U-402 - 3rd War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
St. Nazaire
26 March 1942
St. Nazaire
20 May 1942
56

 

Click the icon to download a KMZ file displaying the U-boat track, significant events and locations for this patrol.  You must have Google Earth loaded on your computer to view this file.  Download Google Earth here

 

Ships Attacked
Date
KTB Time
Position
Ship
Tons
Nationality
Convoy
13 Apr 42
23.26 to
40°39'N, 51°50'W
EMPIRE PROGRESS
5,249
British
ON-80
14 Apr 42
00.24
         
30 Apr 42
03.36
34°09'N, 76°14'W
ASHKHABAD
5,284
Soviet Union
2 May 42
06.41
33°15'N, 75°26'W
USS CYTHERA (PY-26)
602
American
     
 Total = 11,135
   
Note:  The positions in the table above and in the Google Earth patrol summary are derived from the KTB and in many cases do not match those set forth in authoritative references such as Jürgen Rohwer, Axis Submarine Successes of World War Two or the Uboat.net website.  The goal here is to present the picture relative to the U-boat and not the absolute position that the ship was attacked or sank.


 
 
           
           
           
           
                                                     
           
                                         
           
                                            K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h  
                                           = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =  
                  of  
                                 U  n  t  e  r  s  e  e  b  o  o  t  e  s  "  U  4  0  2  "  
                                 = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =  
           
     
   
 
 
 
                  Beginning:             12 February 1942
                  Ending:                  20 May 1942
 
 
                         Kommandant:        Kaptlt. Baron von Forstner.  
           
           
     
  Distribution:  
  3. Unterseebooteflottille, Copy No. 1
  Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote, Copy No. 2
  2. Admiral der Unterseeboote Copy No. 3
  Oberkommando der Kriegsmarine Copy No. 4 + 5
 
           
     
  Enclosures:  
  1.)  1 Track chart For copy No. 1-4
  2.)  10 Torpedo shooting reports For copy No. 1-2
  3.)  1 Summary of the General Radio Log For copy No. 1-4
  4.)  Original General Radio Log For copy No. 1
  5.)  Original of the Officer-Only Radio Log For copy No. 1
  6.)  7 Combat sketches For copy No. 1
  7.)  Record of enemy statements For copy No. 1-5
 
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
- 1 -
 
           
           
           
           
    12.02 - 26.03.42 St. Nazaire Shipyard overhaul and outfitting.  
                                                      
    26.03.42      
    17.20   Cast off from the St. Nazaire lock.  
    17.50   Taken in convoy.  
    19.55   Released from convoy at Point Nanni 1.  
    20.00 BF 6439 Test dive, proceeded submerged until darkness.  
    21.25 BF 6463 Surfaced, proceeded on the surface at HF.  
    22.00 SE 1, Sea 0    
    24.00 BF 6495    
                                                      
    27.03.42      
    04.00 BF 6752    
      SE 1, Sea 0, overcast    
    07.40   Crash dive for training, proceeded submerged.  
    12.00 BF 9122 Day's run:  Surfaced 124 nm, Submerged 16.5 nm.  
    15.00 - 15.08   Surfaced to ventilate.  
    16.00 BF 9111    
    20.00 BF 8331    
    21.50   Surfaced, continued western transit.  
    24.00 BF 8313    
      W 2, Sea 1    
                                                      
    28.03.42      
    03.42   Radio Message to all boats east of 29°W:  
        Head for BF 6510 at highest speed.  English landing at St. Nazaire.  
        Heading directly to the ordered square at 2 x GF.  
    04.00 BF 8234    
      WNW 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
   

07.41

 

08.05

  Radio Message:  English attack at St. Nazaire by destroyer and fast boats finished, is repulsed.  Air reconnaissance at dawn.  Further orders based on reconnaissance results.  Because immediate operations off St. Nazaire are no longer expected, again came to westerly course at LF.  Dived at dawn and at periscope depth for long wave reception.  
    10.05   Radio Message:  Outbound boats continue westerly transit.  Orders to head for BF 6510 are cancelled.  
        Continued westerly transit.  
    12.00 BF 5854 Day's run:  Surfaced 114 nm, Submerged 42 nm.  
    14.15   Radio Message:  . . . . Forstner immediately report position.  
    15.05   To B.d.U.:  My position is BF 5846.  
    16.00 BF 5848    
    18.08   Radio Message:  Confirmation of the Short Signal, serves as passing report.  
    20.00 BF 5769    
    21.30   Surfaced, proceeded on the surface.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.42
 
- 2 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    28.03.42      
    24.00 BF 5767 While proceeding submerged up to 18.50 hours numerous underwater detonations heard, also a few times propeller sounds (turbines), nothing made out in the periscope.  
      W 1-2, Sea 2  
                                                      
    29.03.42      
    04.00 BF 5773 Switched to Ireland Circuit  per Serial No. 187, per Serial No. 44 monitored Coastal Circuit.  
      W 2, Sea 2, 6/10    
    08.00 BF 4995 Crash dive for training.  Proceeded submerged.  
    12.00 BF 4986 Day's run:  Surfaced 74 nm, Submerged 40.5 nm.  
      W 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
    14.10 - 14.20 BF 4985 Surfaced to ventilate.  
    16.00 BF 4985    
    19.20 - 19.30 BF 4975 Ventilated the boat.  
    21.30 BF 4978 Surfaced, proceeded on the surface.  
    24.00 BF 4899    
                                                      
    30.03.42      
    04.00 BF 7232    
    08.00 BF 7213 Crash dive for training, proceeded submerged.  
      SW 2, Sea 3, overcast    
    12.00 BF 7214 Day's run:  Surfaced 75 nm, Submerged 39.5 nm.  
    15.15 - 15.30 BF 7135    
      WSW 3, Sea 3, overcast Ventilated the boat.  
    16.00 BF 7135    
    20.00 BF 7126    
    21.30 BF 7124 Surfaced, continued westerly transit.  
    24.00 BF 7118 Throughout the day on various occasions distant underwater detonations heard.  
      WSW 3, Sea 3-4, overcast  
                                                      
    31.03.42      
    04.00 BE 9337    
    08.00 BE 9351    
    12.00 BE 9266 Day's run:  Surfaced 95 nm, Submerged 29.2 nm.  
      WSW 3, S 3-4, 8/10    
    16.00 BE 9255    
    20.00 BE 9248    
    24.00 BE 9167    
      SW 3, Sea 2-3, overcast    
                                                      
    01.04.42      
    04.00 BE 9181    
    08.00 BE 9174    
    12.00 BE 8394 Day's run:  Surfaced 144 nm.  
      W 2-3, Sea 2, 6/10    
    13.25 - 14.20 BE 8388 Crash dive for training, drills.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 29.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 31.03.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.04.42
 
- 3 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    01.04.42      
    16.00 BE 8387    
      W 2-3, Sea 2, 6/10    
    20.00 BE 8299    
    24.00 BE 8522    
                                                      
