U-666 - 3rd War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed
Date
Arrived
Date
Days at Sea
St. Nazaire
31 August 1943
St. Nazaire
4 September 1943
5
St. Nazaire
6 September 1943
St. Nazaire
16 October 1943
41

 

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

 

Ships Hit
Date
KTB Time
Position
Ship
Tons
Nationality
Convoy
23 Sep 43
02.01
53°09'N, 39°55'W
HMS ITCHEN (K 227)
1,370
British
ON-202
     
 Total = 1,370
   
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.


 
 
           
           
           
           
           
                                       3rd Patrol.                                          Copy No. . . . . . 7. . . . .  
           
           
        Geheime Kommandosache  !  
           
                                              K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  a  c  h  
     
   
         "  U  666  "
   
   
   
        Beginning:               9.7.1943
   
        Concluding:             16.10.1943.
           
           
              Kommandant:         Oblt. z. See    E  n  g  e  l  ,  Herbert  
           
           
     
Distribution:    
     
O.K.M. Copy No.: 1
O.K.M. Copy No.: 2
B.d.U. Copy No.: 3
Komd. Adm. d. U.-Boote Copy No.: 4
F.d.U. - West Copy No.: 5
F.d.U. - Ausb. Copy No.: 6
27. U.-Flottille Copy No.: 7
  6. U.-Flottille Copy No.: 8
 
           
           
     
Enclosures:    
     
1 Track chart for Copy No.: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Route chart of convoy operation   "      "      " 3 and 8.
Excerpt of the Radio Log   "      "      " 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
K.T.B. Maschine   "      "      " 3 and 8.
Combat sketches   "      "      " 3 and 8.
Torpedo firing reports   "      "      " 3, 4 and 8.
Barograph strips   "      "      " 5.
 
           
           
        © U-boat Archive 2024 - all rights reserved  
Click the flag to view the above page from the original German KTB
 
- 1 -
 
           
           
           
           
    09.07. - 31.08.43   Shipyard period.  
    19.08.43   Sea trial.  
    31 08.43      
    17.15   Ready for sea.  
    17.50   Made fast in the lock.  
    18.00   Put to sea from St. Nazaire for 3rd war patrol.  
    19.00   Taken in convoy.  
    20.00 BF 6439    
      WSW 1, Sea 0, clear, 1021 mb    
    24.00 BF 6495    
      WSW 1, Sea 1, clear, 1021 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    01.09.43 Bay of Biscay    
    04.00 BF 6755    
      NW 2, Sea 1, lightly cloudy, 1020 mb    
    07.30   Beginning of twilight.  
    07.45   Reached Point "Morgen", deep dive test.  
    08.00 BF 6778    
      NW 1, Sea 0, lightly cloudy, 1020 mb    
    08.45   Surfaced.  
    09.00   Released from convoy.  
    09.15   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 BF 6778 Day's run:    Surfaced      120 nm  
                           Submerged    12 nm  
                                               132 nm  
    16.00 BF 6777    
    20.00 BF 6779    
    24.00 BF 5898 Surfaced.  
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    02.09.43      
    04.00 BF 5799 Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
      WbyS 3, Sea 2, overcast, 1021 mb    
    08.00 BF 5798    
    12.00 BF 5797 Day's run:    Surfaced      65 nm  
                           Submerged   33 nm  
                                                98 nm  
    16.00 BF 5789    
    20.00 BF 5788    
    23.30   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 5787    
      Wind calm, Sea 1, half overcast, 1021 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 31.08.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.09.43
 
- 2 -
 
           
           
           
           
    03.09.43 Bay of Biscay    
    01.30   Power supply transformer "Hagenuk" burnt through, began return transit.  
    02.00   Dived.  
    04.00 BF 5777 Surfaced.  
      Wind calm, Sea 1, 3/4 overcast, 1021 mb    
    04.16   Outgoing Radio Message 0358/3/33:  "Hagenuk" failed, power supply transformer burnt through, return transit.  Position 4 September 15.00 ours Point "Herz 438".  
    04.38   Dived.  
    08.00 BF 5779    
      Wind calm, Sea 1, 1/2 overcast, 1021 mb    
    12.00 BF 5788 Day's run:    Surfaced      43 nm  
                           Submerged   28 nm  
                                               71 nm  
    14.15   Incoming Radio Message 0903/3/35:  For "U-666" escort will be positioned at Herz 438" on 4 September 1943 at 15.00 hours.  
    16.00 BF 5789    
    20.00 BF 5797    
    22.30   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 5877    
      SE 3, Sea 2, clear, 1020 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    04.09.43      
    04.00 BF 5884    
      SEbyS 3, Sea 2, cloudless, 1020 mb    
    08.00 BF 5896    
      ESE 2, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, 1021 mb    
    12.00 BF 6776 Day's run:    Surfaced      132 nm  
      SSE 2, Sea 1, lightly cloudy, 1021 mb                    Submerged    36 nm  
                                            168 nm  
    14.00   Positioned at Point "Herz 438", taken in convoy.  
    16.00 BF 6469    
      SE 1, Sea 0, 1/2 overcast, 1021 mb    
    19.10   Made fast St. Nazaire.  
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    04. - 06.09.43   Repair work.  
         
