U-124 - 7th War Patrol

Translation by Jerry Mason with help from Andi Forster

Departed	Date	Arrived	Date	Days at Sea
Lorient	30 October 1941	Lorient	29 December 1941	61

 

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
24 Nov 41	15.21	2°33'N, 25°45'W	HMS DUNEDIN (D 93)	4,850	British
3 Dec 41	21.47	21°51'S, 7°51'W	SAGADAHOC	6,275	American
			Total = 11,125
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.

---

				Copy No. . . . . 1. . .
				K  r  i  e  g  s  t  a  g  e  b  u  c  h
				=======================
		of the Unterseebootes  "U  124"                    7th War Patrol.     Shipyard period:  from 2.10.1941                                to 30.10.1941.         Beginning:  30 October 1941.         Ending:      29 December 1941.
			Kommandant:	Kapitänleutnant    M  o  h  r  .
			Distribution: 2 x O.K.M. Skl.U. Copy No. 1 and 2   1 x B.d.U.     "      " 3,   1 x 2. A.d.U.     "      " 4,   1 x 2.U.-Flottille     "      " 5.
		Drafted 3.1.42
		2.Ufl. Scha.
				© U-boat Archive 2024 - all rights reserved

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

	- 1 -
		02.10.41	to	Shipyard period in Lorient.
		30.10.41		Leave.
		30.10.41		Outfitting.
		30.10.41
		15.35		Put to sea for 7th war patrol.
		16.02 - 16.17		Test dive in the harbor.
		17.45		Released from convoy.
		20.00	NW 3-4, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 2
		31.10.41
		00.00
		04.00	BF 5829
		08.00	BF 5847
			NW 4-5, squalls, rain, Vis. medium, Sea 4, moderate Swell
		08.40		Crash dive for training.
				Proceeded submerged until evening twilight.
		12.00	BF 5792	Carry over:          0                    0
				30./31.                9                 173
				=                       9                173 nm
		16.00	BF 5786
		19.40		Surfaced, transit to the SW.
		20.00	BF 5788
			NWbyN 3, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, light Swell
		01.11.41		Bay of Biscay
		00.00	BF 8155
			Bright moon
		04.00	BF 7395
		08.00	BF 7539
			NNW 2, 7/10, Vis. good, Sea 1-2, light Swell
		09.04 - 09.21		Test dive.
		12.00	BF 7572	Carry over:          9                  173
				31./1.                 26                 195
				=                      35                386 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 30.10.41
	Sun and Moon Data 31.10.41
	Sun and Moon Data 01.11.41

	- 2 -
		continued
		01.11.41
		16.00	BF 7724
		19.54		Steamer in sight.  Easterly course.  Set lights.  Brightly illuminated neutrality markings.  Nationality not further determined.  Passed at a distance of 5 nm.
		20.00	BE 9963	(on route Bruno)
			NW 2-3, 5/10, rain shower, Vis. good, Sea 2
		20.06		Short Signal to B.d.U.:  BE 99.
				"U-124"
		02.11.41		250 nm west of Finisterre
		00.00	BE 9986
			Bright moon
		04.00	CG 1314
		08.00	CG 1253
			ENE 2-3, 5/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, light Swell
		09.30 - 11.00		Crash dive and depth control training.
		12.00	CG 1273	Carry over:         35                 368
				1./2.                     5                 185
				=                      40                553 nm
		16.00	CG 1198
		20.00	CG 1424
			NE 3, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, moderate Swell
		03.11.41		450 nm west of Portugal
		00.00	CF 3666
			Bright moon
		04.00	CF 3684
		08.00	CF 3835
			ENE 2-3, 5/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, light Swell
		10.00 - 11.30		Crash dive and depth control training.
		12.00	CF 3738	Carry over:         40                 553
				2./3.                     4                 157
				=                      44                710 nm
		14.00		Operated on Lehmann-convoy on NNW-course, which now must be 250 nm away.
		16.00	CF 3728
		20.00	CF 3476

	Sun and Moon Data 01.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 02.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 03.11.41

	- 3 -
		continued
		03.11.41
		20.00	CF 3476
			ENE 5, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 4, medium Swell
		04.11.41		450 nm west of Finisterre
		00.00	CF 3445
		04.00	CF 2636
		08.00	CF 2395
			ENE 6, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 4-5, medium-high Swell
		10.10 - 10.30		Test dive.
		12.00	CF 2356	Carry over:         44                 710
				3./4.                     2                 129
				=                      46                 839 nm
		16.00	CF 2322
		20.00	CF 2318
			E 6, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 5, medium-high Swell
		05.11.41		400 nm west of Portugal
		00.00	CF 2622
		04.00	CF 2692
		08.00	CF 3742
			E 4-5, 7/10, Vis. good, Sea 3-4, medium Swell
		09.51 - 10.40		Test dive.
		12.00	CF 3773	Carry over:         46                  838
				4./5.                     1                  213
				=                      47                 1052 nm
		16.00	CF 6137	Have now operated on the Lehmann-convoy for 2 days, all southeasterly courses (because there are other boats on S and SW courses) and speed setting from 5.5 to 8 knots.  Unfortunately on both days air reconnaissance without results.  Last sighting report from 2 November 20.00 hours is now after 3 days too uncertain for further operation.
		20.00	CF 6275	Continued southern transit via the Azores at economical transit speed.
			E 5, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 4, medium Swell
				As ordered to Atlantic Circuit.  Additionally switched to Ireland Circuit, as long as in the convoy area.
		06.11.41		300 nm east of the Azores

	Sun and Moon Data 03.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 04.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 05.11.41

	- 4 -
		continued
		06.11.41		300 nm east of the Azores
		00.00	CF 6197
		01.28	CF 6189	Convoy of 2 medium steamers and 2 destroyers in sight.  Course about 115°.  Speed over 12 knots.  Out of sight within 1/4 hours to the east, although folowing at HF.  Higher speed is not possible against Sea State 4 and high short E-Swell.
		02.04		Radio Message on Ireland Circuit:
				To B.d.U.:  Fast convoy 2 steamers 2 destroyers square CF 6189.  Course ESE.  Cannot keep up against the seas.
				Continued southerly transit.
		02.15		Course for the Azores.
		04.00	CF 6422
		08.00	CF 5636
			E 6-7, 9/10, Vis. good, Sea 5, medium-high Swell
		08.30 - 08.45		Test dive.
		12.00	CF 5652	Carry over:         47                 1052
				5./6.                     1                   183
				=                      48                1235 nm
		13.50		Condor aircraft passed on easterly course.
		16.00	CF 5565
		20.00	CF 5572
			ESE 7, overcast, Sea 5, high Swell
		07.11.41	50 nm east of the Azores
		00.00	CF 5488
		01.04		In accordance with orders sent weather report.
				Short Signal weather report:  38°N, 22°W, 1012 mb, +18°C, E 9-10, overcast, strong rain squalls, Vis. 2 nm, barometer tendency falling.    "U-124".
		04.00	CF 4935
		08.00	CF 4918
			ESE 6-5, 7/10, Vis. medium, rain squalls, Sea 4, high Swell
		12.00	CF 4833	Carry over:         48                 1235
				6./7.                     0                   238
				=                      48                1473 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 06.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 07.11.41

