Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

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Ships Attacked
Date	KTB Time	Position	Ship	Tons	Nationality	Convoy
27 Aug 41	01.25 - 01.43	53°51'N, 15°55'W	SEGUNDO	4,414	Norwegian	OS-4
27 Aug 41	01.25 - 01.43	53°51'N, 15°55'W	SAUGOR	6,303	British	OS-4
27 Aug 41	02.05	53°51'N, 16°05'W	TREMODA	4,736	British	OS-4
27 Aug 41	04.26	53°45'N, 16°15'W	EMBASSAGE	4,954	British	OS-4
			Total = 20,407
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  557"
				= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
				2nd War Patrol.
				Beginning:   12.7.1941
				Ending:       19.9.1941
			Kommandant:        Oberleutnant zur See  P  a  u  l  s  s  e  n
			Distribution: 2 x O.K.M.  Skl.U.   1 x B.d.U. Op.   1 x B.d.U. Org.   1 x 1. Unterseebootsflottille   1 x Boot (Original).
			Writen at 2. U.flottille
				© U-boat Archive 2023 - all rights reserved

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

	- 1 -
		12.07. - 14.07.41	Lorient  Berth A3	Clearing the boat, torpedo offload.
		15.07. - 29.07.41	Lorient	Boat on the slip [dry dock], shipyard work.
		29.07.41	Lorient	Boat put in the water.  Shifted in the shipyard.
		09.08.41	Lorient	Shipyard work completed except for diesel equipment.  Torpedo loading.  Diving test.
		18.00	Harbor basin
		10.08.41	Lorient	Took over the boat, degaussing.
		11.08.41	Lorient	Magnetic compass and radio direction finder calibration.
		13.30	Buoy off Kernavel
		16.00		Trim test in the harbor.
		12.08.41	Lorient	Diesel sea trial in the harbor, provisions loading.
		09.00 - 12.00
		13.08.41	Lorient
		21.00	Berth A3	Cast off on 2nd War Patrol,
		23.30		Reached Point L2 in convoy.  Released escort.
				Departed on Route "Cederland".
		14.08.41	West Coast of the French Reich
		02.45		Point "Ceder".
		04.45	W 4-5, Sea 3-4, lightly overcast, Vis. medium, 1023 mb	Reached Point "Tanne".
				Both diesels can no longer maintain the RPM for GF.  Supercharger clutches slip.  Valves seized.
		06.25	BF 6475	Dived at dawn, diesel repairs.
		11.30	BF 5589	Cylinder I port diesel leaks.  Liner or head must be torn.  Exhaust valve heavily encrusted and seized.  On the starboard diesel several valves seized.  Return transit started for repairs.  Sent Radio Message to B.d.U. from U-557:
				Cylinder I port diesel water.  Suspect torn liner.  New exhaust valve heavily rusted and seized.  Came about BF 5589.  Will be at Lucie 2 in the tomorrow at 09.00 hours.

	Sun and Moon Data 13.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.41

	- 2 -
		continued
		14.08.41
		12.00	W 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. medium, 1017 mb	Day's run:  Surfaced 103 nm, Submerged 7.5 nm.
		13.15 - 14.00	BF 5586	Surfaced to ventilate, crash dive for training.
		22.45	BF 5564	Surfaced.  Surface transit on Route "Bogenlampe".  On both routes a great many illuminated and dimmed fishermen.
		15.08.41	West Coast French Reich
		00.00	BF 5561
			WSW 4, Sea 3, misty, Vis. moderate, 1012 mb
		04.45		Reached Point Lucie 2.  Put the boat on the bottom.
		08.40		Surfaced.  Entered Lorient in convoy.
				Day's run:  Surfaced 65 nm, Submerged 9 nm.
		15.08. - 20.08.41	Lorient	Repairs with shipyard assistance, pier side testing.
		20.08.41	Lorient
		17.00	Berth A3	New departure on 2nd War Patrol.
		19.05	West Coast of the French Reich	Released by escort at L2.  Departed on Route "Bogenlampe".  Fishing trawlers avoided continuously.
		23.05	WSW 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, misty, Vis. bad, 1018 mb	Reached Point "Bogen".  Course 270°.
		21.08.41	West Coast of the French Reich
		00.00	BF 5526
		06.25	BF 5425	At dawn dived for a brief diesel repair.
			WSW 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. medium, 1012 mb
		09.00	BF 5424	Surfaced.
		10.00	BF 5421	Crash dive for training.  Depth keeping practice and role training.
		12.00	BF 5412	Day's run:  Surfaced 145 nm, Submerged 8.5 nm.
			WNW 3-4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. good, 1017 mb
		12.34		Surfaced.  Fishing trawlers avoided continuously.
		18.47 - 19.55	BF 4629	Dived for aircraft bearing 0°T, observed course 180°.
		20.34		Incoming Radio Message 1859 from B.d.U.  Air reported convoy at 17.30 hours in BE 9890, course 150°.  Operate on it at highest speed.
				The distance to the reported convoy is 320 nm.  His low speed of advance 5-6 knots, and the south-southeasterly course make an operation

	Sun and Moon Data 14.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 20.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 21.08.41

	- 3 -
		continued
		21.08.41
				on him appear favorable.  Also the wind and sea state abate, rising barometer, such that I can expect my own speed of advance of 15 knots.  The boats located nearby will probably gain contact and then more exactly replace the inaccurate aircraft navigation.  I believe we can take responsibility and and turn on the convoy.
		21.30	BF 4625	Came to course 205° and GF.
			W 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. good, 1018 mb	Correction received:  Convoy located BE 9585 at 17.30 hours.  B.d.U.
				It is still somewhat favorable.
		22.08.41	Bay of Biscay
		00.00	BF 4649	Sent position Short Signal, because it was requested from boats operating on the convoy.
		04.00	BF 4865
		07.15	BF 7238	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix 246°T, 5.4 nm.
			SW 2, Sea 1, light W-Swell, overcast, Vis. good, 1019 mb
				In the night the other boats have gained no contact.  From 10.00 hours air reconnaissance is expected.
		12.00	BF 7546	Day's run:  Surfaced 172 nm, Submerged 2 nm.
			SSW 1, Sea 1, light W-Swell, sunshine, Vis. clear, 1019 mb
		12.03		2 smoke clouds in sight bearing 180-185°T.  Made out as fishing trawlers.  Avoided to the W.  Continuous radio direction finder bearings on the contact keeper Condor aircraft in 216°T and sent by Short Signal.
		12.00		Received Radio Message 1148:
				Air reports convoy 11.30 hours in CG 1357
		12.44		Received Radio Message 1233:
				B.d.U. suspects position in CG 1380.
		12.54		Received Radio Message 1248:
				The course of the convoy at 11.50 hours was 170°.    B.d.U.
		13.40	BF 7493	Radio direction finder bearing 213°T.  Sent by Short Signal.
		14.12	BF 7499	Radio direction finder bearing 214°T.  Sent by Short Signal.
		15.09 - 15.35	BF 7735	Dived for aircraft bearing 50°T.  Aircraft course, 220° probably a Condor.
			SSW 1, Sea 1, light W-Swell, sunshine, Vis. very good, 1019 mb
				Received Radio Signal from U-564.  Convoy in sight in square CG 1645.
				U-564 gives continuous contact keeper reports.
		17.32	BF 7759	Condor aircraft sighted bearing 110°T on course 50°.  Not compelled [to dive].
		18.36		Received Radio Message1622/22
				Paulssen with transit speed head for ordered square.  Justify previous behavior on return.    B.d.U.