    02.04.42      
    04.00 BE 8511    
    08.00 BE 8426    
    12.00 BE 8418 Day's run:  Surfaced 154.5 nm, Submerged 5.5 nm.  
      SW 2, Sea 3, 6/10    
    14.00 - 14.15 BE 8417 Crash dive for training, torpedoes reloaded.  
    16.00 BE 7639    
      SW 4, Sea 4, 8/10    
    20.00 BE 7629    
      SW 4, Sea 4, 7/10    
    20.20 BE 7628 2 destroyers sighted bearing 170°T on northeasterly course, maneuver ahead failed, bearing shifted ahead, speed was too great, no zig zags.  Submerged to let the destroyers pass and determine if a convoy still follows.  
    20.42   Crash dive, went to periscope depth,. a destroyer A-I Class passes about 8000 meters distant, except for the destroyer, no other sound bearings.  
    21.17 BE 7634 Surfaced.  Destroyer passes out of sight with stern target angle bearing 40°T, no further traffic seen.  
    21.35   Went to old course, continued westerly transit.  
        Outgoing Radio Message:  2 destroyers, high speed, northeast course, naval square BE 7652, SW 4, Sea 4, overcast, 1027 mb falling.  
    24.00 BE 7628    
      SW 4-5, Sea 4, overcast    
                                                      
    03.04.42      
    04.00 BE 7619    
    08.00 BE 7563    
    12.00 BE 7553 Day's run:  Surfaced 102.9 nm, Submerged 10 nm.  
      SW 2, Sea 2, 5/10    
    15.05 - 15.30 BE 7546 Crash dive for training, test dive.  
    16.00 BE 7546    
    20.00 BE 7466    
      SW 4, Sea 4, overcast    
    24.00 BE 7459    
      SSW 6, Sea 4, overcast    
                                                      
    04.04.42      
    04.00 BE 7449    
    08.00 BD 9693    
      W 4, Sea 3-4, overcast    
    12.00 BD 9683 Day's run:  Surfaced 129.3 nm, Submerged 2 nm.  
      W 3, Sea 4, 4/10    
    14.00   Crash dive for training, drills.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 02.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 03.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.04.42
 
- 4 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    04.04.42      
    16.00 BD 9676    
      W 5, Sea 3-4, 5/10    
    16.50 BD 9679 Signal traffic with "U-332".  
    20.00 BD 9596    
    24.00 BD 9589    
      W 2, Sea 3, 5/10    
                                                      
    05.04.42      
    04.00 BD 9812    
    08.00 BD 9733    
      SW 4-5, Sea 3, 5/10    
    12.00 BD 9725 Day's run:  Surfaced 143.8 nm, Submerged 5.5 nm.  
    16.00 BD 9715    
      W 6, Sea 5-6, 7/10    
    20.00 BD 8936    
    24.00 BD 8929    
      W 4, Sea 4, 6/10    
                                                      
    06.04.42      
    04.00 BD 8919    
    08.00 BD 8941    
      SW 4-5, Sea 5, 4/10    
    12.00 BD 8861 Day's run:  Surfaced 108 nm.  
      SW 3, Sea 3, 5/10    
    13.30 - BD8855 Crash dive for training, torpedoes ventilated.  
    15.00 BD8854    
    16.00 BD 8854    
      NW 4, Sea 3, 3/10    
    20.00 BD 8769    
    24.00 BD 8782    
                                                      
    07.04.42      
    04.00 BD 8774    
    08.00 BD 7997    
      W 2-3, Sea 2, 5/10    
    12.00 BD 7987 Day's run:  Surfaced 158.5 nm, Submerged 6.5 nm.  
    14.20 - 15.10 CE 1112 Crash dive for training, drills.  
    16.00 CE 1111    
      SW 2, Sea 3, overcast    
    20.00 CD 3325    
    24.00 CD 3315    
      W 4, Sea 4, 8/10    
                                                      
    08.04.42      
    04.00 CD 3234    
    08.00 CD 3227    
      W 3-4, Sea 2, overcast    
    12.00 CD 3163 Day's run:  Surfaced 129 nm, Submerged 4 nm.  
    14.20 - 15.30 CD 3153 Crash dive for training, drills.  
    16.00 CD 3152    
      W 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 05.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 07.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.42
 
- 5 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    08.04.42      
    20.00 CD 2366    
    24.00 CD 2354    
      W 0-1, Sea 1, overcast    
                                                      
    09.04.42      
    04.00 CD 2269    
    08.00 CD 2259    
      SW 4, Sea 3-4, overcast    
    12.00 CD 2273 Day's run:  Surfaced 123.4 nm, Submerged 6 nm.  
    13.00 - 17.30 CD 2271 Crash dive for training, regulating the torpedoes.  
      W 7, Sea 6, overcast    
    20.20 CD 2195 Boat can barely make way, dived to proceed submerged.  
    24.00 - 00.15 CD 2186 Surfaced to ventilate.  
                                                      
    10.04.42      
    04.00 CD 2104    
    04.55 - CD 2184 Surfaced for long wave program time, still no improvement in the weather.  
    06.20 CD 2176  
      W 9, Sea 7, overcast    
    12.00 - CD 2177 Day's run:  Surfaced 15.7 nm, Submerged 56.2 nm.  
    13.40 CD 1399 Surfaced for long wave program time, compressor employed.  
    16.00 CD 1398    
    19.30 - 20.45 CD 1389 Surfaced to ventilate and charge.  
      W 8, Sea 7, overcast Dived for repairs due to diesel breakdown.  
    22.10 CD 1388 Surfaced after diesel repairs, charging continued.  
                                                      
    11.04.42      
    01.00 CD 1627 Dived to proceed submerged.  
      NW 9, Sea 8, overcast    
    04.00 CD 1615    
    08.25 - 08.45 CD 1611 Surfaced to ventilate, wind has abated somewhat, hope we can continue on the surface at noon.  
    12.00 CD 1538 Day's run:  Surfaced 18 nm, Submerged 54.4 nm.  
    13.00 W 4, Sea 3-4, overcast Surfaced, proceeded on the surface.  
    16.00 CD 1524    
    20.00 CD 1459    
    24.00 CD 1451    
      E 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
                                                      
    12.04.42      
    04.00 CC 3663    
    08.00 CC 3654    
      SW 3, Sea 3, overcast    
    12.00 CC 3566 Day's run:  Surfaced 154 nm, Submerged 3 nm.  
      SW 3-4, Sea 4, overcast    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 12.04.42
 
- 6 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    12.04.42      
    16.00 CC 3559    
    20.00 CC 3549    
    24.00 CC 3492    
      WSW 3, Sea 2-3, overcast    
                                                      
    13.04.42      
    04.00 CC 3481    
    08.00 CC 3474    
      SW 3, Sea 2-3, 8/10    
    12.00 CC 2686 Day's run:  Surfaced 128 nm.  
    13.17 - 14.50   Crash dive for training, drills.  
    16.00 CC 2921    
      SW 2, Sea 2, 6/10    
    20.00 CC 2834    
    22.30   Radio Message:  . . . . "U-402" report weather tomorrow between 01.00 and 05.00 hours.  
    20.50 CC 2825 Smoke cloud in sight briefly bearing 80°T, turned towards, recognized mast.  Determined shift, began maneuver ahead.  During temporary loss of power and stopping of both diesels turned away, steamer was lost from sight in a rain squall, from plotted information enemy's course 225°, 9 knots, ran ahead to calculated position and dived, nothing head, surfaced after all around sweep.  Steamer comes out of a rain squall at very sharp target angle distance 4 nm.  Investigation of the sound gear results in a malfunction, which can be repaired.  
   

