U-505 page 8

U-505 page 8 by ric gustafson

On April 4 1942, U-505 sinks a Dutch merchant ship. It was the ' Alphacca'. It was kill number 4 for the U-505. Loewe decides to head for home. On the way back to the port of Lorient, the boat is constantly fighting, dealing with scurvy, British bombers and warships. 

On May 7 1942, the U-505 reaches the Bay of Biscay. After 84 days at sea, the crew needed to shave and shower. On shore, the boat's crew were eager for a mail call. The boat went into dry dock for routine repairs. The equipment was tested. Engine oil was changed. The boat was safe. The U-boat bunkers were protected by reinforced concrete.

By June 7 1942, U-505's rest and relaxation month was over. The crew had to report back to duty. It was time to start their second wartime patrol. 

Under cover of darkness, the U-505 quietly left the Bay of Biscay. After 6 days, the boat approached the Azores. All was well. Then Loewe told the crew where their next assignment was. With a smile, Loewe tells the crew that the U-505 was heading for the Caribbean.

research help: ' Codename Nemo' by Charles Lachman

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric