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Navy - Probability of an Outbreak of War - War Diary Naval Attache Berlin - Vol. II, May 27, 1940-March 24,1941
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Navy - Probability of an Outbreak of War - War Diary Naval Attache Berlin - Vol. II, May 27, 1940-March 24,1941
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War Diary Berlin Vol. II
WAR DIARY
Naval Attaché
BERLIN
Volume 2
(27 May 1940-24 March 1941)
DECLASSIFIED
E.O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E)
OSD letter, May 8, 1972
a
RT, MADE MAY 211973
MONDAY,
Called at the Navy Ministry to present Lieut. Condr. Graubart.
27 May
Re was received by the Attache group and Captain Schulte Monting.
In conversation with the latter, he confirmed the report in the
morning communique that a BRITISH aircraft carrier was sunk by air
bombs in NARVIK Fjord. Speaking of the Schnellboote, which are now
getting the naval publicity, he also confirmed the report that they
had sunk one destroyer out of eight which were escorting a convoy
cross Channel. They had also sunk a BRITISH submarine in those
waters. The Schnellboot commander who sank the destroyer, reported
that the destroyer had laddered forty salvoes all around him without
success. It recalls to mind the "Dere Mable" stories of the last
war where the buck private, writing to his girl from Fort Sill, re-
marked that the safest place to be was at the Mean Point of Impact
because nothing ever hit there.
According to Schulte Monting, the GERMANS have developed a
new type of S-boat of about 150 tons and carrying a crew of 30 - 40
men, and operate in weather up to force of sea 6, approaching in
size and qualities the original torpedoboats.
The papers carried big spreads to the effect that the BRITISH
would sink the "PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT" on her trip from IRELAND and
lay the blame on the GERMANS, as they tried to do in the "ATHENIA"
and "IROQUOIS" cases, in order to drag the U.S. into the war. The
radio continued the blast.
Recently heard a story to the effect that in the battle between
"RENOWN" on one side and the "SCHARNHORST" and "SCHEER" on the other,
a fifteen inch projectile passed through one of the eleven inch tur-
rets of the "SCHEER" and harmlessly over the side without exploding.
Mr. Kirk, U.S. Charge d'Affaires, left for ITALY on leave.
Prince Wilholm, the oldest son of the Crown Prince, died last
night of wounds received in action 13 May.
TUESDAY,
Lieut. Comdr. Neubauer of the Navy Ministry called to say good-bye.
28 May
He 1s off to be the navigator of the "EMDEN", and quite happy about
it as he has been ashore for six or seven years.
The BELGIAN King and Army surrendered at 0400 today, thereby
beating the BRITISH in walking out. M. Reynaud's reaction was a
frothing at the mouth about treachery. It strikes me that M. Reynaud
did a fair job of putting the skids under the ALLIED chances by whole-
sale replacements in the FRENCH Army Righ Command a few days ago.
The BELGIAN surrender isn't a drop. in a bucket compared with the de-
moralization caused by the widespread dismissal of leading FRENCH gen-
erals. Maybe M. Reynaud is out of stop, and not the Army.
Attended a movie show given by the Navy Attache Group to all
military attaches in Berlin. The first film shown was entitled
"Dansig Bay is German Again", and showed, among oth - things, the fir-
ing of the "SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN" at the WESTERPLATTE OXHOFT and HELA
fortifications. It was of interest to note that the 20 m. (0.79 inch)
guns fired only tracer ammition. The second film was "U-Boats
Against the Enemy", which, except for a few clearly evident shots of
actual happenings, anneared to have been made especially for propagands
purposes. There were some scenes of merchantships sinking, and one of
a merchantship being set in flames by gunfire. The first two had
sound tracks "dubbed in", the third "Action at NARVIK* was a "silent",
but easily the most interesting of the lot. It showed the NARVIK
force underway, landing at the docks, the supply of munitions by
-127-
TUESDAY,
parachute, a GERMAN destroyer with several good sised holes in
28 May
her hull - upper works more or less intact - and burning. The
(Continued) last scene was taken from back in the hills overlooking the fjord,
and showed destroyers steaming about and firing.
Took in a movie in town tonight to see this week's "Wochen-
schau" (News Reel) which was a continuation of last week's march
into the Low Countries. There was an excellent shot of parachute
troops and equipment being landed. Outside of a few corpses still
visible, death had been removed from the picture, but destruction
was there in full force. Bridges sagging drunkenly, houses gutted,
houses afire, remants of walls, oil tanks burning, French tanks
punctured as easily as if they had been made out of cardboard,
and last the remains of ROTTERDAM, with a big three-funnelled
Holland-America liner ablase and ROTTERDAM a smouldering heap of
rubble. I an continuing my efforts to buy copies of these "Wochen-
schaus" to send home.
The news reels are not fakes. The cameramen go right along
with the advance troops, parachutists, etc. To date, 26 of them
have died in action.
WEDNESDAY,
With Lieut. Comdr. Graubart, called on Colonel Juhlin Daunfelt
29 May
(SWEDEN), dean of the foreign attaches, and on my SWEDISH and
ITALIAN colleagues. The SWEDES aren't entirely happy over the
situation in the North, but Del that the BRITISH will have to
pull out of NARVIK soon as the GERMANS are reputedly landing 150 -
200 men daily by parachute.
The ITALIAN thinks they will be in the war soon. I asked
him why, as the show as apparently about over in the West and
ITALY'S help wasn't neaded. He said "Remember what I told you
the other night" (last paragraph, diary 25 May).
Sent out pouch No. 104 via GENOA, Consul Warner (Berlin)
1
courier.
-128-
WEDNESDAY,
Prince Wilhelm (diary 27 May), was buried at POTSDAM this
29 May
afternoon. All the "Old Guard" were present, including the 90
(Continued) year old Field Marshal von Mackensen, wearing the old Imperial
uniforms, and at the Crown Prince's appearance, the cries of
"Hoch" were just as numerous as the cries of "Reil" when Mr.
Hitler appears in Berlin.
THURSDAY,
Attended a private showing of newsreels and educational
30 May
films in the Ufa building.
One educational showed the training of parachute troops and
was wery interesting.
The newareels, averaging about 1,000 meters (3,500 feet),
were as follows:
No.
Date of Release
Main Features
502
19 April 1940
Expeditionary force underway and landing in
Denmark and Norway.
505
26 April 1940
Transports and escorts underway, depth
charging submarines, Oslo.
504
5 May 1940
Military patrol activities in the West.
Ribbentrop addressing the assembled diplo-
matic corps, transports to Norway.
505
10 May 1940
Labor Day speech at Krupp Works, 1 May;
grain reserves; British prisoners taken in
Norway; bombing of ships from the air;
Stuka (dive-bomber) attack.
506
17 May 1940
Beginning of the war in the West. Initial
advances into Luxemburg, Belgium and Holland;
temporary bridges built by engineers; use of
rubber boats.
507
24 May 1940
The devastation and surrender of Holland;
Eben Emael after its capture; wreckage of
French tanks following the great tank battle.
508
51 May 1940
Operations around Narvik (much the same as
the Navy showed us 28 May); aircraft in the
West; Louvain, Antwerp, Burssels, Sedan, Meu-
beuge immediately after their capture; a short
shot of Schnellboote, older type.
These newsreels all contain a great deal of valuable informa-
tion. Col. Peyton and I interviewed the Chief of the Foreign Sec-
tion at Ufa, with regard to price. One print, with authority only
for private showing and no duplicates to be made of it, costs one
U.S. dollar ($1.00) per meter (5.28 feet) - 50} cents per foot -
CP-16-C
payable to Ufa Films Inc., Rockefeller Center, New York. That ap-
peared to be & bit of robbery to both Col. Peyton and no.
The BRITISH announce the capture of NARVIK and two small vil-
lages on the fjord, but the GERMAN mountain troops are still sit-
ting up in the hills.
The BRITISH Admiralty amounced the loss of the DD GRAFTON
2
(1340 tons), GRENADE (1540 tons) and WAKEFUL (1090 tons) off the
F-1,
Channel coast by air bombs.
-129-
THURSDAY,
Attended the monthly Attache dinner at Horcher's. There were
30 May
no GERMAN guests. The after-dinner time was a bit quieter than
(Continued)
usual. The group is beginning to settle into two camps, one pro-
GERMAN, the other more or less neutral in expression, probably
OF-11-1
pro-ALLY at heart. There is still plenty of personal friendliness,
but the verbal sparring is coming out more.
FRIDAY,
Received mail shipments Z-38, pouch No. 283 of 10 May, and
31 May
Z-39, pouch No. 240 of 15 May, via ITALY - probably the next to
last, if not the last through the MEDITERRANEAN.
The GERMAN QKW communique last night reported that more than
sixty ships were hit when the Air Force bombed the ENGLISH fleeing
from CHANNEL ports - of which there were three warships and sixteen
transports sunk and ten warships and twenty-one merchant ships of
various sizes badly damaged or set afire.
The fighter squadrons of Colonel von Massow, who got his
training at Kelly Field and who, until recently, commanded the
Richthofen Squadron, shot down 68 enemy planes in this attack.
The U-boat war is being revived again after months of hiberna-
tion. The communique states that "one of our U-boats reported the
sinking of seven enemy steamers of a total of 31,480 BRT."
Other reports state that U-boats have been rebased - presuma-
bly Norwegian and Channel ports.
The Military Attaches and Assistants left at 2100 for a three
day visit to the BELGIAN battlefields. I tried to go along without
success.
Saw the newsreels 506 and 507, described on the preceding page,
this morning, also an educational concerning the construction of
the West Wall.
Heard a rumor last night that the "NELSON" was sunk either on
F-1,
2
1
or 11 May, presumably by mine.
SATURDAY,
The Allied evacuation of DUNKIRK is about completed. The
1 June
GERMAN news and radio are full of citroy, prisoners and booty cap-
tured, tensports and warships sunk; the B.B.C. reports that vast
numbers of Allied troops are being brought back safely.
SUNDAY,
Mr. Eden, British Mar Minister, spoke over the radio last
2 June
night, admitting the loss of war material, but stated that more
than four-fifths of the B.E.F. had returned to ENGLAND. He didn't
specify as to whether it was four-fifths of the original outfit,
four-fifths of those who got back to DUNKIRK, or four-fifths of
those who were embarked for transportation home.
The O.K.W. reports three warships and eight transports total-
ing 40,000 tons were sunk, and four warships and fourteen merchant
ships badly damaged or set afire by bombs in the DUNKIRK area.
Forty enemy fighter planes were shot down.
GERMAN bombers raided LYONS and MARSEILLES. It is viewed in
some quarters here as a demonstration for Mussolini's benefit - a
sort of "come on in, the water's fine" act.
MONDAY,
German bonbers air-raided PARIS, coming uncomfortably close to
3 June
Mr. Bullitt, our Ambassador, and Mr. Duff Cooper, British Minister
of Information.
-130-
MONDAY,
The GERMAN press quoted A.P. with a New York date line to
3 June
the effect that the "NELSON" was sunk with a loss of 700 men. The
(Continued) local American correspondents have no specific information on this
subject.
In this connection, the Propaganda Ministry puts out official
releases to all correspondents, who then cable it home. The D.N.B.
correspondent in New York sends it back to BEFLIN as a U.P. or A.P.
flash, which the BERLIN papers then print with a New York date line.
TUESDAY,
The Military Attaches returned last night from their trip to
4 June
the front. The Army had given then a fine "Cook's Tour" through
BELGIUM, including the LIEGE forts, BRUSSELS, SEDAN, DUNKIRK bea-
ches. (M.A. Berlin Report No. 17,320 of 7 June 1940).
Attended a special Ufa showing of educational pictures (diary
30, 31 May). The subjects were "Alpine Troops", "Fast Troops"
16.C
(Cavalry and Motorized), and "Navy Flyers". The latter showed very
little of value.
Prime Minister Churchill spoke over the air this afternoon,
which I unfortunately missed. He spoke quite frankly concerning
the withdrawal from FLANDERS. He stated that 222 warships and 665
other ships were used in the evacuation. The destroyer "BASILISK"
(1360 tons), "KEITH" (1400 tons), "HAVANT" and 24 smaller units
were lost. ZEEBRUGGE harbor was blocked by sinking a concrete bad-
ed ship across the channel.
Mr. Renckel of the Madsen Machine Gun Co. called on me today
and gave me the account of the DANISH action against the GERMAN
R
invasion, 9 April (Report R-309 of 4 June 1940). He also stated
that the "LUETZON", which he still called by its old name "DEUTSCH-
LAND", had been badly damaged in the SKAGERRAK fighting, had been
taken in tom by DANISH tugs, who were relieved by GERMAN naval tugs.
The LUETZOW sank between LANGELAND and LAALAND Islands, roughl y
70
40 miles northeast of KIEL. To date there have been no attempts at
salvage.
The Grand Council of Fasciets met in ROME today. Everybody
expected Mussolini to take the high dive into the war, but he didn't
even test the temperature with his toe. June 10th or 11th is now
the date sot for ITALY'S entry.
Mr. Kirk, Charge at BERLIN, flew to the U.S. from LISBON today.
WEDNESDAY,
The O.K.W. published a special communique at 2330 last night
5 June
in which the operations in the LOW COUNTRIES were summarized. The
figures given are so fantastic that they aren't being given much
credence by any foreigner. For example, in the three and & half
weeks of fighting ending with the taking of DUNKIRK and the capture
of 1,200,000 prisoners, the GERMAN troop losses were 10,252 dead,
8,463 missing and 42,523 wounded (2 Report R-322 of 7 June). The
general consensus of Attaches is that those figures represent be-
tween 1 and 10% of the actual losses.
Damage claimed to Allied ships: Sunk by bombing: 5 CLs, 7 DDs,
3 SSs, 9 other warships, 66 merchantships; sunk by naval action:
6 dds, 2 SSs, 1 AP, 1 aux. cruiser, 1 other warship; damaged by
bombing: 10 CLs, 24 DDs, 3 TB, 22 other warships, 117 merchantships.
Against this, the GERMAN Navy suffered no ships lost.
The Air Force and A.A. shot down 1800 Allied planes, knocked
out 1700 on the ground, losing 432 of their own in the process.
-131-
WEDNESDAY,
At 0400, the war was resumed, moving South against FRANCE
5 June
rather than continuing the Westward movement and invading ENGLAND.
(Continued) The GERMAN Air Force and motorized Army must be in need of some
sort of overhaul before they take off on their biggest task of the
war.
At an afternoon party, Lieut.Comdr. Freiwald, in speaking of the
NARVIK situation, stated that the GERMANS, although being supplied
by parachute, were so greatly outnumbered by Allied troops, includ-
ing CZECH and POLISH battalions, that they might be forced to cross
over into SWEDEN and intern there.
In speaking of ITALY as not having entered the war yesterday
as expected, Admiral Yendo (JAPAN) said Mussolini was a "great ac-
tor", who would not step out on the stage until everything was just
right.
Captains Schulte Monting and Mirow and Lieut. von Krosigk,
although they had accepted for this party, failed to appear. There
is a SPANISH, as well as an ITALIAN mission in town, and presumably
they were escorts.
The FRENCH Admiralty announced the loss of the destroyers
FYS
"JAGUAR" and "CHACAL" (2126 tons each), "BOURRASQUE", "OURAGAN" and
"SIROCCO" (1319 tons each) and "FOUDROYANT" (1378 tons), as well as
the Navy oiler "LE NIGER" (5482 tons).
THURSDAY
Heard that Colonel von Massow (diary 31 May) had crashed or
6 June
landed in PARIS on 3 June. Am trying to get confirmation of this
report.
FRIDAY,
Lieut.Comdr. von Davidson (diary 1 January) popped into the
7 June
office to say hello. Ris destroyer, "RICHARD BEITZEN" is at KIEL,
undergoing repairs and alterations. Re is passing through BERLIN
on leave in the country until 1 July, when his boat will be ready
for post-repair trials. Conversation with him brought out the
following:
1) During the Norwegian operations, his destroyer was with the
main body of the fleet between the SHETLANDS and the NORWEGIAN coast,
acting as a screen against possible BRITISH naval action.
2) The "SCHARNHORST" and "GNEISENAU" fought the "RENOWN" and
a CA off NARVIK (diary 11 April, 27 May) in a blinding snowstorm
and heavy sea at 25 knots. A 15 inch shell passed through the
"GNEISENAU'S" foretop without exploding. The GERMANS claim "RENOWN"
7-1
was hit forward, which slowed her down. No hits, other than the one
above mentioned, were scored on GERMAN ships.
5) The BRITISH submarine "SEAL" (diary 7 and 22 May) is at
present at Krupp Germania being repaired. She had been damaged aft
by a mine explosion and had a few wounded aboard, hence the command-
ing officer decided to surrender. Evidently that young men never
had to memorize Tennyson's "The Revenge" in his younger days
"Sink me the ship, Master Gunner,
Sink her, split her in twain,
Fall into the hands of God,
But not in the hands of Spain".
A modern (January 1939) 1520 ton minelaying submarine with all
improvements to date, plus five or six mines, so that the GERMANS
can study them, too. What a windfall!!
-152-
FRIDAY,
7 June
4) Von Davidson's boat has been frequently bombed by the BRITISH.
(Continued)
The BRITISH bombers Bly high - 2,000 to 5,000 meters (6500 to
10,000 feet), use 50 kg. (110 lb.) bombs. Re said they can watch
an
the bombs fall, take bearings on them and if they appear to be
coming close, then hard rudder and avoid then. The GERMAN Co-
By7.4 semal eu TN
stroyers normally travel at 35 knots when they are out on sweeps.
Bridge personnel has become quite proficient in forecasting whether
or not & bomb will drop near.
5) The alterations being made on his boat consist of retubing with
the latest developments to give satisfactory performance of 70 ata.
(994 lbs. per sq. inch) steam pressures. He stated that the first
series didn't work out so well, but the later series have been
very good, and the older ones are being altered. Temperatures run
up to 500 degrees Contigrade (932 degrees Fahrenheit).
6) He prefers operating at 33 knots to 15 knots, as with the for-
mer the steam is being consumed rapidly, hence safer.
7) He again stated that 25 knots was the economical speed, although
the fuel consumption curve was practically flat between 21 and 28
knots (Report R-321 of 7 June 1940).
SATURDAY,
The GERMAN radio, in German, last night stated that ITALY had
8 June
ordered all ITALIAN ships held in home ports, those at sea were to
make immediately for home or neutral ports. This item was not car-
ried in the English translation, nor by the B.B.C. If true, and
I believe it is, it means that Mussolini is putting on the finishing
touches for his entry into the war.
Received a letter from Alusna-Paris in which he writes:
"Your story about the 'SCHARNHORST' in her fight with the 'RENOWN'
off NARVIK having a projectile pierce through her without exploding
is O.K., except that it was the other way around. One of the
'SCHARNHORST'S' projectiles went through the 'RENOWN', not through
one of the turrets, but in one side through the ship and out the
other side, without exploding." (diary 27 May, 7 June)."
-138-
SATURDAY,
Received mail shipments Z-40 (Pouch No. 371 of 17 May)
8 June
and 2-41 (pouches Nos. 359, 293 and 282 of 22 May) via Italy,
(Continued)
probably the last coming in that way as the S.S. WASHINGTON
will not call at GENOA this trip.
Sent pouch No. 391 via GENOA - Mr. Spaur, courier - to
catch S.S. EXETER sailing from GENOA 12 June. Probably the last
going out that way,
- The GERMAN O.K.W. report claims a BRITISH auxiliary cruiser
sunk by U-boat northwest of IRELAND.
SUNDAY,
The B.B.C. admitted the loss of H.M. auxiliary cruiser
9 June
CARINTHIA (20,277 B.R.T.).
The GERMAN O.K.W. claimed CV "GLORIOUS", auxiliary cruiser
ORANA and the tanker OIL PIONEER sunk by "SCHARNHORST" and "GENI-
SENAU" off northern NORWAY.