    06.09.43      
    18.15   Ready for Sea.  
    18.30   Made fast in the lock.  
    20.20   Put to sea from St. Nazaire for war patrol.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.09.43
 
- 3 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.09.43 Bay of Biscay    
    20.30   Taken in convoy.  
    24.00 SW 3, Sea 2, 1/3 overcast, 1022 mb Operations in accordance with Operations Order "Atlantic No. 54".  
      BF 6492    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    07.09.43      
    04.00 BF 6722    
      E 1, Sea 1, 3/4 overcast, 1020 mb    
    06.53   Reached Point "Morgen", deep dive test.  
    08.00 BF 6778    
      E 3, Sea 1, half overcast, 1020 mb    
    08.55   Surfaced, released from convoy.  
    09.25   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 BF 9126 Day's run:    Surfaced      122 nm  
                           Submerged    14 nm  
                                              136 nm  
    16.00 BF 9124    
    20.00 BF 9114    
    22.44   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 8326    
      NNW 3, Sea 2, half overcast, 1021 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    08.09.43      
    04.00 BF 8222    
    04.43   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    08.00 BF 8213    
    12.00 BF 8211 Day's run:    Surfaced       80 nm  
                           Submerged    45 nm  
                                              125 nm  
    16.00 BF 8133    
    20.00 BF 8132    
    23.50   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 4999    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    09.09.43      
    03.05   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    04.00 BF 4979    
      ESE 3, Sea 2, overcast, 1019    
    08.00 BF 4949    
    12.00 BF 4947 Day's run:    Surfaced       35 nm  
                           Submerged    42 nm  
                                                77 nm  
    16.00 BF 4899    
    20.00 BF 4895    
    24.00 BF 4894 Surfaced.  
_______________________________________________________________________________________
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.09.43
 
- 4 -
 
           
           
           
           
    10.09.43 Bay of Biscay    
    03.30   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    04.00 BF 4796    
      WSW 3, Sea 3, overcast, rain    
    08.00 BF 4795    
    12.00 BF 4794 Day's run:    Surfaced      43 nm  
                           Submerged   37 nm  
                                               80 nm  
    16.00 BF 4786    
    20.00 BF 4782    
    22.17   Officer Only Radio Message Fritz 1853/10/95:  Objective is AK 63.  Should be reached by evening 20 September.  
    23.50   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BF 4781    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    11.09.43      
    01.15   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    04.00 BF 4771    
    08.00 BE 6993    
    12.00 BE 6968 Day's run:    Surfaced      21 nm  
                           Submerged   39 nm  
                                               60 nm  
    16.00 BE 6967    
    20.00 BE 6959    
    22.30   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 6946    
      SE 4-5, Sea 4, 3/4 overcast, 979 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    12.09.43 North Atlantic    
    00.25   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    04.00 BE 6852    
      E 4, Sea 3, 1/2 overcast    
    08.00 BE 6843    
    12.00 BE 6842 Day's run:    Surfaced      72 nm  
                           Submerged   32 nm  
                                              104 nm  
    16.00 BE 6818    
    20.00 BE 6817    
    23.00   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 6737    
      N 5, Sea 5, overcast, rain, 998 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    13.09.43      
    02.55   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    04.00 BE 6715    
      N 6, Sea 5, at times rain    
    08.00 BE 5933    
    12.00 BE 5932 Day's run:    Surfaced      47 nm  
                           Submerged   47 nm  
                                               94 nm  
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.09.43
 
- 5 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    13.09.43 North Atlantic    
    16.00 BE 5931    
    20.00 BE 5923    
    22.45   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 5678    
      NNW 6, Sea 5, 3/4 overcast    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    14.09.43      
    04.00 BE 5594    
      NNW 2, Sea 3, overcast, 1015 mb    
    04.18   Outgoing Short Signal:  My position is BE 55.  
    05.00   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    08.00 BE 5583    
      NNW 3, Sea 3, overcast, 1015 mb    
    12.00 BE 5555 Day's run:    Surfaced      59 nm  
                           Submerged   38 nm  
                                              97 nm  
    16.00 BE 5543    
    16.30   Switched to "Ireland" Circuit/  
    20.00 BE 5515    
    21.49   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 5192    
      W 3, Sea 3, 3/4 overcast    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    15.09.43      
    04.00 BE 5122    
      W 5, Sea 4, overcast, 1018 mb    
    05.30   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    08.00 BE 5121    
      SW 4, Sea 4, overcast, 1018 mb    
    12.00 BE 2779 Day's run:    Surfaced      68 nm  
                           Submerged   46 nm  
                                              114 nm  
    16.00 BE 2771    
    18.23   Cathode ray tube "Hagenuk" cracked, switched to aural reception.  
    20.00 BE 1969    
    21.43   Surfaced.  
    22.59   Officer Only Radio Message Viktor 1847/15/104:  Boat belongs to Group "Leuthen".  On 20 September 20.00 hours be in patrol line from AK 3441 to AL 4762.  
        Headed according to the 15th position in the patrol line AL 2140.  
    24.00 BE 1937    
      WSW 3, Sea 2, 3/4 overcast, 1018 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    16.09.43      
    04.00 BE 1684    
      W 3, Sea 3, 1/2 overcast, 1018 mb    
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 14.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 15.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.09.43
 
- 6 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.09.43 North Atlantic    
    08.00 BE 1641 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 278°T, 38.5 nm  
    08.30   Beginning of twilight.  
    08.45   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 BE 1512 Day's run:    Surfaced       84 nm  
                           Submerged    40 nm  
                                              124 nm  
    16.00 BE 1274    
    20.00 BE 1193    
    20.50   Officer Only Radio Message Paula 1626/16/120:  From 21 and 23 September each a westbound convoy expected.  No operation on eastbound convoys.  
    21.30   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 1137    
      W 4, Sea 3, overcast, at times rain, 1029 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    17.09.43      
    04.00 AL 7886    
      WNW 4, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. bad, 1031 mb    
    08.00 AL 7851    
      W 2-3, Sea 2, overcast, Vis. 3000 meters, 1031 mb Due to bad visibility proceeded submerged.  
    08.35   Beginning of twilight.  
    08.50   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 AL 7824 Day's run:    Surfaced        74 nm  
                           Submerged    29 nm  
                                              113 nm  
    16.00 AL 7559    
    20.00 AL 7572    
    21.45   Surfaced.  
    24.00 AL 3, Sea 2, overcast, 1029 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    18.09.43      
    04.00 AL 7435    
      WNW 3, Sea 2, 1/3 cloudy, Vis. medium, 1029 mb    
    08.00 AL 7168    
      WSW 3-4, Sea 2, overcast, Vis. bad, 1024 mb Visibility is unchanged bad, proceeded submerged.  
    08.35   Beginning of twilight.  
    08.50   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 AL 7161 Day's run:    Surfaced        68 nm  
                           Submerged    33 nm  
                                              101 nm  
    16.00 AL 7129    
    20.00 AL 7126    
    22.00   Surfaced.  
    24.00 AL 4785    
      WSW 2-3, Sea 2, thick fog, 1023 mb    
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 17.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 18.09.43
 
