - BD 75
158
 - BF 45
459
 - AN 93
701
 - AM 48
 
86
 - BE 67
160
 - CA 84
504
 - BF 73
594
 - BF 60
 
94
 - BE 47
161
 - BE 97
505
 - EU 71
653
 - Lorient
 
105
 - CA 99
201
 - BE 56
552
 - CA 57
752
 - BF 57
 
109
 - BE 83
202
 - CC 49
553
 - BE 33
754
 - CA 54
 
123
 - CA 87
203
 - CB 31
569
 - AM 78
A
 - CC 49
 
124
 -  
252
 -  
571
 -  
   
 
   
   
572
 -  
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 373 - 124 - 332 - 129 - 161 - 158 - 94 - 404 - 587 - 504 - 67 - 135 - 569 - 701 - 553.
  Sailed:  U 108 - Lorient;  U 333 - La Pallice.
  Entered Port:  U 655 - Brest;  455 - 594 - St. Nazaire;  U 67 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 105, CA 98 and 99 and DC 31 and 32 crossroads of medium sometimes heavy shipping traffic proceeding in SW-NE and SE-NW directions.
    2) U 372 reports tanker in CC 4671, course 900, speed 17 knots.
    3) U 68 sighted convoy at 1000, 5 steamers, speed 9 knots.  Convoy dispersed at 1330 in ET 9683, and proceeded on individual courses to Capetown.
  b)  None.
  c) Radio intercept reports:
    American tanker "Mana" reported submarine attack, probably in AC 68 (Arctic).
     SSS from British "Sarpedon" 11,321 BRT in DC 1137.
       
  d)  None.
       
- 150 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d) 1) U 202 received 30 cbm oil and 2 weeks provisions from UA.
    2) Boats have been warned of increased danger from English submarines and English minefields in the Bay of Biscay - information found aboard an English destroyer.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 68 "Muncaster Castle" - 5,880 BRT.
       
VI. General:
            From 1000 hours Paris took over control, Commanding Officer arrived in Paris in the evening after visiting St. Nazaire.
            The transfer took place quickly and without a hitch, it could not even have been noticed by the boats at sea.  B.d.U.'s control W/T station remained in Kernevel.  The delay in radio messages caused by teleprinter transmission runs at about 10 minutes, and will be reduced asa soon as the order transmission system has been worked in.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.March 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
 - CE 89
U 124
- CC 93
U 252
- AN 34
U 571
- Op(CA 50)
 
68
 - ET 96
129
 - BE 89
332
 - CD 18
572
 - CC 46
 
71
 - Op(amerikan Küste)
130
 - CF 55
333
 - BF 67
575
 - BE 85
 
84
 - CC 65
135
 - BF 40
373
 - CB 64
576
 - BF 57
 
85
 - BC 96
136
 - BE 51
402
 - BF 68
582
 - CE 15
 
86
 - BE 58
154
 - DE 79
404
 - BE 47
654
 - BD 78
 
94
 - BE 49
158
 - BF 64
459
 - AN 34
701
 - BF 40
 
105
 - CB 79
160
 - Op(am. Küste)
504
 - BF 40
752
 - BF 48
 
108
 - BF 67
161
 - BF 74
505
 - Op(Freetown)
754
 - Op(CA 50)
 
109
 - BE 83
201
 - BE 54
552
 - Op(CA 50)
A
 - CC 45
 
123
 - Op(am. Küste)
202
 - CC 45
553
 - BF 44
   
 
   
203
 - CB 21
569
 - BE 63
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 94 - 105 - 124 - 129 - 135 - 158 - 161 - 332 - 373 - 404 - 504 - 553 - 569 - 701.
  Sailed:  U 98 - St. Nazaire.  
  Entered Port:  U 158 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
       
- 151 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) USA ore steamer "Mangore" sighted submarine in DM 2350; submarine warning for CA 3150 - BB 8751.
      Submarine attacks reported by American tanker "Mana" in AC 68, and unknown ship in DC 1180.  
      SSS from English turbine steamer "Sarpedon" (11,321 BRT) in DC 1137.
      SSS and SOS from USA tanker "T.CMC. Cobb" (7,452 BRT) in EP 62 (Italian?)
    2) 25-30 ships left Freetown for USA between 1.4 and 3.4 cargo consisting largely of ores.
    3) Entries to the Gulf of Paria (Trinidad) closed since 1.4.  Controlled entry at Boca de Navios, only to be used during the day.  Other entrance endangered by mines.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) U 202 ordered to proceed CA 79.  Attention is drawn to heavy traffic along coast, and situation report of U 105.
  c) U 84 and UA scheduled to be in CC 4855 at 1200/2/4 for refueling operations.
  d) As U 587 has not yet reported, and is overdue in port, boat must be reckoned as lost.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:  None.
       
       
       
       
       
                                                             (signed)  Dönitz
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
- 152 -