	Sun and Moon Data 21.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 22.08.41

	- 4 -
		continued
		22.08.41		Distance to the reported convoy is only 90 nm.
		19.00	CG 2123	Came to course 328° at transit speed headed for square AL 51.
			SSW 1, Sea 1, light W-Swell, cloudless, sunshine, Vis. very good
				The disapproval of my behavior expressed in Radio Message 1622/22 prompted me to give the following detailed answer as reason:
				It appeared certain to me, that the convoy with southeast course would head for Cape Saint Vincent or wanted to pass near Lisbon to dismiss ships there. His previous behavior led to this conclusion. Therefore, with a beginning distance of 320 nm there was legitimate hope for me to approach, because it was no pure stern chase but our courses crossed at an angle of about 20°.  The distance to be covered was at most 500 nm. A speed of advance of the convoy of 5-6 knots was established in the previous days. The expecting good weather occurred. (see K.T.B. of 21 August.) As well as the expected contact keeping of other boats. I would have been able to intercept the convoy on 23 August in the course of the morning and then could have remained 2 days and nights in it.  Adhering to the principle: "Go to all convoys, where there are reasonable prospects."  I operated on it regardless of previous Operational Orders.
				To the Radio Message 1904/21/166:  To all boats:  operating on the convoy send position by Naval Short Signal", I gave my position by Naval Short Signal.  Signal was acknowledged by B.d.U. with Radio Message 0048/22/176.  Thus the B.d.U. had to be aware that I also wanted to operate on the convoy, as normally the Naval Short Signal was not in use. I then declined to send a special Radio Message.
				Because during the night there was nothing, I assumed that the B.d.U. agreed with my intention.
				Also from the various position and bearing signals from 22 August nothing was noted here.  Then Radio Message 1329/22 with the following wording:  "Paulssen, Metzler, Schreiber, Bartels and Schüler switch to Greenland Circuit and head for ordered area", was not received due to diving.  It was first sent at 15.08 hours by Communications Center when we had dived before an aircraft. Furthermore, it was not repeated by the Communications Center after 3 hours, but could only be received on Very Low Frequency at 23.57 hours during the evening roll call, as the above-mentioned FT 1622/22 was already there. This apparently gave the B.d.U.

Sun and Moon Data 22.08.41

	- 5 -
		continued
		22.08.41		the impression of a conscious non-execution of orders.
		23.08.41	Atlantic, Bay of Biscay
		00.00	BF 7717
		04.00	BE 9691
		08.00 - 11.00	BE 9623	Dived to work on the torpedoes from tubes III and IV.  For this reason hoisting of the reserve torpedoes.
			W 3-4, Sea 3, misty, occasional rain, Vis. bad, 1013 mb
		12.00	BE 9387	Day's run:  Surfaced 219 nm, Submerged 4 nm.
		14.17		Incoming Radio Message 1352/23 with orders to head for square AM 42.
		15.00	BE 9344	Came to course 355°.
		20.00	BE 6971
		24.08.41	Atlantic
		00.00	BE 6813
		01.10		Short Signal weather report sent on request.
		04.00	BE 6566
		07.00 - 08.20	BE 6298	Test dive at twilight.
			ESE 2, Sea 2, overcast, scattered rain, Vis. changing, 1013 mb
		12.10	BE 6262	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. 1000-3000 meters	Day's run:  Surfaced 1969 nm, Submerged 9 nm.
		16.08	BE 6238	Surfaced.
			Vis. up to 5 nm	Sailing vessel avoided on the surface.
		19.50 - 22.45	BE 3974	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. from 500-3000 meters, WNW 2, Sea 2, misty, fog, 1010 mb
		23.00		Sailing vessel avoided on the surface.
		25.08.41	Atlantic, southwest of Ireland
		00.00	BE 3866
		04.00	BE 3593
		08.00	BE 3532
		12.00	BE 3262	Day's run:  Surfaced 155 nm, Submerged 11 nm.
			W 3, Sea 2-3, changing cloudiness, rain squalls, Vis. changing, 1009 mb

	Sun and Moon Data 22.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 23.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 24.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 25.08.41

	- 6 -
		continued
		25.08.41
		14.00		Incoming Radio Message 1241 with new attack area.
		15.00	AM 7889	Headed to square AM [typo AL] 62 on course 335°.
		20.00	AM 7816
		26.08.41	North Atlantic west of Ireland
		00.00	AM 7577
			NW 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good, 1012 mb
		04.00	AM 7438
		07.30 - 08.30	AM 7197	Crash dive for Sunderland aircraft bearing 60°T, course 300°.
		12.00	AM 7155	Day's run:  Surfaced 173 nm, Submerged 2 nm.
		12.45 - 13.10	AM 7151	Crash dive for aircraft bearing 100°T, course 0°, four-engined.
		14.10 - 15.00	AM 7127	Crash dive for aircraft bearing 340°T, course 160°.
		17.35		Incoming Radio Message 1555:
				Convoy AM 4796, speed 7 knots, course 270°.  U-141.
				I am 30 nm to the west of the reported position.  Came to course 90°.
		18.45	AM 4776	2 destroyers bearing 140°T about 12 nm away.  Steering zig zag course, so that frequently it looks as if they have seen us.  Evaded to the north at high speed.  Was not sighted.  Radio signal sent concerning sighting.
			SW 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. good, 1012 mb
		19.23	AM 4776	A Sunderland is above the destroyers bearing 180°T.  Probably has not sighted us, therefore did not dive.  A bit later a circling Sunderland bearing 90°T.  Because it approached dived.
		19.37	AM 4773	Surfaced.  Convoy in sight bearing 100°T.  Overhead the always still circling Sunderland.  Distance 10 nm.  Target angle 50°.  Must dive again.  No time remains to send a Short Signal.  I am sorry to have no rod antenna, since I must let the entire convoy pass before I can send a Radio Message.  Set off to the north submerged in order to report contact as soon as possible.  Waived attack for this reason, although an approach probably would have been possible.
			SW 4, Sea 3-4, overcast, Vis. good, 1012 mb
		20.45		In the periscope 4 columns with about 30 steamers distinguished.  Ahead a very large freighter.  In the middle a strikingly large tanker.  3 destroyers or corvettes in the starboard screen.  Convoy passes at 6000 meters.
		21.10		Shortly thereafter 3 series of bombs.  Probably from aircraft.  Does not apply to us.