The BRITISH Admiralty admitted their naval losses to date
as 1 battleship, 1 aircraft carrier, 2 cruisers, 20 destroyers
and 8 submarines. My records check with
ROYAL OAK
COURAGEOUS
EFFINGHAM
CURLEW
JERSEY
AFRIDI
GURKHA
HUNTER
GRENADE
GRAFTON
GIPSY
GLOWWORM
GRENVILLE
HARDY
EXMOUTH
KEITH
DARING
DUCHESS
BLANCHE
BASILISK
WESSEX
VISCOUNT
WAKEFUL
VALENTINE
THISTLE
TARPON
SEAL
OXLEY
STERLET
STARFISH
SEAHORSE
UNDINE
The GERMAN O.K.W. and radio proudly announced the capture
of NARVIK and with it all of NORWAY is now in GERMAN hands. The
Norwegian show was a terrific blow to the ROYAL NAVY materially,
but even far greater in reputation. A few more bumblings like
that and they'll rank with but after the Portuguese.
Lieut.Comdr. Hagen (Retired) passed through BERLIN this
evening enroute from STOCKHOLM to GENOA where he hoped to find
transportation to the U.S. I spent about 15 minutes with him
on the station platform.
MONDAY,
The BRITISH Admiralty admitted the loss of CV " GLORIOUS"
10 June
(22,500 tons), DD "ACASTA" and "ARDENT" (1360 tons each), the
auxiliary cruiser ORAMA and the tanker OIL PIONEER.
At 1900 Mussolini took the long threatened plunge into the
war, as of midnight, 10/11 June. If the FRENCH and BRITISH had
the slightest bit of "go-gettem" about them, they would crack
down hard on the ITALIANS before that time; but they won't as
they've - particularly the BRITISH - shown themselves the world's
champions at fumbling the ball BO far in this war.
TUESDAY,
All papers feature the ITALIAN entry into the war, quoting
11 June
the Duce's speech and the exchange of telegrums between Hitler,
King Victor Emanuel and the Duce,
The FRENCH Government moved to TOURS.
134
TUESDAY,
The afternoon papers describe the return of a U-boat, after
11 June
(Continued)
many weeks of patrol, with a bag of ten ships of 43,000 BRT, bring-
ing its total to 150,000 BRT, the individual record to date. One
of the ships sunk was the BAZZA of LE HAVRE. The U-boat motto,
painted on the conning tower, is "Westward Ho"!
WEDNESDAY,
The POLISH Admiralty in LONDON admitted the probable loss
12 June
of the submarine "ORZEL" on account of its being BO long overdue.
The "WASHINGTON" was stopped at dawn yesterday by an unidenti-
fied submarine while enroute LISBON to GALWAY, held for ten minutes,
and allowed to proceed. Some of the lifeboats had been lowered.
Heard that Colonel von Massow had returned to the German lines
(diary 6 June). He had been shot down in flames, but managed to
escape and rejoined the German troops. For ten days he had subsist-
ed on carrots and whatever else he could find in the fields. All
the more remarkable since he had broken his ankle about a month ago.
Called on the SWEDISH Naval Attache. Conversation with him
was responsible for the bulk of ALUSNA 121730, R-328, 329, 330, 331
and 335.
The German troops have advanced within 20 kilometers (12.5 mi.)
of PARIS.
The German Air Force bombed LE HAVRE and claim seven transports
sunk and ten more damaged. Three of the latter were between ten
and fifteen thousand tons.
The Italian communique reports the bombing of MALTA.
THURSDAY,
The German communique reports the surrender of ST. VALERY
13 June
with 20,000 prisoners and inestimable war material.
The submarine which stopped U.S. liner WASHINGTON, was ad-
mitted German. The German Government insists that they were not
formally notified in time concerning the inclusion of GALWAY in
the itinerary.
Bomba which were dropped on GENEVA during the night of 11/12
June are reported to be British.
The ITALIAN Naval Attache called on ne today. He has been
visiting OSLO and KRISTIANSAND. Some of the material in R-335 is
from him.
The Italian communique reports the sinking by submarine in the
MEDITERRANEAN of & British cruiser and an oil tanker. They admit
the British combined sea and air attack on TOBRUK, CYRENAIKA, but
with minor damage.
FRIDAY,
The "complete and honest" report on NORWAY was published in
14 June
the morning papers (diary 12 and 19 April, R-332).
The British claim severe damage on the ITALIAN cruiser
"SAN GIORGIO" (9,232 tons, 1908), and two subs at TOBRUK.
The entry of German troops into PARIS was the big news of
the day. I attended a small German garden party in the afternoon.
The general feeling of the older Germans, retired Foreign Service
and military, was a. great sigh of relief that PARIS had declared
itself undefended and thereby averted destruction. They knew the
eternal odium that would have attached to Germany had they treated
PARIS like ROTTERDAM, whether or not it had been defended.
-135-
FRIDAY,
Attended the preview of the next newsreel. The dive bomb-
14 June
ing attack, viewed from the attacking plane, is better portrayed
(Continued)
than previously. Other highlights are the setting up of 8.8 cm.
(3.47 inch) A.A. batteries on the beach at DUNKIRK and engaging
British destroyers, the bringing down of three enemy planes by
A.A., one of them crashing into the sea not more than a quarter
mile off.
The wreck of the FRENCH destroyer "L'ADROIT" is shown, having
been hit by a bomb just abaft the bridge. The foward fireroom
section has cleanly disappeared, with the forward and after bulk-
heads still in place, but, of course, damaged.
SATURDAY,
The morning papers report the FRENCH Government having fled
15 June
to BORDEAUX.
SPANISH troops have occupied TANGIER.
The German flag now flies from the Quai Dorsai, the Eiffel
Tower, and VERSAILLES, the latter being a special gratification to
Germany.
The ITALIAN Naval Attache called at my home tonight. He had
nothing particular to say, admitted damage to the ships at TOBRUK,
and appeared nervous.
The British admit the loss of the cruiser "CALYPSO" (4200 tons)
by sub in the MEDITERRANEAN (diary 13 June).
SUNDAY,
VERDUN is reported captured by the Germans. With each of
16 June
these World War battlegrounds now being taken, the press draws the
contrast between 1914 and 1940, in time and manpower required to
take them.
The LITHUANIAN Military Attache called on us this afternoon.
They had had a bad night phoning and trying to phone to KOWNO. The
Red Army moved in on them with 1,000 tanks and 50,000 troops yester-
day afternoon. The LITHUANIAN President fled to Germany, where
he was interned as a gesture of good will on Germany's part toward
Russia.
Maybe RUSSIA will save FRANCE yet, but she will have to move
fast as FRANCE can't hold out much longer.
The Fuehrer's interview with Karl von Wiegand (Hearst) was
published in the morning papers. The big point was "Europe for the
Europeans".
The MAGINOT Line is reported broken at several points. I can't
believe that it was fully manned. The troops were undoubtedly called
back to concentrate in the defense of Central FRANCE.
MONDAY,
The FRENCH Cabinet had several extraordinary sessions yester-
17 June
day. At the last one, around midnight, Reynaud resigned and Marshal
Petain formed a new cabinet.
The O.K.W. report announces that more than 100,000 BRT have
been sunk in the past few days by U-boats. A U-boat commanded by
Lieut. Frauenheim reported the sinking of 41,500 BRT, including the
British "WELLINGTON STAR" of 1,400 BRT. A U-boat commanded by
Lieut. (1g) Andrass reported 53,000 BRT sunk, including the British
auxiliary cruiser "CARINTHIA" of 22,300 BRT. Another U-boat suc-
ceeded in sinking a British auxiliary cruiser of about 9,000 BRT
in MORAY FIRTH,
-136=
MONDAY,
Marshal Petain asked the German Government for peace terms.
17 June
Poor old man! He fought the good fight twenty-five years ago and
(Continued)
now he and Leygand, another glorious old soldier, have to hold the
sack after the politicians get themselves into a thoroughly un-
scrambleable mess.
M. Reynaud is reported to have taken the Clipper for the U.S.
I wonder if our country will replace FRANCE in becoming the Home
for Governments without Countries.
Received mail by courier (Mr. Kenna) from Captain Kelly in
THE HAGUE. Sent 171330 and 171430 to OPNAV in this connection.
Called at the Navy Ministry to inquire concerning Captain
Doyly-Hughes (Opnav 122204, Alusna 141230, Opnav 142301). Captain
Mirow said he would inquire and call me back.
TUESDAY,
Hitler and Mussolini met at MUNICH today to decide the fate
18 June
of FRANCE. Judging from the campaign going on in press and radio
recalling 1918 and how Foch treated the GERMAN envoys, making them
wait from 5 October to 9 November to receive them, and then, treat-
ing them shabbily, I anticipate that Hitler and Mussolini will let
the FRENCH sizzle a while and then slap them with conditions that
will make VERSAILLES look like a page out of the primer.
Called at the Navy Ministry for the usual semi-weekly con-
ference. No news of current naval activities. I find German of-
ficers still personally friendly and cordial, but less inclined
to talk,
Captain Mirow said he had checked up concerning Captain Doyly-
Hughes. There were no survivors of the "GLORIOUS". He corrected
himself and said a life raft had been found two or three days later
with some survivors but Captain Hughes was not one of them. (Alusna
181730).
WEDNESDAY,
The Military Attache at BRUSSELS checked in here awaiting
19 June
transportation home and bringing mail from BRUSSELS. Sent Alusna
191630.
It was stated that the GERMAN reply for conditions has been
sent to FRANCE, but it has not yet been published. The radio and
press continue to remind the populace of 1918. It looks as if the
worst may be expected. I hope the FRENCH Navy doesn't have to be
surrendered. The FRENCH, plus the ITALIAN, plus GERMAN Navies
under GERMAN command would be decidedly bad nows for the ROYAL NAVY.
GERMAN troops have entered CHERBOURG, RENNES, LE MANS and have
crossed the LOIRE. NANCY and most of ALSACE-LORRAINE is in GERMAN
hands.
Larger groups of GERMAN bombers are bombing Southeastern
ENGLAND nightly. R.A.F. planes are continuing to bomb HAMBURG and
the RUHR area.
The FRENCH were directed to appoint plenipotentiaries for dis-
cussing conditions of surrender.
-137-
THURSDAY,
lt. Jefferson Patterson, First Secretary of the Embassy, and
20 June
Miss Mary Breckenridge, were married in the Ambassador's office of
this Embassy at 1300. The Reverend Dr. S. W. Herman, Pastor of
the American Church, Berlin, and employed in the Foreign Represen-
tation Section of the Embassy, performed the ceremony.
The FRENCH Government WILS notified to direct their appeal for
an armistice to ITALY as well as to GERMANY.
The Naval Commandant at TOULON announced that TOULON would
hold out and defend itself.
FRIDAY,
Attended the preview of the coming week's news reels. They
21 June
continue the fight through FRANCE, showing at the end the taking
of PARIS, the monument and railway car in the COMPIEGNE forest
where Foch received the GERMAN envoys in 1918. All very appropri-
ate, for that is where Hitler dramatically received the FRENCH
envoys at 1530 today.
Colonel General Keitel, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces,
read the preamble to the conditions, in which it was stated that
GERMANY did not want, and was not defeated in, the 1914-18 war,
that FRANCE and ENGLAND declared the present war without cause,
and that FRANCE is now defeated.
The Fuehrer left the meeting as soon as the preamble was
read. The GERMAN peace conditions were not made public, but the
aims were given as:
1) to prevent a resumption of fighting,
2) to provide GERMANY security in the further conduct
of the war against ENGLAND, and
3) to form the basis of a new peace.
SATURDAY,
BERLIN had its first real air alarm from 0143 to 0216 today.
22 June
The shortest night - 7 hours, 09 minutes - of the year, plus full
moon and & clear sky, made light conditions almost as good as day.
Several heavy dull explosions were heard, followed by the cough
of A.A., but no attacking planes were sighted.
Early reports stated that bombs were dropped at BABELSBERG,
the film colony, between BERLIN and POTSDAM, with a casualty list of
four dead. The nearest military objective is GADOW, about five
kilometers away, where the Air Force headquarters is located.
Another report said that a bomb had been dropped near the Knie on
the East-West axis.
Sent pouch No. 359 out via ITALY to catch the SS EXCALIBUR
sailing from GENOA 25 June.
-138-
SATURDAY,
The B.B.C. this afternoon claims one torpedo and three bomb
22 June
hits on "SCHARNHORST" off TRONDHEIM. The communique reads -
(Continued)
"One of our subs sighted "SCHARNHORST" soon after she left TROND-
HEIM FJORD. The battlecruiser was making passage to a safe port
where she could repair the damage sustained when she was hit by
at least one heavy bomb during attack by aircraft of the Fleet Air
Arm on 18 June. She was heavily escorted. The sub attacked the
"SCHARNHORST" and obtained one hit with torpedo. A GERMAN destroyer
(F-10)
was also hit with torpedo".
The B.B.C. announced the capture of & 1500 ton ITALIAN sub-
marine by combined action of Air Force and the trawler "MOONSTONE"
off ADEN, Another "SEAL". (diary 7, 22 May, 7 June).
SUNDAY,
BRITISH bombers were rumored to have been this way again early
23 June
this morning, as air alarms were sounded in both POTSDAM, southwest
of BERLIN, and NAUEN, to the northwest.
ESTHONIA and SOVIET RUSSIA signed their new treaty of aggres-
sion and legal looting.
The B.B.C. announced the twenty points of the GERMAN/FRENCH
Armistice terms. While they are stern - all Armistice terms are -
they are not unusually SO.
MONDAY,
The FRENCH and ITALIANS signed their Armistice terms at 1915
24 June
today. The GERMAN Government was notified at 1935, thus, at 0135
tomorrow, 25 June, the Armistice will go into effect.
The BRITISH claim the sinking of another ITALIAN sub - the
seventh since ITALY joined the war.
TUESDAY,
The SWEDISH Naval Attache visited me on his return from a ten
25 June
day trip to STOCKHOLM. His attitude, which formerly was neutral -
that is, criticizing or admiring the conduct of either belligerent
freely - has become definitely anti-BRITISH. I'm sure he will tell
me why he has changed.
He brought little news other than a rumor that ENGLAND had
stated she would use gas in defense of her shores, to which the
GER-ANS said that ENGLAND would be completely devistated within
three days in that case. I don't believe it, for if the BRITISH
intend using gas in their "Custer's Last Stand", they certainly
wouldn't tell the GERMANS about it in advance.
There are nebulous rumors that peace dickering is going on
between GERMANY and ENGLAND, but nothing that one cen fasten onto.
Other equally nebulous rumors have it that GERMANY is giving ENGLAND
& few days to request an armistice, "or else".
Called at the Navy Ministry for the usual Tuesday chat. Captain
Mirow admitted that the third cruiser lost in the NORWEGIAN opera-
70
tions was "KOENIGSBERG" (R-330 of 13 June and R-332 of 14 June),
but would not tell me the names of destroyers and torpedoboats lost.
(F-10)
By deduction, the destroyer "HANS LUEDERANN" (2-18) was lost at
HARVIK. Lieut. Comdr. Friedrichs, her captain, had had a mastoid
operation performed at NARVIK and was later moved to STOCKHOLM for
another operation and hospitalization. He is now recovering.
Captain Mirow called my attention to the 29 April edition of
"LIFE" and the article, "Raeder the Raider". He said the Oberbe-
fehlshaber was very much hurt by the article in general and in par-
ticular by the subhend, "Re is accused of smirching Navy's honor".
-139-
TUESDAY,
He wanted ne to have my authorities bear down on "LIFE" for pub-
25 June
lishing the article. I told him we had a completely free press
(Continued) in the U.S., as I have told him before (diary 23 October 1939),
but that I would get the word home for such action ES might be
possible. I turned this information over to Mr. Heath, the
Charge d'Affaires, just in case the GER AN cryptanalysts want
another go at my codes.
Captain Mirow stated that the Armistice terms given over the
B.B.C. on 23 June, were Reuter's guess, that the terms would be
published simultaneously by the three Governments concerned with-
in 48 hours of their signature.
At dinner tonight, the ITALIAN Naval Attache said that ITALY'S
terms were very mild, that they had not unde any territorial
claims (as hinted by B.B.C.), but they had required E 50 km. (31
mile) demilitarized zone on the FRENCH/ITALIAN border and a 200 km.
(125 mile) demilitarized zone on the TUNISIAN/LIBYAN border. He
said that FRANCE had tried to buy off ITALY before 10 June with
offers of CORSICA, NICE, SAVOY, TUNIS, DJIBOUTI and a block of
SUEZ CANAL stock, but that ITALY could not honorably accept.
I find Captain Pecori inclined to be nervous nowadays. He
was usually gay and loved to banter, which he could take as well
as give. Now he comes at me more or less aggressively with, "Thy
does American get into this war?", which I decline to treat serious-
ly, especially in the presence of JAPANESE, SPANISH, GREEK and
GER AN naval officers.
WEDNESDAY,
The GERMAN Armistice terms were published in the morning
26 June
papers and the ITALIAN terms in the afternoon, not differing ma-
terially from those quoted by Reuter.
Major Colbern, U.S.A., ex-Military Attache at WARSAN and
THE HAGUE, arrived in BERLIN enroute to the U.S. via BERN,
THURSDAY,
Learned from several sources that all private motorboats have
27 June
been commandeered for service in the occupied channel coast area
(z Report R-331 (c) ).
(F-10)
The BB "BISMARCK" is rumored to have been commissioned during
I'F
the past ten days or so, and is now holding trials.
The question that all naval attaches and newshawks now ask
each other is "What has become of the French Fleet?" No one has
any definite information. To my mind, there will be four categor-
ies, but how many and which ships in each category is impossible
to foretell. The four are:
1) those who obey and return to the designated ports
putty
for internment;
2) those who scuttle themselves;
3) those who voluntarily hoist the White Ensign; and
4) those who are captured or sunk by the BRITISH in
case they are inclined to do.1) above.
The SOVIET Naval Attache called this afternoon to present his
new Assistant for Air - RUSSIA having the same arrengement as NO
and JAPAN regarding Air Force.
His lack of admiration for the ITALIANS coming into the war
ten days before its conclusion was very thinly disguised.
-140-
THURSDAY,
He had nothing to say about the SOVIET land grab of BES-
27 June
SARABIA and BUCOVINA, which came out in the evening B.B.C.
(Continued) King Carol, who has been doing a tight rope act of his own be-
tween GERMANY and the ALLIES throughout the war, and who more
or less prevented the BALKANS getting together in February, is
now getting worked over without & great deal of sympathy being
extended him by anyone. HUNGARY and BULGARIA will try to take
their pounds of flesh, now that the taking seems to be good,
and all the territory that came to RUMANIA only on account of
Queen Marie's personality, will go back to the old owners.
FRIDAY,
GERMAN and ITALIAN radios have very little to say about
28 June
the RUSSIAN land grab, probably waiting for their leads from
Goebbels and Gayda. I feel positive it doesn't sit well, but
they're too occupied to do something about it now. It's just
another black mark in the book against RUSSIA, whose account
will be adjusted after the show is over in the WEST.
GERMANS, generally, feel that the landing in and taking
of ENGLAND, will be a tough and bloody affair, but short, and,
of course, with a GERMAN victory.
Major Colbern left for BERN by auto this morning.
Attended the preview of the news reel, courtesy of the
Navy Ministry, this afternoon. The filming of the "SCHARNHORST"-
"GNEISENAU" versus "GLORIOUS" action, is excellent. It is par-
ticularly noteworthy that with a smooth sea and 20 - 25 knots
speed, the "GNEISENAU", with a clipper bow, is dry forward, while
the "SCHARNHORST", with a straight stem, is quite wet. The film
also shows the "ORAMA" sinking after her fight. Good, but terri-
bly sad to see & fine ship going down.
The O.K.W. communique announced Lieut. Prien's return to
port, having bagged 40,100 BRT on his last trip.
The B.B.C. announced the loss of H.M. Canadian DD "FRASER"
(1375 tons). Also, that H.M. SS "CLYDE" is the sub which hit
the "SCHARNHORST" with one torpedo, 20 June (diary 22 June).
SATURDAY,
The papers announced the death of Marshal Italo Balbo in air
29 June
combat yesterday. The German broadcast said he died like Col.Gen-
eral von Fritsch (diary 23, 28 September 1939). The B.B.C. was
F
quick to echo this statement with a different inflection, stating
there were no British planes in the general vicinity - hence Balbo
was erased for the greater glory of Fasciam.
SUNDAY,
The B.B.C. announced that the FRENCH destroyer "ORAGE" in-
30 the? June
terned at VIGO, Spain. This makes category 5) - those who intern
in neutral ports (diary 27 June). This is the first information
not
I have been able to get on the whereabouts of the FRENCH Navy.