- 7 -
 
           
           
           
           
    19.09.43 North Atlantic    
    04.00 AL 4743    
      WSW 4, Sea 3, overcast, misty, 1020 mb    
    08.00 AL 4475    
      SW 4, Sea 3, overcast, fog, 1017 mb    
    08.25   Brief detection on 172 cm.  
    08.50   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    11.58   Several detonations heard.  
    12.00 AL 4471 Day's run:    Surfaced       64 nm  
                           Submerged    27 nm  
                                                91 nm  
    16.00 AK 6639    
    18.58   Radio Message 1010/19/170:  "Leuthen".  Passing of westbound convoy can be expected from today.  Operate on it on sighting.  
    20.00 AK 6632    
    21.50   Surfaced.  
    22.16   Short Signal:  Convoy in AK 0345.  
        In accordance with Radio Message 1010/19/170 operated on it HF, course 310°.  Jumped in as radio repeater, control did not acknowledge.  
    24.00 AL 4186    
      NW 4, Sea 3, changing cloudiness, 1026 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    20.09.43      
    03.52   Short Signal 0352/20/184:  From "Otto":  Convoy in AL 1944, course 270°.  
        Jumped in as radio repeater, Control acknowledged.  
      Due to the high W-Swell at most I can operated at HF.  
    04.00 AL 4145    
      WbyN 3, Sea 3, overcast, 1026 mb    
    08.00 AL 6353    
      NbyW 3, Sea 3, overcast, Vis. medium, 1027 mb    
    08.46   Short Signal:  0846/20/187: From "Hepp": Convoy in AK 0318, course west.  
    11.36   Short Signal 1136/20/195: From "Techand":  Convoy in AK 3931, course west.  
        Continued to operate on reports from "Hepp" and   "Techand" at LF, course 310°.  
    11.12   Radio Message 1050/20/193:  "Leuthen":  On 21 September at 08.00 hours switch to "Hubertus" Circuit.  
    12.00 AK 6314 Day's run:    Surfaced      161 nm  
      WNW 3, Sea 2, overcast, 1024 mb                    Submerged      4 nm  
                                            165 nm  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 19.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 20.09.43
 
- 8 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    20.09.43 North Atlantic    
    16.00 AK 3983    
      WbyN 2-3, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, 1026 mb    
    16.07   Detection on 145 cm, dived.  
    17.00 AK 3983 Surfaced, immediate location again, dove.  
        After 20 minutes several well-placed aircraft bombs.  From 18.00 hours regularly 2-6 aircraft bombs, however which appear more distant.  
    19.50 AK 3958 Sound bearing in 200°T.  
    20.00 AK 3958 Up to 22.00 hours regularly 7-8 depth charges, some are well-placed.  
      WbyN 2-3, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, 1026 mb  
    22.25 -   No further sound bearings.  
    22.50 AK 3957 Surfaced.  Nothing seen.  While blowing detection on 145 cm, remained on the surface and manned the quad 20 mm.  At times the detection goes off, but appears again as a steady tone.  
        5 Aphrodite launched.  
    23.20   Radio Message 2054/20/120:  Leadership expects that the convoy continues on the Great Circle.  Continue to search at highest speed on enemy courses between 280° and 240°.  Starting point AL 3930.  
        At GF steered search courses in accordance with the above Radio Message.  
    23.57 AK 3949 Detection on 172 cm.  Shuts off and reappears as steady tone up to 30 seconds.  
    24.00 AK 3949 Star shells bearing 320°T.  Closed at GF.  
      WbyN 3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, 1026 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    21.09.43      
    03.24   Radio Message 1813/20/106:  By Short Signal from   "Kinzel" all boats remain on the surface.  Advance at highest speed on the convoy.  Mass boats around the convoy to release the victims.  
    04.00 AK 0255    
      WNW 2, Sea 1, 1/2 cloudy, 1030 mb    
    08.00 AK 2923 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 170°T, 3 nm.  
      W 1, Sea 0, lightly cloudy, 1030 mb  
      Switched to "Hubertus" Circuit in accordance with Radio Message 1050/20/193:  
    10.10   Radio Message 0826/21/138:  "Leuthen".  By the report of "Kluth" and plotting at 03.44 hours the convoy was in AK 2927, course 270°, speed 9 knots.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 20.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 21.09.43
 
- 9 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    21.09.43      
    10.34   Radio Message 1010/21/865:  "Leuthen".  By day use opportunities on destroyers.  At night main blows against ship groups.  
    10.45   Dived for sound bearings due to bad visibility.  Nothing heard.  
    12.00 AK 1899 Day's run:    Surfaced      194 nm  
      WSW 2, Sea 1, thick fog, 1030 mb                    Submerged    20 nm  
                                            214 nm  
    12.20   Surfaced.  
    12.28   Radio Message 1000/21/870 from "Kluth".  Heard convoy voice bearing 187°T AK 0167.  
        Operated on "Kluth" report.  
    15.32   Radio Message 1408/21/879:  "Leuthen".  Operate on "Kluth" report.  
    16.00 AK 0115    
      SW 2, Sea 1, thick fog, at times rain, 1027 mb    
    19.55   Radio Message 1832/21/894:  "Luthen".  Enemy position "Kluth" is certainly the convoy.  
    20.00 AK 1954    
      SW 2, Sea 1, overcast, 1029 mb    
    21.10   Short Signal 2110/21/899 from "Deecke".  Convoy AK 5173, course 225°, 7 knots.  
        Operated on "Deecke" report at GF, course 160°.  By plotting should be at the convoy at 03.00 hours.  
    24.00 AK 4342    
      SW 3, Sea 2, thick fog, 1026 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    22.09.43      
    02.5x AK 4625 Dived to listen.  Nothing heard.  
    03.55   Surfaced.  
      Continued to operate on course 240° to be sure to be ahead of the convoy.  
    04.00 AK 4619    
      SW 2, Sea 2, thick fog, 1024 mb    
    08.00 AK 4562    
      NW 3, Sea 2, fog, 1022 mb    
    12.00 AK 4763 Day's run:    Surfaced     310 nm  
      SW 4, Sea 3, fog, at times rain, 1021 mb                    Submerged     6 nm  
                                            316 nm  
           