 

NW 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. heavily changing, rain showers

 
         
    22.40 CC 2828  
    23.07 CC 2855  
         
         
    23.08 CC 2855 Crash dive, initiated attack.  Steamer zig zags away before the shot, therefore decided on a two-fan.  
        Normal freight steamer, 2 masts, 1 smokestack, armament astern, no markings or flag, estimated at 5000 GRT.  
    23.26 CC 2855 2 fan from tube I and III, depth 4 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, bow left target angle 90°, speed 9 knots, range = 800 meters, enemy length 100 meters.  
        After 57 seconds an impact, shortly thereafter a somewhat faint crack, no detonation.  Initially nothing to note on the steamer then, however, stops, blows off steam and stops crosswise to the sea, must be damaged.  Pistol failure.  
                                                      
    14.04.42      
        While comparing before the coup de grace a difference of 13° was determined between fire control computer and the boat-fixed setting circle in the attack periscope, I decide on a zero angle shot, also set the periscope to zero.  
    00.17 CC 2854 Single shot without fire control computer from tube II, depth 3 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, lead angle 0°, miss.  Torpedo Officer sees the periscope did not stay on 0°.  Investigation showed, that the  
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 09.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.04.42
 
- 7 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    14.04.42      
        boat-fixed setting circle was not screwed down, while moving the retaining ring the setting circle unintentionally turned.  Material technical report submitted.  Because angle settings from the periscope to the fire control computer are perfect, I shoot with the fire control computer.   
    00.24 CC 2854 Single shot from tube IV.  Depth 2 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, lead angle 0°.  
   

 

 

00.32

 

 

CC 2854

After 55 seconds a detonation.  Hit at the after mast, heavy black detonation cloud.  Steamer quickly settles deeper astern, at the end the forestem rises almost vertically into the air, after 7 minutes a boiler explosion, 7-1/2 minutes after the hit the steamer is sunk.  
    00.35 CC 2854 Surfaced, went to the boats, name and tonnage asked, understood:  "EMPIRE PROGRESS" with 5249 GRT.  
    00.50   Continued westerly transit.  
    04.00 CC 2765    
      E 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
    04.25   Outgoing Radio Message attempted on Norddeich alternate frequency:  "Today 01.00 hours naval square 2834 "EMPIRE PROGRESS" sunk.  E 3, overcast, Sea 1, Vis. 4 nm, +16.5°C, 1012 mb steady, 92 cbm.  U-402.  
        Radio message was not confirmed.  
    08.00 CC 2761 Evening navigation fix gives sinking square CC 2854.  
      NE 4, Sea 3, overcast, rain showers    
    09.15 CC 2772 A white light comes in sight bearing 210°T, I believe that it is a neutral, because we are in the vicinity of the Swedish route.  Pursued, large 3-masted motor freighter, about 10000 GRT.  Center mast rises from the superstructure behind it a noticeably low and slim smokestack.  Ship is well lighted Swiss neutrality markings, steers about 60°.  Type not found in "Gröner" and "Merchant Ships".  
    10.15 CC 5113 Continued westerly transit.  
    11.58   Radio Message:  sent from 04.23 hours with the 40 KW transmitter on Africa Circuit, was repeated by Communications Center.  
    12.00 CC 5111 Day's run:  Surfaced 165 nm, Submerged 13.6 nm.  
      NE 3, Sea 2, overcast    
    16.00 CC 4325    
    17.00 - 18.25 CC 4327 Crash dive for training, drills.  
    20.00 CC 4318    
    24.00 CC 4253    
      NW 4, Sea 3, 7/10    
                                                      
    15.04.42      
    04.00 CC 4245    
    08.00 CC 4159    
      NW 2, Sea 3, 7/10    
    12.00 CC 4171 Day's run:  Surfaced 158.1 nm, Submerged 6.4 nm.  
      NW 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
    14.25 CB 6394 Course 200° to download over deck torpedo.  
    17.10 CB 6397    
      NW 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 14.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.42
 
- 8 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    15.04.42      
    19.21 - CB 6579 Test dive after converting main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 4.  
    19.37 CB 6378  
    20.00 CB 6378    
    24.00 CB 6523    
      SW 2-3, Sea 2, 3/10    
                                                      
    16.04.42      
    04.00 CB 6515    
    08.00 CB 6437    
      SW 2-3, Sea 3, overcast    
    12.00 CB 6419 Day's run:  Surfaced 154 nm, Submerged 1.2 nm.  
      SW 4, Sea 4, overcast    
    16.00 CB 5862    
    20.00 CB 5652    
    24.00 CB 5852    
                                                      
    17.04.42      
    04.00 CB 5556    
    08.00 CB 5548    
      NW 5, Sea 4, 4/10    
    12.00 CB 5491 Day's run:  Surfaced 146 nm.  
    16.00 CB 5472    
    18.54 - 19.10 CB 4695 Test dive.  
    20.00 CB 4694    
    23.42   Because I still have no orders to go to Greenland Circuit, I send off a Radio Message on Africa Circuit:  
        Naval square CB 4686, request Greenland Circuit, 80 cbm, W 2, Sea 2, cloudless, 1023 mb steady.  U-402.  
    24.00 CB 4676    
      SW 2, Sea 2, cloudless    
                                                      
    18.04.42      
        My radio message is heard with volume 1-2 however not deciphered.  
    03.06   Resent my radio message, was acknowledged.  
    04.00 CB 4823    
    07.20   From B.d.U.:  "To U-402.  Switch to Greenland Circuit on 18 April at 10.00 hours if this has not yet been done despite Radio Message Orders of 2 April."   
        A Radio Message Order was received on 2 April, the name was repeatedly decrypted as "Forster".  [not Forstner]  
    08.00 CB 4733    
      SW 3, Sea 3, overcast    
    10.00   Switched to Greenland Circuit, first Serial No. on Greenland Circuit 255, last on Ireland Circuit 156.  
    12.00 CB 4725 Day's run:  Surfaced 182 nm, Submerged 1 nm.  
    12.40   Radio Message:  "  . . . . 2)  U-402 free to maneuver on traffic in operations area naval square CA 98 and 99 and south there from in accordance with referenced "Schuch" situation report.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 16.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 17.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 18.04.42
 
- 9 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    18.04.42      
    15.45 CB 4717 Headed for ordered area (course 197°).  
    16.00 CB 4717    
      SW 3, Sea 3, overcast    
    18.15 - 18.35 CA 6969 Test dive.  
    20.00 CA 6995    
    20.15 CA 6995 Crash dive for aircraft bearing 230°T about 6000 meters off, course about north.  
        Float plane probably: "Vought-Sikorsky OS2U-1"  
    20.41 CA 6995 Surfaced.  
      SW 2-3, Sea 2, 6/10    
    24.00 CA 9337    
                                                      