Orage sunk 5/28/40. was
The loss of the BRITISH submarine "GRAMPUS", 1520 tons, was
admitted, as being long overdue.
MONDAY,
Captain Tracou, ex-FRENCH Naval Attache to BERLIN, ex-FRENCH
1 July
Neval Attache to COPENHAGEN, is the Naval Member of the FRENCH
Armistice Commission. Opposite him is Captain Never, ex-GERMAN
Naval Attache to PARIS, who was accredited there at the same time
as Admiral LeBreton, U.S.N.
-141-
MONDAY,
The GERMAN forces occupied the CHANNEL ISLANDS, after
1 July
first having bombed them. The first BRITISH territory taken. I
(Continued)wonder if it will be all,
The ITALIANS admit the loss of the destroyer "ESPERO"
(F.,O)Z
(1073 tons) in action with BRITISH cruisers and destroyers.
The GERMANS claim an "ORION" class (7215 tons, 8-6" guns)
F-10)
cruiser sunk by a U-bost south of BREST, the same U-boat having
sunk 23,000 BRT of merchant shipping.
The O.K.W. report upped Prien's last tonnage from 40,100
to 51,086 BRT (diary 29 June).
The BRITISH are reported evacuating women and children
from HONGKONG.
TUESDAY,
At the regular Navy Ministry conference today, I asked
2 July
Captain Mirow, "hhat's this about the SCHARNHORST?" He looked
at me rather oddly. I continued by asking him about the reported
air attack at TRONDHEIM (diary 22 June), the success of which was
(F-10)Z
roundly denied by the GERMAN radio a few nights ago. Their claim
is that thirteen BRITISH bombers were shot down in unsuccessfully
attempting to bomb the "SCHARNHORST". Re seemed a trifle relieved
and said the GERMAN account was correct, also the reported torpedo
hit by H.M.S. "CLYDE" was wrong ("stimmt nicht").
The evening B.B.C. news had an item of R.A.F. bomber at-
(F-10)
tacks on the "SCHARNHORST" in floating drydock at KIEL last night.
They claimed a hit on the dock. Then I understood why Captain
Mirow had given me that look in the afternoon.
As to the whereabouts of the FRENCH Fleet, he said that the
main force had come into ORAN and other AFRICAN ports, that there
were rumors of some going into BRITISH ports. He assumed that
some would join the BRITISH and that there would be some cases of
scuttling.
Captain Mirow told me that Naval Attaches and their Assis-
tants accredited to BERLIN are to be given a trip to the WESTERN
battlefields Sunday, to about Friday, visiting BRUSSELS, DUNKIRK
and BOULOGNE. Details are to be given out later.
The BRITISH announced four more ITALIAN subs sunk, bring-
ing the total to date to thirteen (13).
WEDNESDAY,
The morning papers carry the closing of the account of the
3 July
campaign in the WEST (Report R-353 of 5 July). Here again the
figures given for own losses appear to be greatly understated
(Report R-332 of 14 June on NORWAY).
THURSDAY,
Clos pouch No. 282 to go out via SWITZERLAND and LISBON,
Mr. Hamilton courier.
4 ORIEA July
A
-142-
THURSDAY,
The "ARANDORA STAR" (15,501 BRT) was torpedoed and sunk
4 July
without warning. She was carrying about 1500 German and Italian
2
prisoners and interness to CANADA, of which about 1000. drowned.
(F10)
The German papers report the sinking, but say nothing about her
carrying internees.
The papers and radio carried the story of the cowardly (or
glorious, depending on which side V.S.S talking) attack on the
FRENCH fleet at ORAN by units of the BRITISH Navy yesterday.
According to the best available information, pieced together from
the reports of both sides, & FRENCH neval force, consisting of
battleships "DUSKERQUE", "STRASBOURG", "BRETAGNE", "PROVENCE",
several destroyers, including "MOGADOR", and several submerines,
were at ORAN laying up in accordance with the Armistice terms.
The BRITISH sent them, via Captain Holland, ex-Naval Attache to
PARIS, a six hour ultima to:
comed by report 370
1) sail with the BRITISH forces,
2) sail with reduced crews to ENGLAND for internment,
3) sail to the FRENCH WEST INDIES to intorn,
4) "or else".
The FRENCH Admiral's reply rejected the BRITISH demands, so
at 1758 the BRITISH opened fire with & force reported to consist
of 3 battleships, 1 aircraft carrier (good old ARK ROYAL rising
up to bedevil the Cermans some more), 3 cruisers, and a destroyer
flotilla. After about twenty minutes firing the "DUNKERQUE" and
"PROVENCE" were afire and beached; the "BRETAGNE" had struck a
mine in the harbor entrance and sunk; the "STRAEBOURG" got away
along with several destroyers and submarines. She was said to
have been hit by a torpedo from one of the "ARK ROYAL'S" planes.
The "MOGADOR" was burning and two destroyers end an aircraft
carrier were sunk or burned.
This action was practically the sole subject of discussion
at the 4th of July reception at the Embassy this afternoon.
The evening B.B.C. announced the taking over in ENGLAND of
two battleships, 2 light cruisers, 1 aircraft carrier, 8 destroyers,
several submrines, including "SURCOUF", and about 200 miscellan-
eous smaller craft.
1 battleship, 3 cruisers, 1 light cruiser and several smaller
ships wore stated to be at ALEXANDRIA in a state of suspended ani-
mation, that is, they hadn't decided to give themselves up to the
GERMANS or the BRITISH, and the BRITISH hadn't taken them over or
sunk them.
Thus, the FRENCH Navy is pretty well accounted for.
The GERMAN papers and radio bellow in thwarted rage about the
BRITISH treatment of their allies - not inserting the word "former"
before "allies". The FRENCH lost claim to that title on 17 June.
God knows the BRITISH have savvied little enough in this war, but
one thing that is bred in the bone is an understanding of seapower.
So when their opponents suddenly had the potentialities of sea power,
the BRITISH reacted according to form.
FRIDAY,
The Vichy Government broke off diplomatic relations with its
5 July
former partner as a result of the BRITISH naval action against the
FRENCH fleet at ORAN. Scarcely any consolation to the Axis Bros.,
considering that what they needed most in the current phase of the
war - "Eir Fahren Gegen Engellend" (We Sail Against England) -
was the FRENCH fleet.
-145-
1
FRIDAY,
Attended requiem services for the late Marshal Balbo which
5 July
were held at St. Hedwig's Cathedral, the Papal Nuncio, Monsignor
(Continued) Orsenigo, officiating. Field Marshal Gooring, wearing the Annun-
ciata chain (diary 23 May) sat inside the altar rail and was a
very interested spectator at the proceedings.
SATURDAY,
Der Fuehrer arrived triumphantly in BERLIN at 1500. The
6 July
"Party Doctor" (Goebbels) ordered the thundering herd to turn
out enmasse to welcome home the Victor of 1940. Buildings and
streets were beflag. ed and decorated in holiday attire; church
bells pealed; shops closed at 1230 on order, to reopen at 1730;
everything with two legs assembled at their designated stations
and marched off to cheer lustily their Leader's victorious home-
coming.
SUNDAY,
Duce's right hand, Ciano, arrived in the Nazi metropolis
7 July
for some important business. Maybe the BALKANS are about to
blow up - maybe the RUSSIAN wolf is about to have its armament
teeth filed down - or perhaps come collusion exists between the
Nazi, Fascist and Communist combine for a new order throughout
the BALKANS. A recent B.B.C. report was to the effect that
GERMANY had advised RUMANIA to accept all RUSSIAN demands for
the time being.
At 2200 the U.P. office phone me that an S.O.S. from the
USS BARRY had been picked up by Mackey Radio. Subsequent phoning
to Captain Mirow for any information he might have, brought out
the U.S. Navy Department's denial of the story, which Trans-Ocean
Radio had already reported to the German Navy Ministry.
At 2342 a party of sixteen departed for an inspection trip
of BELGIUM and NORTHERN FRANCE. The party consisted of Captain
Mirow and Lieutenant von Krosigk of the Naval Attache Group, Lieut.
Comdr. Muller (Ret) (one-time navigator of S.M.S. CORMORAN at the
time of her internment at GUAM), of the Navy Liaison Group in
O.K.W., Herr Randean, Air Liaison officer in the Foreign Office,
Captain Pecori Giraldi (ITALY), Commander Forshell (SWEDEN),
Commander Espinosa (SPAIN), Lieut.Comdr. Taniguchi and one other
(JAPAN), Comander Worouzow and naval air assistant (U.S.S.R.),
Captain Kjoelsen (DENMARK), Commender Ceballos (Ret) (ARGENTINA),
Commander Constantinides (GREECE), and Commander Schrader and
Lieut. Comdr. Pihl (U.S.A.). Sleeping cars to and from AACHEN,
automobiles beyond, by the Navy. Covered by R-366
MONDAY,
There was a renewed attack by BRITISH aircraft on the "DUN-
8 July
KERQUE" at ORAN - just to make sure that she was "disarmed" in the
3 July action. The German papers are still featuring the story of
Churchill's "blood-bath" at ORAN.
The GERMAN official communique reports an aircraft attack
against ENGLISH naval forces in the NORTH SEA yesterday, two de-
stroyers being so severely hit that their total loss can be assumed.
The communique also reports the sinking of a BRITISH sub by air
attack, the crew being rescued by GERMAN patrolboats and aircraft.
(BERLIN)
SWEDEN has at last capitulated to the GERMAN derands that she
permit GERMAN troops, war materials, etc., free passage over her
territory.
Another set of "propagenda" documents has been unearthed by
the GERMANS in FRANCE which, among other things, particularly stres-
ses the ENGLISH/FRENCH General Staff plans for carrying the car into
RUSSIAN territory (interforing with Russian supplies to Germany,
principally the oil from BAKU). Is this a build-up for some future
action which will have the acquiescene of RUSSIA?
-1
MONDAY,
Arrived AACHEN 1013 and were met by Majors Beissel and Gripp
8 July
of the GERMAN Air Force, Colonel Enell, Air Force (SWEDEN) and
(Continued) Major Paso Montes, Air Force (SPAIN). One of the Navy Horch's
(German make corresponding to Packard or Cadillac) had developed
(TOURING)
brake trouble which cost us an hour in the get-may. From AACHEN
through LIEGE and LOUVAIN to BRUSSELS at 50 to 70 mph, idling down
to 45 as we passed through towns, but never & stop to see a bunker
or battlefield. Lunch at BRUSSELS, and on to BRUGES where we had
a dinner date with the Commanding General, hence no daisies were
picked on that leg, either. After dinner, it still being light,
we were given a short trip to ZEEBRUGGE and the nearby resorts,
all closed.
TUESDAY,
RUMANIA'S political ailments seem to be takingon aggravation.
9 July
King Carol is in a tight spot trying to WOO the fancies of the
REICH and SOVIETS. I wonder whether RUMANIA will be rubbed off
the European map?
HUNGARY's diplomatic torch-bearers, Teleki and Csaky, are
headed Munichward for appropriate instructions from their real
masters, Hitler and Mussolini.
The B.B.C. announced the putting out of action of the FRENCH
(BERLIN)
battleship "RICHELIEU". Action took place at DAKAR, French Rest
Africa on 8 July. According to the report, aircraft bombing at-
(Frio)
tack and planting of mines under the stern by motor torpedoboat,
rendered her hors d'combat.
The GERMAN press continues its assertions that BRITISH air
raids over GERMAN territory have been directed against non-military
objectives. B.B.C. has mentioned at least two raids over HAMBURG
and KIEL during the past few days; at the latter place the "SCHARN-
HORST" has been claimed hit again, also the Blohm & Voss works.
Nothing on these raids in the GERMAN press.
Intensity of GERMAN air attacks over the BRITISH ISLES is
increasing. Doubtless still "trial runs", in preparation for the
"calamitous" attacks planned for the near future.
(TOURING)
Left BRUGES with its "belfry old and brown" (Longfellow) to
put in the long day of the trip. Zipped through OSTENDE, took a
little time out at DUNKIRK, which has been considerably cleared up,
went through NIEUPORT and CALAIS, not according to plan, but be-
cause the only available road led through them. However, showing
us anything of naval or military interest was carefully avoided.
At CAPE GIS NEZ we could clearly see the DOVER coast. Tie had ex-
ceptionally high visibility. An ex-FRENCH coastal battery of about
150 mm. (5.9") and a GERMAN A.A. battery of 88 na. (3.47") were on
either side of the road and the only signs of GERMAN soldiers in
their proper sphere for the entire trip. Te saw innumerable
others, but they were driving trucks, directing traffic, or ashore
on liberty.
Stopped outside of BOULOGNE where the Commanding Admiral
NORTHERN FRANCE, Vice Admiral Lindau, has taken over a beautiful
villa for his headquarters. About half of us had lunch with him,
the others going to the officers' mess. Te had been so much de-
layed by taking the wrong turns for emergency bridges, etc. that
ABBEVILLE was given a wave of the hand and DIEPPE, for which most
of the party had brought bathing suits, was just a comfort station.
Arrived in LEHAVRE about 2000, had dinner at the officers' mess,
a look at the waterfront, and turned in quickly by twilight. No
electricity, no hot water and cold water had just recently been
achieved. LEHAVRE is still pretty much deserted, but refugees are
returning daily.
-145-
WEDNESDAY,
B.B.C. announced a naval eng: gement with ITALIAN forces
10 July
yesterday in the MEDITERRANEAN. Claim one ITALIAN battleship
hit at extreme range, following with ITALIAN forces turned tail
towards shore defenses. GERMAN morning press carried ROME date-
(BERLIN)
line report of the engagement, but that it was the ENGLISH force
that turned tail, hotly pursued by the ITALIANS! ITALIAN broad-
cast later in day admitted engagement with BRITISH forces, and
that an ITALIAN unit was hit but only slightly damaged, requiring
no more than several days to repair; further, that 29 were killed
and some 69 wounded. These casualities would seem to indicate
that the damage inflicted will require somewhat longer than a
few days to remedy.
The ITALIAN official communique claims a BRITISH cruiser
sunk by aircraft attack off CRETE, the planes having flown a
stretch of 800 km. (500 miles) to carry out their attack on
ENGLISH units operating in that area.
(F-10)
B.B.C. reported that with the putting out of action of the
"RICHELIEU", eight of the nine FRENCH capital ships have been
accounted for, the ninth being the "JEAN D'ARC", not yet commis-
sioned. As the "STRASBOURG" put in safely at TOULON, not visibly
damaged according to a C.B.S. reporter, the BRITISH statement is
not entirely accurate.
The evening B.B.C. broadcast mentioned that a total of 15
ITALIAN subs have been sunk to date, and that the ITALIAN de-
stroyer "ZEFFIRO" (1073 tons) has been admitted lost by the
ITALIANS.
(TOURING)
Underway from LE HAVPE at 0800, and had some of our precious
time wasted by a thoroughly useless look at the FRENCH liner
"PARIS", lying on her side at the dock - result of sabotage "be-
foh' de wah". We stopped at RPUEN to discharge our pilot - Lt.
von Specht. Column guide mas taken over by Captain Mirow, Chief
of the Attache Group, ably assisted by back-seat drivers Captain
Pecori, Ally and Vice Dean of the Navel Attaches in Berlin and
Commander Schrader, Dean. The percentage of wrong turns was not
much different from the previous day.
Arrived at PARIS 1300 and were presented - grimy and wind-
Personatily File
blown from riding in open cars - to the Commanding Admiral, FRANCE,
Admiral Schuster, in the Reception Room of the FRENCH Ministry of
Marine - crystal chandeliers, gilt tripe on the walls, and kewpies
playing piccolos painted on the ceiling. Just before the Admirel
appeared, the GERMAN watch came goose-stepping down the Place de
la Concorde and disappeared through the gateway under us into the
Courtyard. What wonderful things you see when you haven't got a
gun! Here were Espionsa, Forshell and myself, to say nothing of
the photophile Japs, with thousands of feet of film among us, and
all of the cameras down below in the cars!
Red scent time to change skirts and get some of the grime
off of us at the Palais d'Orsay Hotel before we had to be back
at the Ritz, no less, to have lunch with the Admiral. Beginning
with as sweet a cantaloupe as a tooth was ever sunk into - and I
not having had one since the summer of '37 - and winding up with
some FRENCHMAN'S vintage of 1928, it was Ritzy.
Called at the AMERICAN Embassy at 1630 - after lunch - to
find Lt. De Kay (SC) and Col. Fuller, just returned the day be-
fore. The Navel Attache and Assistant Naval Attache were still
looking over FRANCE. No news of importance, in fact, they had
less than we.
Took a rubberneck trip around PARIS to cool off after
& short shopping trip, and got back to the Ritz for a bite of
supper. PARIS folds up at 2300 nowadays - curfew - but the
RITZ seems to be an all night stand.
-146-
THURSDAY
Another BRITISH cruiser is claimed by the GERMAN press to
11 July
have been sunk by aircraft attack in the DOVER STRAITS yesterday.
(BERLIN)
The ITALIAN of official communique for yesterday states that
BRITISH warship . apparently a battleship - was sunk by bomb
attack. No further details. The communique admits the loss of
the "ZEFFIRO" as well as the loss of another sub (overdue).
The HUNGARIAN diplomats, Teleki and Csaky, met Hitler,
Ribbentrop and Ciano in Munchen yesterday. Is HUNGARY to be
fattened up territorially at RUMANIA'S expense in the near fu-
ture? Juding from the political moves in the BALKANS during
the past week - shakeups in numerous Cabinets, Ciano's visit
to Hitler, the HUNGARIAN statesmen's talks with the Axis princi-
pals in Munchen, not to mention SWEDEN'S o.k.'ing the passage
of GERMAN troops and material over her territory, there is indi-
cation that the GERMAN "Drang nach Osten" will be resumed shortly.
Today's ITALIAN press reports & great naval battle in the
IONIAN SEA, between the 23,600 ton ITALIAN battleships "CESARE"
and "CAVOUR" and three BRITISH battleships of the "BARNHAM"
class and one aircraft carrier. Numerous smaller units on both
sides are also reported to have been participants in the engage-
ment. According to the ITALIAN report, fire was opened at range
of 26 km. (about 28,500 yards), the action lasting fifteen min-
utes. After the fourth ITALIAN salvo, an ENGLISH battleship
was observed hit and listed to starboard, her gunfire silenced.
An ITALIAN cruiser and destroyers attacked an enemy formation and
torpedoed a warship (type not stated). The BRITISH planes en-
gaged in this action, suffered heavily according to the ITALIAN
communique - 5 torpedo planes and 3 bombers being shot down. The
only casualty admitted by the ITALIANS is contained in the bare
statement that one ITALIAN ship was hit, 80 slight that she would
be back in service in a few days (diary 10 July).
Ciano goes back to ROME today, perhaps taking with him a
package of dynamite addressed to the BALKANS or RUSSIA.
Rumors are circulating that numerous troop trains and na-
terial and equipment therefor, are headed Eastward. I wonder if
they are headed towards a campaign against the RUSSIANS, or
whether they are intended for transit through RUSSIA enroute to
the BRITISH INDIAN DOMANION, with a way-stop at IRAN (Persia) for
more oil? That would be one method of obtaining colonies without
the aid of a Navy! So very little has appeared in the GERMAN
press recently regarding the House of Stalin, that one suspects
that mischief is afoot - either Stalin is to be sold down the
river, else a barter deal has been worked up among Mussolini,
Hitler and Stalin, at BRITISH expense - the latter arrangement
might furnish the GERMAN chariot of aggression with a RUSSIAN
visa for a sweep to the FAR EAST, where the GERMANS could collab-
orate more closely with the JAPS. The near future is filled with
forebodings.
(TOURING)
Another full power run to 60MPIEGNE, where we saw everything
except the famous Foch restaurant car, which by this time chould
have completed its tour of GERMANY and be reposing quietly in the
Armory in BERLIN. Lots of GERMANS in uniform were about the park,
explaining it all to each other or taking pictures, or both.
Zipped through ST. QUENTIN, CAMBRAI, VALENCIENNES end MONS
to BRUSSELS where we got in too late for lunch and too early for
dinner. Three quarters of an hour wasted, in which T.O could have
seem something of World Tar or present war importance!