Sun and Moon Data 21.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 22.09.43
 
- 10 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    22.09.43 North Atlantic    
    16.00 AK 7122    
      SW 3, Sea 3, fog, at times rain, 1020 mb    
    19.35 AK 7145 Crash dive for approaching aircraft, 6000 meters away.  
      Because by enemy reports and plotting I am 60 nm ahead of the convoy, I remained submerged, until the convoy is closer.  My suspicion was later confirmed.  
    20.00 AK 7147    
      SW 3, Sea 3, overcast, fog, 1020 mb    
    24.00 AJ 9366    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    23.09.43      
    00.05   Sound bearing in 160°T.  
    00.20   Surfaced.  At GF and course 160° ran towards the sound bearing, nothing seen.  
    01.05   Maneuvered ahead a bit on course 270°.  
    01.20   Ran to meet on course 85°.  
    01.45 AK 7147 Shadow bearing 120°T.  2 large escort destroyers are distinguished.  The course of the vessels is about SW.  Beginning range about 6000 meters.  Speed 12-14 knots.  
      It was probably the forward close escort.  
        Turned away for a stern shot.  
    01.47 AK 7147 To Action Stations.  
    01.56   Stern shot T V on destroyer in starboard echelon.  
        Shooting data:  
        Target angle 0°, enemy speed 15 knots.  
        Range 4000 meters.  
        Torpedo depth 4 meters, steering WS.  
        Remained on the surface and turned towards for a bow shot on the second destroyer.  Destroyer initially was about enemy bow right, target angle 110°, range 2000 meters, speed 12 knots.  
        From the listening room detection reported on 140 cm, when the destroyer also turned towards the boat and increased speed.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 22.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 23.09.43
 
- 11 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.09.43      
    02.01 AK 7147 Bow shot T V from tube II.  
        Shooting data:  
        Target angle 0°, enemy speed 15 knots.  
        Range 1500 meters.  
        Torpedo depth 4 meters, steering WS.  
        Destroyer illuminates searchlight and immediately picked up the boat.  Artillery fire, 2 hits in the conning tower.  
    02.02   Crash dive!  
        When the boat was at 20 meters, ahead to starboard an extremely heavy detonation.  
        Running time of the II torpedo 1 minute 10 seconds.  
        Shortly thereafter a heavy detonation to port.  
        Running time of the I torpedo 8 minutes 21 seconds.  
        Sinking sounds heard to starboard in the boat, heard to port in the GHG.  No further propeller sounds.  5 depth charge detonations to port, suspect own depth charges of the sinking destroyers, then nothing more was heard.  
      Suspect that the II torpedo made a direct hit, the range at hitting was below 1000 meters.  
    02.45 AK 7147 Was run over by the convoy.  
    04.00 AK 7147    
    04.10   Overrun by the stern screen.  Asdic and strong propeller sounds.  Boat steered at depth A +40 meters.  No depth charges.  
      It seemed that there was only 1 destroyer astern, which drove in wild zigzags through the area.  
        Surfaced.  There were a few failures in the boat from the detonation to starboard.  Oil trace from main ballast and reserve fuel oil tank 4 starboard.  Sheet metal damage from the artillery hit.  Various objects were found on the bridge, among them a tin can with English writing and 2 English coins from the year 42 and 43.  Set off for repairs.  
    06.06   Outgoing Radio Message 0201/23/871:  Just now AK 7147 two leading destroyers sunk.  02.45 hours overrun by convoy, course 225°.  
    07.40   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
        Reloaded.  
    08.00 AK 7159    
      W 3, Sea 2, overcast, Vis. medium, 1030 mb    
    10.58   Radio Message 1012/23/876:  "Leuthen".  Break off operation on convoy.  Boats in favorable position ahead of the convoy use opportunities.  
    12.00 AK 7167    
    16.00 AK 7168    
    18.15   Surfaced.  
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.09.43
 
- 12 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    23.09.43 North Atlantic    
    20.00 AK 7249    
      W 1, Sea 1, overcast, 1030 mb    
    23.57   Radio Message 2336/23/811:  "Leuthen".  1.) Next operation intended on eastbound convoy about on 27 September.  Submit all necessary messages in the course of this night.  Further orders follow, as soon as all reports are received.  On 24 September continue to expect with increased enemy aerial reconnaissance and remain submerged.  
    24.00 AK 7368    
      W 1, Sea 1, fog, 1031 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    24.09.43      
    04.00 AK 7368    
      W 1, Sea 1, fog, 1031 mb    
    08.00 AK 8157    
      SSW 1, Sea 1, fog, 1030 mb    
    08.50   Beginning of twilight.  
    09.00   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 AK 8158 Day's run:    Surfaced      130 nm  
                           Submerged    18 nm  
                                              148 nm  
    16.00 AK 8156    
    18.10   Radio Message 1645/24/821:  Boat joins Group "Rossbach".  On 26 September be in reconnaissance line from AK 2645 to AK 6845. Radio silence except for tactically important messages.  
        Steered in accordance with orders to the 6th position in the reconnaissance line.  AK 2884, course 45°.  
    20.00 AK 8164    
    22.15   Surfaced.  
    24.00 AK 8136    
      SE 2, Sea 1, fog, 1029 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    25.09.43      
    04.00 AK 5845    
      SW 1, Sea 1, fog, 1029 mb    
    08.00 AK 5583    
      E 1, Sea 1, fog, light Swell, 1029 mb    
    08.35   Beginning of twilight.  
    08.55   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 AK 5561 Day's run:    Surfaced      111 nm  
                           Submerged    25 nm  
                                              136 nm  
    16.00 AK 5557    
    20.00 AK 5555    
    22.10   Surfaced.  
    24.00 AK 5xxx    
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 23.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 24.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 25.09.43
 