	- 5 -
		continued
		07.11.41
		16.00	CF 4852
		20.00	CE 6969
			SSW 5, overcast, Vis. medium, rain squalls, Sea 4, high S-Swell
		21.12		Lighthouse at Punta Arnel on San Miguel in sight.
		08.11.41		Azores
		00.00	CE 6986
			SSW 8, overcast, Vis. medium, Sea 6, high SSW-Swell, 1001 mb
		01.00		A bridge lookout breaks his upper arm.
		04.00	CE 6987
			SW 9-10, squalls, rain showers, Vis. medium, Sea 6-7, high confused SW-Swell	Came to SSW-course to follow the steamer route to the south.
		08.00	CE 9319
			WSW 6, overcast, 1005 mb, Vis. medium, Sea 5, high SW-Swell
		10.00		St. Maria Island abeam to port.
		12.00	CE 9373	Carry over:         48                 1473
				7./8.                     0                   148
				=                      48                 1621 nm
		16.00	CE 9616
		1723 - 19.17		Test dive.
		20.00	CE 9644
			WbyS 4, 8/10, Vis. medium to good, Sea 3, medium Swell
		20.35	CE 9647	Steamer in sight.  8 nm ahead.  Course 80-90°.  Speed 14-15 knots.  At twilight sets lights.  Passenger steamer with 2 brightly illuminated decks.  Illuminated flag and illuminated neutrality markings on aftership and side of the hull.
				Broke off after keeping pace for an hour.
		21.36		Course SSW

	Sun and Moon Data 07.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 08.11.41

	- 6 -
		09.11.41		230 nm south of the Azores
		00.00	CE 9674
		04.00	CE 9838
		08.00	CE 9859
			WSW 4, blue sky, Vis. medium, Sea 3, light Swell
		11.10 - 11.36		Test dive.
		12.00	DG 3121	Carry over:         48                 1621
				8./9.                     9                   139
				=                      57                1760 nm
		16.00	DG 3142
		20.00	DG 3179
			W 4, Vis. medium, Sea 2-3, light Swell
		10.11.41		400 nm south of the Azores
		00.00	DG 3443
		04.00	DG 3476
		08.00	DG 3743
			WNW 4, 8/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, medium Swell
		10.32 - 11.37		Test dive and depth control training.
		12.00	DG 3776	Carry over:         57                 1760
				9./10.                   4                   145
				=                      61                1905 nm
		16.00	DG 6119
		20.00	DG 6171
			NW 5, 2/10, Vis. good, Sea 4, medium Swell
		21.35		Both diesels LF to reach the supply area as ordered by 18 November.
		11.11.41		South of the Meteor Bank
		00.00	DG 5664
		04.00	DG 5921
		08.00	DG 5948
			NW 3, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, moderate Swell
		10.25 - 11.51		Test dive. depth control training.
		12.00	DG 8233	Carry over:         61                 1905
				10./11.                 5                   185
				=                      66                2090 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 09.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 10.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 11.11.41

	- 7 -
		continued
		11.11.41
		16.00	DG 8256
		20.00	DG 8521
			NW 3, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, light Swell
		12.11.41		800 nm west of the Canary Islands
		00.00	DG 8575
		04.00	DG 8763	Course south.
		08.00	DG 3212
			NE 2, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, light Swell
		12.00	DS 3248	Carry over:         66                 2090
				11./12.                 0                   204
				=                      66                 2294 nm
		16.00	DS 3518
		18.56 - 19.12		Crash dive for training.
		20.00	DS 3578
			NE 4, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 3, moderate Swell
		13.11.41		900 nm southwest of the Canary Islands
		00.00	DS 3848
		04.00	DS 6218
		08.00	DS 6278
			NE 4, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, moderate Swell
		11.09 - 11.36		Test dive.
		12.00	DS 6548	Carry over:         66                 2294
				12./13.                 2                   210
				=                      68                 2504 nm
		16.00	DS 6818
		20.00	DS 6878
			NE 4, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, moderate Swell
		14.11.41		300 nm northwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	DS 9244
		04.00	DS 9514
		08.00	DS 9574
			NEbyE 4, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, moderate Swell
		11.16 - 11.30

	Sun and Moon Data 11.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 12.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 13.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 14.11.41

	- 8 -
		continued
		14.11.41
		11.16 - 11.30		Test dive.
		12.00	DS 9817	Carry over:         68                2504
				13./14.                 1                  210
				=                      69                2714 nm
		16.00	DS 9879
		20.00	EH 3258
			ENE 4, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, moderate Swell
		15.11.41		250 nm west of Cape Verde
		00.00	EH 3524
		04.00	EH 3596
		08.00	EH 3912
			ENE 5, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 4, medium Swell
		11.09 - 11.40		Test dive.
		12.00	EH 3978	Carry over:         69                2714
				14./15.                 2                  206
				=                      71                2920 nm
		16.00	EH 6266
		20.00	EH 6534
			ENE 3-4, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, Vis. moderate
		16.11.41		350 nm southwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	EH 6581
		01.50		White single star on the western horizon.
		04.00	EH 6842
			ENE 4, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 3, medium Swell
		11.05 - 11.39		Test dive, crash dive for training.
		12.00	EH 9167	Carry over:         71                2970
				15./16.                 2                  209
				=                      73                3129 nm
		16.00	EH 9174	Course change to the west to withdraw into the supply area.
		20.00	EH 8388
			ENE 3-4, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2-3, moderate Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 14.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 16.11.41

	- 9 -
		17.11.41		600 nm southwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	EH 8535
		04.00	EH 8542
		05.22		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				Meeting point with "PYTHON" shifted to point 35 nm north of Point Fachinger.  After supply set off to the east and report completion 400 nm from the supply point.  Then head for area Kleiderstoffe via ET.
				"B.d.U."
		08.00	EH 8455
			NE 3, overcast, Vis. medium, Sea 2-3, light Swell
		12.00	EH 7694	Carry over:         73                 3129
				16./17.                 0                   216
				=                      73                3345 nm
		16.00	EH 7677
		17.48 - 18.11		Test dive.
		20.00	EH 7822
			NE 3-4, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, moderate Swell
		18.11.41		850 nm southwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	EH 7732
		04.00	EH 7715
		08.00	EH 7744
			NE 2-3, overcast, Vis. moderate, Sea 2, light Swell
		09.52	Twilight	U-boat in sight abeam to port.
				Steamer in sight abeam to starboard.
				Closed the steamer, since the size was about as expected for the supply ship.  However the appearance was different, sloping smokestack cap, superstructure at the stern.  The steamer turned towards at Recognition Signal, however does not answer. Moved off at high speed.  First on "Request name" answer "supply ship PYTHON".
				When meeting with the supply ship determined that the different Recognition Signal outfitting was unknown to one another.
		11.00 - 11.20		Supply ship Kommandant, Kplt. Lüders on board for conference.
		12.00	EH 7771	Carry over:         73                 3345
				17./18.                 1                   162
				=                      74                3507 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 17.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 18.11.41

	- 10 -
		continued
		18.11.41
		14.05 - 19.00		Towing connection with supply ship.
				106 cbm fuel taken over.
				Supply ship lay stopped, drifts before the wind.  Hose connection with tow line, twisted as soon as a tug came on the line.
				Discussed separating the line and hose in the future with supply ship Kommandant.
		20.00	NE 3-4, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, moderate Swell	I am forced wait until the next day to repair the diesel compressor piston stage II and III.  During the evening and the next morning provisions, oil and distilled water supplied.
		22.15 - 22.28		Test dive.
		19.11 41		In supply area
		00.15 - 02.00		Kommandant disembarked on "PYTHON" and "U-129" for verbal consultation.
		03.15		"U-129" supply ended, out of sight to the east.
		11.40		Supply ended.
				Course 100°.
		12.00	EG 9999	Carry over:         74                 3507
				18./19.                 2                     21
				=                      76                3528 nm
		12.08 - 12.44		Test dive.
		13.00		"PYTHON" out of sight to the SE.
		16.00	EH 7779
		20.00	ER 1131
			ENE 5, 2/10, Vis. good, Sea 4, medium Swell
		20.11.41	700 nm southwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	ER 1215
		04.00	ER 1226
		08.00	ER 1318
			NE 5, overcast, Vis. low, Sea 4, medium Swell
		11.28 - 11.55		Test dive.
		12.00	ER 1352	Carry over:         76                 3528
				19./20.                 3                   143
				=                      79                 3671 nm
		16.00	ER 2141