-147-
THURSDAY
At 1800 departed BRUSSELS for AACHEN, streaking through
11 July
LOUVAIN and MAASTRICHT on our dash for the train which shoved off
(Continued) at 2125. No stops at the Rockefeller restored library in LOUVAIN,
but a few minutes off at the old Rathaus a couple of blocks away.
(TOURING)
The only casualty of the trip was a blown tire on one of the
rear cars at TONGRES. Remarkable, the way our tires squealed going
around corners at 50 mph, and the way our springs chunked going
over the occasional shell or bomb holes, that that was all.
Arrived AACHEN 2100, embarked in our special cars and depart-
ed at 2125.
FRIDAY,
Last night's B.B.C. announced the sinking of another ITALIAN
12 July
destroyer by aircraft bombing attack.
(BEFLIN)
Today's GERMAN O.K.W. communique claims 609,000 tons of enemy
merchant shipping sunk by U-boats in the past six weeks - up to
8 July (Report R-357 of 14 July).
(Fro)
The ITALIAN official communique for yesterday announced that
the BRITISH battleship "HOOD" was severely damaged and set afire
in the naval action of 9 July, and that the good old punching bag,
2
that rubber-aircraft carrier, the "ARK ROYAL", received 8. hit of
heavy caliber on her bridge. Against last night the B.B.C. utterly
refuted the ITALIAN claim of damage to any BRITISH ship in the en-
gagements of 8/9 July.
Arrived BERLIN 0800.
Lieut. (jg) Wilson reported in from RIGA. Had him examined
by the Embassy U.S.P.H. Surgeon and arranged to have him thoroughly
gone over tomorrow by a GERMAN M.D.
Had a busy day catching up with the various telegrams, mail
and other information arriving during my absence.
SATURDAY,
The O.K.W. report dated 12 July stated in part: "In the
13 July
Channel (Air Force) succeeded in sinking a tanker of 15,000 BRT,
as well as four merchant ships totaling 15,000 BRT, and in badly
damaging nine other merchantships with direct hits. The successes
of our Navy and Air Force in the commerce war have reached a very
perceptible level for ENGLAND. Up to 3 July, there were sunk:
a) by torpedo hits and mining successes of our U-boats,
1,920,439 BRT;
b) b: surface craft and other navel means, 1,362,461 BRT;
c) by attacks of the Air Force, 1,046, 313 BRT.
Thus there is a total destruction, since the outbreak of war, of
4,329,213 BAT of enemy shipping or shipping employable by the enemy.
To these figures are to be added more than 500 ships, most of them
damaged by the Air Force, which have been 30 bodly hit that they
are no longer usable, or their repairs will require months."
Had Lieut. (jg) Wilson examined by a local doctor who found
his suffering from the after effects of influenza and a condition
of poison somewhere in his system which causes his occasional
A
nervous disorders. Hospitalized him for observation. Arranged
for his transportation out of LISBON 1 August (ALUSNA to OPNAV
131300). Transportation from BERLIN to LISBON at present is this:
regular daily train BERLIN to GENEVA (1 day), once a week (Wednes-
day), bus GENEVA to BARCELONA (2 days), train BARCELONA to LISBON
(4 days). The steamship company requires one to be in LISBON two
-148-
SATURDAY,
or three days prior to departure of the steamer, thus ten days
13 July
is the minimum time from BERLIN to LISBON.
(Continued)
A
Phoned Captain Kelly at THE HAGUE and arranged for his yas-
sage 8 August from LISBON.
Worked up trip report (R#566 of 14 July) and back diary.
SUNDAY,
At office clearing up reports in view of Riedel going on
14 July
leave this evening and pouch going out tomorrow.
The B.B.C. last night reported the formation of & new to-
talitarian government in FRANCE, with Petain equal Hitler and
De Laval equal Goering as Crown Prince.
Captain Mirow phoned me to say that he was going on leave
until 31 July. Maybe things are going to continue quiet but
ominous for some time.
MONDAY,
Sent out pouch No. 310 to GENEVA, thence BARCELONA end
14 July
LISBON.
-149-
SUNDAY,
A now set of documents has beon published showing that
14 July
those dirts Allies had evil designs on the Scandinevien
(Continued)
countries. That non Ribbentrop has gone absolutely nuts on
the subject of documents.
Mr. Churchill spoke at 2200 tonight. I picked up only
fragments between static and interference on my radio, but
it sounded like a between the halves pep talk.
MONDAY,
Discovered why my Swedish colleague returned recently
15 July
from SWEDEN so violently anti-British (diary 25 June). The
DNB news service published today the story of four Swedish
torpedoboats recently purchased from ITALY. They had put
into the FAROES for fuel and water on 19 June and were taken
over milly-nilly by the British forces there. The Swedish
ships were not completely ermed or menned. On this account,
end since the waters were mined and guarded by four TRIBAL
class destroyers, the Swedish officer-in-commend did not
resist. Re stood out in the accompanying tanker and radioed
Z
his Government the information. He WELE given stern orders
to decand the return of the ships and the Swedish Government
threatened to break off relations with GREAT BRITAIN if the
ships were not restored immediately. Too late! They had
already left for KIRKWALL with British crews, whose unfamilier-
ity with the ships caused & collision end one was badly damaged.
The ships were returned to the FAROES by the British, with
assurances that they would pay for the damages, end continued
their course to GOTEBORG. The Swedish Commander is up for a
general court-martial.
At a luncheon today, Commonder Ceballos (ARGENTINA), who
gets around quite a bit because his Government buys material
in GERMANY, told no that week before last while he was in
HAMBURG, he experienced e British air raid. One plane made the
raid, dropping one bomb about 500 yerds short of the main railway
station, end one rbout 500 yards over. The plane T.C.S flying so
high it couldn't be seen in the beginning of down. Searchlights
were trained by listening apparatus, and the M fired at the
intersection of two searchlight beams. The AA in town were 20
mm. (.79"). The 9.8 cm. outside the city joined the chorus
only occasionally, but the AA battery of BISMARCK at Blohm
Z
and Voss yard joined in the firing, confirming previous re-
ports that she is in commission. At least her AA battery is
manned (diary 27 June, Alusna 031500 of July).
The German papers end radio today passed snotty remarks
about Mr. Churchill's preferring to see LONDON in ruins and
ashes before giving up.
They also corried en item under Copenhagen date line,
stating that the British Admiralty admitted the loss of DD
2
"ESCORT" (1375 tons) in the EASTERN meditereanean).
Huntowski (CEM) reported in for special duty in the
Embresy (Alusna 161145).
TUESDAY,
The British Admirelty admitted the probable loss of
16 July
2
SS "SHARK" (670 tons), on account of being so long overdue.
It is reported that GIBRALTAR was subjected to five cir
reids Sunday.
-150-
TUESDAY
Called at the Navy Ministry today. Lieutenant von
16 July
Krosigk know nothing, not even why the bleacher stands were
(Continued)
being built up on both sides of Pariser Plats, one right
under my windows, the other across Unter den Linden in front
of the French Embassy. Nobody knows why. The consensus of
chauffeurs is that it's for three divisions of troops coming
back from the West, end the doormen at the Adlon Hotel says
it is for the troops under General Dietl, who held out at,
and finally took, NARVIK.
REDNESDAY,
Called on my Swedish colleague today and received con-
17 July
firmation of the torpedoboat story (diary 15 July). Be
called it a "grosse Schweinerei" (a great swinishness) and
showed a great deal of agitation over the whole matter.
He has heard that BB "TIEPITZ" and CA "SEYDLITZ" are
2 about to go into commission.
He gave me the story of the Germen peace conditions
reported in P-377 of 18 July.
The OKW ennounces that one U-boat reported the sinking
of 23,600 BRT of enemy shipping, another had shot a 9,000
BRT tanker out of a strongly-protected convoy, and air
attacks on shipping in the CHANNEL had succeeded in sinking
three merchant ships totalling 18,000 BRT, hence the head-
lines of "More than 50,000 BRT of shipping sunk".
One of our American press representatives said she had
heard 8. story of submarine tanks being manufactured for use
against ENGLAND. She had quite an assortment of fantestic
yarns. One was to the effect that Ciano didn't visit battle-
fields at all on his lest trip, instead, he tried to work
on King Leopold to make some stump speeches for the Axis
powers. Another wes that FRANCE had folded up entirely too
soon for ITALY. The latter had considered fighting against
the Allies long enough to teach them a lesson, then shift
polarity and seve the world for democracy. The one piece of
news she had, and that sounded a bit exaggerated, was that
the Germans picked up six million tons of oil fuel, mostly
American high-test gasoline in the HOLLAND, BELGIUM, Northern
FRANCE compaign. It is known that they picked up a lot, but
six million tons appears to be rather high.
Thursday,
The papers let out the secret of the parade this morning.
18 July.
One division of Berliners, returning home from the West, is
to march past at 1800.
About noon the streets in the vicinity starting filling,
and the endless columns of marching S.A. (Brown Shirts),
Hitler Jugend (Nazi Boy Scouts) and Bund Deusche Mitiels
(Nari Girl Guides) went to their stations along the East-
Nest Anis. Relatives of cusualties and Berlin munitions
laborers occupied the bleachers.
Goebbels received the salute and spoke at longth when
the leading regiment had arrived in Parisor Platz. By
2000, when I left the office, only horse-drawn equipment
had passed by. The horses end equipment were in excellent
shape. The parade lasted until about 2130. Near the end
of the porade WES the division artillery consisting of
-151-
THURSDAY,
ceptured French 155 nn. (6.1"), also the hospital equipment
18 July
seid to be the American ambulance gear taken in FRANCE.
(Continued)
The OKW communique stated that Cerson archips operating
in foreign waters have sunk 30,000 BET of enemy shipping.
On the occasion of the Spenish national holiday today,
Hitler awarded Franco with the Grand Cross of the Cernan
Eagle in gold.
Hentschel, Senior Clerk of the Noval Attache's office
in The Regue, reported in about 1300, bringing the Nevy
A
Chevrolet. Eith the continued ration of 240 liters (63
gallons) per month, I'm going to ley up the Buick, with its
consumption of 7 /2 to 9 miles per gallon, and got double the
miloage by operating the Chevrolet.
The office equipment of the NA office st THE HAGUE is
crated and stored, awaiting transportation facilities to
BEFLIN.
The British announce the loss of DD "INOGEN" (1870
Z
tons) in collision in E dense fog.
FRIDAY,
The big event today 268 the Reichstag meeting and
19 July
Hitler's speech at 1300. Re spoke for in hour and D. half.
While he still started off with Versailles, he had more
concrete things to talk about, and the proliminaries to the
war were briefed.
General Field Marshall Coring we's promoted to Feichs
Mershall (Marshal of the Empire) and owarded the Crend
Cross of the Iron Cross. According to my rocollection,
only Blacher, Moltke the Elder, Hindenburg, end possibly
Ludendorff, have had this order conferred on them.
Lieutenent General Diebl, of MARVIK frime, was pro-
moted to General and had the Onk Lonves of the Fitter
Kreuz of the Iron Cross conferred upon him.
A great number of other officers were promoted, but
outside of two Air Major Generals promoted to full General,
no one Junior to Lieutenant General une mentioned. As
some one put it "A full General is just a young non starting
out in life in this outfit".
Promoted to General Field Marshal were:
Colonel General von Brauchitsch, Couns nder-in-Chief
of the Army;
Colonel General Rundstedt, Commending Any Group A;
Colonel General Fitter von Leeb, Commanding Army
Group C;
Colonel General von Bock, Commending Army Group B;
Colonel General List, Commending 12th Army;
Colonel General Klugo, Commending 4th Army;
Colonel General Withleben, Commanding 1st Army;
Colonel General von Reichensu, Commending 6th Army;
Admiral Carls, Commending Beltic Group, to Grand
Colonel Admiral; General Milch, Air Force, to General Field
Mershal;
-1.52-
FRIDAY,
General Sperrle, Air Force, to General Field Marshal;
19 July
General Kesselring, Air Force, to General Field Marshal;
(Continued)
Colonel General Keitel, Chief of Staff of the Armed
Forces, to General Field Mershel.
He closed his speech with a last appeal to reason on the
part of ENGLAND. No conditions were mentioned, of course.
It is assumed that dickering has gone and is going on quietly
somewhere.
SATURDAY,
Count Ciano was received by Hitler this morning and by
20 July
Goring at Karin Hell.
At an afternoon party today, one of the Cerman officers
remarked that ENGLAND had turned down the Fuhrer's proffered
hand of peace, and things would start very soon.
SUNDAY,
My radio blew B. tube last night, which leaves me in the
21 July
dark for the British side of the news. Phone calls to the
press agencies showed very little going on.
The Italian communiqué admitted the loss of CL "BARTOLOMEO
COLLEONI" (5069 tons, 8-6" guns) in a three-hour fight with
two British SYDNEY-class (6830 tons, 8-6" guns) cruisers and
four destroyers off CRETE. One of the British cruisers was
claimed sunk by Italien bombers which arrived on the scene.
Detached Lieutenant (jg) A.L. Wilson. He left for Geneva
at 2147 and is due to sail from LISBON 1 August.
MONDAY,
The BBC last night, and one of the morning papers today,
22 July
are reported to state that the Congress of the three Baltic
Republics have requested annexation into the U.S.S.R. The
Volkischer Beobachter, the Party organ, has nothing to say
about it yet. Just another black mark against U.S.S.R. which
has to be expunged when the show in the West is over.
Closed pouch No. 293, to go out via BERNE.
-153-
(F-10)
MONDAY
22 July
Z
The British admit the probable loss of 88 "SALMON" (67 tons)
as being so long overdue.
(Continued)
My Itelian colleague visited no today. In talking of the
action in which the CL "COLLEONI" was lost (21 July) he said that
while the loss was regrettable it was good for morale to have the
F.3
CL "GIOVANNI DELLA BANDA NERA" to have continued the action twenty
minutes after the COLLEONI was sunk.
In speaking of bombs versus ships, of which he is very skeptical
of Gernan Air Force or even Itelien Air Force claims, he remarked
that in the Spanish war, there were several cases of direct hits on
destroyers with 100 kg (220 1b) bombs, which, of course, damaged
the ships but they were able to proceed to dockyard for repairs
under their own power.
TUESDAY
The British admit the loss of DD "BRAZEN" (1360 tons) by air
28 July
Z
bombs.
(F-10)
The German communique reports that a small U-boat sank 18,000
BRT out of a strongly protected convoy.
WEDNESDAY
The OKW report states that & U-boat sank two ships, totalling
24 July
14,000 BRT out of 8. strongly protected convoy, and that their planes
sank a British sub in the NORTH SEA.
Had tea with the Lithuanian Military Attache, Col. Grinius.
Be is pretty such upset over the present situation. Be has resigned,
but 80 far has not received any word from his home country. He
contemplates emigrating to the U.S. where he has relatives. We
won't lose on the deal when he enters.
Senior Clerk Arthur Hentschel departed for STOCKHOLM for duty
in Alusna office there.
THURSDAY
The Geruen communique claims their Air Force bombed and sank
25 July
five ships totalling 17,000 BRT and a sixth, of 4,000 BRT, was set
on fire.
FRIDAY
One of our press representatives, whose tales are usually
26 July
fantestic, told me that the big show would start any time after 11
August. The reasons therefor were that all the key men were off
on leave until that date. Considering that they all keep in touch
with the Government and that they can return to Berlin by plane in
the course of a few hours, there is little reason for her deduction.
She had also heard that the Germans had bemoaned the fact that they
had no mercury with which to manufacture poison gases. With the
capitulation of FRANCE a large supply of mercury fell into their
hands, which mde everythi 8 alright again. Checked up with offi-
cers who have had our CWS course and found that mercury is not used
in the manufacture of gas. Another story of hers, which I believe
has some merit, is that the "unknown" planes which have recently
been bombing GIBRALTAR are German, basing on Spenish air fields.
The above are cited as examples of the dozens of rumors one herrs
almost daily, same of w ich. have foundation on fact, most, however,
are simply fantastic.
-154-
Herr v. Ribbentrop received the Rumenian Prime Minister
Gigurtu and Foreign Minister Mancilescu at SAEZBURG.
The OKW reports that the Air Force sank eleven ships,
totalling 43,000 BRT and set three others, totalling 12,000 BRT,
on fire, out of a strongly protected convoy of twenty three ships.
A British destroyer was sèt afire and another wes bodly
damaged.
SATURDAY
Under headlines of "100,000 BRT in2 days" the OKY reports
27 July
that PT (S-boats) sank three arned enemy merchantuen of 10,000,
7,000 and 5,000 BRT and set another of 2, 00 BRT on fire off
BRIGHTON. Another enemy merchant ship of 10,000 BRT was given
in a supplementary report, bringing the total to 34,000 BRT sunk
and 8 more of 12,000 BRT set afire, two destroyers damaged, and
a merchant ship of 8,000 BRT sunk by bombs south of the ISLE OF
WIGHT.
The Rumenian Ministers were received by Hitler Yesterday
afternoon and then left for ITALY to pay their homage to Mussolini
and Ciano.
SUNDAY
No comment.
28 July
A
Closed pouch No. 371, to go out via BERN and GENEVA.
returned any 19th in 1940, DSK in ONI
-155-
MONDAY
The OKH today reports that the submarine committed by Lieut.
29 July
Wilhelm Rollman sank five areed merchant ships totalling 48,000
(c ntinued) BRT, one of which was an auxiliary cruiser of 18,000 BRT, out of
a strongly protected convoy. In addition, the same U-boat senk
(F-10)
an armed British merchant san of 6000 BRT. Another U-boat senk
18,750 BRT out of a strongly protected convoy. A third sub sank
an aimed enemy merchant ship of more than 6,000 BRT off the British
2
const.
The Air F rce senk an auxiliary cruiser of 7000 BRT, two
destroyers and a merchant ship of 5000 BRT. Another destroyer
and two merchant ships were 80 badly damaged by bombs that their
total loss is to be assumed.
TUESDAY
The British Admiralty admitted the loss of DD "WREN" (1120
50 July
tona) by bombs while on patrol.
The OKW reports & dive bombing attack on DOVER, Four ships
totalling 32,000 BRT were so badly hit that they can be counted
as lost.
Patrol flights along the Channel succeeded in sinking a
10,000 ton cruiser, & merchant ship of 1,000 BRT and in bddly
damaging another merchant ship.
Lots of mail arrived, the first since 8 June.
Received were:
2 Shipment
Pouch No.
Date ex Enshington
46
335
7 June
47
207, 387
12 June
48
234
14 June
49
505
19 June
A
50
355
21 June
51
215
26 June
52
85
28 June
53
76, 334
3 July
54
307
5 July
2 shipments 42, 43, 44 end 45 are missing. (Alusna 301600)
WEDNESDAY
Captain Mirow, Chief of the Attache Group, is to be detached
31 July
about mid August to command CL "ENDEN". He is naturally quite
Meas
elated. Lt.Comdr. (E) Besthern previously in the Attache Group,
at present Naval Attache to HOLLAND and BELGIUM will relieve
Captain Mirow.
Due to the situation in RIGA being what it 18, I have
A
recommended to the Department that Lieut. (jg) Stanley W. Lipski
proceed to HELSINKI to continue his Russian language study there
(Alusna 311030)
-156-
THURSDAY,
Completing preparations for a nine day trip into SWITZERLAND.
1 August
FRIDAY,
Left BERLIN 0845 and drove along a practically deserted Auto-
2
August
bahn to MUNCHEN, arriving there about 1715. Met a column of Air
Force trucks just outside of BERLIN, heading in.
In BEFLIN the morning "Valkischer Beobachter" carries a promi-
nent article to the effect that from 25 June (the day "cease firing"
for FRANCE was sounded), to date, the GERMAN and ITALIAN Navies and
Air Forces have sunk:
1,267,017 BRT of enemy merchant shipping,
8 submarines,
2 cruisers,
4 destroyers,
1 auxiliary cruiser,
1 tanker, and
3 merchantships of unknown tonnage;
There were badly damaged:
about 70 enemy merchantships,
4 battleships or battlecruisers,
3 aircraft carriers,
7 cruisers,
8 destroyers,
1 submarine,
2 auxiliary cruisers,
1 minesweeper, and
6 patrol boats (z Report R-398 of 7 August).
The BRITISH admit the loss of the destroyer "DELIGHT" (1375 tons).