- 13 -
 
           
           
           
           
    26.09.43 North Atlantic    
    00.55   Radio Message 1102/25/835:  "Rossbach".  Contrary to previous orders:  On 27 September at 06.00 hours be in patrol line from AK 2555 to AK 6757.  
        In accordance with orders headed on course 30° to the 6th position in the new patrol line in AK 3789.  
    04.00 AK 5321    
      W 1, Sea 1, fog, at times rain, 1036 mb, Vis. 200 meters    
    08.00 AK 0243    
      NW 1, Sea 0, fog, Vis. below 1000 meters, 1030 mb    
    08.50   Beginning of twilight.  
    09.05   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    12.00 AK 0221 Day's run:    Surfaced      116 nm  
                           Submerged    25 nm  
                                              141 nm  
    16.00 AK 2794 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 0°T, 15 nm  
    18.09   Radio Message 1701/26/865: "Rossbach".  From tomorrow a westbound convoy, speed 9 knots is expected.  Delay of up to 2 days is possible.  From 29 September expect westbound convoy, speed 7.5 knots.  With unsettled weather dive to listen often, that goes especially for boats with low fuel inventories.  
    20.00 AK 2795    
    22.00 AK 2798 Surfaced.  Positioned at ordered position.  Back and forth in position.  
    24.00 AK 2798    
      SSW 4, Sea 3, 3/4 overcast, 1020 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    27.09.43      
    04.00 AK 2795    
      SW 5, Sea 4, fog, at times rain, 1017 mb    
    08.00 AK 2798    
      SW 4, Sea 4, overcast, misty, 1017 mb    
    08.55   Beginning of twilight.  
    12.00 AK 2798 Day's run:    Surfaced       96 nm  
      WSW 4-5, Sea 4, fog, at times rain, Vis. about 1000 meters, 1019 mb                    Submerged    17 nm  
                                            113 nm  
    12.52 AK 2798 Radio Message 1133/27/871: "Rossbach".  From 12.00 hours course 300°, speed 7 knots.  On 28 September 00.00 hours stop.  Remain in reached position as patrol line.  
        Operated as ordered, course 300°, speed 7 knots.  
        [new patrol line position AK 1475 - AK 5599]  
           
Sun and Moon Data 26.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 27.09.43
   
           
           
           
    continued      
    27.09.43      
    16.00 AK 2782 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 0°T, 15 nm  
      W 4, Sea 3, overcast, at times rain, 1020 mb  
    20.00 AK 2741    
      WNW 2, Sea 3, overcast, fog, Vis. below 1000 meters, 1019 mb    
    24.00 AK 1825 In position in new patrol line.  Back and forth in position.  
      WSW 5, Sea 4, overcast, at times rain, Vis. below 1000 meters, 1019 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    28.09.43      
    04.00 AK1825    
      WSW 5, Sea 4, fog, Vis. below 2000 meters, 1011 mb    
    08.00 AK 1825    
      NW 4-5, Sea 4, fog, 1011 mb    
    09.00   Beginning of twilight.  
    10.45   Meeting with "U-Manseck", navigation comparison.  
    12.00 AK 1825 Day's run:    Surfaced      163 nm  
      WSW 4, Se 3, fog, Vis. 300-5000 meters, 1014 mb                    Submerged    0 nm  
                                            163 nm  
    16.00 AK 1825    
      SW 4, Sea 4, at times fog, 1/2 cloudy, 1015 mb    
    20.00 AK 1857    
      SW 4, Sea 4, changing cloudy to overcast, Vis. 10 nm, 1012 mb    
    21.21   Radio Message 2055/28/801:  "Rossbach".  Tonight by all means monitor the ling with certainty.  The convoy must come.  
        From 22.00 hours due to occasional visibility deterioration gapless monitoring of the assigned strip was ensured by increased speed settings.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 27.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 28.09.43
 
- 15 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    28.09.43 North Atlantic    
    24.00 AK 1837    
      SW 6, Sea 5, heavily cloudy, brief Northern Lights, 1014 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    29.09.43      
    04.00 AK 1826    
      WSW 7, Sea 5, cloudy, 1014 mb    
    08.00 AK 1857    
      SW 5, Sea 5, lightly cloudy, Vis. good, 1012 mb    
    09.19   Beginning of twilight.  
    12.00 AK 1826 Day's run:    Surfaced      171 nm  
      WSW 5-6, Sea 5, lightly cloudy, 1014 mb                    Submerged      0 nm  
                                            171 nm  
    16.00 AK 1839    
      WSW 4-5, Sea 4, nearly overcast, showers, 1012 mb    
    17.50   Test dive.  
    20.00 AK 1826    
      WSW 3, Sea 3, overcast, heavy rain squalls, high Swell, Vis. good, 1009 mb    
    22.22   Radio Message 2211/29/817:  "Rossbach".  Course 70°, speed 7 knots.  More to follow.  
    22.25 AK 1826 Radio Message 2154/29/818:  "Rossbach".  In new order on 1 October 10.00 hours be in patrol line from AD 8815 [BdU KTB AD 8879] to AK 6363.  From 1 October slow southwest-bound convoy is expected.  Maintain radio silence except for tactically important reports.  If possible remain unnoticed.  After convoy operation supply of low fuel boats is anticipated in are Point "Jota".  
    24.00 AK 1835 Steered in accordance with orders to the 6th position of the patrol line AK 3451, course 65°, speed 6 knots.  
      W 3-4, Sea 3, changing cloudiness, at times rain, 1008 mb  
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    30.09.43 Southwest of Iceland    
    04.00 AK 2715    
      W 4, Sea 3, heavily cloudy, 1007 mb    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 28.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 29.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 30.09.43
 