	Sun and Moon Data 18.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 19.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 20.11.41

	- 11 -
		continued
		20.11.41
		20.00	ER 2155
			NEbyE 4, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 3, medium Swell
		21.11.41	550 nm southwest of Cape Verde
		00.00	ER 2169
		04.00	ER 2281
		08.00	ER 2292
			ESE 3, overcast, rain showers, Vis. bad, Sea 2, light Swell
		11.18 - 11.39		Carry over:         79                3671
				20./21.                 2                  145
				=                      81                3816 nm
		16.00	ER 2397
		20.00	ER 3178
			E 3, Vis. good, overcast, Sea 2, light Swell
		22.11.41	900 nm west of Freetown
		00.00	ER 3423
		04.00	ER 3514
		08.00	ER 3528
			ENE 3-4, overcast, Vis. changing, Sea 2-3, moderate Swell
		10.28		Vessel in sight ahead to starboard.  Maneuvered ahead to the west.  Rain squalls.  Range sometimes decreased to 6 nm.
				Identified as U.S.A. cruiser of the MEMPHIS Class.  Zigzag course, general course WNW.  Speed about 7-10 knots.
				Moved off to the east and on plotted cruiser course, at the same time to the SE on the steamer route New York - Capetown.
		10.35		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Mohr and Clausen.
				Direct transit into area Kleiderstoffe, where meeting with PYTHON is anticipated on 5 December.
				B.d.U.
				Thereupon transit speed with both diesels LF.
		11.58		Radio Message sent on Norddeich:
				U.S.A. cruiser MEMPHIS Class square ER 3514.  General course WNW.  Low speed.  Supply completed.
				Mohr.
				Radio Message was not acknowledged.
		12.00	ER 3525	Carry over:         81                3671
				21./22.                 0                  152
				=                      81                3968 nm
		12.35		Cruiser out of sight.

	Sun and Moon Data 20.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 21.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 22.11.41

	- 12 -
		continued
		22.11.41
		16.00	ER 3569
		18.46 - 19.07		Test dive.
		20.00	ER 3922
		20.43		Radio Message amended, encoded and sent again on Greenland Circuit and was understood.
		21.20		2 Radio Messages received at the same time - late due to test dive.
				To Mohr and Clausen.
				Task changed.  Begin transit to square CG 89.  Transit speed.
				B.d.U.
				To Mohr and Clausen.
				Radio Message 1808 canceled.  Continue previous task.
				B.d.U.
		23.11.41	800 nm west of Freetown
		00.00	ER 3969
		01.20		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				1)  Bauer reports supply ship sunk by English cruiser at meeting point.  Bauer attempts to reach the South American coast with lifeboats, 305 men.  Still has 75 cbm fuel.
				2.)  Mohr and Clausen head for square FD 89 at transit speed.
				B.d.U.
				Thereupon both diesels HF, course 160°.
		04.00	ES 4121
		08.00	ES 4165
			NE 3, overcast, rain showers, Sea 2-3, Vis. bad, medium Swell
		11.28		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				1.)  Bauer report position course and anticipated possible speed of advance.
				2.)  Mohr and Clausen go to Bauer.
				3.)  "U A" report position and fuel.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	ES 4515	Carry over:         81                 3968
				22./23.                 2                   218
				=                      83                 4186 nm
		14.57		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Mohr.
				Immediately report with date and time, when left "PYTHON" supply point.
				B.d.U.
		16.00	ES 4573
		16.46		Officer-Only Radio Message sent on Ireland Circuit:

	Sun and Moon Data 22.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 23.11.41

	- 13 -
		continued
		23.11.41		To B.d.U.
				19 November 12.00 hours to the southeast.
				Mohr.
		17.42 - 17.58		Test dive.
		19.21		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				1.)  Bauer with lifeboats proceeds to the west exactly on the latitude that lies 6°30' south of the latitude of Point "Nanking".
				Purpose:  take over by "PYTHON".  Appearance see Gröner, however armed.
				2.)  Mohr and Clausen despite this go to Bauer.  Further orders to follow.
				B.d.U.
		20.00	ES 4852
			SE 2, 2/10, very good, Sea 1, light Swell
		20.16		Radio Message received:
				To Bauer
				Bauer requested reports not be given.  Maintain radio silence, until task completed.
				B.d.U.
		20.28		Officer-Only Radio Message received, clarifies Recognition Signals with supply ship.
		20.50		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				1.)  "PYTHON" has orders, on 24 and if necessary 25 November to move back and forth on the latitude ordered for Bauer and search for U-boats and take over survivors.
				2.)  Bauer only supply from "PYTHON" as necessary for return transit.  Take over an Officer of Ship 16 and begin return transit.  If distance is more than 300 nm from "PYTHON", report completion.
				3.)  Mohr and Clausen are released, as soon as "PYTHON" has taken over survivors, or after receiving report from Bauer.  Afterwards transit to the south as anticipated.
				B.d.U.
		24.11.41	Between Freetown and Pernambuco
		00.00	ES 7232
		04.00	ES 7374
		08.00	ES 7657
			SE 3, 1/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2, light Swell
				Morning examination of the crew by the Doctor.
		12.00	ES 7953	Carry over:         83                 4186
				23./24.                 0                   251
				=                      83                4437 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 23.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 24.11.41

	- 14 -
		continued
		24.11.41
		13.56	ES 7995	Combat masts of a warship in sight in the north.
				Maneuvered ahead to the west.
		14.43		Dived.
				Enemy identified as an English cruiser of the D-Class.  Raised forecastle.  Cannon between the forward smokestack and tripod mast.
				Zigzag course, general course 250°.  Speed 18 knots.
		15.21		Three-fan.
				Range 4000 meters.  Target angle 85°.
				1st hit under the bridge.  Very heavy detonation.  Entire cruiser enveloped in thick yellow explosion column.
				2nd hit (18 seconds later) under after mast.  Heavy detonation.  Ship wreckage flies high.
				Cruiser turns with heavy list to starboard circles to port and remains lying stopped.
		15.46		Coup de grâce. - Miss.
		15.51	ES 7985	Cruiser capsizes to starboard and sinks over the stern post.
		15.53		Surfaced.
				At the sinking location large oil slick and 6 lifeboats or rafts, 2 of which are capsized.
				Moved off on deceptive course north.
		16.00	ES 7986
		17.00		Continued southerly transit.  Continued operating on Bauer.
				After trying to send Radio Message on Africa Circuit and Norddeich twice unsuccessfully, Radio Message sent on Africa Circuit and understood:
				To B.d.U.
				English cruiser D-Class sunk.  Square ES 7985.  Continuing southerly transit.
				Mohr.
		20.00	FD 1363
			SSE 2, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 1, light Swell
		20.30		Radio Message received;
				To U-124.
				The Mohr has done his duty.
				B.d.U.
		22.18 - 22.50		Downloading ended.
				Test dive.
		25.11.41	800 nm northeast of Pernambuco
		00.00	FD 1393
		04.00	FD 2445
		08.00	FD 2728
			SE 2-3, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 1-2, light Swell
		10.33		Passed the Equator at 25°02'W.