    19.04.42      
    02.43 CA 9359 Crash dive for aircraft, suddenly starting red lights bearing 250°T, course about 160°.  
    03.05 CA 9359    
    04.00 CA 9383    
    08.00 CA 9628    
      NW 3-4, Sea 3, overcast    
    12.00 CA 9676 Day's run:  Surfaced 161 nm, Submerged 5.3 nm.  
    16.00 CA 9942    
    20.00 CA 9899 Reached operations area, 1 diesel 220 RPM, came to westerly course.  
    23.10 CA 9888 Signal traffic with "U-571" (return transit) and "U-572".  
    24.00 CA 9889    
      W 2, Sea 1, x/10    
                                                      
    20.04.42      
    04.00 CA 9877 Came to southerly course.  
        Occasionally stopped or dived to listen.  
    08.00 DC 3144    
      W 2, Sea 1, very dark night, intermittent rain showers    
    09.45 CA 3171 Doubtful sound bearing, ran towards, nothing seen,  
    10.30 CA 2369 dove again, no more sound bearings.  
    12.00 DC 2365 Day's run:  Surfaced 174.2 nm, Submerged 1.6 nm.  
        Came to easterly course.  
    16.00 DC 3146    
      NW 2, Sea 1, overcast, intermittent rain    
    19.17 DC 3156 3 lifeboats with sails sighted bearing 60°T, 4 nm off.  Departed on course 200°.  
    20.00 DC 3159 Came to easterly course.  
    24.00 DC 3271    
      N 1-2, Sea 3, clear    
                                                      
    21.04.42      
    03.45 - 04.15 DC 3259 Due to temporary visibility deterioration dived to listen, no sound bearings.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 18.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 21.04.42
 
- 10 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    21.04.42      
    00.00 DC 3347    
      NW 2, Sea 2, 4/10    
    12.00 DC 3358 Day's run:  Surfaced 164.4 nm, Submerged 2.2 nm.  
      WNW 4, Sea 3, overcast    
    16.00 DC 3368    
    20.00 DC 3359    
   

22.25 - 22.40

  Crash dive for single-engined float plane on southerly course about 1000 meters distant, type probably: "Vought-Sikorsky OS2U-1".  Surfaced.  
    24.00 DC 3354    
      W 4, Sea 3, 4/10    
                                                      
    22.04.42      
    04.00 DC 3342    
    08.00 DC 3238    
      W 3, Sea 3, 6/10    
    12.00 DC 3225 Day's run:  Surfaced 108.5 nm, Submerged 1 nm.  
        Came to westerly course.  
    14.24 DC 3216 Radio Signal from Schnee with date/time group 13.00 hours, 33:  "Naval square DC 6155 four-stack steamer "AQUITANIA" course north, 20 knots.  
        Operated on "AQUITANIA" without success.  
    16.00 DC 3215    
      W 1-2, Sea 1, 3/10, Vis. very good    
    20.00 DC 3125    
    24.00 DC 3185    
      W 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
                                                      
    23.04.42      
    02.00 DC 2422 Came to northerly course.  
    04.00 DC 3186    
    08.00 DC 3166    
      NE 1, Sea 1, 6/10, Vis. good    
    12.00 DC 3216 Day's run:  Surfaced 179 nm.  
    12.40 DC 3216 Crash dive for very high flying land-based aircraft bearing 110°T at about 5000 meters distant, altitude about 300 meters, on westerly course.  Type like "North American "B-25".  
    13.00 DC 3216 Surfaced.  
    14.30 CA 9988 Came to westerly course.  
    16.00 CA 9979    
      NE 1, Sea 1, overcast    
    20.00 CA 9898    
    24.00 CA 9887    
      NE 3, Sea 3, 9/10    
                                                      
    24.04.42      
    04.00 CA 9877 Reached the western edge of the attack area, came to course 150°.  
    08.00 DC 3118    
      ENE 5, Sea 4, overcast, (rain)    
    12.00 DC 3181 Day's run:  Surfaced 146 nm, Submerged 1.5 nm.  
      E 5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 22.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 23.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 24.04.42
 
- 11 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    24.04.42      
    16.00 DC 3425    
      NE 6, Sea 5, 9/10    
    20.00 DC 3464    
    24.00 DC 3499    
      NE 5, Sea 5, 9/10    
                                                      
    25.04.42      
    04.00 DC 3842    
    08.00 DC 3876    
      NE 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast    
    12.00 DC 6225 Day's run:  Surfaced 150 nm.  
      NE 3, Sea 3, 8/10, Vis. good    
    16.00 DC 6267    
    20.00 DC 6553    
    24.00 DC 6645    
      NNE 5, Sea 4, 6/10    
                                                      
    26.04.42      
    01.00 DC 6649 Came to westerly course and during the night requested freedom to maneuver on the coast, because since 19 April I have not sighted anything in the ordered operations area.  
    02.40   Following receipt of radio message that boats should operate under the coast due to the fuel situation, the radio message directed to me on 18 April was checked concerning attack area and it is determined that if after the sentence: "U-402 free to maneuver:" a period has stood, there arises a completely different meaning than I had taken from the radio message.  I would have had freedom to maneuver without limitations, the second sentence: on traffic in CA98 and 99 . . .  was only a traffic advisory.  
    04.00 DC 6569 I sent a situation report to clarify the matter:  
        "Located since 19 April in ordered operations area CA 98, 99 and south there from.  No traffic, light air, no sea patrols observed.  Request freedom to maneuver along the coast and supply for return transit.  Position DC 65, all naval squares, 56 cbm, 10 torpedoes, NW 3, Sea 3, 1013 mb rising, Vis. good."  U-402.  
        "AC" was sent in error.  
    08.00 DC 6556    
      NNW 4, Sea 3, 2/10    
    11.28   From B.d.U.:  "To Forstner.  In accordance with Radio Message you had freedom to maneuver from 18 April. 
Traffic note means no obligation. Do not think too rigidly.  20 cbm without provisions intended as supply.
 
        Lost 8 days are very disappointing, especially as now the bright nights arrive; but nevertheless, some time can still be spent with an additional 20 cbm.  
    12.00 DC 6543 Day's run:  Surfaced 153 nm.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 24.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 25.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 26.04.42
 
- 12 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    26.04.42      
    12.25   Continued westerly advance to the coast.  
        From B.d.U.:  The following set of boats are still to supply  . . .   On return transit:  Hirsacker, Schnee, von Forstner.  Additions are no longer possible.  Despite supply all boats run at economical cruise.  Expect U-boat danger in the supply area.  
    16.00 DC 6439    
      NW 2-3, Sea 3, 8/10, rain showers    
        Intention:  Head for the coast at Cape Fear, then on NE-course to Hatteras to detect traffic in Onslow and Raleigh Bays.  If favorable, remain there, otherwise continue north at Hatteras or Wimble Shoals to operate on traffic there.  
    20.00 DC 6422    
    24.00 DC 6177    
      NW 2, Sea 2, 4/10    
                                                      