SATURDAY,
Left MUNCHEN 0725 by train for BREGENZ. To insure getting seats
3 August
we boarded the train at 0645 and found the compartments partially
filled already. The train was crowded by 0715 and became more so
after getting underway.
Customs and passport inspection at BREGENZ were quick and cour-
teous, as has been my experience in GERMANY.
A shuttle train took us to ST. MARGARETHEN where the SWISS for-
malities were stricter. Changed trains for ZURICH and there changed
again for BERN, arriving about 1700. The SWISS are master hands at
making American steaks and French fried potatoes and I did full jus-
tice to one of their best.
In BERLIN, the official communique reported the return of Lieut.
Wilhelm Rollmann and his U-boat, who had sunk an enemy submarine. His
total bag in two trips within a short time was twelve armed merchant-
ships totaling 74,338 BRT, the BRITISH destroyer "WHIRLWIND" (1100
tons), and a submarine. In the SOUTH ATLANTIC a GERMAN auxiliary
cruiser and the BRITISH auxiliary cruiser ALCANTARA (22,209 BRT) ex-
changed salvos, resulting in the ALCANTARA receiving hits in her ma-
chinery spaces which necessitated her going to RIO DE JANEIRO for
repairs.
The ITALIAN communique reports the sinking by ramming and tor-
pedo of the BRITISH S.S. OSWALD (1475 tons) by the destroyer "VIVALDI",
in the IONIAN SEA. The Captain and 51 others of the crew of 55 were
saved.
Molotov spoke to the Supreme Soviet yesterday, having "nothing
good to say" about relations between U.S.A. and U.S.S.R.
16.A
Sent pouch No. 387 out via BERN and LISBON.
-157-
SUNDAY,
Spent a quiet Sunday in BERN. Talked with Lt.Colonel Legge, U.S.
4 August Military Attache. Tried the SWISS version of an ice-cream soda, at
which they are definitely not proficient.
The O.K.W. report states that the U-boat commanded by Lieut. Kret-
schmer sank seven armed enemy merchantships totaling 56,118 BRT, of which
F.10
three were tankers in convoy. His total tonnage score to date is 117,367
BRT and the BRITISH destroyer "DARING" (diary 20 February).
Several armed enemy merchantships totaling 16,000 BRT were sunk off
HARWICH, THAMES MOUTH, and the HEBRIDES.
MONDAY, 5 August the Military Attache, Colonel Legge. Left BERN 1500; arrived GENEVA
Called on the American Minister to SWITZERLAND, Mr. Harrison, and
1700. Checked with American Express Co. the arrangements for my son's
travel to LISBON.
The O.K.W. report states that GERMAN air reconnaissance forces sank
a merchantship at the entrace to ST. GEORGES CHANNEL, about 100 km. (62
miles) southwest of PEMBROKE.
GERMAN planes attacked the shipyard at SHEERNESS and the tank farm
at NORTH KILLINGHOLM.
The Knight Cross of the Iron Cross was awarded to Lieut. Rollman who
has sunk 24 steamers totaling 118,890 BRT, a minelayer and the destroyer
"WHIRLWIND", brought in twoprises of 7,776 BRT, and succeeded in a diffi-
cult task of laying mines off the south coast of ENGLAND.
The ITALIAN communique admits the loss of a submarine.
16-A
Received Zed shipments 42 - - 45 inclusive, 55 - - 57 inclusive, which
completesthe series to Z-57 inclusive.
TUESDAY,
Called at the American Consulate General in GENEVA.
6 August
I entered the Navy 28 years ago today.
In BERLIN, under headlines, "Five Million 3RT Sunk", the official
communique states:
"A U-boat shot and sank three armed enemy merchantships totaling
16,875 BET, out of a strongly protected convoy.
The complete report of the commerce war against ENGLAND from the
outbreak of war to 8 July 1940 was announced in the O.K.W. report of
12 July. From 9 July to 51 July, enemy and available-to-the-enemy
shipping was destroyed as follows:
F-15
By U-boats
344,174 BRT
By Surface Craft
98,500 BRT
The successes achieved by mines are not included in these figures.
Right at present, great success has been accomplished by mines and the
enemy has not mentioned them.
The Air Force sank:
Marships
21,650 tons
Merchantships
215,000 BRT
They damaged:
Warships
32,000 tons
Merchantships
328,000 BRT
Thus, the total losses inflicted on the enemy between 9 and 31
July - without taking into account successes by mines or damaged ship-
ping - - is 679,324 BRT.
-1.58-
TUESDAY,
Thereby the enemy has lost shipping either his own, or ship-
6 August
ping available to him:
(Continued)
By naval activity
5,725,547 BRT
By Air Force activity
1,261,313 BRT
Total .... 4,986,860 BRT
In addition, the Air Force has damaged a total of about one
and a half million BRT of merchant shipping since the outbreak of
war."
WEDNESDAY,
The American Express Co. buses shoved off from GENEVA at
7 August
0600, one loaded with passengers and hand baggage, the other full
with trunks and a half dozen passengers. Several American busi-
ness people from THE HAGUE were among the passengers.
Left GENEVA 1113; arrived LUCERNE 1530.
In BERLIN, the O.K.W. report states that a GERMAN warship
sank 50,000 BRT of enemy shipping in foreign waters.
GERMAN planes bombed airfields at TYNEMOUTH and ST. ATHAU,
the Vickers-Armstrong airplane factory at CHESTER and munitions
works at SWANSEA.
Dr. Krupp von Bohlen and Halbech was awarded the gold medal
of the N.S.D.A.P. by the Fuehrer and the eagle shield of the Reich
by Dr. Funk on the occasion of his 70th birthday.
The Stefani news agency reports from ALGECIRAS that the
battleship "RESOLUTION" is 80 badly damaged that it could not sail
with the rest of the squadron.
THURSDAY,
D.N.B. reports the XCL "ALCANTARA" (diary 3 August) having com-
8 August
pleted emergency repairs at RIO DE JANEIRO and sailed for the FALK-
LANDS,
The O.K.W. report says that & U-boat sank three armed enemy
merchantships totaling 16,000 BRT, and that GERMAN planes laid mines
off several ENGLISH ports.
The ITALIAN communique states that their forces have occupied
ZAILA, BRITISH SOMALILAND.
Friday,
Left LUCENNE 0730 and arrived MUNCHEN 1830, after having cleared
9 August
through and changed trains at ST. MARGARETHEN and BRECENZ. The SWISS
courier, a reserve officer, mas my traveling companion. Conversation
reported in 2 Reports R-410 and R-412 of 15 August (General Report and
Report on 47 mm. (1.95 inch) A.A. gun).
The GERMAN communique reportsthat S-boats (PT) sank a tanker of
8,000 BRT, and two ships, one of 5,000 and the other of 4,000 BRT.
A smaller tanker was set afire. The Air Force attacked a convoy in
the CHANNEL, sinking twelve ships totaling 55,000 BRT and damaging
seven others.
Knight Crosses of the Iron Cross were awarded to Commander Fritz
Berger, commanding a destroyer squadron, Lieut. Comdr. Max-Eckart Wolff,
captain of a destroyer, Lieut. Comdr. Rudalf Petersen, commander of a
PT squadron, and Lieut. Otto Kretschmer, captain of e. submarine.
-159-
SATURDAY,
The BRITISH have withdrawn their troops from NORTH CHINA,
9 August
presumably to SINGAPORE.
(Continued)
SATURDAY,
Left MUNCHEN 0840 by car. Passed through NURNBERG where work
10
August
is continuing on the Partei buildings and grounds. The big Congress
Hall, which will hold 120,000 people under one roof, is nearing com-
pletion. Passed the mobile platforms and the Army supply column
described in Z Report R-410 of 15 August. Arrived BERLIN 1930.
Lieut.Comdr. Pihl left on a week's trip through Southern
GERMANY.
The O.K.W. report states that a U-boat sank an armed merchant-
F-10
ship of 8,700 BRT.
German A.A. batteries shot down two BRITISH planes, bringing
the total enemy planes shot down by A.A. alone, to 1500.
The ITALIAN communique states that on 1 August their bombers
1.0
severely damaged the battleship "RESOLUTION", especially in the
after turret, and in addition, badly damaged a destroyer.
Sent pouch #274 out via BERN and LISBON.
SUNDAY,
Catching up with local and pouch mail which arrived in my
11 August
absence.
The GERMANS claim the sinking, by U-boat, of the steamer
F.O
"UPWAY GRANGE" of 9,130 BRT. The Air Force again laid mines off
important ENGLISH ports.
In the air battle today, the GERMANS claim 89 BRITISH planes,
missing 17 of their own.
The ITALIAN communique claims the sinking of S.S. ODIN (1475
tons).
MONDAY,
The press reports the torpedoing of the BRITISH transport
12 August
MORAMMED ALI EL KEBIR (7,290 BRT) in the ATLANTIC. 740 of the 860
F-10
on board were saved.
GERMAN planes attacked the PORTLAND Navy Yard, destroying
harbor facilities and the floating dock and setting oil tanks afire.
A U-boat sank a medium size armed enemy merchantship out of a
strongly protected convoy.
The GERMANS claim 90 planes and 8 barrage balloons shot down,
missing 21 of their own.
The B.B.C. states that 60 GERMAN planes were shot down, 26 of
their own. They further claim 2,743 GERMAN planes shot down by A.A.
and R.A.F. since the beginning of the war. Their own losses since
beginning of the war are 704 planes. Some day the truth will come
out, but I'm afraid that day is a long way off.
TUESDAY,
Called at the Navy Ministry today. Captains Mirow and Schulte-
13 August
Monting were much agitated over the reports of our selling 50 or 60
overage destroyers to GREAT BRITAIN and were interested in our Naval
-160-
TUESDAY,
Mission to LONDON, headed by Admiral Ghornley. I could very
13 August
truthfully tell them I knew nothing about either item, except
(Continued)
what had come over the radio.
The GERMAN air attacks on ENGLAND continue and are apparent-
1y increasing in intensity. The GERMANS claim 69 BRITISH planes
today, with a loss of 18 of their own.
WEDNESDAY,
BERLIN had an air alare from 0140 to 0225 today. No search-
14 August
lights, no bombs, no A.A., no planes visible or audible. Later
reports say that the Junkers plant at DESSAU, about 60 miles S.W.
of BERLIN, was bombed.
The press this morning claims 254 BRITISH planes shot down
in three days, 16 of which were shot in the attack on AALBORG,
DENMARK.
The Naval Attaches in BERLIN entertained Captain and Mrs.
Mirow at dinner tonight. Captain Mirow will leave about the end
of the month to take command of CL "EMDEN".
THURSDAY,
Ever since 24 July passed without incident, 15 August was
15 August
the absolutely sure bet for the big offensive against ENGLAND.
All the planets and most of the important astrological stars were
supposed to be lined up perfectly for Hitler today, but nothing
has happened.
The O.K.W. report states that a U-boat sank the BRITISHXCL
F-10
"TRANSYLVANIA" of 17,000 BRT in the ATLANTIC.
28 BRITISH planes were destroyed, 12 GERMAN planes missing.
The B.B.C. reports the GREEK CL "HELLE" (2,115 tons) torpedoed
and sunk by an unknown submarine.
FRIDAY,
The GERMANS claim 505 enemy planes destroyed from 8 to 15
16 August
August, against 129 of their own lost.
that
The O.K.W. report states/a U-boat sank two armed enery mer-
chantships totaling 14,000 BRT.
143 BRITISH planes and 21 barrage balloons were shot down
on 15 August; 32 GERMAN planes are missing. The GERMAN plane
rescue service picked up nine GERMAN and one BRITISH pilots in
the CHANNEL.
The B.B.C. claims 169 GERMAN planes shot down and 17 BRITISH
missing.
Two GREEK destroyers enroute to the Island of TINOS, where
the CL "HELLE" was torpedoed, were bombed by reputed ITALIAN planes.
Little damage was done.
SATURDAY,
Closed pouch No. 4, to go out via BERN and LISBON.
17 August
16-A
-161-
SATURDAY,
Lieut.Comdr. Pihl returned from a trip into SOUTH GERMANY.
17 August
(Continued)
The B.B.C. admitted the loss of the FRENCH destroyer "MAILLE
BREZE* (2441 tons) off the ENGLISH COAST in April, presunably by
striking 8 mine.
The O.K.W. report states that GERMAN U-boats sank several
armed enemy merchant ships totaling 25,700 BRT, out of a strongly
protected convoy. One of these ships was a tanker of 5,700 BRT.
The score claimed in the Air Mar for yesterday was BRITISH
89 shot down, GERMAN 31.
SUNDAY,
The local papers carried the story of U.S.A.T. "AMERICAN
18 August
LEGION" having departed PETSAMO 16 August and standing through
the blocknde zone, and that the GERMAN Government did not accept
any responsibility for possible trouble. Talked this over with
Mr. Kirk, our Charge who has been in communication with the
State Dept. and Foreign Office on the subject.
Visited my ITALIAN colleague. In conversation with Lt.Cdr.
Freiwald, Grand Admiral Raeder's Aide, who was also there, he
stated that GERMANY had no desires to destroy the BRITISH EMPIRE,
that all the Fuehrer wanted was the old colonies back and for
ENGLAND to keep out of Continental affairs. Asked whether this
had ever been communicated to the BRITISH, he said yes, but that
they were too stupid and stubborn to accept Hitler's hand of
friendship. In connection with the reported air losses which
are daily reaching considerable figures, he stated that GERMAN
clains of planes shot down must be vouched for by two independent
witnesses before they are accepted; that the BRITISH simply re-
verse the figures and change them slightly; that the BRITISH were
losing planes so fast they would soon be expended, and then "what
will they tell their people?" (2 Reports R-428 and R-431 of 23
August).
The GERMAN blockade zone around ENGLAND was announced by
press and radio. (Z Report R-427 of 23 August). From QUIBERON
BAY on the FRENCH Coast, to 45° N., 5° W., thence 45° N., 20° E.,
thence 58° N., 20° W., thence 62°N., 30 E., thence South to the
BELGIAN Coast. To all intents and purpose, an area of unrestrict-
ed sea and air warfare.
MONDAY,
Attended 8. farewell dinner given by Captain Mirow to the
19 August
Naval Attaches and their ladies. The ITALIAN tried a little of
his usual "kidding" on the GREEK, which did not take. Captain
Schulte-Mönting was pleasant but uncommunicative. Lt.Cdr. Frei-
wald remarked that they were keeping track of U.S.A.T. "AMERICAN
LEGION*S" position (either by radio bearings or reading her po-
sition reports).
The official communique reports the sinking of 32,300 BRT
by a U-boat. I have noticed recently an apparently deliberate
scheme of confusion regarding tonnage sunk. One day the report
reads as above, or an individual ship is named. A few days later
the U-boat commanded by Lieutenant "so and so" reports sinking
a somewhat different tonnage, then, our U-boats in the past so
many weeks have sunk so many tons. Attempts to clarify such fig-
ures are unsuccessful.
The ITALIAN communique claims the sinking of a 9,000 BRT
British tanker in the ATLANTIC by one of their submarines.
Yesterday's score in the air war was 138 BRITISH shot down,
34 GERMAN.
-162-
TUESDAY,
Had barely returned home from the farewell dinner when the
20 August
air alarm went off at 0040. Nothing to see or hear; secure sound-
ed about 0220.
Sufficient information has now come to hand regarding the
Navy's 75 lbs. of redium bromide which Alusna LONDON first re-
ferred to me 20 June. The Consulate at BRUSSELS reports it pro-
cessed into 1082 milligrams of radium, which the Chief of the
Chemical Section, Dr. Kraft, is very loath to let go. Sent
telegram 201600 to Opnav concerning this.
My GREEK colleague called on me. He said that a lot of pro-
vocative ITALIAN pressure had been put on GREECE, which culminated
in the sink of the cruiser "HELLE". Since then ITALY has released
the pressure, on directions from BERLIN. Report R-432
In connection with submarines, he stated that GERMANY'S
present maximum was 120 in operation. Covered byrepmt.,43
The B.B.C. reported long range artillery fire falling on the
ENGLISH Southeast Coast.
The O.K.W. report claims one nerchantship of 4,000 BRT sunk,
another badly damaged, by bombing attacks in the CHANNEL.
Yesterday's score in the air war, claimed by the Germans:
147 BRITISH planes, 33 barrage balloons destroyed; 36 GEPNAN
planes.
WEDNESDAY,
In conversation with an unproven source he stated that recent
21 August
BRITISH air attacks on GERMAN territory had been very effective.
The big Leuna Works at merseburg, near LEIPZIG, had been bombed
14 August. The first bomb hit a hydrogen tank whose subsequent
burning dispelled the artificial fog with which this is reported
enshrouded every night, and allowed the BRITISH to got a few more
bonbs in. The Zeiss Works at JENA, also enshrouded in artificial
fog. nightly, was said to have been hit on 14 August. The GERMANS
admit damage done to Goethe's garden at WEIMAR. The Aral Works
(also synthetic gusoline) at DORTMUND, was also heavily hit, as
was the Dive-Bonber Training Field at SOEST. The last attack was
on NOWAWES neor POTSDAM and STAAKEN near SPANDAU, phere considera-
blc damage was supposed to have been done. Report R-429
From Lt.Cdr. Freiwald, the learned that the "AMERICAN LEGION"
wes in 60° N., 2° 30' T. yesterday noon, which would have carried
her through the thickest of things by noon today. No reports or
radio flashes as to any untoward events.
1 September, the next dark of the moon, is now the "magic
date" for the big push on ENGLAND.
The O.K.W. reports that one U-boat sank the 4,578 BRT armed
merchantman "AMPLEPORTH"; another sank 6,680 BRT of enemy shipping;
& third, commanded by Lieut. Cohauss, sank & total of 41,000 BRT.
Yesterday's air score given out by the Germans: 5 BRITISH,
2 GERMAN planes shot down.
The ITALIAN communique claims an unknown submarine which
ran afoul of their mine barrage in the DODECANESE.
-163-
THURSDAY,
Our GREEK colleague visited the office and gave out the
22 August
following in the course of conversation:
In the pact between GERMANY and ITALY, it was stipulated
that neither country would acquire any new territory until af-
ter the war was over. Lands which have been acquired are con-
sidered areas that belonged to GERMANY before World Ear 1. This
may account for ITALY not taking CORSICA and Southern Ports in
FRANCE at the present moment. The occasion for this information
was due to the attitude of ITALY towards GREECE at this time.
The informant stated that ITALY was set on getting the Islands
adjacent to GREECE and had rovoked the Hoggia incident end the
torpedoing of the GREEK destroyer, but that GEF. ANY had put
pressure on ITALY to wait until the war was over for the divis-
ion of spoils - holding ITALY to their mutual agreement.
Greece has resigned herself to being taken over either by
ITALY or RUSSIA.
GERMANY did not desire ITALY to get into this war as she
thought that she could do the job herself and she wanted to do
the dividing of the spoils herself. Nor he has & partner at the
table.
GERMANY intends to take over, after the war, permanently,
the old territory of CROATIA. GERMANY has had a setback from
YUGOSLAVIA in that YUGOSLAVIA has resumed relations with RUSSIA.
The ITALIANS have offered GERMANY the use of TRIESTE as an out-
let to the MEDITERRANEAN but the GERMANS want their own corridor
and will take over CROATIA.
The GERMANS want a friendly GREECE, which will buck the
ITALIAN wishes.
If the GREEKS are attacked in force either by ITALY or
RUSSIA, they will capitulate in a short time.
The above was given our Chargé immediately. (z Report
R-432 of 23 August).
The Consul General at HAMBURG reports persistent rumors that
"BISMARCK" and "TIRPITZ" are in commission. "BISMARCK" was re-
ported in 031500 of July. Reported"TIRPITZ" in 221030 of August.
A rumor is abroad to the effect that the GERMANS have con-
verted a large number of Ju-90 planes to carry eight-ton tanks,
of which a PRAG company is supposed to have built.600 (2 Report
R-430 of 23 August).
The B.B.C. reports German artillery fire on as convoy in the
CHANGEL. The convoy was then protected by smoke-screen laid by
the escort.
B.B.C. also reported that JAPAN had recelled five Ambessa-
dors, nineteen Ministers, and sixteen other diplomatic representa-
tives.
The JAPANESE were reported to have asked the GERMAN Govern-
ment for a safe conduct for one of their ships to pick up Japa-
nese refugees at LIVERPOOL.