	Sun and Moon Data 24.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 25.11.41

	- 15 -
		continued
		25.11.41
		12.00	FD 2787	Carry over:         84               4437
				24./25.                 8                 237
				=                      92               4674 nm
		14.00		Equator Ceremony.
		16.00	FD 5154
		19.10 - 19.34		Test dive.
		20.00	FD 5424
			SSE 3, 2/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, light Swell
		26.11.41	600 nm northeast of Pernambuco
		01.43		Radio Message received:
				To Bauer, Mohr, Clausen.
				1.)  Bauer reports task completed and return transit.
				2.)  Mohr and Clausen head as ordered into area Kleiderstoffe area.
				B.d.U.
				Continued on to the south, until I get on the steamer route Capetown - West Indes
		04.00	FD 5749
		07.43		Officer-Only Radio Message received late due to yesterday's test dive:
				(as far as Bauer is concerned, outdated) 3.)  radio silence for all boats in the southern area.
				B.d.U.
		08.00	FD 8143
			SSE 3-4, 2/10, Vis. medium, Sea 3, light Swell
		12.00	FD 8416	Proceed SE on the steamer route Capetown - West Indes  Transit speed 9 knots.
				Carry over:         92               4674
				25./26.                 1                 231
				=                      93               4905 nm
		15.15		Boat is mentioned in the Wehrmacht Report hear on the German Shortwave Transmitter directional beamer South America.
		16.00	FD 8464
		19.13 - 19.31		Test dive.
		20.00	FD 8578
			SE 4-5, 6/10, Vis. good, Sea 3-4, medium short Swell
		27.11.41	500 nm northwest of Ascension
		00.00	FD 8837	Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Eckermann, Mohr, Clausen, Merten.
				1)  Supply from PYTHON takes place in square GF 9634.
				2.)  Strive for the following supply times:
				Eckermann on 30 Nov.
				Merten on 1 December
				Mohr and Clausen on 5 December.
				Supply must be completed by 8 December.

	Sun and Moon Data 25.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 26.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 27.11.41

	- 16 -
		continued
		27.11.41		3.)  In a circle of 400 nm around supply point until conclusion of last supply radio and attacks are forbidden.
				4.)  "PYTHON" will be at the supply point daily at 08.00 and 18.00 hours MOZ.  [local mean time]
				B.d.U.
		01.45		Transit speed with both diesels HF.
		04.00	FD 8948
		08.00	FL 1331
			SSE 4, 8/10, Vis. medium, rain showers, Sea 3, medium Swell
		12.00	FL 1331	Carry over:         93                4912
				26./27.                 1                  180
				=                      94               5092 nm
		16.00	FL 2142
		19.08 - 19.45		Test dive.
		20.00	FL 2194
			SE 3, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, medium Swell
		28.11.41	350 nm west of Ascension
		00.00	FL 2433
		04.00	FL 2558
		08.00	FL 2599
			SEbyE 4, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2-3, light Swell
		11.21		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Mohr, Clausen.
				For supply from 4 December be at point 1° south and 2° west of "Batist".  Completion report for supply of all boats collectively by last boat as far as possible to the east.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	FL 2965	Carry over:         94                5092
				27./28.                 2                  205
				=                      96                5297 nm
		13.50 - 14.14		Test dive.
		16.00	FL 6113
		20.00	FL 6166
			SE 4-5, 9/10, rain showers, Vis. good, Sea 3-4, medium Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 27.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 28.11.41

	- 17 -
		29.11.41		250 nm southwest of Ascension
		00.00	FL 6288
		04.00	FL 6642
		08.00	FL 6694
			ESE 4, overcast, Vis. medium, Sea 3-4, medium Swell
		12.00	FM 4751	Course SSE - direct course for the supply point.
				Carry over:         96                 5297
				28./29.                 1                   239
				=                      97                5536 nm
		16.00	FM 4797
		20.00	FM 7244
			ESE 4, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, medium Swell
		30.11.41		600 nm northwest of St. Helena
		00.00	FM 7188
		04.00	FM 7469
		08.00	FM 7819
			ESE 4, 8/10, rain showers, Vis. medium, Sea 3, medium Swell
		12.00	FM 7888	Carry over:         97                 5536
				29./30.                 0                   238
				=                      97                5774 nm
		13.19		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats.
				After completing supply set off to the east.  Do not cross the latitude of the supply place to the south.
				B.d.U.
		13.25		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats.
				Taking on board of individual crew members of ship 16 is not objectionable as long as operational capability is not impaired thereby.
				B.d.U.
		16.00	FT 1261
		19.05 - 19.17		Test dive.
		20.00	FT 1611
			ESE 3, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, medium Swell
		01.12.41		500 nm west of St. Helena
		00.00	FT 1684
		04.00	FT 1965
		08.00	FT 5115
			ESE 3, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 2, medium Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 29.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 30.11.41
	Sun and Moon Data 01.12.41

	- 18 -
		continued
		01.12.41
		12.00	FT 5189	Carry over:         97                 5774
				30./01.                 1                   246
				=                      98                6020 nm
		16.00	FT 5466
		18.20 - 18.36		Test dive.
		20.00	FT 5816
			ESE 2-3, 4/10, Vis. very good, Sea 2, light Swell
		02.12.41		450 nm southwest of St. Helena.
		00.00	FT 5886
		04.00	FT 8263
		04.55		Officer-Only Radio Message (time group 2327) received:
				To B.d.U.
				"PYTHON" sunk at meeting point by English heavy cruiser.  Secret items destroyed.  All rescued.  Two tows course 330°, 5 knots.  Position 2 December square GF 9367 at 00.15 hours, UA and U-68 both fuel for the homeland.
				Merten.
		05.20		Radio Message (time group 1900) received:
				Urgent.  "PYTHON" sunk at supply place by heavy cruiser.
				Eckermann.
		05.25		Radio Message (time group 0030) received:
				To B.d.U.
				With Merten square 9364, 330°, 5 knots towing.  No casualties.
				Eckermann.
		05.30		Radio Message (time group 0512) received:
				To Mohr, Clausen.
				Immediately report position and fuel.
				B.d.U.
		06.02		Radio Message sent - on Ireland Circuit.
				To B.d.U.
				Naval square FT 83.  112 cbm.
				Mohr.
		06.20		Course southeast.
				Operated on UA and U-68.
		08.00	FT 8388
			ESE 2-3, overcast, rain showers, Vis. medium, Sea 1-2, light Swell
		12.00	FT 8663	Carry over:         98                 6020
				1./2.                     1                   236
				=                      99                 6256 nm
		13.16		Radio Message (time group 1057) received:
				To Southern Boats
				Eckermann report immediately 1. Fuel of both boats.  2.  How long provision-wise both boats with lifeboats can remain at sea.  Mohr and Clausen operate on UA and immediately report provisions.
				B.d.U.

	Sun and Moon Data 01.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 02.12.41

	- 19 -
		continued
		02.12.41		Until evening twilight no transmission possibilities due to low Volume.
		16.00	FT 9483
		17.15 - 17.38		Test dive.
		19.47		Radio Message sent on Greenland Circuit.
				To B.d.U.
				Provisions for 40 days.
				Mohr.
		20.00	FT 9815
			ESE 2-3, 6/10, Vis. very good, Sea 1-2, light Swell
		20.52		Radio Message received:
				Clausen reports still provisions for 8 weeks.
				B.d.U.
		23.46		Officer-Only Radio Report received:
				To B.d.U.
			[4 U-boats in UA KTB]	1.  Fuel both each 210 cbm.  2.  With 11 lifeboats and 2 U-boats 14 days.  With 4 U-boats additionally each 104 men each up to Spanish harbor, if necessary homeland.  With this long diving is not possible due to air.  With lifeboats not seaworthy and too slow.  Kommandant of "Bruno" requests return transit as soon as possible with 3 U-boats without towing speed 5 knots, course 330°.
				Eckermann.
		03.12.41		400 nm southwest of St. Helena
		00.00	FT 9849
		00.38		"UA" reports position GF 6549 at 21.30 hours.
		00.34		Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats:
				After meeting with "UA", Clausen and Mohr take shipwrecked on board and with highest possible speed head for home land.  Boats must remain clear to dive. Intend to send other boats to relieve.
				B.d.U.
		04.00	FT 9868
		08.00	FT 9954
			E 1-2, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 1, light Swell
		12.00	FT 9964	Carry over:         99                 6256
				2./3.                     1                   180
				=                     100                6436 nm
		15.55		Smoke cloud in sight ahead to port.
		16.00	FU 7746	Maneuvered ahead to the east.
				Steamer runs at 10 knots.  Course for Capetown, 120°.
		20.00	FU 7878
			E 2, 7/10, Vis. very good, Sea 1-2, light Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 02.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 03.12.41

	- 20 -
		continued
		03.12.41
		20.26		Dived.
		21.30	Twilight	Steamer closed to 2 nm.  Faint position lights set.  No illuminated flag.  No other illuminated neutrality markings.  Except for a working light on the after deck no lights.
				In the advanced twilight maneuvered to attack with the night periscope.  Steamer is only recognized as a shadow.
		21.47		Double shot, range = 1100 meters, target angle 85°.
				1st hit:  forward mast.
				2nd hit:  after mast.
				Steamer settles aft with a bit of a list to starboard.
		21.58		Coup de grâce!
				Hit in the engine room.
		22.12		Steamer sank over the stern post.
		22.17		Surfaced.
				Went to the lifeboats and determined the name nationality, cargo, destination.
				USA - steamer "SAFADAHOC"
				=======================
				6275 tons from New York for Durban.
				7 November departed New York.  Piece goods (general cargo).  Answers were apparently given by the Captain of the steamer.
				Sinking took place in accordance with Standing War Order 105, Section C.
		22.40		Departed on deceptive course northeast.
		23.00		Course SSE.  Continued to operate on UA.
		04.12.41	400 nm southeast of St. Helena
		00.00	GF 2222
		00.35		Radio Message sent on Norddeich to B.d.U.:
				American "SAGADAHOC" from New York for Durban sunk square FU 7887.  No neutrality markings.  Dimmed steaming lights.
				Mohr.
		04.00	GF 2267
		06.00		Corrected position after navigation fix lies exactly on UA course line.
				Ran to meet on opposite course.
		08.00	GF 2641
			ESE 1-2, 8/10m Vis. good, Sea 1, light Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 03.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 04.12.41

	- 21 -
		continued
		04.12.41
		08.30		2 signal stars shot.
		09.30		2 signal stars shot.
				Boat is exactly at the 5 knot position from UA.
				Course 330°.  2 signal stars shot.
		11.30		2 signal stars shot.
		12.00	GF 2624	Carry over:         100                 6436
				3./4.                       7                   205
				=                      107                 6641 nm
		13.30		Boat is 5.5 knot position.
				2 signal stars shot.
		14.00		Boat is 5.8 knot position.
				Opposite course, ran at the low speed setting.
			Consideration:	More than 5.8 knots with 6 boats in tow is unlikely.  In the event of higher speed, UA would also have been able to correct its position at the 5 knot location.  Operating now at low speed setting because there may have been delays in the transit due to towing.  Or "UA" stopped at the arrival of Clausen.
		16.00	GF 2216
		17.00		Boat is positioned at the 4.5 knot position.
				2 stars shot.
		18.30		Boat is at the 4 knot position.
		19.30		2 stars shot.
		20.00	GF 2689	Radio Message sent on Norddeich:
			EbyS 1, 2/10, Vis. very good, Sea 1, light Swell	To B.d.U.:  Request bearing signals square 2689.   .
				Mohr.
				Radio Message transmission was not possible all day.
		20.20		Boat is at the 3.5 knot position.
		21.55		Radio Message received:
				Eckermann or Merten send bearing signals for Mohr in accordance with Standing War Order No. 211 on 781 meters.  Mohr position square 2689.   B.d.U.
		22.00		Boat is at the 3 knot position.
				2 stars shot.
				Course west, to set off from the course line again to steam in the opposite direction.
				From 22.15 hours stood by for bearing reception.
		23.15		2 stars shot.

Sun and Moon Data 04.12.41

	- 22 -
		05.12.41	400 nm south of St. Helena
		00.00	GF 2915	Course northwest.
		04.00	GF 2595	Radio Message received (time group 2315)
				To B.d.U.
				Position 22.30 DSZ [GMT +2] square FU 7881.  Speed 2 knots, course 330°.  Bearing signals were given since 24.00 hours.  Now paused.  Request bearing signals from 10.00 hours.  Request Mohr continually occupy Africa Circuit for direct traffic.
				Eckermann.
				So UA had steered 332° and ran at 6.2 knots, instead of course 330° and 5 knots.  We must have passed yesterday morning at 07.00 hours just before twilight on the opposite course at 9 nm.
				Bearing signals by UA without informing had to remain inconclusive.  During the day switch only to Africa Remote-Service.
		04.36		Operated on new position given by UA.  Course 350°, speed one diesel LF because one diesel has been out of service for 24 hours.
		04.55		Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats.
				If meeting has still not happened, Eckermann send bearing signals immediately as ordered.  All involved boats occupy Africa Circuit on listening side     B.d.U.
		05.45		First bearing signals received from UA.
				From now regularly the entire day.
		08.00	GF 2535
			Eby1, 8/10, Vis. good, Sea 1, low Swell
		11.30		Diesel in service again. Steamed with both diesels LF.
		12.00	GF 2255	Carry over:         107                 6641
				4./5.                       0                   189
				=                      107                6830 nm
		14.30		Passed the sinking location of "SAGADAHOC".  Widespread oil barrels.  Much wreckage.
				Taken on board:
				6 barrels Gargoyle-lubricating oil, a total of 1200 liters,
				1 barrel bearing grease-Vaseline,
				18 canisters oil - 90 liters,
				2 tires for trucks.
				2 life buoys.

Sun and Moon Data 05.12.41

	- 23 -
		continued
		05.12.41		The lubricating oil needs for return transit are met by this.
		15.06		Radio Message received:  To Mohr:
				Request position.  Own 08.00 DSZ square FU 7844.
				Eckermann.
		15.30		Radio Message sent:
				To UA 2221.    Mohr.
		16.00	GF 2221
		20.00	FU 7844
			EbyN 2-3, 3/10, Vis. good, 3/10, Sea 1-2, light Swell
		22.23		3 U-boats in sight ahead.  Recognition Signal exchanged.
		23.00		At U-68 went alongside to take over fuel and transfer the shipwrecked.
		23.15 - 01.00		Kommandant went on board U-68.
				Here I was accused of a 36-hour delay in meeting.
				Reason:  First, change in the speed of advance and the fact that bearing signals were sent, which had been communicated by radio during the day.  Failure on my part, that I would not have occupyed the Africa Circuit ordered for U-boats and thus not have heard radio message.
				Second: that I would have neglected the main task - namely taking over the shipwrecked. - for an incidental steamer sinking.
				To this I note:
				1.) I normally switched to the Circuit on which reception conditions were the best.  Yesterday up to 10.00 hours Africa Circuit - all day Africa - Remote Service, from 20.00 hours Africa Circuit.  During the day, the remaining Circuits were switched to once per hour to check the Volume - every time yesterday with no reception.
				2.)  Reason for failure of the meeting was independent change in speed of advance by UA - without the certainty that the operating boats were aware of this fact.