	Sun and Moon Data 25.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 26.08.41

	- 7 -
		continued
		26.08.41
		22.40	SW 4, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. medium, 1012 mb heavy barometer drop	Surfaced in the twilight.  Convoy in sight bearing 250°T.  Slowly angled in, so as not to lose contact in the night.
		22.41		Sent Radio Message.  Enemy convoy square AM 4773.        U-557.
		23.00	Wind greatly freshening, SW 5, Sea 4, heavy rain, 1006 mb	Convoy has changed course to 300°.  Reported by Short Signal.  Convoy lost from sight in rising rain squall.  Pursued at high speed.  Can not be seen in the wind and rain.  One cannot open his eyes in the pouring rain. Use of binoculars is hopeless.
		23.58		Incoming Radio Message 2333 from B.d.U. giving freedom to attack.
				I decide to attack immediately because who knows how long I can hold on in the filthy weather.
		23.36		Radio Message sent:  4 columns, about 30 steamers, 2 remote sweepers.  Southwest 3, Sea 4, rain.  Paulssen.
		27.08.41	North Atlantic southwest of Ireland
		00.00	AM 4772	Because I have still not found the convoy again, dived to listen.  Sound bearing centered in 230°T.
		00.21	AM 4772	Radio Signal sent:  Enemy changed course to port.  Square 4772.      U-557.
			SSW 7-8, Sea 5, rain, 1001 mb, Vis. 400 meters
				Immediately thereafter a shadow comes in sight to port.  Apparently a destroyer on a parallel course.  I carefully pass him at 300 meters.  Highest possible speed at the moment is LF, because it is pitch dark and pouring.
		01.07	AM 4771	Somewhat later ahead of the destroyer a large shadow.  Steamer on course 230-240°.  We slowly pass three steamers at 300 meters and run to the front.  Convoy briefly sets position lights, a few steamers proceed with a very faint continually lit wake lantern.  From this I determine that I am positioned between the starboard outer column and the 2nd starboard column.
				Radio Signal sent:  Square AM 4771.  U-557.
		01.20	SSW 8, Sea 6, rain, Vis. 400-600 meters, wind shifting to the south, 997 mb	The 4th steamer that we pass I estimate is somewhat larger.  I attack him.
		01.25	AM 4774	1st shot from tube IV:  Target angle = 110°, speed = 7 knots, lead angle = 12°, range = 700 meters.
			S 8, Sea 6, rain

	Sun and Moon Data 26.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 27.08.41

	- 8 -
		continued
		27.08.41		After 40 seconds (400 meters) hit amidships.  Steamer settles quickly deeper, then later catches fire.  Can not be saved in this weather. He howls for a short time with the steam whistle, but with the storm that is hard to hear.  I run ahead along the column and and attack the next steamer.
		01.33	AM 4774	Shot from tube III:  Target angle = 85°, speed = 7 knots, lead angle = 14°, range = 700 meters.  At first nothing.  Either under steered, which would not be surprising in the seas, or over-estimated the enemy speed. The convoy probably runs slower due to wind and sea conditions. The targeting is done roughly over the UZO binoculars because of the rain.  After 73 seconds (1110 meters) torpedo detonation.  One or two columns further.  Due to the rain not distinguished.  Initially I thought another boat had attacked.  However because no detonations follow later and I believe no other U-boats could have approached, it seems to have been our torpedo, which found a more distant target.
		01.34	AM 4774	2nd shot on the steamer attacked just now from tube III:  Target angle = 95°, speed = 7 knots, lead angle = 13°, range = 600 meters.
				After 23 seconds (340 meters) hit in the fore ship.  Because we are position in the lee, a large coal dust cloud passes over us and obscures everything.  It robs us for longer time of all visibility, because the eyes, binoculars etc. have completely crusted. The steamer settles deeper forward and however remains lying quietly. Therefore turned towards for a coup de grace.
		01.37	AM 4774	Shot from tube V ordered.  However did not go, due to an order error by the torpedoman the straight angle shot with 0° shooting angle was not understood. [therefore he did not fire]  Turned towards for a bow shot.
		01.43	AM 4774	Shot from tube I:
			S 8, Sea 7, pattering rain, 997 mb	Shooting angle = 0°, target speed = 0, range = 500 meters, lead angle = 0°.
				After 22 seconds (340 meters) hit in the stern cargo hold.  Steamer goes under quickly by the stern.  Behind us, far away, search light on the water. Apparently a destroyer takes survivors aboard.
		01.50		Attacked the the next steamer ahead.  I want to turn for a stern shot, because I estimate the range at 1000 meters.  I substantially misjudge the range due to the rain. I come just clear of his stern, therefore start to turn away and chase into the the middle of the convoy 50 meters behind him . Then I attack a somewhat larger steamer than the last.
		02.05	AL 6996	Shot from tube V:
				Target angle = 100°, target speed = 7 knots, lead angle = 15°, range = 600 meters.
				After 35 seconds (550 meters) hit amidships.  Steamer settles quickly away and sinks.  By the blinding flash of the torpedo detonation I see a destroyer to starboard ahead

Sun and Moon Data 27.08.41

	- 9 -
		continued
		27.08.41		of me, that has turned towards the hit steamer.  Carefully I get by him and race by 2 other columns to windward of the convoy.  It has steered 230° the entire time and also held course with rain, wind rough sea and bad visibility making the steamers and escort vessels work so much that apparently they can afford no defensive measures, now I hold on to the port side of the port outer column and run along so as not to lose contact. At the same time I attempt to reload on the surface since diving would mean losing contact.  With all hands despite the sea state 7 two torpedoes are worked into the tubes in two hours work.
				Estimate of the steamers:
				1.  Freighter 4000 GRT
				2.        "        5000 GRT (Coaler)
				3.        "        4000 GRT
				These estimates are very inexact and deliberately too small, because I hope that with B.d.U. has information from B-Dienst. Since due to the rain the targets were always very indistinctly recognized. They all looked enormous at 400 meters.  The second steamer was definitely larger.  Therefore I have added 1000 GRT to this one, the others were all normal types of 4000 GRT, in no case overestimated.  The estimate of the officer on the bridge during the attack and the Bridge Mate, Bootsmaat Wissel, an old merchant ship sailor himself, was that all steamers were 6000 GRT. For the reasons given above I have not taken this estimate. Also the hit not observed by us is not mentioned. While running along disengaged the port shaft and charged with this side, because our battery is nearly empty.
		04.00	AL 6998	Because further loading on the surface is taking too long I decide to attack again with the two torpedoes loaded. It will be bright by 07.15 hours.  By then, I must be away. However the port main clutch can no longer engage.  Repair will take several hours.   To port an independently running steamer comes in sight, which apparently was ejected from the convoy.  He comes towards me at just the right moment. With only one diesel I dare not go in the middle of the convoy again.   The constantly appearing danger situations due to the visibility, require fully operable boat. Therefore, I attack the independent.
			S 8-9, Sea 6-7, overcast, rain, Vis. bad, 997 mb