- 16 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    30.09.43 Southwest of Iceland    
    08.00 AK 2594    
      W 3, Sea 3, overcast, at times rain, 1005 mb    
    09.05   Morning twilight.  
    12.00 AK 2648 Day's run:    Surfaced      146 nm  
      W 3, Sea 3, overcast, at times rain, 1005 mb                    Submerged      0 nm  
                                            146 nm  
    15.40   Dived, pulled torpedoes.  
    16.00 AK 2653    
      N 5, Sea 4, heavily cloudy, showers, 1008 mb    
    17.43   Surfaced.  
    20.00 AK 2635    
      W 3, Sea 4, overcast, at times showers, 1007 mb    
    24.00 AK 3513    
      W 3-4, Sea 3, heavily cloudy, at times showers, 1005 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    01.10.43      
    00.23 AK 3388 Officer-Only Radio Message 2351/30/833:  Contrary to previous orders:  1 October 12.00 hours be in new patrol line from AD 8815 to AK 0338.  
        Steered in accordance with orders to the 6th position in the new patrol line AK 3272.  Course 22°, speed setting 9 knots.  
    04.00 AK 3356    
      NNW 3-4, Sea 2, changing cloudiness, showers, 1005 mb    
    08.00 AK 3274    
      NNW 2-3, Sea 1, cloudy, at times showers, 1005 mb    
    08.52   Beginning of twilight.  
    12.00 AK 3276 Day's run:    Surfaced      184 nm  
      NNW 3, Sea 2, 1/2 overcast, at times showers, 1008 mb                    Submerged      3 nm  
                                            187 nm  
        Positioned in ordered square, back and forth.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 30.09.43
Sun and Moon Data 01.10.43
 
- 17 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    01.10.43 Southwest of Ireland    
    16.00 AK 3248    
      NW 4, Sea 3, heavily cloudy, showers, 1008 mb    
    20.00 AK 3248    
      N 5, Sea 4, changing cloudiness, showers, 1008 mb    
    20.45   Officer-Only Radio Message Viktor 2002/1/850:  Shift patrol line ordered in Serial No. 833 by 2 October 08.00 hours 60 nm in direction 350°.  New named order.  
        Steered on course 350°, speed 8 knots to the 4th position in new patrol line AD 8812.  
    20.52   Radio Message 2015/1/851:  "Rossbach".  Do not operate on eastbound convoy.  Use offered attack opportunities.  
    22.30   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 332°T, 10.5 nm  
    24.00 AK 8879    
      N 5, Sea 4, 1/2 cloudy, 1015 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    02.10.43      
    04.00 AD 8818    
      N 2, Sea 2, 3/4 cloudy, 1014 mb    
    04.20 AD 8812 In position in accordance with Radio Message 2002/1/850:  Back and forth in position.  
    08.00 AD 8812    
      SSW 2, Sea 2, overcast, 1011 mb    
    08.53   Beginning of twilight.  
    12.00 AD 8812 Day's run:    Surfaced      164 nm  
      SE 4, Sea 3, overcast, 1011 mb                    Submerged      0 nm  
                                            164 nm  
    15.42   Test dive.  
    16.00 AD 8815    
      SE 6-7, Sea 5, rain, fog, 1001 mb    
    20.00 AD 8812    
      SE 7, Sea 6, overcast, showers, 990 mb    
    23.12 AD 8812 Radio Message 2250/2/866:  "Rossbach".  Shift patrol line further 50 nm in direction 350°.  For this reach new position by 3 October 00.00 hours.  
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 01.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 02.10.43
 
- 18 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    02.10.43 Southwest of Iceland    
    24.00 AD 8812 Course 350°, speed 6 knots.  
      SW 3-4, Sea 4, heavily cloudy, at times fog, rain, 990 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    03.10.43      
    04.00 AD 8544    
      ENE 1-2, Sea 3, overcast, at times fog, 990 mb    
    07.48 AD 8514 Reached position in accordance with Radio Message 2250/2/866.  Back and forth in position.  
    08.00 AD 8514    
      NE 5-7, Sea 6, overcast, at times rain, 990 mb    
    08.58   Beginning of twilight.  
    09.35 AD 8511 In a rain squall  
      NNE 9, Sea 8, overcast, at times fog and rain, high Swell, 991 mb Bumped into 3 patrol vessels coming out of a rain squall, course NE, range 4000 meters.  
      Weapons use is not possible due to high seas.  
    09.38   Crash dive.  Moved off to the south.  
      It seems to be a search group.  
        Continual sound bearings and Asdic, no depth charges.  Sound bearings were fainter a few hours later.  
    12.00 AD 8511 Day's run:    Surfaced      112 nm  
                           Submerged      4 nm  
                                              116 nm  
        Sound bearings reappear.  
      I am probably not yet detected.  
    16.00 AD 8511    
    17.15   Asdic in 260°T, sound bearings were loud again.  Propeller sounds bearing 90°T.  
    17.25   At depth A meters 6 extremely heavy depth charges, which lay directly at the boat.  Entire electrical system fails.  Stern propeller shaft bushings leak heavily.  4 Bolde ejected.  
        1 sound bearing to port and 1 other to starboard.  The 3rd patrol vessel runs by previous explosive location and throws about 10 depth charges that lie astonishingly well. Boat now steers at depth A +60 meters.  
        During the patrol vessel approach, maintained KF and turned away hard to starboard.  Once again 5 Bolde ejected.  
           