    27.04.42      
    04.00 DC 5382    
    08.00 DC 5347    
      NW 2, Sea 1, 2/10    
    12.00 DC 5253 Day's run:  Surfaced 178 nm.  
    16.00 DC 5214    
    20.00 DC 5123    
    24.00 DC 2774    
      NNW 2. Sea 1, 2/10    
                                                      
    28.04.42      
    02.50 - 02.56 DC 1991 Test dive after converting main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 2.  
    04.00 DC 1983    
    08.00 DC 1945    
      N 2, Sea 1-2, 5/10    
    12.00 DC 1961 Day's run:  Surfaced 185 nm, Submerged 2 nm.  
    16.00 DC 1817    
    20.00 DC 1728 Continued advance to the coast.  
    24.00 DB 3936    
      SE 3, Sea 2, 8/10    
                                                      
    29.04.42      
    00.45 DB 3936 A small fishing cutter with a sail sighted, avoided.  
        Headed for Cape Fear by depth sounding.  
    03.45 DB 3691 U-boat hunter Type "PC 450" bearing 260°T about 4 nm distant, evaded.  
    05.30 DB 3693    
      SE 2, Sea 1, 1/10 Frying Pan Lightship is presumably missing from DE 3693, there is a light with identification:  occulting light groups 3,3,2, between the groups a short pause, after the last a long pause, repetition 34 seconds.  
    08.00 DC 1444    
      SE 2, Sea 1, 1/10    
    11.48 DC 1424 Dived at the beginning of dawn.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 27.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 28.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.42
 
- 13 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    29.04.42      
    12.00 DC 1424 Day's run:  Surfaced 184.5 nm.  
      misty, Vis. very bad, Sea completely flat    
    16.00 DC 1423 Proceeding submerged at periscope depth on NE-course in Onslow Bay at about the 30-meter line.  
      misty, Vis. very bad, Sea completely flat  
    20.40 DC 1194 Surfaced to ventilate and for all around sweep.  
    20.50 DC 1194 Ahead still in the haze a small vessel in sight about 4 nm off, possibly a patrol vessel, dived.  
    22.00 DC 1195 2 freighters at the limit of visibility bearing 10°T, target angle about 60°, heading for Cape Lookout on course about 315°.  
    22.18 DC 1192 Large tanker, about 10000 GRT, in sight on same course, shortly thereafter 4 stack destroyer of the BARNEY Class, proceeding as U-boat screen.  Tanker has 2 masts, smoke stack at after edge of the stern superstructure like "NORTH ATLANTIC".  
    22.35 DC 1192 On surfacing sighted vessel is a patrol craft very much like our steam trawlers used as patrol vessels, run to meet the sighted steamer on course 135°.  
        I can not operate on intersection point with the convoy because of the water depth (Lookout Shoals), also it promises no success because of the target angle, therefore I head for the sighting point in the hope that even more steamers will come on the same course, otherwise I want to attack patrol vessels.  
    22.42 DC 1192 2-engined land based aircraft, type:  "North American" B-25 circles over the convoy.  
    23.00   Convoy out of sight, destroyer last.  
    23.15   Very fat 2-engined flying boat with split tail empennage in sight, type:  Martin "PBM-2".  
    23.30 DC 1193 Tanker in sight bearing 59°T, about 4 nm off, heading for Cape Lookout on course 270°.  2 masts, topmast aft of the smokestack, its forward edge intersects the forward edge of the aft superstructure, normal bow and stern, similar to "BRITISH CONFIDENCE", estimated at 8000 GRT.  
    23.46 DC 1193 Tanker out of sight.  
    24.00 DC 1193    
                                                      
    30.04.42      
    00.32   Unfortunately, initially no more freighters come, however, the patrol vessel has turned back, I decide to attack him.  
    01.22 DC 1193 Single shot from tube V:  depth 2 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 9 knots, bow left, target angle 90°, range = 400 meters.  Miss, probably went to the bottom, because the sound room heard a dull impact after about 15 seconds, thereafter no more torpedo sounds.  
      SE 1, Sea 0-1, Vis. 5 nm  
        Boat was at depth 14.5 meters, 16 meters under the keel.  The patrol vessel appears not to have noticed, runs along calmly.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 29.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.42
 
- 14 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.04.42      
    02.28 DC1193 Surfaced at the beginning of darkness.  
      Very bright moonlit night, Sea almost completely flat, Vis. about 5 nm, SE 1 A shadow bearing 250°T about 3-1/2 nm distant, attempt to move off and maneuver ahead, a freighter runs at about 14 knots, I was seen, steamer turns away, shoots at me and transmits:  "S S S S Cape Lookout".  Freighter steers about 225°, I am unfortunately before the bright horizon.   
    02.56   Under the given situation I believe that a new maneuver ahead at the limit of visibility with a large fuel oil consumption holds little promise, particularly as I must assume that the steamer is protected immediately, still hope for another steamer to come for an undetected attack.  
        Run towards land so as to start on the dark horizon.  
        Shadow in sight bearing 60°T, about 4 nm distant, sharp target angle.  I decide on a surface attack due to the shallow water depth from 17-19 meters.  
    03.30   Towards land at about 300°T, a new shadow comes into view, which is roughly the same distance as the other shadow. I expect one of the two shadows to be a patrol vessel. As it soon turns out, is the escort of the port shadow of mine. The shadow to starboard is clearly recognizable as a freighter.  
        Due to the patrol vessel I can not move out further to port, I turn at target angle 20° towards the freighter, hold him at low speed, even without binoculars he is easy to make out, I decide to shoot as soon as possible at all costs, because at small abeam distance at target angle 70 to 50° he has to see me.  
        Freighter has 2 masts, 1 smoke stack, at least 4 cargo hatches, a longer bridge superstructure than with typical freighters, at the shot filled the binoculars, estimated at over 6000 GRT, had a cannon astern.  
   

03.36

 

03.40

DC 1271 Single shot from tube II, depth 3 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 8 knots, bow right, target angle 43°, range = 1400 meters.  After 1 minute 33 seconds = 1400 meters a hit at the after mast, high explosion column, stern settles quickly deeper, in 4 minutes disappeared up to the smoke stack.  Boiler explosion, freighter lies with stern on the bottom at 19 meters.  
    SE 1, Sea 0-1, bright clear moonlit night, Vis. 5 nm  
        The beginning of the torpedo track (G7e) could easily be made out in the flat water, I remained for about 1 minute at low speed on attack course to continue to present a sharp silhouette, then after the hit turned off and went to GF because of the patrol vessel approaching in the mean time.  
        Freighter transmits "SOS KAPELNOS".  
        From 03.40 - 03.47 various depth charge detonations in the direction of the patrol vessel, he probably supposes that I attacked submerged.  Because, unfortunately, the patrol vessel remains in the vicinity of the freighter, it is not possible to bring the rest under water with artillery, but I believe that the total loss  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.42
 
- 15 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.04.42   of the steamer is certain from my observations.  
   