The O.K.W. reports that the German Air Force operating North
and West of IRELAND, sank a merchantship of 12,000 BRT and badly
damaged three others.
-164-
TUESDAY,
Yesterday's air score: 12 BRITISH planos lost, 3 GERMAN.
22 August
(Continued)
Captain Mirow called to say goodbye. Re leaves Sunday to
FRIDAY,
assume consand of the cruiser "EMDEN".
23 August
The morning press carried an announcement by the local
A.R.P. to the effect that Berliners do not have to take to their
cellars until explosions are hoard, thereby legalizing what I
have been doing all along.
The O.K.W. reports a merchantship hit by bombs off the
East Coast of ENGLAND.
Yesterday's air score: 7 BRITISH, 6 GERMANS shot down.
The ITALIAN communique claims an enemy submarine sunk by
one of their torpedoboats and & destroyer torpedoed by one of
their subs.
ITALIAN air squadrons bombed an enemy formation of two
10,000 ton cruisers, four 5000 ton cruisers and two torpedo-
boats. Two cruisers were repeatedly hit by bombs.
SATURDAY,
The B.B.C. last night claimed the BRITISH bombed an
24 August
ITALIAN destroyer, two submarines and a submarine tender at
BOMBA, LIBYA.
Closed pouch No. 83, to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-165-
SATURDAY,
By & chain of circumstances I discovered that the cruiser
24 August
"ENDEN" was at GOTENHAFEN (GDINIA), presumably completing over-
(Continued) haul. Captain Mirow prefers that none of the Attaches sees him
off tomorrow when he departs.
The B.B.C. admitted the loss of the AF TURAKINA in Austral-
F-10
1an waters.
The Italian radio stated that GERMANY had incorporated POLAND
into the REICH, which was given scant, if any, display here.
The O.K.W. report states that four merchantships were struck
with bonbs off BERWICK and in the DOWNS. The mining of British
porte by plane continues.
Yesterday's air score: Britain lost 11 planes and 2 barrage
balloons; Germany lost 2 planes.
The Italian communique states that the torpedoboat "GENERAL
ACHILLE PAPA" is the one which sank the British sub yesterday.
SUNDAY,
The BULGARIAN/RUMANIAN transactions concerning DOBRUDJA are
25 August
working out with no more serious hitches than who is to get the
crops just harvested. The HUNGARIAN/RUMANIAN negotiations con-
cerning the transfer of TRANSYLVANIA haven't been successfully con-
cluded yet. There are rumors of German pressure on HUNGARY, some-
times to the effect that HUNGARY should keep quiet now, sometimes
to the effect that GERMANY is egging HUNGARY on.
The O.K.W. report claims the sinking of the AF TURAKINA
(8,706 BRT) in Australian waters. U-boats again turned in a score
F-10 of better than 100,000 BRT last week. The AK SEVERN TEYGH of 5,242,
BROCKWOOD of 5,100 BRT and unnamed ships of 4,000 and 11,000 BRT,
fell prey to U-boats recently.
Yesterday's air score: 7 British - 3 by pursuit, 4 by A.A.
fire - shot down; 2 German planes missing.
The Italian communique admits the loss of a submarine at
POMBA (diary 24 August, p.165), but states that the boat can be
F-10
salvaged.
MONDAY,
At 0020 the air alarn sounded. For the first time this war,
26 August
the A.A. batteries of BERLIN had something to shoot at. The sky
was overcast, ceiling not over 1500 feet, probably only 1000 feet.
A plane or a few would come over every 15 or 20 minutes, end the
guns directed by sound gear only (as visibility was impossible for
the use of searchlights) would take up the chorus. Everything was
thrown into the fray - 20 mm., 37 mm., 88 mm., and a new battery
of at least 105s out in DAHLEN, which at first sounded like bombs
going off. I couldn't definitely distinguish any bomb explosions,
but reports of up to 20 are heard. Secure was sounded at 0320.
The Cermans claim one plane shot down by A.A., and that the British
dropped incendiary bombs and leaflets. I wonder how long it will
take for the British to snap out of the foolish idea that their
leaflet campaign is only ridiculous.
Received nail via LISBON and BERN - Zed Shipments 58, 59 and
16-A
60 - Pouches 223, 227, 284, 342, 345 and 400 (ALUSNA to OPNAV
271000).
The O.K.W. communique claims heavy damage inflicted on PORTS-
MOUTH by bombing. The mining of English ports continues.
A U-bont senk & destroyer of the "VISCOUNT" class (1120 tons).
(?)F.10
That must be "VICEROY" as the "VISCOUNT" was lost by mine to Dec.
1959. The U-boat also sank a 7,000 BRT merchantship, both out of
& strongly rotected convoy.
-168-
(hob
MONDAY,
Testerday's air score: 64 British planes lost, of which 57
26 August
were in air fights and 7 by A.A. or on the ground, as against 20
(Continued)
Germans missing.
The Italian communique claims another bombing of MALTA. If
they had an Air Force worth a dam they should have put a great
big blue check mark opposite MALTA a long time ago.
TUESDAY,
Another air alars at 0040. The visibility was a shade bet-
27 August
ter than last night, but not much was seen or heard, and "Secure"
sounded at 0125.
F.10
The British admit the loss of DD "HOSTILE" (1340 tons), which
had been mentioned in the dispatches at NARVIK 10 April.
Potato ration cards for members of diplomatic missions ap-
peared today for the first time. In spite of the German protesta-
tions of plenty, the ten day spell of cold rainy weather has evi-
dently done things to the grain and potato crop.
The O.K.W. reports Lieut.Comdr. Roesing's U-boat having sunk
card.
46,170 BRT, bringing his total for two trips to 88,856 BRT. Anoth-
er U-boat sank four merchantships totaling 30,000 BRT and a plane
sank a merchant ship of 4,000 BRT 195 sea miles west of LANDS END.
Testerday's air score: 72 British planes 51 in air fights,
21 by A.A. or on the ground; 14 German planes missing.
The Richthofen Squadron passed the 250 mark in shoeting down
enemy planes yesterday.
The Italian communique claims the bombing of ALEXANDRIA and
F.10
that one of their subs torpedoed and badly damaged a British tanker
in the ATLANTIC.
WEDNESDAY,
The B.B.C. last night gave the British admission of 14 ships
28 August
totaling 52,000 BRT as having been sunk during the past week. This
F-10
doesn't jibe with the frequent German claim of 100,000 BRT per week,
but I've found very few, if any, figures that do jibe.
The German press claims the sinking of the British submarines
"SPEARFISH" and "SEALION" (670 tons each). A destroyer is said to
F-10 have rammed the "SEALION", shearing off both periscopes. The Brit-
ish admit the loss of "SPEARFISH".
16-A
Received Zed shipment 61, pouch No. 208.
Air raid alars from 0025 to 0319. A dark night with clear at-
mosphere. Planes were distinctly heard but searchlights swept the
sky without picking up a single plane. There was quite a bit of A.A.
firing, not BO much in my neighborhood as on Sunday, 25 August.
Many bursts were observed, all of a yellow-orange color. One bomb
fell on an apartment house at Kottsbuser Tor, Berlin, about a mile
north of Tempelhof airport, about 2 - 5 miles southeast of the In-
bassy. The upper floors of the building were demolished. 10 per-
sons are reported killed, 28 injured. Heavy A.A. firing was ob-
served to the northwest and west of Berlin. It was told no that
ten or twelve bombs fell near the Rheinuetall Borsig plant at WEI-
MANNSLUST, northwest of BERLIN, but hit in fields and play grounds.
One radio tower at NAUEN, west of Berlin, is report - not in papers -
as having been knocked down.
-167-
WEDNESDAY,
An American correspondent and the Russian N-val Attache called
28 August
on me today. 10h of the information of one COL rued that of the
(Continued)
other. Reports R-441 to 446, incl., and Alusna 291630 cover the
important points.
The O.K.W. report states that three merchantships were heavily
hit with bombs and that the mining of British ports by planes con-
tinues.
Yesterday's air score: 70 British planes lost, 61 in the air
and 9 on the ground; 21 German planes missing.
The Italian communique claims the bombing of an enemy convoy
in the eastern MEDITERRANEAN.
THURSDAY,
The Swedish and Danish Naval Attaches called at different times
29 August
today. Certain of their information corroborated that received yes-
terday and was included in Alusna 291630. Surmarine building, lude
CV Zappaling Pring Enger etc.
A fantastic yarn is that the Germans are assembling pontoons,
barges and boats, to be ready 10 September, sufficient to build a
pontoon bridge 40 km. (25 miles)long.
The Dane, who has just returned from a short visit to COPENHAGEN,
told me of the magnetic mine laying by the British and the means of
sweeping them. Alusna 301500 (my similar idea of sweeping - diary
23 November 1939).
He said that the Germans had taken goods to the value of 500
million Kronor (about 60 million dollars) out of Denmark 80 far, in
exchange for provisional paper money, and that the total would easi-
ly go to 500 million (about 100 million dollars). Be expected that
the Danes would have to slaughter up to half of their dairy herds
this winter on account of lack of fodder. Denmark needs coal badly
and has a promise of 5 million tons from Germany - about the only
exchange she will et for her paper money. The coal is coming in
very slowly, because the Western BALTIC is being mined and the Ger-
man ports along the BALTIC are frequently closed for a week or two
at a time while the Germans are sweeping British mines.
The O.K.W. report states that the mining of British ports by
plane continues. A U-boat sank 26,600 BRT out of a strongly pro-
tected convoy. The German coast artillery on the French coast shot
two enemy submarines, presumably sinking them.
German naval forces sank the armed British tanker "BRITISH
COMMANDER* of 6,901 BRT in the INDIAN OCEAN.
Yesterday's air score: 5 British planes shot down, 1 German
plane missing.
The Italian communique reports the bombing of the oil works
at HAIFA during daylight.
FRIDAY,
HUNGARY amputated RUMANIA today with the Axis Powers admin-
30 August
istering the anasthetic.
The O.K.W. report states that & U-boat commanded by Lieut.
Schepke sank seven armed merchantships totaling 43,000 BRT, of
which five were in a strongly protected convoy.
Yesterday's air score: British lost 44 planes and a barrage
balloon, the Germans miss 15 of their planes.
The Italians bombed ALEXANDRIA.
-168-
SATURDAY,
Air alara from 0135 to 0520. Firing started ten or fifteen
51 August
minutes before the alara sounded. Beautiful visibility. Three
flares were dropped, having a reddish purplish tinge. There was a
great deal of ineffectual searchlight display and A.A. fire. About
0300 I observed a large fire off to the north, probably at SPANDAU
or SIEMENSTADT.
16 F
Closed pouch No. 227 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
Closed out Volume I of this War Diary.
-169-
Volume **
(1940)
SATURDAY,
Lieutenant O. P. Lattu (sc), USN, reported for duty. He
31 August
arrived last night via LISBON, BARCELONA and GENEVA, and was
(Continued)
welcomed by a fireworks display under the sponsorship of E.C.
16-11
Churchill, part of the cast having been flown over from ENGLAND
at great expense.
The O.K.W. report states that a U-bort sank three merchant-
ships totaling 29,000 BRT out of a convoy Test of HEBRIDES.
Yesterday's score in the air war: 98 British, 34 German
shot down.
The Itelian communique claims that they bombed a British
cruiser in the RED SEA.
SUNDAY,
The second year of the war opened up in Berlin with another
1 Sept.
air raid. Flares, searchlights, incendiary and HE bombs and a
tremendous amount of A.A. gun fire made it a veritable Chinese
New Year. Seven incendiery bombs were dropped in the Grunewald,
two on Menzel Street within 50 yards of my villa, three on Ober-
hader Eeg to the rear of Comdr. Pihl's villa, two in the Rot Teiss
Tennis Club. One of mine was & dud, the other was promptly ex-
tinguished by our block warden with a bucket of sand. Two HE
bombs fell in the Tiergarten, about a half mile West of the Em-
bassy. One blasted out a tree or two, the other is either a hang-
fire or has a delayed action fuse. The Germans banked baled
straw around and set a watch there.
The O.K.W. reports that & U-boat sank the XCL DUNVEGAN
F-10
CASTLE of 15,000 BET, bringing the German U-boat figures up to
100,000 BRT in three days.
F-1
Yesterday's air war score: British, 133 planes end 74 bar-
rage balloons shot down; German, 32 planes missing.
The Italian communique reports attacking an enemy convoy in
the Eastern MEDITERRANEAN and badly damaging one steamer.
In the British attack on the air field at CAGLIAIR (SARDINIA),
a wing of the Administration Building end two planes on the ground
were damaged.
MONDAY
No air raid this morning. Lay half awake expecting it until
2 Sept.
0300, the usual deadline, and then observed holiday routine by
(Labor Day) catching up some lost sleep.
The O.K.W. report states that German U-boats sank two Brit-
ish destroyers in the NORTH SEA.
Yesterday's results in the air war: 62 British, 9 German
planes shot down.
TUESDAY,
Started off the day with our usual air raid.
3 Sept.
Received Zed Shipments 72 (pouch 390) and 68 (mouch 344) via
A
LISBON and BEEN.
-170-
TUESDAY,
Licut. (16) Lisski who, along with the Legation Staff at
8 Sept.
RIGA, has been waiting for Russian visas and transportation to
(Continued)
HELSINKI via STOCKHOLM, was detached at 1300, to ALUSNA STOCKHOLM.
16-A
A very capable, willing and energetic young officer who was of
very great assistance to this office and the Embassy on his arriv-
al here at the outbresk of war.
Additional 88 an. (3.47 inch) A.A. guns rolled into BERLIN
today. The local fireworks having proved ineffective, the Hermann
F-1
Goring Regiment, crack A.A. gunners have moved in to add to the
nightly din.
The 2000 B.B.C. announced that the U.S. had swapped off 50
overage destroyers for bases in the ATLANTIC and CARIBBEAN. If
they are Bethlehem Ship boots - Fore River, Squantum and Union
Iron Works - we have made a. fine deal, but the British Government
will probably go bankrupt trying to keep those boats in oil.
No German comsent yet on the trade, but we Americans will
be in worse odor than ever before.
F-10
The British Admiralty admits the loss of PG "PENZANCE",
1025 tons, torpedoed by a submarine.
Yesterday's score in the air war: 86 British, 23 German
planes shot down.
WEDNESDAY,
This day was ushered in with the customary air raid, and
4 September even more A.A. gun fire - still ineffective - now that the Ber-
mann Goering Regiment is in town.
Called at the Navy Ministry to present Lieut. Lattu (SC).
All hands there were very cordial. Captain Schule Monting, with
a smile, asked me if we were breaking off relations, to which I
said not that I knew of. There was no other reference to the
naval base - destroyer trade. He said that there would be no
report of the first year of the war, as there had been of the first
half year. The Fuehrer had rendered the closing out report of the
campaign in the Nest, and events since then have been covered in
the daily O.K.W. reports. With regard to British tonnage sunk,
he said that Britian had & tremendous merchantship tonnage and it
would take a long time to sink it all. What they were after was
cargo bound for ENGLAND, Their subs were practically indiffrent
to empty ships leaving England.
Hitler spoke over the radio tonight, giving e. brief review of the
war to date, and reaffirming the glories of National Socialism.
The press has its lead from Goebbels or Hitler on the destroyer
trade. According to them, it's just another proof that the British
Empire is fast disintegrating.
The O.K.W. report states that Lieut. (jg) Endrass's U-boat sank
six armed enemy merchantships totaling 51,507 BRT, one of which
the XCL DUNVEGAN CASTLE, previously announced.
The air war yesterday: 62 British, 10 German planes destroyed.
THURSDAY,
Our British callers were with us again from about 0010 to
5 Sept.
0200.
The bomb dropped in the Tiergarten early Sunday morning ex-
ploded last night, killing one and wounding several of the watch.
-171-
THURSDAY,
The SWEDISH Naval Attache called on me today. He is con-
5 Sept.
vinced that the big show will start on 10 September. He also
(Continued)
said that Admiral Lutjens, recently promoted from Vice Admiral,
is now CinC of the Fleet. Admiral Marschall is sick and either
mono.
has been, or is about to be retired.
The British admitted the loss of destroyers "ESK" (1375 tons)
and "IVANHOE" (1370 tons), and damage to the "EXPRESS" (1575 tons).
The O.K.W. report claims five British destroyers sunk by U-
boats in the last few days - the two reported on 2 Sept. and now
the "EXPRESS", "ESK" and "IVANHOE". A U-boat is also reported to
have sunk several merchant ships totaling 27,000 BRT out of a con-
voy.
S-boats (PT) attacked a convoy off the East Coast of ENGLAND
and sank five ships totaling 39,000 BRT, one of which was & tanker
of 12,000 BRT. In addition, an escort destroyer of the "IMOGEN"
class was sunk.
Yesterday's air score: 57 British, 17 German planes lost.
The Italian official communique claims bomb hits on two
cruisers off the ALGERIAN Coast. Italian motor torpedoboats tor-
pedoed a cruiser and two destroyers in the AEGEAN SEA.
FRIDAY,
The air alarm was given again at 0010. Nothing was heard or
6 Sept.
seen. Secure was sounded at about 0130. The morning press claims
the British were driven off, which I don't believe.
16.A.M
Closed pouch No. 344 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-172-
FRIDAY,
My Italian colleague called today and inquired about the
6 September
transfer of title to the various British islands in the ATLANTIC
(Continued)
and CARIBBEAN. I told his that, insofer as I know from press
and radio, there WLS no transfer of sovereignty of the entire
property - only that much as agreed upon for & base in each place
would be under U.S. jurisdiction. Ris parting remark, with a
smile, was "Please don't sell any more 50 destroyers to England."
The O.K.W. report states that Ger an naval forces sank
41,000 BRT in foreign waters, that S-boats (PT) sank five ships
totaling 39,000 BRT, one & tanker of 12,000 BRT, out of E. con-
F-10
voy off the ENGLISH East Coast. A destroyer of the IMOGEN class
was sunk also; a U-bort senk several ships totaling 19,100 BRT.
Yesterday's air score: British, 46 planes and 6 barrage
balloons lost; Germans 16 planes destroyed.
Major Molders is the leading air L.Ce with 32 victories;
Captains Mayer, Oesan and Tietzen passed the 20 mark this week.
SATURDAY,
The day started off with the customery air raid - 0015 to 0300.
7 September
The northern part of central Berlin received the heaviest damage -
the Courthouse in Moabit and one, apparently a dud, bomb in the
Lehrter Bahnhof yards. The Germans also admit a hit on a search-
light battery at Brandenburg, about 15 - 20 miles WSW of Berlin.
The O.K.W. states that & merchantship of 6,000 BET was sun't
out of a convoy by bombs NE of ABERDEEN. The tonnage sunk during
August W&S 503,000 BAT by U-boats, 93,500 B&T by surface craft,
bringing the Navy's total for the first .err of war to 4,323,000
BRT (Report R-484 of e Sept.).
The German Air Force started its big attack on the City of
LONDON.
Yesterday's score in the air war: 67 British, 24 German
planes lost.
SUNDAY,
There was no air raid alarn this norning.
8 September
The O.K.W. report states that the Reichsmarschall is per-
sonally conducting the air attacks on ENGLAND from his headquart-
ers in Northorn FRANCE. A U-boat sank five ships out of two con-
voys, totaling 33,400 BET, and damaged another ship of 4,000 BRT.
S-bosts (PT) sank three deeply laden ships of 11,000 BRT total out
of a convoy. Yesterday's scorc in the air: 94 British, 26 Ger-
man planes shot down.
The Italian communique reports the sinking of a patrolboat
in the STRAITS OF GIBRALTAR by a submarine, and the bombing of
MALTA and ADEN. At the former they clair having hit c. submarine
in drydock.
MONDAY,
lio air raid alern today.
9 September
Received Zed shipments 64 (pouch 341) and 65 (pouches 8 and
384).
The British admitted the loss of the submarine PROENIX (1475
tons) as being so long overdue.
The O.K.R. reports the continuation of the bombing of LONDON
and sinking of an 8,000 BRT merchentship in the FIRTH OF FORTH by
bombs.
-175-
MONDAY,
9 September
Yesterday's air score: 22 British, 4 German missing.