Sun and Moon Data 05.12.41

	- 24 -
				Speed should not be changed until receiver confirms the message.  Corresponding Radio Message not received by B.d.U. or myself (by delivery procedure) or confirmed.
				3.)  Plotting shows that the speed of advance must have been increased by 1 1/2 knots at the latest in the night from the 3rd to the 4th of December, unless the speed was higher than 5 knots from the beginning.  In both cases, it was possible to inform the operating boats by radio transmission at night.
				4.)  Steamer sinking would not have delayed the next day's meeting, but rather speed it up, because of the 4-hour maneuver ahead in the direction of the transit.  I even had to reduce transit speed later so as not to pass through the meeting place at night.

Sun and Moon Data 05.12.41

	- 25 -
		06.12.41		300 nm southwest of St. Helena
		00.00	FU 7736
		05.23		Cast off from "U-68"  Took over: 50 cbm fuel oil. 1000 liters of lubricating oil
				6 officers and 98 Petty Officers and Men of Ship 16.
		05.30		Began return transit.  Course north northwest, both diesels HF.
		07.45 - 08.46		Test dive.
		08.00	FU 7495
			SE 4, overcast, medium Swell, Sea 3, Vis. medium
		10.27		Radio Message received:
				To B.d.U.
				Mohr 23.00 hours, Eckermann 190 cbm, Clausen 125 cbm, return transit.  After fuel offload 50 cbm Mohr inventory 140 cbm, own 160 cbm.  Position square 7486.  Both return transit. Each boat 104 rescued.
				Merten.
		12.00	FU 7431	Carry over:         107                 6830
				5./6.                       3                   143
				=                      110                6973 nm
		14.02		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				1.)  Hand over of a total of 260 shipwrecked to Italian boats intended.
				2.)  Disembarkation in the period from 15 to 17 December in area EJ western third anticipated.  For this head for the western center.  Additionally for Merten:  CF 40.
				3.)  Giving of each 900 day's rations provisions to each German U-boat intended.
				4.) B.d.U. is pleased with day's run of 230 nm.
				B.d.U.
		16.00	FU 7151
		20.00	FU 4775
			ESE 3, 4/10, Vis. very good, ea 2, low Swell

Sun and Moon Data 06.12.41

	- 26 -
		07.12.41		300 nm west of St. Helena
		00.00	FT 6923
		04.00	FT 6655
		04.25		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To B.d.U.
				1.)  Transfer unnecessary, fully clear to dive.  Provisions up to U-boat Base, only time loss.
				2.)  Rogge requests due to secret matters home transport to collective port.
				Merten.
		08.00	FT 6612
			SE 3, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 3, low Swell
		10.58		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Merten.
				Transfer to Italians remains as intended. Boats must also be clear to dive for a long time, especially in the Bay of Biscay.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	FT 6344	Carry over:         110                 6973
				6./7.                       0                   185
				=                      110                7158 nm
		13.12 - 13.32		Test dive.
		16.00	FT 3897
		20.00	FT 3822	Received several Officer-Only Radio Messages concerning Recognition Signals with Italians.
			SEbyS 3, 3/10, Sea 3, medium Swell
		08.12.41		300 nm southeast of Ascension
		00.00	FT 3517
		00.15		Radio Message Received:
				Since 7 December evening there is a state of war between Japan and the U.S.A.
				B.d.U.
		04.00	FT 3168
		04.25		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To B.d.U. from Eckermann, that UA can meet as early as the evening of 13 December.
		08.00	FM 9788
		12.00	FM 9716	Carry over:         110                 7158
				7./8.                       1                   251
				=                      111                7409 nm
		16.00	FM 9444
		20.00	FM 8394
			SE 2-3, 8/10, Vis. good, rain squalls, Sea 1-2, low Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 07.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 08.12.41

	- 27 -
		09.12.41		At Ascension.
		00.00	FM 5985
		04.00	FM 5912
		08.00	FM 5538
			ESE 1-2, 3/10, Vis. very good, Sea 1, low short Swell
		12.00	FM 5252	Carry over:         111                 7409
				8./9.                       0                   274
				=                      111                7683 nm
		14.55		Ascension in sight.
				Distance 42 nm.
				Intention:
				First:  Pass by Georgetown and see the anchorage.
				Second:  Because I am the last boat leaving the southern area, I will leave unrest in the sea area behind me by inevitable sighting.
		16.00	FM 2768
		19.00		Southern tip of the island 5 nm abeam.
		19.19		Encrypted radio message on 600 meters and 36 meters picked up.
				"From Ascension to all British merchant ships at sea and an unknown unit.  -17 groups."
				Radio Message was repeated twice on 36 meters.
		19.30		6 nm west of Georgetown.  Anchorage is empty.
		19.36		Muzzle fire from Fort  T h o r n t o n .  Turned away.  Impacts 500 meters ahead to starboard.  Caliber about 7.5 cm, Crash dive.
				Moved off out of cannon range submerged.
		20.00	FM 1966
		20.48		Surfaced.  Set off on westerly course.  Boat was not seen again.
		21.00		Proceeded at 12 knots transit speed to the north.
		22.00		Open Radio Message picked up on 600 meters and 36 meters.
				From Ascension to all British merchant ships in area 6a.
				CinC South Atlantic gives positions given in time group 1741 z/9.
				Radio Message was repeated once again at 24.00 hours on 600 meters.
				Position agrees approximately with 1919 position.
		10.12.41
		00.00	FM 1689
		00.45		Open Radio Message picked up on 600 meters:  CinC South Atlantic reports diving of a German U-boat at 20.22 hours.  Last sighting of the periscope 20.36 hours.  Position given lies 8 nm west of Ascension.

	Sun and Moon Data 09.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 10.12.41

	- 28 -
		continued
		10.12.41
		03.30		Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats.
				English have issued a U-boat Warning for area square FM 19 and 1919.
				B.d.U.
		04.00	FM 1624	Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				Concerning Standing Order 14 from B.d.U.
		08.00	FM 1341
			SEbyE 2, 9/10, Vis. medium, Sea 1-2, low medium-long Swell
		12.00	FE 8864	Carry over:        111                 7683
				9./10.                    4                   257
				=                      115                7940 nm
		16.00	FR 8549
		17.37 - 18.00		Test dive.
		20.00	FE 8277
			SEbyS 3, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, low long Swell
		11.12.41		450 nm northwest of Ascension
		00.00	FE 8134
		04.00	BE 5751
		08.00	FE 5448	Course NW on steamer route Capetown - New York.
			SE 2-3, overcast, Vis. medium, low medium-long Swell
		12.00	FE 4389	Carry over:        115                 7940
				10./11.                  1                   276
				=                     116                8216 nm
		16.00	FE 4234
		17.55 - 18.21		Test dive.
		20.00	FE 1848
			SE 2, cloudless, Vis. good, Sea 1-2, low long N-Swell
		20.04		Passed the Equator at 18°52'W from the south to the north.
		12.12.41		500 nm east of St. Paul
		00.00	FE 1485	Radio Message received:  Award of the German Cross in Gold to the Chief Engineer Oblt.(Ing.) Brücker.
		04.00	FD 3349
			SE 3, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2, low medium-long Swell
		12.00	FD 3231	Carry over:        116                 8216
				11./12.                  2                   276
				=                     118                8492 nm
		16.00	ES 9841
		18.01 - 18.23		Test dive.