04.05

04.06

DC 1271 Crash dive for approaching 2-engined land-based aircraft, coming from the direction of the steamer.  Heavy concussion by aircraft bombs, am in 20 meters water, still have 10 meters below the keel.  Only slight damage.  
    05.08 DC 1271 Surfaced.   
    05.48 DC 1242 Continued advance in the direction of Cape Hatteras.  
        Lighthouse at Cpae Lookout burns as in peacetime.  However, repeats every 13 seconds (Lightship previously 15 seconds).  
    07.00 DC 1241    
    09.00 DC 1243    
    11.00 DC 1225 Lighthouse at Cape Hatteras burning as in peacetime.  
    12.00 DC 12.22 Day's run:  Surfaced 76.5 nm, Submerged 42 nm.  
      SE 1, Sea 0, very misty Dived at the beginning of dawn.  
    16.30 DC 1223 Small airship in sight bearing 235° on SW-course, altitude about 500 meters, 8000 meters distant.  
    17.04 DC 1223 3 very distant detonation.  
    17.52 DC 1223 Sound bearing 270°T.  
    17.54 DC 1223 3 freighters, 1 destroyer (4-stack class), 1 airship in sight bearing 50°T, about 4 nm distant, unfortunately this time I am positioned too far seaward to get into good shooting position, however I go at GF to the observed steamer course, to at least be able to operate on following traffic.  
    18.34 DC 1223 Now 2 large freighters overlap so favorably, that I decide to shot torpedoes despite the great range, I estimate the speed by sound observation at 8 knots, unfortunately, the target angle is already almost 90°.  
    18.35 DC 1223 Single shot from tube III, depth 3 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 8 knots, bow right, target angle 88°, range = 1800 meters.  
      SE 1, Sea 0, very misty, Vis. 4 nm  
      During the long running time of the torpedo the overlapping ceased, I aimed 30 meters aft of the first steamer, so the torpedo probably passed behind.  
    18.42   I do not have a further shooting opportunity.  Because of the approaching airship and the very smooth water I go to depth 30 meters.  
    19.00   Came to periscope depth.  Back and forth in position on the observed traffic route.   
    20.45 DC 1223 I'm lucky, another freighter comes in sight bearing 15°T with sharp target angle, it is not so misty, steamer drives on a straight course 220°, I have ample time to determine shooting data and to get into favorable shooting position.  Normal freighter about 6000 GRT.  
    21.27 DC 1225 Single shot from tube I, depth 3 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 8 knots, bow left, target angle 90°, range = 500 meters.  
      SE 1, Sea 0, very misty, Vis. 5 nm  
        Miss, I think that a passed shot can be ruled out under the existing favorable shooting conditions.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.42
 
- 16 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.04.42      
        In the boat after about 5 seconds a light impact was heard. but afterwards torpedo sounds continued to be heard until overcome by steamer sound, from about 30 seconds after the shot no further torpedo sounds.  I believe another bottom runner, propeller sounds continued covering up the torpedo sounds in the listening gear.  The boat was at depth 14 meters, with 16 meters under the keel.  
    24.00 DC 1223    
                                                      
    01.05.42      
    02.40 DC 1251 Surfaced at the beginning of darkness, bright moonlit night.  
      SE 2, Sea 1, blue sky    
    04.47 and   Situation report sent:  
    05.20   1.)  29 April Cape Fear, Onslow Bay no traffic.  Frying Pan Shoals Lightship missing.  Headed for Cape Lookout from the SE, traffic in both directions like Schnee.  
        2.)  30 April.  Miss on patrol boat in 31 meters, on freighter in 50 meters water, sound findings both ground runners.  On the surface sank freighter "KAPELNOS" lying in 19 meters with the stern on the bottom square 1193.  Scare depth charges.   
        3.)  Position square 120.  All naval square Dora Cäsar.  47 cbm plus 4 torpedoes.  Continuing high-pressure weather.  Am missing Serial Nos. 234-256, 265 and 65.  U-402.  
        With these failures with submerged attacks in shalow water I decide during the bright nights to proceed on the NW approach to Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout and to operate in the slightly more favorable nights again on the identified route close off the coast  
    06.00 DC 1236    
      NE 2, Sea 1    
    08.00 DC 1341    
    12.00 DC 1376 Day's run:  Surfaced 66 nm, Submerged 37 nm.  
      NE 2, Sea 1, 5/10    
    16.00 DC 1653    
      NE 2, Sea 1-2, 4/10    
    16.40   Radio Message:  to Schnee and "U-402".  
        Contrary to previous commitment no fuel supplement.  Time delay of 10 days for U-tanker is not supportable.  
        Additional guidance:  
        Serial No. 254 was repeated, all other missing unimportant for "U-402".  
        In spite of very limited fuel oil inventory I decide to operate at least one more day under the coast, besides, perhaps I will have more luck.  
    20.00 DC 1683    
      NE 2, Sea 1, blue sky    
    24.00 DC 1645    
                                                      
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.04.42
Sun and Moon Data 01.05.42
 
- 17 -
 
           
           
           
           
    02.05.42      
    04.00 DC 1537    
    04.25 DC 1537 Shadow bearing 320°T about 4 nm distant, matched course and speed, maneuvered ahead.  Warship silhouette, further details are not distinguished.  
        General course of the enemy is 180°, speed 13 knots, zig zags.  
    06.17   Dived for submerged attack, for a long time can still not make out the enemy in the control room periscope, after sighting improved shooting position at AK, enemy appears smaller than first thought.  
    06.41 DC 1591 Three-fan from tube I, II and IV, depth 2 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 14 knots, bow right, target angle 98°, range 2000 meters.  
      W 2, Sea 1-2, Vis. good, moonshine  
        After 2 minutes 9 seconds - 1850 meters - detonation, high black explosion column amidships, shortly thereafter various smaller detonations, probably depth charges.  
   

 

06.44

 

DC 1591

The bow rises high out of the water briefly, 1 minute after detonation with the dissipation of the smoke it is no longer seen.  
    06.48   Surfaced; ran to sinking location, which is marked by a large oil slick.  
        While searching for clues for identification we see a raft with 2 men whom we get aboard, it is unlikely that many more survivors exist.  
        Statements of the prisoners:  
        Patrol Yacht PY-26 (Patrol Yacht) "CYTHERA" of 850 tons, 73 meters long (241 feet), crew 5 officers, 66 men, 2 cannon, anti-aircraft weapons, 60 depth charges fused up to 150 feet (45.72 meters) depth setting, on the way from Norfolk for the Panama Canal.  
    08.00 DC 1592 Must unfortunately now begin return transit due to fuel inventory.  1 diesel 220 RPM.  
        Sent Radio Message concerning beginning return transit:  
        Just now naval square DC 1591 sank Patrol Yacht "CYTHERA" 850 tons, course 180°, speed 13 knots, took 2 prisoners.  Return transit due to fuel 44 cbm, 2 plus 1 torpedo, continuous high pressure weather.  Request Pallice.  
                                                           U-402.  
    12.00 DC 1646 Day's run:  Surfaced 183.4 nm, Submerged 3.2 nm.  
      W 2, Sea 2, 2/10    
    16.00 DC 1661    
    20.12 DC 2419 Signal traffic with "U-86".  
    24.00 DC 2431    
                                                      
    03.05.42      
    04.00 DC 2279 Continued return transit, 1 diesel, 220 RPM.  
    08.00 DC 2294    
      SE 1, Sea 1-2, 4/10    
    12.00 DC 2349 Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm.  
    13.00 DC 2357 Empty lifeboat sighted.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.42
 