(Continued)
ALEXANDRIA. The Italian comunique claims the bombing of HAIFA and
TUESDAY,
After two days of no air alarm, we had a short one of 43
10 September minutes. The A.A. began firing at about 0115, but the siren was
not sounded until 0144. I think it was a matter of "face", since
the local propaganda had been bragging for the past three days
that the British couldn't get through again. Damage done was in
the northern suburb of PANKOW, where n. barn was reported burned.
Called on the Swedish Military (Dean of the Attache Group),
The Danish and Russian Neval Attaches to present Lieutenant Lattu
(sc). I gave the following memorandum to the Charge on my return:
"The Swedish Hilitary Attache was convinced that the inva-
sion of England will start just E3 soon as the Germans have ob-
tained complete air supremacy. He doesn't know exactly when that
will be, but thinkts it will be very soon as England has lost
about two-thirds of its air force. Be says the English are get-
ting about 100 planes per month from the U.S. The German air los-
ses have also been heavy end he mentioned one Squadron Commander
who returned from operations against England with 30 planes remain-
ing out of approximately 100 with which he started. His Air Fleet
Commander was supposed to have been quite worried as to just how
he would report this very unwelcome loss to the Reichsmarschall.
"The British are either remarkably stubborn or they have
some secret reserve which has not yet been brought out, as the
Germans have offered them very fair terms of peace. Field Marshal
von Rundstedt, Commandant at Paris, told this to the Swedish Gen-
eral of & visiting Swedish Military Mission a short time ago.
"Some divisions of Germantroops have been issued uniforms
and equipment with a view towards use in Africa.
"The Germans have gliders capable of carrying 20 men and
equipment as well as smaller ones carrying about 8 men and equip-
ment. They are organized - two of the 20 men gliders and two of
the 8 nen gliders per group. The Swede stated that these were
being assembled in Denmark.
"The Germans have a pontoon tank, semi-submersible, floating
on a pontoon, either self-propelled or towed by motorboat up to
the shallow water at the beach, when the pontoon takes off on its
own power. He said that these tanks had been tested out on the
Tegeler See, NW of Berlin, during the summer.
"There have been some troop embarking and disembarking nan-
euvers at Sassnitz on the Island of Ruegen.
"I then colled on the Danish Naval Attache and in conversa-
tion with him the following points were brought out.
"He also believes that the invasion of England will take
place just as soon as air supremacy has been established. Re
stated that he had reports out of London which showed that the
German sir attacks had not been as effective as they were given
out. There were quite a number of houses destroyed in different
localities but the personnel cusunlties were rether low. Re seems
to think that the British are very stubborn end that the German
population could not begin to "take it" as the British have been.
-174-
TUESDAY,
"He stated that he had just heard of 8 questionnaire being
(10 September) put out to all apartment house owners in Berlin, asking how
(Continued)
many troops could be quartered in their air raid cellars, the
idea being that the troops are to be moved from their various
barracks to avoid their being hurt during the British air raids.
"He spent the week-end about 100 kilometers north of Berlin
with his two small children and said that on his return past
Oranienburg on Sunday afternoon, the Heinkel Plant was still
smoldering.
"Re said that the German troops and Air Force had largely
moved out of Denmark, either to Norway or to Germany. The
biggest air field in Denmark is about at the middle of the
Jutlend Peninsula, in the vicnity of Viborg, which, he says,
the British have not yet found or at least no bombed. Other
fields are at Aalborg, Esbjerg and another point in the south-
east.
"He showed us the air raid cellar in the new Danish Le-
gation which, while it is small, is very completely and com-
fortably equipped. The entrance is through a gas lock, secured
with two gas-proof doors. There is a filtered air supply and
inside the air raid cellar is an air purifying device such as
is used on submarines. Steel helmets and coveralls are provid-
ed for about a half-dozen men. The gask mask of each member of
the Legation is neatly stowed on shelves. A first-aid kit, tool
kit, stretcher and toilet are provided. The room has several
plain tables and about a dozen chairs and one cot.
"Called on the Russian Naval Attache this afternoon. He
had nothing to add to the knowledge of the situation in the
Rest but he stated that he had not liked the present situation
in the Balkans. According to him, Runaian troops, at the in-
stigation of King Carol, staged a border incident in Besserabia
against Russion troops, the idea being for Rumania to be besten
and then call on the Germans and Itelians for help in tossing
out the Russians. Be said that the situation had been delicate
but fortunately now everything was all right as King Carol had
left the country."
The O.K.W. reports that Lieutenant Prien's U-boat sank 6
armed merchantships totaling 40,250 BRT and damaging another
steamer on onetrip. Another U-boat destroyed several enemy mer-
chantships totaling 15,500 BAT. A German XCL seized a neutral
steamer in the blockade area around England.
The air attack on LONDON continues. The ten-fold revenge
has now gone up to hundred-fold which the German press and radio
are prescribing for ENGLAND. Even supposedly intelligende Ger-
mans say that ENGLAND has it coming since the Fuehrer warned them
and they didn't take heed.
Yesterday's air score in the war: 44 British, 21 German
planes missing.
REDNESDAY,
This morning's air raid started at 2355 and lasted till
11 September
0148. Insofer as Asercans were concerned, it was by for the
most severe. Five incendiary bombs fell in the courtyard behind
the Embassy (one within 5 feet, one within 10 feet from Propa-
ganda Minister Goebbels' wall), one on the roof of the Reichs
Munitions buildings alongside, and two on the street immediately
infront of the Embassy. The incendiaries burnt out in the ground
-175-
WEDNESDAY,
or on the paving without doing any damage. The roof fire next
11 September
door was extinguished promptly by the fire department. An ex-
(Continued)
plosive bomb of about 100 lbs. size fell on the East-Mest axis
not over 200 yards away, causing a crater of 8 - - 9 feet diameter,
about 4 feet depth, having penetrated through 3 inchos of asphalt
and 12 - 15 inches of concrete. A fragment from this bomb on-
tered the window of an office on the second floor end gouged
out & hole of 3 - 4 inches in depth in the op osite brick wall.
Another bomb fell near the Reichstag building about 100 yards to
the north, and E. dud H.E. fell in the Mittelstrosse about the
same distance to the NE. Another dud H.E. fell into the Tier-
garten about 150 yards west of the Embassy. It was reported
that the planes flew low and machine gunned searchlights and
the Siegessaule (Victory Monument) 2 km. (1.2 miles) west of
Brandenburger Tor. The British claim to have hit Potsdamer Bahn-
hof about & mile to the south, but no one has seen any signs of
damage. A great number of flares were dropped and much A.A.
machine gun ammunition was expended in unsuccessful attempts to
shoot down the flares.
Called on the Japanese and Greek Naval Attaches, and gave
the following memo to the Charge on my return:
"I called on the Japanese Naval Attache this morning, who,
as usual, said practicelly nothing outside of the customary for-
malities.
"I then called on the Greek Naval Attache who is usually well-
informed and said his information came largely from the Gestapo.
He gave me the following information.
"The British bombing roid on Berlin early this morning will
be repaid by & Gernan bombing raid on London tonight, during
which London will he razed to the ground.
"The British raids on Berlin, including such objectives as
this morning's attack, plus the various others on non-military
objectives that the Germans claim, have been water for Mr. Hit-
ler's mill, in that he nov. has a good excuse to bomb London in-
discriminately. He said that the German High Commend was well
pleased with the extraordinary good excuse which the bombing of
Borlin had given them.
"He stated that the Germans have prepared a large number
of 1800 kg. (3960 lb.) liquid air bombs with which they will
strike southeast England, particularly in the vicinity of the
Thames Estuary. The effect of those bombs is said to penetrate
to a depth of 20 meters (66 feet). The Thames Estuar vicinity
will be thoroughly strewed with bombs in order to destroy any
resistence located there, after which the landing will be made
from points along the coast beginning at Calais and extending up
to the islands off the southwest Dutch coast. The landing opera-
tions will be made in the Thames Estuary previously prepared by
bomb attacks.
"His version of the submarine tank is that it is simply a
submersible boat capable of carrying thirty to forty nen sub-
merged and will then rise to the surface in shallow water and the
men will disembark there. It is meroly a means of giving the Ger-
man inveding troops shelter while crossing the Channel.
"According to his Gestapo informant, these landing operations
will take place by 22 September. The Germans will not rait un-
til they have completely destroyed the British Air Force. They
will be sufficiently happy to have a temporary local superiority
in the air over this area.
-176-
REDNESDAY,
"Eith regard to the Balkens he said that the situation is
11 September
(Continued)
quiet for the moment, but may break out any time. The Germans
are reported to have sent & great number of troops to the south-
east and some have been equipped with tropical uniforms for use
in an African cempaign. Considerable German support has been
sent to Italy to work on the British Mediterranean Fleet.
"He stated that recently the British Squedron in the Medit-
erranean escorted a convoy from the Black Sea down to Alexandria,
passing within 60 miles of the Italian Fleet and Air Base in the
Dodacanese, without any serious interference by the Italisns.
Five or six planes dropped some ineffective bombs near the con-
voy and were driven off.
"Lieutenant Commander Graubart learned second hand last
night that Leval was in Paris negotiating with the Germans for
the sale of the remnants of the French Navy to Germany as a count-
er-measure to the U.S. sale of 50 destroyers to Great Britain."
The O.K.W. reports that a bomber sank & ship of 8,000 BRT
out of a convoy south of the HEBRIDES.
Yesterday's air score: 6 British, 3 German planes lost.
THURSDAY,
The air raid lasted from 0045 to 0218. There was rather
12 September
heavy firing in the Grunewald section (SW part of Berlin) in
the first part of the raid, after which it WES quiet. Due to
the bright moonlight and clear air, the planes flew very high,
and only heavy A.A. batteries were used. It is reported that
some bombs fell in the Tiergarten and one building in Charlotten-
burg near the Technische Hochschule had a bomb hole in the roof.
Attended the regular attache dinner at Horcher's. Due to
British air reids the dinner was scheduled an hour earlier, at
1930, end a number of attaches left by 2200. A very recent Ber-
lin decree closes all restaurants at 2300. There W&S not a very
great attendance, in spite of its being a forewell dinner for
the Esthonian, Latvian and Lithuanian Militory Attaches. Rear
Admiral Yendo, the Japanese Naval Attache, is also leaving about
1 November. In various conversations, the consensus of opinion
is that Germany will first destroy the British Air Force before
starting any landing operations. The ain of the recent heavy
air attacks has been to draw out the R.A.F. so that it can be lo-
cated and destroyed. The Germans have been disappointed in this,
as the bulk of the R.A.F. has not come out.
Heard that FINLAND had requested and been granted B. GERMAN
guarantee against SOVIET aggression. Our Charge was interested
in this and the information was turned over to hin.
In conversation with the Greek Naval Attabhe re the rumored
sale of the French Fleet to GERMANY or ITALY, he said, "That do
the Italians want with the French Fleet - they don't know how
to use what they have now."
Re is convinced that the era of navies is past in the MEDIT-
EFRANEAN, that shore-based aircreft has all the answers.
The O.K.W. reports the continuation of the "retaliation" sir
attack on LONDON, (The rate has gone up from 10 to 1, then 100,
now a 1,000 to 1. Lord Haw Haw states that instend of the bibli-
cal eye for en oye and a tooth for & tooth, for every microscopie
-177-
TRUSSPAY,
bit of enamel knocked off of E. German tooth, the Germen Air
12 September
Force will knock out a whole set of teeth.
(Continued)
Lieutenent (jg) Jenisch's U-boat sank 40,000 BAT of
enemy shipping on one trip. Another U-bost san't an armed
merchantship of 7,000 BRT out of a convoy.
Yesterday's score in the air war: 80 British, 20 German
planes shot down.
FRIDAY,
No air raid this morning. The early B.B.C. broadcast
13 Sept mber stated that BRE EN cas visited instead and left in flames.
A
Closed pouch No. 390 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-178-
FRIDAY,
The O.K.W. reports that a U-bost sank six arned enemy
18 September
merchantships totaling 37,600 BAT, one of which was the 7,000
(Continued)
BRT ship reported yesterday.
F-10
The Air Force badly damaged a merchantship of 8,000 BET
southwest of the ISLE OF MAN, British ports were again mined.
Enemy light forces attempted to bonbard BOULOGNE but scre
driven off.
Yesterday's score in the air: 1 British, 1 Geruan plane
lost.
The Italian communique reports e. submarine sinking 18,000
BRT of British shipping in the ATLANTIC, consisting of a 10,000
BRT tanker and a fully laden steamer of 3,000 BRT.
The B.B.C. reported that three French cruisers and three
destroyers passed through the STRAITS OF GIBRALTAR at high sheed,
west bound. The British must be "in" on this, for otherwise they
would never let the French got away for a possible joining of the
Axis forces.
SATURDAY,
No air alarm to break the night's stillness.
14 September
One of our news correspondents, at a reception this after-
noon, told ne the six French ships were enroute DAKAR, in the
De Gaul controlled French colony of SENEGAL.
Unfavorable weather cut down air operations.
Yesterday's air score: 8 British, 2 German planes nissing.
The Italian communique reports the attacking of E. British
convoy in the Fastern MEDITERRANEAN by bombers and torpedo planes.
F-10
They claim sinking one medium size steamer. Another convoy WAE
attacked in which a freighter and e warship suffered direct hits.
SUNDAY,
Heard two conundrums apropos the inability of the anti-air-
15 September craft to bring down British planes:
"What is the difference tween JAPAN and the A.A.?"
"JAPAN is the country of smiling (Lande des 18chelns)
and the A.A. is the ridicule of the country ("Lacheln des Landes)."
"That is the difference between c dog house and the A.A.?"
"A dog house is for the dog, the A.A. is for the cat (für
die Katze)". In explanation the idiom, "für die Katze" is used
in application to utterly worthless things.
The O.K.W. reports the sinking of an 8,000 BRT merchantship
by bombing north of IRELAND.
Yesterday's air score: 30 British, 5 Germen planes lost.
The Italian communique reports the bombing of 8. British
10,000 ton cruiser and damaging it to the extent that it could
F-10
proceed only slowly and deep down by the stern.
-179-
MONDAY,
We had our first double feature air alare. The first V&S
16 September from 2325 to midnight yesterday, and the second was from 0130
to 0200 this morning. I SEE and heard nothing in the first, and
only faint and distant firing in the second.
OR.6.A
OP
Received Zed shipments 66 (pouch 258) and 67 (pouch 336)
via Lisbon and Bern.
The O.K.W. reports air attacks on several convoys whereby
two merchantships totaling 18,000 BAT were sunk, one set on
F.10
fire, and another badly damaged. A merchent ship of 8,000 BRT
was sunk in the CHANNEL at night.
Yesterday's air losses: 79 British, 43 German.
The Italian communique reports the sinking of a British
F-10
submarino by motor torpedoboat (PT). Their air force achieved
& direct hit of medium caliber bomb on a British cruiser.
Possibly.
TUESDAY,
No air alare this morning.
17 September
The Spanish Minister of the Interior, Senor Suner, the
brother-in-law and reputed power behind Franco is in town, being
received and feted by Ritler, Ribbentrop, Himmler, et al. They
are up to no good, and probably the future attitude of SPAIN
toward the var, as well as the advance distribution of territory
is being made.
A year go RUSSIA entered the picture in POLAND and received
her first "cut" of the swag.
The K.W. reports the long range bombardment of DOVER by
the German coastal batteries.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 2 German planes lost.
WEDNESDAY,
No air raid this morning. The past few nights have been
18 September ideal - full moon, for excellent surface orientation, with plenty
of thick fleecy clouds to play hide-and-seek in, should the Ger-
can night pursuit or A.A. get too hot.
Ribbentrop left for ROME today, evidently to keep the Duce
informed on what is going on up here and what the Fuehrer's la-
test orders are.
One of our news correspondents, whose information is always
fantastic and usually wrong, told me that Hitler was very much
disappointed in the Italians in their campaign on EGYPT. They
were too close to the coast, where the British could pop them
off more easily; they were going too slowly and the German troops
he had sont down to speed them up had, instead, caught the
"lianana" fever from the Italians.
According to this correspondent, Hitler was sore at practi-
cally everybody:
At the Navy and Air Force because four British convoys of
12 ships,each got safely through the CHANNEL and into the THAMES
ESTUARY yesterday.
At Goering because he and his Air Force haven't cracked the
British will yet.
At "ibbentrop because he misinformed Ritler as to the
British capacity to resist.
-180-
WEDNESDAY,
At Raeder because he doesn't think a landing is practica-
18 September
ble, based on Navy meteorological deductions, while the Army
(Continued)
weather experts and the "Hundred Year Calendar" say the weather
will be fine for landing in October.
Goering is peeved because the British resistance has forced
the last trick out of his bag - a 1,000 kg (2200 1b.) bomb of
great power and delicacy, which only six of his planes can handle,
which cost 150,000 Reichamarks ($60,000) each, and which he was
saving for the garniture of the landing operations.
This correspondent also stated that the British A.A. and
air defense were taking heavy toll of the German Air Force, which
statement is heard on all sides now; also that the British bomb-
ing raids on the CHANNEL coast have been far more fruitful than
the British know, or that the Germans will ever admit.
The O.K.W. reports a British 5,000 BRT steamer badly damaged
by air north of IRELAND.
Yesterday's air losses: 9 British, 4 German planes.
THURSDAY,
No air raid this morning. I trust they are doing their
19
September
stuff along the CHANNEL coast, knocking hell out of air fields,
planes on the ground, troop and transport concentrations.
The O.K.W. reports continuation of the bombing of LONDON
and the mining of southern English harbors.
Yesterday's air losses: 38 British, 13 German planes.
The Italian communique claims the torpedoing of a British
10,000 ton cruiser by plane.
F-10
The B.B.C. admitted the loss of the submarine NARWAHL
(1520 tons), it being considerably overdue.
FRIDAY,
No air alara today.
20 September
Closed pouch No. 327 to go out via Born and Lisbon.
OP16-A
-181-
FRIDAY,
The German press is doing e lot of screaming about the
20 September
"criminal act" of the British in bombing & hospital and killing
(continued)
nine children at BETHEL. I believe the screaming is really due
to military damage that the British are inflicting on the CHANNEL
coast, but their propaganda system would never let them admit it.
F-10
The O.K.N., for the first time in this war, admitted fewer
British than Corman planes shot down. Yesterday's score: 1 Brit-
ish, 8 German.
marine by bombs from a naval reconnaissance plane. The British F-10
The Itelien communique claims the sinking of E British sub-
steamer, reported damaged in an attack in their 14 Sectember com-
munique, arrived in the PIRAEUS with heavy damages and E. fire on
board.
SATURDAY,
No air alarm today.
21 September
The B.B.C. reported that URUGUAY giving their local
Nazis a going-over.
The O.K.W. report states that Lieutenent Bleichrodt's U-boat
sank 9 steamers totaling 51,862 BRT; another U-boat sank 8, steamers
of 15,000 BRT, and a third sank 2 steamers of 12,000 BLT.
F.10
Yesterday's air score: 14 British, 1 Geruan lost.
The Italian communique claims the bombardment of ADEN air
base and two convoys enroute to the STRAITS of BAB EL HANDEB.
SUNDAY,
No air alarn today.
22 Sentember
F-10
The British comit the loss of the sloon DUNDRE (1060 tons)
by U-boat torpedo.
The B.B.C. reported the sinking by U-boat of E. ship bound
for CANADA with refugees on 17 September, 600 miles Test of the
BRITISH ISLES. The German press claims the story is either an
outright lie, or another ATRENIA case (which they have always
claimed was sunk by Churchill's orders), purel; to stir un the U.S.
The German press carries on about U-boats having sunk 176,000
BRT in two days - 78,682 yesterday end 97,000 today. Lieutenant
Schepke is again mentioned in the dispatches (diary 30 August), this
time for 9 steamers totaling 61,300 BRT. Other U-boats report 8
more steamors totaling 35,700 BET.
F-10
Yesterday's air score WES a tie: 2 British, 2 Gorman.
The Italian commique reports an air attack on a. British
convoy in the RED SEA, escorted by cruisers and destroyers, in
which two transports were badly damaged.
MONDAY,
The last "magic date" was yesterday, 22 September, and again
23 September
nothing happened. The next one now given is 15 October, which will
probably prove just as wrong as all of its predecessors.
After a week of no air alam, Le had one from 0000 to 0220.
