Lot 8937

Description

Reports primarily typewritten on standard forms, featuring daily signatures (up to May 31) from Commander Heinrich Wassmuth and other officers in the appendices; some are classified “Secret!” via a red stamp. The records begin with the transport and launching of 42 V-boats in Dorpat, followed by sea trials, the arming of the vessels, and the assignment and training of crews between April 1 and May 5, 1944; subsequent entries focus largely on convoy escort missions involving combat engagements with Russian vessels, batteries, or aircraft. Combat reports and tactical sketches are also included as appendices. The flotilla suffered heavy losses, particularly in July 1944. Housed in the original file folder with a handwritten label; marked with a red “Secret Command Matter!” stamp and a British Admiralty stamp. The binding is damaged, but the pages are generally well-preserved. The flotilla was further decimated in August 1944, with crews largely forced to defend the port of Dorpat in ground combat roles. On September 18 and 19, the final four boats were scuttled, and the crews made their way to Gotenhafen, where the flotilla was disbanded in October 1944.

Condition: II - Questions about the lot?