- 18 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    03.05.42      
    16.00 DC 2365    
    20.00 DC 3145    
    24.00 DC 3135    
      SE 1, Sea 1, 2/10    
                                                      
    04.05.42      
    04.00 DC 33213    
    08.00 CA 9997    
      E 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
    12.00 CB 7775 Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm.  
      SE 1, Sea 1, 3/10    
    16.00 CB 7783    
    20.00 CB 7847    
    22.23   Radio Message:  From B.d.U.:  "U-432, 402 and Varendorff  report weather tomorrow between 01.00 and 05.00 hours.  
    24.00 CB 7855    
      SE 1, Sea 1, 6/10    
                                                      
    05.05.42      
    00.58   Short Signal weather report sent:  "35°26'N, 66°08'W, 1028 mb steady, +22°C, S 2, sunshine weather, Vis. 3 nm, E-swell.  U-402.  
    02.19   From Communications Center:  . . . . Short Signal weather report 00.58 on 36 meters strength 2, incomplete,  Transmit again.  
    03.57   New transmission of the Short Signal weather report, was confirmed at 04.58 hours.  
    04.00 CB 7863    
    08.00 CB 7927    
      SE 2, S 1-2, 5/10    
    12.00 CB 7935 Day's run:  Surfaced 156 nm.  
    16.00 CB 8713    
    19.02 CB 8573 Empty lifeboat sighted.  
    20.00 CB 8495    
    20.37   From B.d.U.:  
        1.)  On 6 May between 01.00 and 05.00 send weather report by Weather Short Signal cipher U-402, U 437 and Uphoff.  
        2.)  . . .  
    24.00 CB 8581    
                                                      
    06.05.42      
    01.18   On alternate frequency sent:  Latitude 36°, Longitude 63°10', pressure change steady 1027 mb, +35°C, SW 1, Cirrus and Cumulus, Vis. 9 nm, low SW-swell.  
                                                              U-402.  
    01.40   Short Signal weather report from Forstner on 36 meters received with strength 4.  
    04.00 CB 8569    
    08.00 CB 5655    
      SW 2, Sea 1, 3/10    
    12.00 CB 9441 Day's run:  Surfaced 192 nm.  
      W 2, Sea 2, 7/10    
    16.00 CB 9428    
      SW 2, Sea 1, 7/10    
    20.00 CB 9436    
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 04.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 05.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.42
 
- 19 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.05.42      
    24.00 CB 9513    
      WSW 2, Sea 1, 8/10    
                                                      
    07.05.42      
    04.00 CB 9297    
    08.00 CB 9375    
      N 2, Sea 2, 7/10    
    12.00 CB 9383 Day's run:  Surfaced 156 nm.  
    16.00 CC 7147    
    20.00 CC 7155 Measuring speed with diesel-electric.  
    24.00 CC 7162    
      ENE 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
                                                      
    08.05.42      
    04.00 CC 7227    
    08.00 CC 7235    
    12.00 CC 7313 Day's run:  Surfaced 156 nm.  
      SE 1, Sea 0-1, 3/10    
    16.00 CC 4998    
    20.00 CC 5784    
    24.00 CC 5792    
      SW 2, Sea 2, 3/10    
                                                      
    09.05.42      
    04.00 CC 5857    
    08.00 CC 5866    
    08.01 CC 5866 Shadow bearing 100°T, 4 nm distant, matched course and speed, heavy zig zags, general course 350°, speed 9 knots, maneuvered ahead for surface attack.  
      SW 2, Sea 1-2, 2/10, clear, Vis. 4 nm, moonlit  
    09.15 CC 5862 Single shot from tube III, depth 3, torpedo speed 40 knots, enemy speed 9, bow left, target angle 60°, range = 1000 meters.  
        Remained initially on attack course, when I recognized that I had missed, turned for a stern shot, because no more tubes are ready forward, slow speed set.  
    09.22 CC 5862 Single shot from tube 5, depth 3 meters, torpedo speed 30 knots, enemy speed 5 knots, bow left, target angle 70°, range = 800 yards.  Miss.  
        Enemy gave the appearance of having slowed even more slowly than after the shot with tube III.  
        Had to quickly decide on the shot from tube V, because it was already getting light, however, maneuvering ahead for submerged attack is prohibited for me  now due to my low fuel oil inventory.  
        Concerning the character of the steamer it has not become clear to me, estimated him at 3000- 4000 GRT.  Had a smoke stack midships, 3 masts of which the center rose out of the superstructure and was higher than both the other normally standing ones.  
        Except for 2 visible cannon on forecastle and poop deck stand a conspicuous  thick  
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 07.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 08.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.42
 
- 20 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    09.05.42      
        object stood like a second smoke stack seen in silhouette.  
        Markings were not make out.  
        The behavior of the steamer was unusual, if he had sighted me why didn'the turn away and man the cannon, or was he approaching me even closer?  
        Under the existing conditions, the breaking dawn and the armament of the steamer as well as elimination of the element of surprise that I foresaw with the use of artillery, because I had no more tubes ready and my fuel oil inventory prevented maneuvering ahead during the day, I had to let him go.  
    09.53 CC 5862 Because it is getting light dived, continued to observe the steamer, runs at slow speed off to the north.  
    10.48 CC 5863 Surfaced, continued return transit to western French Reich.  
    12.00 CC 5941 Day's run:  Surfaced 169.2 nm, Submerged 2.7 nm.  
    16.00 CC 5929    
      WSW 4, Sea 3, 8/10    
    20.00 CC 6714    
    24.00 CC 6722    
      WSW 5, Sea 4, 9/10    
                                                      
    10.05.42      
    04.00 CC 6577    
    08.00 CC 6585    
      WSW 3-4, Sea 3, 8/10    
    12.00 CC 6671 Day's run:  Surfaced 176 nm.  
      W 4, Sea 3, rain    
    16.00 CC 6659    
    20.00 CD 4445    
    24.00 CD 4462    
      WSW 3, Sea 3, overcast    
                                                      
    11.05.42      
    04.00 CD 4524    
    08.00 CD 4611    
    12.00 CD 4389 Day's run:  Surfaced 210 nm.  
      SW 3, Sea 3, 6/10    
    16.00 CD 5172    
    20.00 CD 5167    
    24.00 CD 5246    
      SW 4-5, Sea 4, 7/10    
                                                      
    12.05.42      
    04.00 CD 5262    
    08.00 CD 5327    
    09.53 SW 4, Sea 3, overcast, (rain) From B.d.U.:  "return harbors are:  ". . . . Pallice for "U-402. . . .  
    12.00 CD 5336 Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm.  
    16.00 CD 6121    
    19.33   From B.d.U.:  "Schug, Schnee, U-402 and Dieterichs tomorrow between 01.00 and 05.00 send weather report."  
           