Sun and Moon Data 27.08.41

	- 10 -
		continued
		27.08.41
		04.13	AL 6998	Shot from tube III:
				Target angle = 95°, target speed = 7 knots, lead angle =15°, range = 600 meters.
				Miss.  As with the 2nd approach because of overestimation of the speed.   Approached again from other side.
		04.26	AL 6998	Shot from tube IV:
			S 8, Sea 7, patter of rain	Target angle = 98°, target speed = 7 knots, lead angle = 15°, range = 600 meters.  Aimed further aft.
				After 38 seconds (580 meters) hit in the fore ship.  Steamer quickly sinks over the bow.  Boats are lowered and give light signals.  The steamer was empty and was high out.  Also in this case as above about 4000 GRT.  A total of 17000 GRT.  Radio message during the attack:
		01.34		Radio Message 0118/27:
				Square AM 4774, enemy steers 240°, S 8, rain.      U-557.
		02.07		Radio Message 0158/27
				Square AL 6996 steers 230°.      U-557.
		04.01		Radio Message 0318/27:
				Square AL 6999.      U-557.
		04.06		Radio Message 0320/27:
				To U-557:  Give bearing signals for Schreiber.        B.d.U.
				Bearing signals were sent.
				All sent Radio Messages and Signals must be sent several times on various frequencies, because due to water splashing over the antenna they were not understood.
		04.30	AL 6999	Set off on southerly course, to dive in the morning to repair the port clutch.  At the same time to get a bit ahead.
		07.47		Radio Message 0712/27 sent:  To B.d.U.:
				Since 04.00 moved off.  Port main clutch out of service.  Night four steamers certain 17000 GRT.  One probable.  Convoy position AL 9331.        Paulssen.
		07.55	AM 7111	Dived.  Opportunity to charge utilized.  Diesel repairs.  Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 110°T, 9 nm.
			S 6, Sea 6, partial overcast, Vis. good, 996 mb
				Up to 11.00 sound bearings.  Convoy pursued.  Last bearing 260°T.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 94 nm, Submerged 12 nm.
		13.00	AL 9335	Surfaced after completing repairs.  Both diesels again in service.  Pursued with both engines HF on course 250°.  Sea state does not allow high speed.
			SW 7, Sea 6, overcast, Vis. medium, rain squalls
		13.17		Radio Message 1148 received.
				To all boats in the Schüler-convoy.  Report direction of bearing signals.        B.d.U.
				So a boat or air seems to be approaching.
		13.45	AL 9334	While pursuing suddenly the convoy appears out of a rain squall. Steamers and escorts are well out.  Distance 5 nm.  Ran back into the rain squall at highest speed on the surface.  Was not noticed.
			WSW 7, Sea 7, rain squalls, Vis. changing medium to bad

Sun and Moon Data 27.08.41

	- 11 -
		continued
		27.08.41
				Radio Signal sent.  Enemy in sight square AL 9326.  U-557.
				I move off far enough to the SE that I can not be caught in such a situation again in suddenly changing visibility and close every two hours to deliver contact keeper reports.
		16.20	AL 9361	Enemy in sight bearing 280°T, 7 nm away in AL 9352 steering 190°.
		16.34		Radio Message sent.
		19.00	Vis. was constantly bad, rain	On closing no further contact gained.  Pursued in the direction of the last bearing. (280°).
		19.32		Radio Message 1846 received from U-751:  18.30 convoy square AL 9355.
		21.20		Convoy again in sight bearing 280°T.
		22.00		Radio Message 2124 sent:
				Convoy position square AL 9381.    U-557.
		23.00 - 23.15	AL 9384	Contact lost in a rain squall.  Dived to listen.  Sound bearing 270°T.  Pursued.
		23.47 - 00.08	AL 9381	Dived to listen.  Bearing 310°T.  Despite request from Schreiber no bearing signals given, because no contact.
		28.08.41	North Atlantic west of Ireland
		01.13	AL 9372	Directly ahead 2 shadows.  Convoy.  At first I can not picture whether I am positioned ahead or astern.  Visibility is bad.  Gradually 2 destroyers and 1 steamer are distinguished.  It is the astern screen.  Course 280°.
			SW 7, Sea 7, rain squalls, Vis. bad, 997 mb
				Radio Message sent.
		01.30	AL 9372	Because I am position in the lee, I attempt to pass across behind him to the weather side.  In so doing I am heard by the starboard screen destroyer.  He turns towards me.  I run off at high speed on course 150° and continually make hooks. [sharp course changes to shake off the destroyer]  The enemy runs towards me however at low speed.  He has obviously not seen me.  By searchlight he calls to the port screen destroyer and continually indicates the sound bearing.  The second still searches haphazardly.  At KF and in a slow arc I can shake them off.
		02.20	AL 9375	Radio Message sent:  Enemy steers 280°.      U-557.
				I will maneuver ahead on a parallel course, because I am far enough off.  Highest speed against the seas is LF.  Also there is nothing to see because each sea goes over the conning tower.

	Sun and Moon Data 27.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 28.08.41

	- 12 -
		continued
		28.08.41
		02.25		After the pursuit of the destroyer 2 torpedo detonations in the direction of the convoy.
		03.00	AL 9375	A shadow abeam to starboard.  It is the convoy again, now steering 250°.
			SW 6-7, Sea 7, rain squalls, Vis. bad
				Radio Message 2124 sent:
				Convoy position square AL 9381.    U-557.
				Unfortunately, I run across the stern screen. Again, I try to break through behind them, however somewhat further away. Suddenly, when we are almost far enough away, starboard a third destroyer comes to starboard with target angle 0°.  This latecomer had not been noticed before. Distance 500 meters. I try to outmaneuver him at KF.
				Again ran off.  The destroyer only runs at high speed and stops often.  As a result I get free of him after 1 hour.
		04.00	AL 9373	Now I get angry and attempt regardless of the visibility and overcoming water to maneuver ahead at HF against the seas. The bilge pump must run continuously to keep the control room somewhat free.
			SW 6-7, Sea 7, overcast, rain squalls, Vis. bad, 1000 mb
		04.45	AL 9377	An overcoming sea covers me and throws me against the machine gun mount resulting in a large flesh wound on the cheek and a slight concussion.  As a result, I no longer am able to run the boat responsibly, I want to dive.
		05.08		Radio Message 0445 sent.
				Was forced off.  Convoy AL 9375, course 250°.    U-557.
				The Radio Message was not understood on any frequency.
				I hope, that at least some boats received it.
		05.15	AL 9377	Dived.  While diving one torpedo detonation heard.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 108 nm, Submerged 14 nm.
		13.00	W 5-6, Sea 7, Vis. medium to bad, rain squalls, 1008 mb	I go again.  Surfaced.  In pursuit!
				I suspect that at dawn the convoy will have turned to the south. (sound bearing) and steer 220°.
		14.45		On request sent position by Naval Short Signal in AL 9539.
		17.37		Incoming Radio Signal from U-71.  Convoy in sight 9561.  Steers 270°.
				I come to northerly course, because the reported position is northeast of me.
		18.00	AL 9597	2 destroyers at target angle 0° in sight bearing 330°T, 4 nm away.  They are zigzagging heavily.  Ran off at highest speed on the surface.  They had not seen me, despite being fully out, general course was west.
			W 7, Sea 6, overcast, rain squalls, Vis. medium to bad, 1012 mb
				I suspect that the that they are the forward screen destroyers and therefore search further to the north.

Sun and Moon Data 28.08.41

	- 13 -
		continued
		28.08.41
		21.55	AL 9554	1 destroyer bearing 330°T, 4 nm away.  Moved off on the surface.
			W 5, Sea 6, overcast, misty, Vis. bad, 1013 mb
				In connection with the destroyers sighted previously I suspect that this is a flank destroyer of the convoy and pursue to the NW and W.
		23.09		Radio Message 2245/28 sent:  18.00 hours 2 destroyers AL 9556 course 250°.  22.00 hours 1 destroyer AL 9551.    U-557
		23.39		Incoming Radio Message 2215 from B.d.U. with orders  to form search sectors.  Initially I search further in the direction of the destroyer.
		23.15 - 23.45	AL 9551	Dived to listen.  The listener apparently hears perfect convoy sounds bearing 260°.  Pursued.
		23.50		Radio message sent.  Position 9551.  Sound bearing 260°.  Paulssen.
		29.08.41	North Atlantic south of Ireland
		00.30 - 01.40	AL 9546	Dived to listen.  No further sound bearings.  Apparently the bearing observed before was wishful thinking.
		01.40	W 5, Sea 6, overcast, rain, Vis. very bad, 1014 mb	Incoming Radio Message 0055/29:
				Convoy located 20.30 hours square 9557, course 250°.  Forced off by destroyer.  U-71.
				I am positioned too far to the north.  Pursued.
		04.00 - 04.35	AL 9574	Dived to listen.  Nothing.  Running on search legs in ordered sector.
		08.22 - 11.00	AL 9489	Dived due to fog.  Search is now hopeless in the fog.
			Fog
		11.35	AL 9726	2 destroyers in sight bearing 210°T.  3000-4000 meters away, fully out.  Crash dive!
			E 3, Sea 2-3, overcast, misty, Vis. 4000 meters
				I accept that I have certainly been sighted and remain initially at silent speed at depth T = 25 meters.  [50 meters] Destroyers run at listening speed and stop often.  Do not come closer.  Went to periscope depth.  Periscope is clouded from the continuous water intake  from the recent bad weather.  Nothing seen.  Enemy course by sound 200°.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 142 nm, Submerged 8 nm.

	Sun and Moon Data 28.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 29.08.41

	- 14 -
		continued
		29.08.41
		13.37	Drizzle, Vis. very bad	Surfaced.  Initially I move off the west and will then pursue to the south, so as not to bump into the destroyers again.
		14.27		Radio Message sent:
				11.30 hours 2 destroyers AL 9726.  Suspect stern screen.  E 2, rain.  Paulssen.
				Radio Message 1240/29 from B.d.U. received with orders to form reconnaissance line from BE 2234 to AL 8595 with southwest course.  It is the only way to get him again.  Initially I misunderstand the integration of U-558 and U-101 and am positioned too far to the west.   I then improve my position and run in ordered deployment on course 220°.
		16.00	AL 9713
			S 3, Sea 2, overcast, fog banks, Vis. bad, 1011 mb
		19.20 - 19.45	AL 8834	Dived to listen.  Heard a U-boat on the surface.
		20.45 - 00.05	AL 4429	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. 200 meters, fog
		30.08.41	North Atlantic
		04.00	AL 8888
		08.00	BE 1351	Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix 58°T, 20 nm.  Position amended.
			Vis. breaking up, SW 1-2, Sea 2, partial overcast, 1016 mb
		10.30 - 12.45	BE 1355	Dived due to fog.
			Fog
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 141 nm, Submerged 6 nm.
		16.30 - 17.30	BE 1371	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. 300-500 meters	Surfacing U-boat heard.
		18.35 - 23.05	BE 1296	Dived due to fog.  Search hopeless.
		31.08.41	North Atlantic
		04.00	BE 1555
		06.17		Incoming Radio Message 1617 from 30 August:  If up to darkness there is no contact, break off operation.  Course north.  Day's run 120 nm new attack areas follow.    B.d.U.

	Sun and Moon Data 29.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 30.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.41

	- 15 -
		continued
		31.08.41		Due to frequent diving this Radio Message was received late.
		06.45	BE 1578	Came to course 0°.
				Dived at dawn.
		10.34		Incoming Radio Message 1005/31 from U-101:
				Position square BE 2458.  Convoy sound bearing 165°T.
		11.25		Incoming Radio Message 1106/31 from B.d.U.:  Course east transit speed.
				I come to course 110° because I am behind and otherwise will pass behind.
		11.30 - 13.30	BE 1516	Dived to listen.
			SW 2, Sea 3, rain, Vis. bad	Day's run:  Surfaced 136 nm, Submerged 9 nm.
		16.40		Incoming Radio Message 1505/31 from U-101:
				Square BE 2486.  Sound bearing 180°T.  Probably southerly course.
				I lead [the convoy] further to the south and come to GF.
		20.00	BE 685
		01.09.41	North Atlantic
		02.00 - 02.30	BE 1685	Dived to listen.  Nothing heard.
			S 2, Sea 2, fog, Vis. 200-400 meters, 1020 mb	I must be near the convoy position with general course from 190° to 170°.
		05.00 - 05.30	BE 5125	Dived to listen.  Nothing.
			Fog
		11.00		Incoming Radio Message 1032/1/144:
				Air reports convoy 08.30 hours in AM 4531.  Course 260°.  Position inexact.  Group Bosemüller course 340°.  Transit speed.  B.d.U.
		11.20 - 11.40	BE 5196	Dived to listen.  Boat heard surfacing.  I attempt to close but he run off on an easterly course.  Apparently U-101.
			SSW 2, Sea 1-2, fog, 1026 mb
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 223 nm, Submerged 6 nm.
		12.10 - 14.30	BE 5198	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. 50 meters
		14.50		Incoming Radio Message 1150/1/146:  20 steamers, 3 escorts, square BD 3945, course 40°, 7 knots.    U-73.
				I come to course 310° at highest speed, to operate on the reported convoy.
		15.30		Radio Message 1340/1/148 received:
				Group Bosemüller for U-73 convoy be in the area from AL 7810 to BE 1610 from 2 September at 08.00 hours. Deployment follows.    B.d.U.