Sun and Moon Data 02.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 03.10.43
 
- 19 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    03.10.43 Southwest of Iceland    
    17.25   Stern propeller shaft bushings were hot and leak heavily, hourly 1/2 tons.  Strong self noise from 100 RPM.  
        Sound bearings were fainter.  
      It appeared that the group lost the boat at times, however the strong self noise was always detected again.  
    18.00   Explosive locating, thereafter 8 heavy depth charges at depth 2 A +40 meters, that lay exact again.  
        Once more 5 Bolde ejected and the boat turned 180°.  Came to course 90°.  
        2 patrol vessels overrun the boat at times, however without throwing depth charges.  Still one explosive locating.  
    20.00 AD 8514    
        2 sound bearings were fainter in 30°T, while the 3rd patrol vessel was still heard for a long time.  
    21.00   No further sound bearings.  The most important repairs were carried out submerged.  
    22.30   Surfaced.  Set off to the south for repairs.  
        Failures:  Vent for main ballast tank 3 both sides, bottle group 6, Junkers compressor, both shafts bang.  
    22.45   Surfaced.  [perhaps 22.30 was only "Set off to the . . .]  
    24.00 AD 8463    
      NE 5, Sea 4, 1/2 to completely cloudy, at times rain, 1005 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    04.10.43 North Atlantic    
    03.00   Outgoing Radio Message 0204/4/895:  3 October 16.45 hours search group AD 8551 by sound bearings heaviest depth charges by search group, setting off for repairs.  
    04.00 AD 8497 Course 270°, speed 8 knots.  
      NE 2, Sea 2, 1/2 overcast, 1010 mb    
    07.47   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    08.00 AD 7933    
      NW 2, Sea 2, overcast, at times showers, 1010 mb    
    12.00 AD 7956 Day's run:    Surfaced       96 nm  
                           Submerged    22 nm  
                                              118 nm  
    16.00 AD 7959    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 03.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 04.10.43
 
- 20 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    04.10.43 North Atlantic    
    20.00 AD 7965    
    20.58   Surfaced.  
    21.25   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 0°T, 3 nm  
    24.00 AD 7999    
      SE 2, Sea 1, 1/2 cloudy, light Swell,    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    05.10.43      
    01.10   Outgoing Radio Message 0057/5/809:  (By radio repeater)   
        Position naval square AK 2227, clear to dive to depth A meters, both shafts bang,strong self noise, operations not possible, 49 cbm.  
    04.00 AK 2224    
      SE 1, Sea 0, at times rain, changing cloudiness, 1001 mb    
    08.00 AK 2457 Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
      SW 1, Sea 0, overcast, 1007 mb, Vis. good    
    12.00 AK 2481 Day's run:    Surfaced      123 nm  
                           Submerged    18 nm  
                                               141 nm  
    14.11 AK 2484 Radio Message 1040/5/825:  "Engel" begin return transit.  
    16.00 AK 2484    
    20.45   Surfaced.  
    21.29   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 225°T, 12.5 nm  
    24.00 AK 2485    
      SW 3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, Vis. good, 1013 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    06.10.43      
    04.00 AK 2993    
      WNW 2, Sea 1, cloudy, 1015 mb    
    08.00 AK 3942    
      SW 2, Sea 0, overcast, at times showers, light Swell, 1029 mb    
    08.15   Beginning of twilight.  
    12.00 AK 6273 Day's run:    Surfaced      203 nm  
      W 5, Sea 4, overcast, at times showers, 1017 mb                    Submerged    15 nm  
                                            218 nm  
           
Sun and Moon Data 04.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 05.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 06.10.43
 
- 21 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    06.10.43 North Atlantic    
    16.00 AK 6583    
      WSW 4, Sea 3, overcast, 1017 mb    
    20.00 AK 6974    
      WSW 3, Sea 1, overcast, at times showers, light Swell, 1017 mb    
    24.00 AK 9346    
      SW 4, Sea 3, overcast, at times showers, 1015 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    07.10.43      
    04.00 AK 9625    
      S 6, Sea 4, overcast, Vis. bad, 1008 mb    
    08.00 AK 9654    
      S 8, Sea 6, rain, at times fog, 1000 mb    
    12.00 AK 9639 Day's run:    Surfaced      228 nm  
      SSW 8, Sea 7, fog, high Swell, 1000 mb                    Submerged      0 nm  
                                            228 nm  
    16.00 AK 9691    
      S 5, Sea 4, fog, 1000 mb    
    20.00 AK 9938    
      fog, Vis. 3 nm, high Swell, 1004 mb    
    24.00 AL 7771    
      SW 3, Sea 2, fog, rain, 1004 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    08.10.43      
    04.00 BD 3343    
      SW 2, Sea 1, 1/2 overcast, 1008 mb    
    08.00 BD 3639 Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 166°T, 3.5 nm  
      SW 1, Sea 0, cloudless, light Swell, 1008 mb  
           
Sun and Moon Data 06.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 07.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 08.10.43
 
- 22 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    08.10.43      
    10.00   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 110°T, 30.6 nm  
    12.00 BE 1743 Day's run:    Surfaced      221 nm  
      SW 3, Sea 2, cloudy, at times rain, Vis. good, 1015 mb                    Submerged      0 nm  
                                            221 nm  
    16.00 BE 1785    
      SW 1, 1/2 overcast, 1015 mb    
    16.37   Radio Message 1712/8825:  "Engel" on 9 October at 08.00 hours switch to Ireland Circuit.  
    20.00 BE 4181    
      SSW 5, Sea 1, 1/2 cloudy, light Swell, 1016 mb    
    20.45   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 205°T, 7.5 nm.  
    24.00 BE 4246    
      SSW 3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, 1016 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    09.10.43      
    04.00 BE 4346    
      SSW 3, Sea 1, cloudless, 1013 mb    
    07.15   Beginning of twilight.  
    07.25   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    08.00 BE 5144 In accordance with Radio Message 1712/8/825:  "Switched to "Ireland" Circuit.  
      SSE 2, Sea 1, overcast, at times showers, misty, 1014 mb  
    12.00 BE 5145 Day's run:    Surfaced      204 nm  
                           Submerged    8.5 nm  
                                             212.5 nm  
    16.00 BE 5146    
    20.00 BE 5145    
    20.30   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 5245    
      NW 3, Sea 2, overcast, at times rain, 1018 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    10.10.43 Bay of Biscay    
    04.00 W 1, Sea 1, 1/2 cloudy, 1018 mb    
    07.10   Beginning of twilight.  
    07.25   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A -20 meters.  
    08.00 BE 5354    
      N 2, Sea 1, lightly cloudy, 1018 mb    
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 08.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 09.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 10.10.43
 