Sun and Moon Data 09.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 10.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 11.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 12.05.42
 
- 21 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    12.02.42      
    20.00 CD 3799    
    24.00 CD 3885    
      NW 4-5, Sea 3-4, overcast    
                                                      
    13.05.42      
    01.58   On Norddeich alternate frequency sent:   
        "40°20'N, 37°W, 1014 mb rising, +13°C, N 4, 10/10 overcast Stratus, Vis. 2 nm, W-swell 4.    U-402.  
    02.41   From Communications Center:  
        "Norddeich heard Short Signal weather report from Forstner with strength 3-4, exactly on 36 meters.  
    04.00 CD 3947    
    08.00 CD 3956    
      NNW 3, Sea 3, 8/10    
    12.00 CE 1742 Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm.  
    16.00 CE 1729    
      W 2-3, Sea 2, 4/10    
    20.00 CE 1815    
    24.00 CE 1831    
      SW 3, Sea 2-3, 5/10    
                                                      
    14.05.42      
    00.35   A contact keeping report sent by Heyse, that was not heard by the Communications Center, was relayed by the boat and acknowledged.  
    04.00 CE 1679    
    08.00 CE 1695    
      WSW 5, Sea 4, overcast    
    12.00 CE 2481 Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm.  
    16.00 CE 2548    
      SW 7, Sea 6, 5/10    
    19.45 CE 2564 Steamer bearing 50°T about 7 nm distant, course 320°, because it was seen out when sighted, dived.  Position on the edge of Route "Anton", due to weather situation no use of weapons possible.  
    20.00 CE 2564 Surfaced.  
    23.30   From B.d.U.:  "Schröter and "U-402" switch to Ireland Circuit tomorrow at 09.00 hours.  
    24.00 CE 2651    
      W 6, Sea 5, 6/10    
                                                      
    15.05.42      
    00.10   Radio Message from B.d.U.:  
        1.)  . . . .  
        2.)  Tomorrow between 01.00 and 05.00 hours report weather, Bülow, Prätorius and "U-402".  
    01.59   Short Signal weather report sent on Norddeich alternate frequency:  "42°N, 28°W, 1013 mb, rising, +14°C, W 5, Cumulus clouds with rain in showers, Vis. 2 nm, high W-swell.  U-402."  
    02.58   From Communications Center:  
        "On 54 meters Short Signal weather report from U-402 received, strength 2, heavily distorted.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 14.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.42
 
- 22 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    15.05.42      
    04.00 CE 3445    
    08.00 CE 3432 Switched to Ireland Circuit.  
      SW 4-5, Sea 4-5, 2/10 First Serial No. on Ireland:  0945/15/112.  
        Last Serial No. on Greenland:  0945/15/274.  
    10.30   To B.d.U.:  
        1.)  Contrary to previous orders return harbor for "U-402" is St. Nazaire.  
        2.)  . . . .  
    12.00 CE 3288 Day's run:  Surfaced 221.5 nm.  
      SW 4-5, Sea 4, 6/10    
    16.00 CE 3373    
      W 5, Sea 5, 6/10    
    20.00 CF 1247    
    21.20   From B.d.U.:  "Rehwinkel, von Forstner and Schug tomorrow between 01.00 and 05.00 hours send weather report.  
    24.00 CF 1262    
      W 6, Sea 3, 7/10    
                                                      
    16.05.42      
    01.37   On Norddeich alternate frequency Short Signal weather report sent:  "42°N, 24°W, 1012 mb, steady, +16°C, W 3, Stratocumulus, Vis. 2 nm, W-swell, medium high.  
                                                            U-402.  
    01.58   From Communications Center:  "Short Signal weather report received from Forstner on exactly 36 meters with strength 5."  
    04.00 CF 1329    
    08.00 CF 1324    
      SW 2-3, Sea 2, overcast    
    09.55   From B.d.U.:  
        1.)  Forstner immediately report position.  
        2.)  . . . .  
    10.51   Short Signal sent on Ireland Circuit:  "My position is naval square Cäsar Fritz 2133.  U-402."  
    11.22   From Communications Center:  "U-402 repots his position from naval square Cäsar Fritz 2133 with strength 3".  
    12.00 BE 7997 Day's run:  Surfaced 258 nm.  
      WSW 2, Sea 2, 9/10    
    16.00 BE 8785    
      SW 2, Sea 2, 8/10    
    16.30   From B.d.U.:  To Forstner.  Weather report of 13 and 16 May contained completely wrong Latitude specification, report of 15 May incorrect Longitude.  More diligence".  
        Longitude and Latitude, corresponding letters from the table in the "Weather Short Signal Cipher" and encryption was checked again for all three weather reports, no mistakes were found.  
    20.00 BE 8847    
    21.50 - 21.50 BE 8849 Test dive.  
    24.00 BE 8856    
      S 2, Sea 2, overcast    
                                                      
           
Sun and Moon Data 15.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 16.05.42
 
- 23 -
 
           
           
           
           
    17.05.42      
    04.00 BE 8943    
    08.00 BE 8935    
      SW 1, Sea 1, overcast, (rain)    
    12.00 BE 9722 Day's run:  Surfaced 248.9 nm, Submerged 1 nm.  
      SE 1, Sea 1, overcast, (rain)    
    16.00 BE 9578    
    20.00 BE 9595    
    24.00 BE 9682    
      NE 1, Sea 2, 8/10    
                                                      
    18.05.42      
    04.00 BF 7446    
    06.07   Sent Short Signal:  "Position 48 hours off meeting point with escort.".  
    06.25   From B.d.U.:  "Zimmermann, Forstner on 20 May at 06.00 hours be off Nazaire."  
    08.00 BF 7465    
      NE 3, Sea 1-2, overcast, (rain)    
    11.07   From B.d.U.:  "Return routes are Bogenlampe for Schnee.  Uhunest for U-402 and U-136."  
    11.12   From 6. U.-Flottille:  "Escort for U-136 and U-402 positioned on 20 May at 06.00 at Point Nanni 1."  
    12.00 BF 7341 Day's run:  Surfaced 204 nm, Submerged 16.2 nm.  
    16.00 BF 7543    
    17.11 [typo U-773 = U-373] "U-752, U-402 from 3. U.-Flottille: U-773 will be at Point Nanni 1 on 19 May at 06.30 hours."  
    20.00 BF 7553    
    22.45 BF 7561 Surfaced, proceeded on the surface.  
    24.00 BF 7617    
      SE 1, Sea 1, overcast    
                                                      
    19.05.42      
    01.00   Heavy production of smoke from the starboard E-motor  
        Inspection results, the shunt field of a motor cable is shorted.  
    04.00 BF 8177    
      SE 1, Sea 1, 4/10    
    06.10 BF 8191    
    08.00 BF 8192    
    12.00 BF 8247 Day's run:  Surfaced 104 nm, Submerged 50 nm.  
    16.00 BF 8246    
      ESE 1, Sea 1, 8/10    
    20.00 BF 8512    
    24.00 BF 5868    
      E 1, Sea 1, 9/10    
                                                      
    20.05.42      
    04.00 BF 6731    
    06.15   Taken in convoy.  
    06.30   Buoy "Nanni 1" abeam 150 meters to port.  
        Made fast in the St. Nazaire lock.  
           
        Total 8912 nm.  
           
                                                      
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 17.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 18.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 19.05.42
Sun and Moon Data 20.05.42

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