	Sun and Moon Data 10.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 11.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 12.12.41

	- 29 -
		continued
		12.12.41
		20.00	ES 9486
			SSE 1-2, 4/10, Vis. very good, Sea 1, low long Swell
		20.59		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Southern Boats.
				1.)  Meeting point Eckermann with "TORELLI" on 14 December from 14.00 in EJ 64.
				2.)  Following meeting points intended.  Clausen with "FINZI" on 15 mid day on the latitude of EJ 64. Merten with "TAZZOLI" morning 16 December on the latitude of DT 78.  Mohr with "CALVI" morning 16 December on the latitude of DT 76.  Details follow.
				3.)  Shipwrecked:  Eckermann 50 men.  Remaining boats 70 men.
				4.)  Report completion by Short Signal after passing the latitude of DT 75.
				5.)  Orders concerning behavior at the meeting point follow.
				B.d.U.
				Thereupon direct course for meeting point.  Lubricating oil inventory does not allow increased speed for long duration - at this speed will just reach the ordered latitude.
				Average daily consumption of lubricating oil for 6 days 600 liters - 9.5% (instead of normal consumption 2.4%).
				Reason:  worn cylinder linings.
		13.12.41		500 nm south of Cape Verde
		00.00	ES 8398
		04.00	ES 8334
		08.00	ES 5928
			ENE 2, 9/10, isolated rain showers, Vis. medium, Sea 1, low medium-long Swell
		11.26		Radio Message received:
				To Mohr.
				Ordered latitude need not be reached until 17 December at 10.00 hours.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	ES 5643	Carry over:         118                 8492
				12./13.                  1                   282
				=                      119                8774 nm
		16.00	ES 5348
		18.06 - 18.33		Test dive.
		20.00	ES 2977
			ENE 3, 2/10, Vis. good, Sea 2, low long Swell
		14.12.41		300 nm south of Cape Verde
		00.00	ES 2839	Transit speed 9 knots.

	Sun and Moon Data 12.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 13.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 14.12.41

	- 30 -
		continued
		14.12.41
		04.00	ES 2992
		08.00	ES 2531
			NE 3, blue sky, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, low short Swell
		11.28		Officer-Only Radio Message received:
				To Merten and Mohr.
				Meeting point Merten with TAZZOLI on 16 December from 10.00 hours in square DT 78 center.
				Mohr and CALVI on 17 December from 10.00 hours in DT 76 center.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	ES 2252	Carry over:         119                8774
				13./14.                   1                   234
				=                      120                9008 nm
		16.00	EJ 8881
		18.04 - 18.37		Test dive.
		20.00	EJ 8816
			NE 3-4, 9/10, Vis. good, Sea 3, low medium-long Swell
		15.12.41		West of Cape Verde
		00.00	EJ 8548
		04.00	EJ 9199
		08.00	EJ 8162
			NE 3-4, 6/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2-3, low long Swell
		12.00	EJ 5791	Carry over:         120                9008
				14./15.                   1                  199
				=                      121                9207 nm
		16.00	EJ 5722
		17.53 - 17.58		Fogo Island in sight, distance 40 nm.  Test dive.
		20.00	EJ 5446
			NE 2-3, 2/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2, low short Swell
		16.12.41		West of Cape Verde
		00.00	EJ 5178
		04.00	EJ 5117
		08.00	EJ 1968
			NE 2-3, 9/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2, low short Swell
		11.25		St. Antão Island in sight, distance 23 nm.
		12.00	EJ 1931	Carry over:         121                9207
				16./16.                   3                  205
				=                      124                9412 nm

	Sun and Moon Data 14.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 15.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 16.12.41

	- 31 -
		continued
		16.12.41
		16.00	EJ 1624
		17.50 - 18.08		Test dive.
		20.00	EJ 1357
			ENE 3, overcast, Vis. moderate, Sea 2-3, low medium-long Swell
		17.12.41	200 nm north of Cape Verde
		00.00	DT 7987
		04.00	DT 7951
		08.00	DT 7685
			ENE 2, cloudless, Vis. good, Sea 1, low long Swell
		09.30	Twilight.	After an exact navigation fix I am positioned exactly at the meeting point.
				Entire day back and forth in position at low speed in square 7655, hourly a star Recognition Signal shot.
				Ship's position corrected each time after a navigation fix.  Current sets in 230°T, 0.6 knots.
		12.00	DT 7655	Carry over:         124                 9412
				16./17.                   3                   195
				=                      127                 9607 nm
		18.28 - 19.13		Test dive.
		20.00	DT 7655	During the night lay stopped, to save lubricating oil.
			ENE 2-3, 3/10, Vis. medium, Sea 2, low long Swell	To determine the cause for high lubricating oil consumption, an engine was taken apart.  Assumption of worn cylinder linings was confirmed.
		18.12.41	200 nm north of Cape Verde
		00.00	DT 7653	From twilight ran low speed back and forth in position.  Exact navigation position. Hourly star recognition signal.
		08.00	DT 7655
			NE 2, 6/10, Vis. medium, Sea 1-2, low medium-long Swell
		12.00	DT 7655	Carry over:         127                  9607
				17./18.                   3                      77
				=                      130                 9684 nm
		12.49		U-boat in sight bearing 245°T.
		13.14		Met at meeting point with Italian U-boat "CALVI".

	Sun and Moon Data 16.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 17.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 18.12.41

	- 32 -
		continued
		18.12.41		Recognition Signals Exchanged.
		13.30 - 14.30		Komdt. disembarked on "CALVI" for conference with Italian Kmdt. Korv.Kapt. Olivieri.  Language spoken:  German.
		13.30 - 16.30		Back and forth traffic between both boats by rubber boat.
				Handed over were:
				3 Officers
				67 Petty Officers and men from Ship 16.
				Taken over were:
				900 day's provisions,
				2000 liters of lubricating oil.
		16.55		"CALVI" moved off.
		17.34		Continued return transit with 75 cbm fuel oil, 6 cbm lubricating oil, 34 embarked from Ship 16, course 30°, transit speed 8 knots.
		19.03 - 19.21		Test dive.
		20.00	DT 7628
			NNE 2, 7/10, Vis. good, Sea 1-2, low long Swell
		21.26		"CALVI" out of sight.
		19.12.41	350 nm north of Cape Verde
		00.00	DT 7392
		01.35		Short Signal sent:
				Have completed task.    U-124.
		04.00	DT 8115
		08.00	DT 5782
			NNE 2, 4/10, Vis. good, Sea 1, low medium-long Swell
		12.00	DT 5731	Carry over:        130                9684
				18./19.                 1                   149
				=                     131                9833 nm
		16.00	DT 5544
		20.00	DT 5287
			WNW 2-3, 6/10, Vis. very good, Sea 2, low medium-long Swell
		20.12.41	300 nm southwest of the Canary Islands
		00.00	DT 5261
		04.00	DT 2974
		08.00	DT 2927
			NNW 2, 4/10, isolated rain showers,

	Sun and Moon Data 18.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 19.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 20.12.41

	- 33 -
		continued
		20.12.41	Vis. good, Sea 1-2, low long Swell
		12.00	DT 2683	Carry over:       131                 9833
				19./20.                  0                   204
				=                     131               10037 nm
		14.40		Radio Message received!
				When outbound and returning mind square BF 74 to 78, because of strong U-boat danger.
				B.d.U.
		16.00	DT 2636
		20.00	DT 3149	Also manned the Ireland Circuit.
			NE 1, 4/10, Vis. very good, Sea 0-1, low long Swell
		21.15		After repairs to both diesels transit speed both diesels HF.
		21.12.41	300 nm west of the Canary Islands
		00.00	DT 3123
		04.00	DH 7829
		08.00	DH 7565
			NE 2, 2/10, Vis. good, Sea 1-2, low long Swell
		10.47		Radio Message received.
				To Eckermann, Merten, Mohr and Clausen:
				1.)  Return harbor is St. Nazaire.
				2.)  Eckermann and Merten report anticipated arrival date in Naval Short Signal.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	DH 7371	Carry over:       131                10037
				20./21.                 0                    244
				=                    131                10281 nm
		16.00	DH 7322
		20.00	DH 4938
			NE 3, 7/10, Vis. very good, Sea 2, low medium-long Swell
		22.12.41	70 nm west of Madeira
		00.00	DH 5441
		04.00	DH 5158
		08.00	DH 2798
			NE 3-4, 3/10, rain showers, Vis. good, Sea 3, low medium-long Swell
		11.31		Radio Message received:
				To Clausen and Mohr:
				1.)  Today 20.00 hours switch to Ireland Circuit.