- 23 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    10.10.43 Bay of Biscay    
    12.00 BE 5356 Day's run:    Surfaced        87 nm  
                           Submerged    27 nm  
                                              114 nm  
    16.00 BE 5359    
    20.00 BE 5367    
    20.20   Surfaced.  
    24.00 BE 6159    
      ENE 3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, 1022 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    11.10.43      
    04.00 BE 6282    
      ENE 3, Sea 2, lightly cloudy, 1022 mb    
    05.00   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    08.00 BE 6293    
    12.00 BE 6371 Day's run:    Surfaced      135 nm  
                           Submerged    22 nm  
                                              157 nm  
    16.00 BE 6375    
    20.00 BE 6376    
    20.12   Surfaced.  
    23.00 BF 4411 Detection on 172 cm.  Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    24.00 BF 4411    
      SE 2, Sea 1, lightly cloudy, 1027 mb    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    12.10.43      
    04.00 BF 4411    
    08.00 BF 4412    
    12.00 BF 4413 Day's run:    Surfaced       42 nm  
                           Submerged    36 nm  
                                                78 nm  
    16.00 BF 4424    
    20.00 BF 4425 Surfaced.  
    23.04 BF 4517 Aircraft overflew the boat on southerly course, no detection.  
      Apparently was not noticed.  
        Crash dive.  
    24.00 BF 4517    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    13.10.43      
    04.00 BF 4512    
    08.00 BF 4545    
    12.00 BF 4554 Day's run:    Surfaced       28 nm  
                           Submerged    42 nm  
                                                70 nm  
    16.00 BF 4559    
           
Sun and Moon Data 10.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 11.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 12.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 13.10.43
 
- 24 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    13.10.43 Bay of Biscay    
    20.00 BF 4556 Surfaced.  
    20.20   Radio Message 1713/13/176:  Return harbor "Engel" St. Nazaire.  
    21.00   Radio Message 1508/12/171:  "Engel" at 08.00 hours switch to "Coastal" Circuit.  
    23.25   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    24.00 BF 4681    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    14.10.43      
    04.00 BF 4685    
    08.00 BF 4686 In accordance with Radio Message 1508/13/171 switched to "Coastal" Circuit.  
    12.00 BF 4694 Day's run:    Surfaced      48.0 nm  
                           Submerged   34.5 nm  
                                              82.5 nm  
    16.00 BF 4695    
    20.00 BF 4698 Surfaced.  
    23.06   Outgoing Radio Message 2234/14/93:  Position 16 October 07.00 hours Point "Herz 438".  
    23.45   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    24.00 BF 5735    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    15.10.43      
    04.00 BF 5732    
    06.30   Radio Message 2339/14/94:  "U-666". Escort positioned on 16 October 43 at 07.00 hours "Herz 438".  
    06.40   Surfaced.  
    06.45   Difference between dead reckoning and actual position after a navigation fix: 325°T, 12.85 nm.  
    07.00   Dived, proceeded submerged at depth A meters.  
    08.00 BF 5733    
    12.00 BF 5736 Day's run:    Surfaced      61.0 nm  
                           Submerged   32.5 nm  
                                               93.5 nm  
    16.00 BF 5814    
    19.00   Surfaced.  
    20.00 BF 5851    
      SE 3, Sea 0, lightly cloudy, long Swell    
    24.00 BF 6775    
      SE 1, Sea 0, lightly cloudy    
_______________________________________________________________________________________
    16.10.43      
    01.00   4 shadows ahead.  
        Recognition Signals exchanged.  4 German destroyers.  
    04.00 BF 6726    
      W 1, Sea 0, heavily cloudy, 1011 mb    
           
Sun and Moon Data 13.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 14.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 15.10.43
Sun and Moon Data 16.10.43
 
- 25 -
 
           
           
           
    continued      
    16.10.43 Bay of Biscay    
    07.00   Taken in convoy.  
    08.00 BF 6466    
      W 1, Sea 0, cloudy, 1011 mb    
    12.00   Made fast in the St. Nazaire Lock.  
           
        Total distance covered:  
                           Surfaced      3765 nm  
                           Submerged    941 nm  
                                              4706 nm  
        =======================  
           
           
        The 16th October 1943.  
           
                                          
                                         Ob.Ltn. z. See and Kommandant.  
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
Sun and Moon Data 16.10.43

 

Enclosures to U-666's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Radio Excerpt of the radio log
   
Chart Track chart covering the entire patrol

 

     
     
 

Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote

 
 
on the K.T.B. of "U  666" (Engel) from 9.7. - 16.10.1943.
 
 

 

 
          Due to his cold-blooded and determined torpedo use on 23 September, operation in Group "Leuthen" brought the Kommandant an excellent double success by sinking 2 destroyers.  
          On 3 October in the Group "Rossbach" patrol line, the boat received such severe depth charge damage that return transit had to be started.  
          The well-proven Kommandant led his boat prudently and skilfully, the single, extremely dangerous opportunity for the boat was exploited operationally and energetically with full confidence in the new torpedo and thereby achieved a particularly pleasing and valuable success.   
          The Kommandant must give up his boat due to health reasons.  
  Accredited Success:  2 destroyers sunk.  
     
   

For the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote

 
   
 - The Chief of the Operations Department -
 
   
 
     
 


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