	Sun and Moon Data 31.08.41
	Sun and Moon Data 01.08.41

	- 16 -
		continued
		01.09.41		Contact keeper reports are received regularly from U-73.
		15.58		Radio Message 1532/1/152 received with deployment.
				U-557 heads to square AL 7891.
		18.10	BE 5143	Smoke cloud sighted briefly bearing 50°T.  Closed on it at highest speed.  After a short time seen again with a second very close to it.  Apparently a two-stacker with course between 40° and 70°.  We do not close, on the contrary range increases.  Masts etc. were still not seen.
			WSW 2, Sea 1, Swell, clear, sunny, Vis. very good, 1027 mb
		19.30		Pursuit abandoned.
		18.21		Incoming Radio Message 1802/1/158:
				Group Bosemüller operate on U-73-convoy at highest speed.        B.d.U.
				In the Wehrmacht report a U-boat is mentioned which had sunk 4 steamers of 14000 GRT.  I suspect that we are meant.  Unfortunately the B.d.U. has removed 3000 GRT from the bill too conservatively.
		02.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	BE 1928
			W 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, misty, Vis. 5 nm, 1025
		01.34		U-73 has lost contact in BD 3661.  Sector deployment by B.d.U.  I can not reach my sector before 15.00 hours.
		10.00 - 10.35	BE 1191	Dived to listen.  Detonations heard close by.  Apparently torpedoes.  Vis. 5 nm breaking up, therefore again at GF.
			Fog, Vis. 1000-4000 meters
		11.15	Vis. again at 1000 meters
		11.30	Has grown bad
		11.30	BE 1159	A steamer suddenly comes out bearing 330°T.  To the right and left of him three others.  Turned away at AK.  The convoy is already completely out.  I am positioned inside in the center.  Unfortunately tubes are only flooded, the outer tube doors are still closed.  Crash dive.  Because I am certain that I have been sighted, went to depth T = 30 meters [60 meters] and silent speed.  Sound gear and 2 escorts heard.  However nothing happens at all.  Convoy runs on unchanged.
			Fog, Vis 1000 meters, rain
		12.00		At periscope depth nothing seen due to fog.  After a very short time sound bearings cease abruptly.  Very bad sound conditions.
				Day's run:  Surfaced 247 nm, Submerged 4 nm.

	Sun and Moon Data 01.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 02.09.41

	- 17 -
		continued
		02.09.41
		12.30		Surfaced.  Radio Message sent:  In fog and rain collided with convoy square BE 1159, course 40°.    Paulssen.
				After surfacing U-boat in sight bearing 230°T.  U-95 comes within hailing range.  He had not yet noticed the convoy so close before him.
		13.10		U-83 reports in our current square a corvette on course   60°.  I pursue on course 40° from my observation of the general course.
		13.55 - 14.10	BE 1161	Dived to listen.  Nothing heard.  Also here bad sound conditions.
		16.05 - 16.35	BE 1217	I make a leg to the east, because I suspect that the convoy has zig zagged to the east.  Without success.
		17.06	SW 4-5, Sea 4, overcast, misty, Vis. 5 nm, 1013 mb	Radio Message sent.  Contact not regained.    U-557.
		21.30	AL 8785	U-boat in sight bearing 70°T.  U-558 comes within hailing distance.  He will search further on westerly course, I with easterly course.
		03.09.41	North Atlantic
			Southwest of Ireland
		00.00 - 00.30	AL 8794	Dived to listen.  Nothing.
			S 3. Sea 3, Swell, misty, rain, Vis. 2 nm, 1013 mb	Further search with this visibility is hopeless.  During the night I steer course 40° at 7 knots, the probable convoy speed.
		04.00	AL 8844
		08.00	AL 8824	I decide to make a large search leg to the west.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 187 nm, Submerged 3 nm.
		13.05 - 16.25	AL 8463	Dived due to fog.  U-boats heard several times.
			Fog
		17.44		Radio Message 1640/3/106 received:  Convoy square AL 9656, course 240°.  Made out:  1 cruiser, 8 steamers.  Fog.  U-98.
				Came to course 120° and GF.  Received B.d.U. order:  Operate at highest speed on U-98-convoy.
		18.30	AL 8551	U-boat in sight bearing 30°T.
			E 2-3, Sea 3, W-Swell, overcast, misty, Vis. between 2 and 5 nm
				U-boat in sight bearing 100°T.
				U-83 comes within hailing distance.  He can no longer take part in this pendulum convoy traffic due to fuel inventory.

	Sun and Moon Data 02.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 03.09.41

	- 18 -
		continued
		03.09.41
		20.00	AL 8559	Vis. 10 nm breaking up.  2 U-boats on parallel course bearing 70°T and 80°T.  U-77 and U-553 respond to calls.  U-98 holds contact despite the fog.  B.d.U. suspects this convoy is bound for Gibraltar, general course 170°.
		23.34		U-98 lost contact in AL 9593 due to fog.
				This aimless running around in the fog gradually drives one crazy.
		04.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	AL 9488	I can be ahead of the convoy from 04.00 hours with general course 240° - 220°.
			Fog
		05.13 - 08.30	AL 9856	Dived due to fog.
			Vis. 100-500 meters	Submerged circled back towards the convoy on northerly course for 0.4 nm.
				After surfacing searched to the south.
		12.00	AL 9886	Day's run:  Surfaced 186 nm, Submerged 8 nm.
		13.00 - 16.10	SSE 2-3, Sea 2-3, fog, Vis. 100-500 nm	Dived due to fog.
				Search is hopeless.
		16.15	BE 2136	Radio bearing Condor 89°T.  Sent by Naval Short Signal.  Did not operate on it because it is obviously a previously reported independent with escort.
		16.55		From B.d.U. operation on it prohibited.
		17.35	E 3-4, Sea 3, overcast, misty, rain, Vis. breaking up generally 8 nm	Sector search deployment to search further by B.d.U.  I occupy 200° - 205° and head there on course 90°.
		21.15	BE 2216	2 U-boats with southerly course in sight, bearing 60° and xx°.
		05.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	BE 2235	Reached sector.  Legs to both borders at 12 knots.
			SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast (light), Vis. medium to good, 1013 mb
		04.00	BE 2289
		08.00	BE 2531
		12.00	BE 2817	Day's run:  Surfaced 232 nm, Submerged 0 nm.
		12.45 - 13.00	BE 2763	Crash dive for aircraft bearing 60°T, course 270°, observed.  Probably a Condor.