	Sun and Moon Data 20.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 21.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 22.12.41

	- 34 -
		continued
		22.12.41		2.)  When foreseen - however as early as possible report anticipated arrival by Naval Short Signal.  Prior notification in accordance with Operations Order 45, V a9
				3.)  Absolute attack ban on defense capable or protected units and convoys.
				B.d.U.
		12.00	DH 2817	Carry over:       131                 10281
				21./22.                 -                     276
				=                    131                10557 nm
		12.45		Because latitude from 30°N was passed yesterday afternoon, position Short Signal sent.
				"DH 28".    U-124.
		16.00	DH 2557
		16.50 - 16.59		Test dive.
		20.00	DH 2297
			NE 5, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 3-4, low short Swell
		23.12.41	200 nm north of Madeira
		00.00	DH 2317
		00.56		Short Signal given:  28 December in the morning.
				U-124.
		04.00	CF 9857
		08.00	CF 9597
			NE 5, Vis. medium, Sea 4, long medium-high Swell, 9/10, showers
		12.00	CF 9615	Carry over:       131                 10557
				22./23.                 1                     253
				=                    132                10810 nm
		16.00	CF 9374
		20.00	CF 9324
			NNE 3, 8/10, Vis. medium, Sea 3, medium-high Swell
		24.12.41	200 nm west of Portugal
		00.00	CF 6964
		04.00	CG 4477
		08.00	CG 4427
			ENE 4-5, 4/10, Summer lightening, Vis. medium, Sea 4, long medium-high Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 22.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 23.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 24.12.41

	- 35 -
		continued
		24.12.41
		12.00	CG 4167	Carry over:         132               10810
				23./24.                   0                   240
		16.00	CG 4133	=                      132               11050 nm
		19.00		Christmas celebration.
		20.00	CG 1846
			ESE 4, 6/10, Vis. good, medium Swell
		20.35		Radio Message received:
				To all boats at sea:
				On German Christmas I am with you with heart and mind, you my proud, tough, aggressive U-boat crews.
				B.d.U.
		25.12.41	120 nm west of Finisterre
		00.00	CG 1594
		04.00	CG 1536
		08.00	CG 1354
			EbyS 3, 3/10, Vis. good, Sea 2-3, medium Swell
		10.05	Twilight	Dived.  Proceeded submerged.
		12.00	BE 9989	Carry over:         132               11050
				24./25.                   6                   211
				=                      136               11261 nm
		16.00	BE 9994
		19.50		Surfaced.
		20.00	BE 9968
			ENE 4-5, 4/10, Vis. good, medium-high Swell, Sea 4
		26.12.41	100 nm north of Cape Villano
		00.00	BF 7477
		04.00	BF 7428
		06.00		Course ENE to objective point Nazaire.
		08.00	BF 7274
			ENE 6, 2/10, showers, Vis. medium, Sea 5, medium-high Swell
		09.40	Twilight	Dived.  Proceeded submerged.
		12.00	BF 7281	Carry over:         138               11261
				25./26.                 32                  137
				=                      170               11398 nm
		16.00	BF 7259
		19.23		Surfaced.
		20.00	BF 7266
			NE 3, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 2, medium Swell

	Sun and Moon Data 24.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 25.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 26.12.41

	- 36 -
		continued
		26.12.41
		23.56		Short Signal sent:
				Am 36 hours off return harbor.
				U-124.
		27.12.41	Bay of Biscay
		00.00	BF 7328
		04.00	BF 4989
		08.00	BF 5773
			NE 2, overcast, Vis. medium, Sea 1, low medium-long Swell
		08.16		Radio Message received:
				Escort for Mohr positioned on 28 December at 13.00 hours Point N 1.    B.d.U.
		09.39		Dived.  Proceeded submerged.
		12.00	BF 5756	Carry over:         170                 11398
				26./27.                 30                     152
				=                      200                11550 nm
		16.00	BF 5762
		19.17		Surfaced.
		20.00	BF 5814
			N 2-3, overcast, Vis. good, Sea 2, low short Swell
		23.00		Passed multiple fishing vessels - individual and in Flotillas.
		28.12.41	Bay of Biscay
		00.00	BF 5823
		03.15		Shadow bearing 20°T, at Point Tanne, turned away and ran off.  Distinguished as a U-boat periscope shears, high flat forecastle, not English, probably Italian.  The other boat dived away.
		03.28		On old course.  Headed for the coast on the entry route.
		09.03		Radio Message sent:
				Up to 13.00 hours NW on the bottom.    Mohr.
		09.25		2 Vorpostenboote abeam to starboard.
				Flag signals sent to leading boat.
				Kommandant to Kommandant:  Until 13.00 hours at N 1 on the bottom.
		10.08		Dived.  Put the boat on the bottom.
		12.00		Carry over:         200                 11550
				27./28.                 23                     135
				=                      223                11685 nm
		12.34		Surfaced.
		12.43		Taken in convoy.
		15.20	St. Nazaire Lock	Made fast St. Nazaire Lock.

	Sun and Moon Data 26.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 27.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 28.12.41

	- 37 -
		continued
		28.12.41		Crew of "ATLANTIS" disembarked.
		17.20		Cast off St. Nazaire.  Departed with escort.
		19.45		Released from convoy at N 1.
				Transit to Lorient.
		21.03		Radio Message received:
				Escort for Mohr positioned 29 December at 13.00 hours Point L 2.  Bearing transmitter 1 and Quessant runs from 00.00 hours to 06.00 hours.
				B.d.U.
		29.12.41	Bay of Biscay
		02.02		Radio Message sent:  To B.d.U.:
				Up to 13.00 hours on the bottom at L 2.  Bearing transmitter settled.
				Mohr.
		02.08		Dived.  Put the boat on the bottom at L 2.
				Carry over:         223                 11685
				28./29.                   2                     110
				=                      225                11795 nm
		12.40		Surfaced.  Taken in convoy.
		15.00	Lorient	Made fast Lorient.
				Day's run:  Carry over:           225                 11795
				Entry route               -                       14
				Total journey = 12034 nm
				Journey duration:  61 days.
				Average day's run:  197.2 nm
				Kapitänleutnant
				and Kmdt. "U-124".

	Sun and Moon Data 28.12.41
	Sun and Moon Data 29.12.41

 

	Enclosures to U-124's KTB - click on the text at left to proceed to the document
Chart	Track chart covering the entire patrol

 

	Comments of the Befehlshabers der Unterseeboote
	-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
	on the Kriegstagebuch "U-124" from 30.10 - 29.12.1941.
	-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
	1.) The patrol had to be broken off early due to the bringing back of German shipwrecked. 2.) The sinking of the cruiser "DUNEDIN" is a very gratifying success. 3.) The use of the success opportunity in the way to the meeting point was quite right. 4.)  Concerning the Circuit, it would have been necessary to keep the ordered Africa Circuit manned, due to the anticipated Radio Messages from the lead boat of the rescue action.
		Signed in draft:  Dönitz.
		For correctness:
		Leutnant z.S. and Adjutant.

---

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