	Sun and Moon Data 03.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 04.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 05.09.41

	- 19 -
		continued
		05.09.41
		16.30	BE 2799	U-563 in sight, comes into hailing range.
		21.26		Incoming Radio Message 1957 from B.d.U. with orders to continue search.
		06.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	BE 5139
			S 2, Sea 1-2, overcast, Vis. good, 1023 mb
		07.30 - 08.45	BE 5476	Main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank II and IV converted to ballast tanks.  Test dive to flush II and IV.
		12.00	BE 5718	Day's run:  Surfaced 174 nm, Submerged 2 nm.
		12.30 - 12.40		Crash dive for training.
		15.30	BE 5747	U-558 in sight baring 40°T.  Came within hailing distance.
		20.32		Radio Message 2005 received:
				Group Seewolf operate on convoy broken off.  Course north.  Transit speed.    B.d.U.
				I still have 38 cbm fuel oil.  Therefore run at economical transit speed.  (1 diesel LF).
		21.30	BE 4995	Several depth charge series heard in the west ahead of us.
		07.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	BE 4964
			ESE 2, Sea 1-2, lightly overcast, Vis. good, 1026 mn
		04.00	BE 4694
		08.00	BE 4662
		12.00	BE 4391	Day's run:  Surfaced 169 nm, Submerged 0 nm.
		16.00	BE 4331
		20.00	BE 1964
		08.09.41	North Atlantic
		00.00	BE 1697
			SSE 2, Sea 2, fog, Vis. 500 meters - 2 nm, 1025 mb
		04.00	BE 1661
		08.00 - 09.30	BE 1394	In the twilight test dive.
			Vis. breaking up well
		12.00

	Sun and Moon Data 05.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 06.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 07.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 08.09.41

	- 20 -
		08.09.41
		12.00	BE 1365	Day's run:  Surfaced 168 nm, Submerged 2 nm.
		16.00	AL 8898
		20.00	AL 8861
		09.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 8594
			SSE 2, Sea 1-2, fog, Vis. 500 meters - 2 nm, 1025 mb
		04.00	AL 8537
		08.00 - 10.24	AL 8294	Test dive.  Due to bad visibility remained submerged.
		12.00	AL 8265	Day's run:  Surfaced 160 nm, Submerged 4 nm.
		13.19		Incoming Radio Message 1218 and 1249 with assignment of new attack areas.  I head for square 9255.
		14.13	AL 9117	Course 90°.
		20.00	AL 9217	Reached attack area.
		10.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 9227	Search legs in attack area.
		04.00	AL 6885
		07.45 - 09.00	AL 6875	Test dive in the twilight.
			SW 2, Sea 1, Swell, overcast, Vis. 3-4 nm, 1030 mb
		12.00	AL 6888	Day's run:  Surfaced 171 nm, Submerged 3 nm.
		16.45 - 17.30	AL 9255	Crash dive for aircraft bearing 300°T, course 120°, 4-engined.
		18.20 - 19.00	AL 9258	Crash dive for aircraft bearing 160°T, course 80° then circling counter clockwise.  Flying boat.
		11.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 9524
			SSE 1, mirror flat, light W-Swell, misty, Vis. 2 nm, 1029 mb
		04.00	AL 9525
		08.00 - 09.52	AL 9523	Test dive in the twilight.  Due to fog remained submerged.  Surfacing U-boat heard bearing 120°T.
			Fog, Vis. 1000-5000 meters

	Sun and Moon Data 08.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 09.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 10.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 11.09.41

	- 21 -
		continued
		11.09.41
		21.00	AL 9299	Day's run:  Surfaced 99 nm, Submerged 5 nm.
		16.00	AL 9252
		20.00	AL 9225
		20.19		Incoming Radio Message 1934/11/110 with assignment of new attack areas.  U-557 occupies square AL 69.
		12.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 6899
			S 1, Sea 1, misty, heavy marine phosphorescence, Vis. 1000-2000 meters, 1029 mb
		04.00	AL 6957	Reached attack area.
		08.00 - 09.13	AL 6954	Test dive in twilight.
		12.00	AL 6924	Day's run:  Surfaced 139 nm, Submerged 2 nm.
		16.00	AL 6964
		20.00	AL 6999
		13.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 6956
			SW 1, Sea 0, overcast, Vis. 2000 meters, misty, heavy marine phosphorescence, 1033 mb
		04.00	AL 6955
		08.00 - 09.20	AL 6928	Test dive in twilight.
		11.08 - 15.40	AL 6924	Crash dive for training, remained submerged due to fog.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 104 nm, Submerged 2.5 nm.
		20.18	AL 6946	Radio Message 1931/13/161 received with new assigned attack areas.  Because I am assigned square AM 32 and can not reach it due to fuel inventory (25 cbm), sent Short Signal.
		22.18		Radio Message 2150/13/164 received:  U-557 free to maneuver in the previous Group Seewolf area.    B.d.U.
				I intend to head for square AM 51 and 52 and there hold there one or 2 days, then begin return transit.

	Sun and Moon Data 11.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 12.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 13.09.41

	- 22 -
		14.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AL 6946
			SSW 1, Sea 0, misty, Vis. 300-1000 meters, heavy marine phosphorescence, 1032 mb
		04.00	AL 6968
		08.00 - 09.00	AM 4719	Test dive in twilight.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 135 nm, Submerged 3 nm.
		12.10 - 16.25	AM 4723	Dived due to fog.  Several depth charge detonations heard.  Far off.
			Fog
		16.28		Incoming Radio Message 1418/14/177:  Aircraft located at convoy at 13.30 hours from cross bearings about in naval square AM 7980.  Enemy course was 50°.  B.d.U.
				Operated on the reported convoy on course 120°.
		20.00	AM 4851
		20.52		Incoming Radio Message 1439/14/179 with orders to operate on the convoy.  I will at dawn be on the line Black Rock (North Ireland) and Inishtearaght Island (South Ireland) because I suspect that the convoy will run on this line.  The greater probability seems to me to be that he goes through the St. George's Channel.  Own fuel inventory is 22 cbm.
		15.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of Ireland
		00.00	AM 4976
			NW 2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. 5-6 nm greatly changing, 1030 mb
		00.23		Incoming Radio Message 0022/15/189:  Krech continue return transit.  Paulssen free to maneuver.    B.d.U.
		04.00	AM 7339
		07.30 - 08.43	AM 8159	Dived in the twilight.  Reached the top of the named line.  Ran to meet the convoy on course 185°, because I am located at the 7 knot point for the convoy.
		12.00	AM 8426	Day's run:  Surfaced 198 nm, Submerged 7 nm.
		13.45 - 16.12	AM 8427	Dived due to fog.
			Fog banks, mirror flat sea	Advance point of the convoy for 5 knots reached.  Nothing seen,  Began return transit on course 230°, 18 cbm.  Temporarily will send no Radio Message because of my proximity to land.
		20.00	AM 7692
		20.35		Incoming Radio Message 1502/15/105:  09.20 in naval square BF 4160 a burning tanker.  5000 meters north 2 independent merchant ships and a patrol vessel.  Course north.    B.d.U.
				I do not operate in it due to fuel situation.  By now the sighted steamers should already

	Sun and Moon Data 14.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.09.41

	- 23 -
		15.09.41		be in the St. George's Channel and in the vicinity of the tanker there are several outbound boats.
		16.09.41	North Atlantic
			Southwest of Ireland
		00.00	AM 7965
			SSE 1-2, Sea 1, overcast, Vis. medium, marine phosphorescence, 1032 mb
		00.30		Fishermen with set lanterns avoided on the surface.
		04.00	BE 3335
		07.40 - 08.50	BE 3395	Test dive at twilight.
		10.20	BE 3632	Fishing sailing vessel bearing 230°T, avoided on the surface.
		10.35 - 11.12	BE 3633	Dived for aircraft bearing 120°T, course 300°.  Probably a Condor.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 180 nm, Submerged 4 nm.
		12.57	BF 1415	Crash dive for 4-engined aircraft from the west.
		13.36	BF 1415	Crash dive for 4-engined aircraft from the east.
			SE 2-3. Sea 2, partial overcast, low hanging clouds, Vis. 10 nm, 1031 mb	The entry of the bridge watch goes very slowly.  Aircraft comes out of the low hanging clouds.  At depth T = 7 meters [14 meters] 2 bombs at the level of the stern.  Boat heavily down by the bow.  Damage:  watertight stern torn and dented.  Stern diving plane jammed.  Cannot be turned by hand or with the motor.  Shafts compressed.  E-motors probably displaced.  All clutches and bearings grind and were hot.  Electric compressor torn from its base.  Vent valve linkage for main ballast tank 1 broken outboard [of the pressure hull].  Vent is open.  Several converters torn off.  Damage to torpedo installation astern and glass damage.  Settled to depth T = 50 meters [100 meters].  For 4 hours the boat is held at depth T = 25 meters [50 meters] without being underway.  During this time the E-motor became ready for 100 RPM and the electric compressor was fixed with wire and slings.  With this we are clear to dive at least for the time being, because the Junkers compressor has been out of service since the beginning of the patrol.  Because I am not ready to crash dive I remain submerged.  Diesel repairs.  First rate behavior of the crew during the heavy concussion of the boat and the subsequent repair of the damage.
		22.00		Surfaced.  Blowing goes only with the running propeller since the clutches grind.  Gradually went to higher speed to get away. The diesels and bearings take it.

	Sun and Moon Data 15.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 16.09.41

	- 24 -
		17.09.41	North Atlantic
			South of Ireland
		00.00	BF 1474
			SE 2-3, Sea 2-3, overcast, Vis. good, marine phosphorescence, 1032 mb
		02.35	BF 1729	2 lights (fishermen) avoided.
		03.30	BF 1753	1 further light (fisherman).
				Between 04.00 and 08.00 hours 2 times attempt to send Radio Message, to report return transit and the bombing.  Despite full functioning of the gear, was not heard.
		07.45	BF 4136	Dived.  Submerged transit because am not ready for crash diving.  On both diesels several intake and exhaust valves seized.
		07.55		Vessel passes over the boat.  Fast running engines.  Probably a destroyer.  Boat is still not ballanced.
		10.50		One detonation heard.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 142 nm, Submerged 10 nm.
		17.45		Surfaced to send Radio Message.  A fishing sailing vessel bearing 300°T.  Ran off on the surface.  Radio Message 1703/17/xxx sent:  Naval square BF 4245.  Request Lorient.  Yesterday naval square BF 1418 aircraft bombs.  Shafts compressed.  Clear to dive.    Paulssen.
		18.14	BF 4243	Crash dive for training.  Diving time (60 seconds) without main ballast tank 1 and stern diving plane is too great for surface transit.  Remained submerged.
		21.00		Surfaced.  Avoided several fishermen with lights set.
		18.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of France
		00.00	BF 4269
			ESE 3, Sea 2-3, clear sky, new moon, Vis. very good, 1029 mb
		02.30	BF 4373	Radio Message Short Signal sent.  Position in 36 hours off return harbor.
		06.55	BF 5177	Aircraft passes to port at an altitude of 100 meters 500 meters away.  Land-based aircraft.  Retracted undercarriage.  2- engines, course west.
			Still dark
		07.30	BF 5412	Dived, proceeded submerged.
		12.00	BF 5413	Day's run:  Surfaced 123 nm, Submerged 16 nm.
		14.15	BF 5413	Surfaced to ventilate the boat.  Due to the good visibility remained on the surface.  Sailing vessels and fishing trawlers constantly in sight.
			Cloudless, Vis. clear
		19.40 - 21.30	BF 5518	Crash dive for training.  Remained submerged until complete darkness.
		22.20		Short Signal sent:  Request Bearing Transmitter I in 3 hours.
				U-557.

	Sun and Moon Data 17.09.41
	Sun and Moon Data 18.09.41

	- 25 -
		19.09.41	North Atlantic
			West of France
		00.30		Reached Point Bogen.
			ENE 2-3, Sea 2, clear starry sky, Vis. good, 1027 mb	Entered via Route Bogenlampe.
		02.07		Despite the understood Short Signal no confirmation received, that U-557 will be off Lorient at 14.00 hours, Short Signal sent:
				Position in 12 hours off return harbor.    U-557.
				Many dimmed fishing vessels on the entry route.
		05.15		Reached Point L 2.  Put the boat on the bottom.  Radio Message sent.
		12.00		Day's run:  Surfaced 96 nm, Submerged 6 nm.
		14.00		Surfaced.  Entered Lorient in convoy.
		16.30		Made fast Lorient.  End of the 2nd war patrol.
				Duration:  31 days.
				Total distance covered  surfaced:      4787 nm
				submerged:  175.4 nm.
				Successes:  4 freighters    17000 GRT
				1        "          probable.
				Special Experiences:
				1.)  If contact on a convoy is lost during unsettled weather, in my opinion, a directed and organized search must be used immediately. In three convoy pursuits during this patrol it has been shown repeatedly again that with broken contact almost all searching boats were in a narrow area ahead of the last enemy course, so that actually only a very small area is searched.
				With the number of boats which always operate nowadays on a convoy to me the danger seems lower that one or two are thrown off by attempting to gain contact from a good clue than all boats concentrated in too small an area are passed by.
				In order to give the former contact keeper the possibility of continuing to search independently, it would be favorable not to include him in this deployment, but to allow him to maneuver freely.
				2.)  The reconnaissance line has always appeared to me as the most favorable searching formation. Of course it must be adapted to the visibility. The sector distribution which was used frequently has the disadvantage that the sector will be too big after a search of 24 hours. Then an accurate search is no longer guaranteed.

Sun and Moon Data 19.09.41

	- 26 -
				3.)  Because in Lorient there is no possibility of a thorough sea trial, it is proposed to create a protected and searched sea trial track between Ile de Groix and the mainland. Boats must constantly turn back in the early days, due to engine damage that would have been discovered with a reasonable sea trial.  (see K.T.B. of 14/15 August 1941)

	Enclosures to U-557's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Chart	Track chart covering entire patrol
Torpedo	Torpedo Firing Reports (Schussmeldung)

	Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
	- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
	1.)  A very well executed patrol.  Great toughness and correct considerations brought the Kommandant a beautiful success.
	The determination during the prevailing bad weather on 27 August to pursue while reloading on the surface and thus to maintain contact is highlighted.
	2.)  Creation of a "sea trial track" with sufficient protection at Lorient is not possible.
		For the Befehlshaber der Unterseeboote
		- The Chief of the Operations Department -

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