Most of the activity seemed to be to the southwest end southeast
from my house, and fairly far away - 6 to 7 miles, counting 5 sec-
onds per mile from the flesh to the report.
-182-
MONDAY,
25
September
The O.K.W. reports en S-bout (PT) raid on the ENGLISH
(continued)
coast in which 8. merchant ship of 8,600 BRT vas sunk end on
enemy patrol vessel put out of action.
In amplification of the O.K.W. report of 21 September, it
is stated that the small submarine commanded by Lieut. (JE)
Lueth accounted for four enemy merchantships of 29,000 BRT.
Checking back, that is impossible, as Lieut. Bleichrodt is
credited with 9 ships of 51,682 BRT and two other U-boats are
credited with 5 ships of 27,000.BAT. This is an example of the
confusion deliberately (I believe) injected into the official
communiques.
For the second time in the war, the Gerwans admit heavier
missing. air losses than inflicted: 0 British shot down, 1 German plane
The Itelians claim that the cruiser torpedoed by one of
F-10
their planes on 19 September (diary same date) has sunk, and that
the number of transports yesterday is actually three instead of
two as reported then.
They admit the sinking of an empty Italian steamer by a
submerine in the TYRRHENIAN SEA.
TUESDAY,
24 September
Air alare from 2320 last night to 0310 this morning, and
the British at last, after a year and three weeks of war, bore
down. Too bad they didn't do it all last year instead of drop-
ping their silly propaganda leaflets. At least 30 planes were
engaged and theoenter and western end of BERLIN had visible and
audible evidence that they were at war. It sounded as if the
locus of all A.A. bursts was directly over my house. For the
first time the German searchlights actually caught a plane, but
a convenient cloud released him. Also, the German A.A. knocked
down several flares. An electrical manufacturing plant, AEG
turbine works, a gas plant and several railroad yards are known
to have been hit, although the German official releases claim
that only dwelling houses were damaged. Loss of life was heavy
(10 - 14) in one cellar where the bomb explosion blocked the
only entrance and broke the water main, thereby drowning about
half of the occupants. This house was directly across the street from
a large railroad yard.
Ribbentrop returned from ROME last night and reported to Hitler
at once, according to the press.
The B.B.C. admits the loss of the Free FRENCH submatine
PERSEE (1384 tons).
The O.K.W. reports that several enemy ports were again mined
by air.
The German Air Force bombed CAMBRIDGE in retaliation for the
British attack on HEIDELBERG some time ago.
Yesterday's air score: 25 British, 6 German planes.
F-10
The Italian communique claims the bombing of PORT SUDAN,
whereby 10 British planes were severely damaged on the ground.
WEDNESDAY,
Air alera from 2350 to 0238, mostly to the northwest of BEFLIN.
25 September The intensity wes not nearly so great as that of last night, and
simmored down to nothing in my end of town after an hour or so.
-183-
EDNESDAY,
The De Gaulle - British attempt to take DAKAR is not progres-
25 September
sing very successfully. De Gaulle's parley-boat was fired on, and
(continued)
he declined to have Frenchmen fire on other Frenchmen. The German
press reports, with a MADRID date-line, that a British cruiser, 4
destroyers and 2 submarines stood out of the STRAITS of GIBRALTAR
to the westward. They may be going to do what De Gaulle declined
to do.
Ribbentrop and Suner conferred yesterday, probably telling
Suner just what work and what reward the Axis have allocated to
SPAIN.
The afternoon press reports that unknown plenes subjected
GIBRALTAR to a heavy bombardment.
The O.K.E. reports that a merchantship of 3,000 BRT was sunk
and another set on fire by bomb hits off the South Coast of IRELAND.
Another merchantship WES badly damaged by bombs at the Northern end
of the CHANNEL.
In & raid on the South Coast of ENGLAND an S-boat (PT) sank an
armed enemy merchentship of 2,000 BRT.
Major Moelders and Major Galland have achieved 40 air victories.
Yesterday's air score: 20 British, 4 German.
F.10
Lieutenant Prien sank a total of 43,130 BRT in his last trip.
His total to date, which puts him at the head of the list, is the
battleship ROYAL OAK and 151,400 BET of enemy shipping.
THURSDAY,
The longest air alarm to date, from 2300 to 0400, without a
26 September great deal of action over my end of BERLIN.
By special permission of the Military and Naval Attache Groups,
I accompanied a party of foreign Military Attaches to the Pioneer
School at ROSSLAU, near DESSAU, about 60 miles SW. of BERLIN,
The morning exercises included the attack forces crossing the
ELBE (about 200 yards wide) in the storm-boats - the outboard motor
boat carrying four men each, the building of a pontoon bridge and
exercises of the storm boats including hurdle jumping.
After lunch there was demonstrated an attack on prepared posit-
ions - barbed wire, concrete pill-boxes, etc. - by Pioneers advanc-
ing after dive bombing attack and under cover of own artillery, to
where they could drop hand grenados and demolition charges into gun
ports and smoke out the rest of the crew with flame throwers. The
dive bombing and artillery fire WILLS simulated, using demolition
charges ranging from 3 to 20 kg. (6.6 to 44 lbs.).
The morning press claims that French bombing squadrons dropped
100 tons of bombs on GIBRALTAR, doing greet damage to the harbor and
arsenal. The battlecruiser RENOWN was hit and had to leavo the har-
bor.
The O.K.W. reports the continuation of mining of British har-
bors by air.
A small U-boat comeanded by Licut. (1g) Wohlfarth sank four
steamers totaling 25,000 BRT out of a convoy. One of them was a
tanker.
F-10
Yesterday's air score: 10 British, 6 German.
-184-
THURSDAY,
The Italian communique admits the loss of one of their sub-
26 September
marines in the IONIAN SEA, sunk by an enemy submarine.
F10
(continued)
FRIDAY,
No air alarm today.
27 September
The streets from Anhalter Bahnhof to the Adlon Hotel are
lined with children, grown-ups and police, to cheer when Ciano
goes by. The Adlon is still flying the Spanish flag for Suner,
but the Brandenburger Tor onits it, having in its place the Japa-
nese. The children are armed with Swastika, Italian and Japanese
flags. The inference is that Germany, Italy and Japan are about
to sign a three-way pact. The rumor is that Spain should have
been in too, but declined. Just some more dirty work going on
in the Axis.
The morning press reports the promotion of Recr Admiral
Donitz, Commander Submarines, to Vice Admiral.
Closed nouch No. 522 to go out via BCAN and LISBON - may
be the last to go out that way, considering the "Schreinerei"
going on in that part of the world now.
-185-
FRIDAY,
The annoucement T.&.S proudly made of the mighty three power
27
September
pact which the Germens proudly proclaim as the panacea for all the
(continued)
world's ills. They've been working long and hard enough for it.
The Danish Naval Attache dropped into my office this after-
noon to tell me that one of his Legation Attaches, while in a
printing office, saw a large number of"Sailing Directions, East
Coast of the United States". The printer told him that this was
a rush order from the Navy Ministry, so urgent in fact, that they
had not taken time to translate it into German first (ALUSNA
271600 to OPNAV).
Yesterday's air score: 27 British, 6 German planes shot
down.
Heard & Hitler story apropos the invasion. Hitler, at the
Channel Coast, carefully looks around to insure that he is entirely
alone, then raises his eyes and calls for Moses to appear. Final-
ly Moses appears and asks what is it all about. Hitler says
"Tell me, Moses, just how did you do it at the RED SEA?"
Attended a farewell dinner given by Admiral Yendo. The host
couldn't stay for dinner as he was attending a gala dinner at the
Kaiserhof at which Ribbentrop, Ciano, Kurusu and all the other
triangles applauded themselves. I notice Yendo is wearing the
Order of the German Eagle pendant from the neck and the Grand Cross
of the same on his floating ribs. No one mentioned the pact to me,
SATURDAY,
The press continues to paeans of praise for the triangular
28
September pact, stating how the news came like a bombshell all over the world.
The look of utter satisfaction on Germans' faces, when they asked
us how the news affected us, turned to hurt disappointment when
F
we told them we had been expecting it for years, that it had been
building up practically for a long time. Their papers had told
them it had been an overwhelming surprise, and it actually hurt
them that we weren't downcast and terrified by it.
The O.K.W. reports long range artillery fire on DOVER'and
the CHANNEL.
Yesterday was the most active air day since 31 August. The
score was: 101 British, 38 German planes shot down.
SUNDAY,
My Swedish colleague visited me at home for an hour or so this
29 September afternoon. His attitude has become strongly pro-German, not vio-
lently so, but full of ideas as to the justice of the German case.
He told me confidentially that on the occasion of a recent visit
by a Swedish Navel Commission, Grand Admiral Raeder had hung the
F
Order of the Germen Eagle around his neck for his excellent cooper-
ation with the German Navy in the trying times of last winter.
Alas! Poor Forshell! His attitude and that of the Dane, Captain
Kjoelsen, are typical of their respective countries' attitude.
Sweden has relaxed and is enjoying her rape, but damn if the Danes
are.
Yesterday's air score according to the German umpiring ac-
count: 28 British, 1 German plane down.
MONDAY,
Had the Embassy A.R.P. duty last night and my first air raid
30 September alarm there. No signs or sounds of activity anywehre. The HE
bombs which dropped 200 yards away on 11 Septem er rocked this old
Blucher Pelast considerably, and the subway passing near gives us
more or less constant vibration. With E. bomb hitting in the imme-
-186-
MONDAY,
diate vicinity, or some day just because it's tired, this Bm-
30 September bassy is going to collapse in a heap of dust and rubble.
(continued)
Testerday's air score: 18 British, 4 German.
TUESDAY,
I accompanied the Military Attaches on their visit to the
1 October
Artillery School at JUTERBOG. Found it all very interesting and
quite different from Naval gunnery. The three outstanding
items were 1) German artillery H.E. shells are equipped with a
.15 second delay fuse so that at short ranges the shell ricochets
and bursts 6 - 8 meters (20 - 26 feet) above the ground. Exper-
ience in POLAND and the WEST showed them that there was no cover
against this by the defending troops. For longer ranges, or where
the rickbchet is improbable, the same fuse can be set to super-
sensitive, thereby bursting before penetrating into the ground.
(2 Report R-524 of 30 Sept.): 2) The 21 cm. (8.27 inches) gun-
howitzer as a piece of mobile artillery (z Report R-531 of 3 Oct.).
3) The indoor miniature terrain for training artillery control
officers (z Report R-545 of 4 Oct.).
Lieutenant (Jg) Jenisch is again mentioned in the dispatches,
this time for six armed enemy merchantships totaling 34,760 BRT.
F-10
Another U-boat bagged two totaling 15,000 BRT and the Air Force
claimed three totaling 20,000 BRT.
Yesterday's air score: 68 British, 31 German.
WEDNESDAY,
The Italian Naval Attache came in to see me, probably to get
2 October
my reaction to the 3-power pact. He didn't appear hurt at hear-
ing that I had suspected it. In fact, he said the Germans had
been working so hard and so long to get the Japs to sign on the
dotted line that they were very exultant over their accomplish-
ment. Re wanted to know - as he has been wanting to know for a
long time - why America had to get into the war. I don't believe
the Italians are particularly happy in being tied up in this war.
F
England's stubborn resistance apparently has passed all Italian
calculation and all promises by Cermany for a quick and dirty war.
He anticipates that EGYPT, under British pressure, is about to
declare war on Italy. As to SPAIN, he does not believe that they
will come in. All that will be asked of Spain is the use of air
and naval bases.
Apropos of the cut in the gasoline retion to diplomats
(from 240 to 200 liters - 63.4 to 52.8 gallons, per month) he
thought that the Germans did it just to keep us from riding around
F
too much. He remarked confidentially that Germany had so much
gasoline from Rumanian/Rus.ia and synthetic sources that they
had proposed selling some to SPAIN.
Suner, having completed his visit in Berlin, is now getting
the finishing touches to his instructions by the Duce and Ciano.
Yesterday's air score: 17 British, 2 German planes shot
down.
The Italian communique non claims the same trick shooting
that the Germans claimed a year ago: one of their subs shot down
a British bombing plane.
THURSDAY,
The latest Hitler-story. "Tibe is the greatest electrician
3 October
in the world?" "Hitler, because he switched Itely in, switched
Rus :1a out, has Japen by remote control, insulated (insulated and
isolated are the same in German) the Jews, set the world on fire,
and still there is no short circuit."
-187-
THURSDAY,
October
would revert to standard (Central Europeen) time at 0300, 6 Oct.
A press announcement several days ago stated that Germany
3 (continued) Today there was a short item to the effect that daylight saving
time had proved BO beneficial that it would be continued through
the winter.
Licutenant (jg) Jenisch is again mentioned in the dispatches.
On his U-boat's secondtrip he sank eight ships of 42,644 BRT,
F.10 bringing his total for two trips to 82,644 BRT. Re is getting just
about ripe for the Ritterkreus, which I have observed, is awarded
for 100,000 BRT.
Another U-boat sank the HIGHLAND PATRIOT (14,172 BRT), the
F-1,F-10 biggest thing they have gotten in a long time, hence it was named.
Yesterday's surprise in the air war - 6 British, 7 German
down. Tomorrow's figures will be back to their customary ratio.
FRIDAY
F-1/20
An air alarm every night this week except last night. Since
the alarms started, the night Thursday to Friday has always been
a "free" night, and Sunday to Monday a very busy night. Possibly
4 Oct.
the R.A.F. takes its week-ends in the middle of the week.
German cartoonists have lost one of their favorite subjects
in the resignation of Neville Chamberlain from the British War
Cabinet. His umbrella, even more than Churchill's cigar, has
been the target/German cartoonists' derision for years.
Lieutenant Commender Graubart, accompanied the Military At-
taches on a visit to the Tank School.
16-A
Closed pouch No. 106 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-188-
FRIDAY,
Yesterday's air score: 5 British, 4 German.
4 October
(Continued)
SATURDAY,
The general tempo has slowed down considerably in the
5
October
past few days. 5 Briths, 5 German planes down yesterday.
The Kaisor's youngest grandson, Franz Joseph, married
the daughter of Princess Hermine, present Kaiserin, today,
in the small palace on Unter den Linden, very quietly.
SUNDAY,
Captain Wick achieved his 41st air victory, making him
6
October
eligible for the Ritterkreus with oak leaves.
Yesterday's air score: 30 British, 7 German.
MONDAY,
The Russian Naval Attache called on me this afternoon.
7 October
I think he was after finding out what I knew of the Russo/
German situation. Re was ready to go promptly when I told
him the B.B.C. had just announced that a division of German
troops had moved into RUMANIA, but stayed a few minutes longer.
His crop of rumors were 1) Hitler and the Duce had had
differences of opinion at the last BRENNER meeting - Hitler
urging Mussolini to turn to in EGYPT, and Mussolini exhorting
Hitler to put more pep into the attack on ENGLAND; 2) GERMANY
would not be ready to attack RUNSIA for two or three years as
they had plenty of unfinished business with ENGLAND to straight-
en out first; 3) ITALY was having difficulties in providing
fuel oil for her navy as GERMANY was taking the major part of
the RUMANIAN export and RUSSIA was supplying only GERMANY and
only gasoline at that.
No air fights yesterday on account of bad weather con-
ditions. 1 British plane was shot down by a German patrolboat;
no German planes lost.
Lieut.Comir. Graubert left for Switzerland to inspect
engineering plants.
TUESDAY,
After a row of undisturbed nights, BERLIN was the scene
8 October
of the R.A.F.'s celebration for its new Air Marshal. The raid
was on from 2215 to 0300 end by far the heaviest BERLIN has suf-
fered to date. Three large fires were burning in freight yards
simultaneously, which required several hours to extinguish. With
their customary tough luck, the BRITISH again hit a hospital -
this time the Robert Koch, which lies in the midst of military
objectives. For atrocity story, the press printed a picture of
the wrecked operating room and an accompanying story of the
young woman who hr.d been rushed to the hospital with acute ap-
endicitis, only to be killed at the door along with two nurses.
The story follows the pattern of the favorite on which the GER-
MANS justified their entry into AUSTRIA, C20CHOSLOVAKIA and POLAND,
where the pregnant Gorman woman wes kicked in the belly by a dir-
ty Austrian, Czech or Pole, as the case might be. That was al-
ways the last story before the order "Commence Firing."
The German press had to admit that something beside non-
military objectives was hit since so many Berliners couldn't
ride the S-Bahn to work by the necustomed route and in the usual
time this morning. Lehrter, Stettiner, Gesundbrunnen, Beussel
and Westkreus were among the stations hit.
I expect and hope that one of these nights the les of aver-
ages will take a hund in the game, and not a single hospital,
church or dwelling house will be hit, just to see, among other
-189-
TUESDAY,
things, how the Propaganda Ministry will squirm out of it.
8 October
(Continued)
The press claims that one, two, or three (different editions)
British planes were shot down in last night's raid. I'll believe
it when they set up the plane on Pariser Platz, outside of my
window.
Yesterday's air score: 32 British, 18 German planes.
WEDNESDAY,
The following information was given to our Charge in memo-
3
October
randum form:
My Swedish colleague visited me this morning. His idea of
the German troop govement into RUMANIA and FINLAND is, first,
to protect the German rear while advancing through FRANCE to
ENGLAND or through FRANCE and SPAIN to GIBRALTAR; second, to pre-
pare the "pincers" against RUSSIA.
The Italians are proceeding through EGYPT in a series of
steps - advance, build roads, advance, etc. He estimates them
to be in ALEXANDRIA by 1 December.
Suner delayed in ROME to carry the latest AXIS proposals
to the British Ambassador to MADRID, where peace dickers are
going on. Attention was called to the Rosenberg article which
appeared right after the BRENNER medting, in which the British
are called on to chuck out Churchill et al and GERMANY will grant
them a reasonable pecce.
GREECE is to be spared. The local boss is said to have
sharply told his southern partner that he did not wish to see
the horrors of war visited upon that land of ancient culture.
After the war the whole thing could be settled diplomatically.
Commerce raiders are again appearing in the O.K.W. reports
after e long absence (diary 6 September). The present "partial
report" is for 52,000 BRT of enemy shipping sunk in overseas
waters.
Yesterday's score in the air war: 16 British, 3 German
planes down.
THURSDAY,
The Knight Cross with oak leaves was awarded to Captain Wick
10
October
by the Fuehrer personally yesterday, for having achieved over 40
victories in the air (diary 6 October).
Attended = farewell reception b. Mr. Kirk, Charge d'Affeires,
the is returning to the U.S. Consul Hudson and Third Secretary
Leverich are also leaving. Mr. L. B. Morris, former Consul General
at Vienna, will be the American Charge.
Yesterday's air score: 10 British, 4 Cerman.
FAIDAY,
The morning press announces the award of the Knight Cross of
11 October the Iron Cross to Captain Böhner, Commender Mine Force, Lieut. Condr.
Thoma, Commanding D. Minesseeper Flotilla, Lieut. Condr. Kampts,
Commending a Submarine-Chaser Flotilla, and Lieutenant (js) Jenisch,
Commending a Submarine. The latter name 17 arned enery merchant-
ships totaling 104,818 BAT (2 Report R-563 of 11 October 1940).
A
Closed out pouch No. 365 to 8° out via BERN and LISBON.
-190
FRIDAY,
Testerday's air score: 12 British, 4 German.
11 October
(continued)
SATURDAY &
Spent the week-ond on the 780 hectare (1927 acres) estate
SUNDAY,
of Major (retired) von Reisenstein, near Nou Ruppin, about 40
12
& 18 Oct. miles northwest of BERLIN. A large part of the estate is de-
voted to the usual spruce woods. A munitions plant is tucked
away in the woods.
Another large part of the estate is devoted to the growing
of potatoes. Sixtyone different varieties were grown on his
estate this year, as part of a government research, to determine
the variety which will deliver the optimum harvest in the sandy
soil of this part of Germany. Most of the potatoes are con-
verted into starch, alcohol and a potato cake for fodder.
Saturday night's air raid over BERLIN affected us very
little in the country. No could faintly hear firing and then
the "secure" from the three nearest towns.
Friday's air score: 13 British, 1 German.
Saturday's air score: 21 British, 7 German.
The Italian official communique for Sunday reported a na-
val action off SICILY in which a British cruiser of the NEPTUNE
class (7270 tons), and an Italian destroyer of 1400 tons and
two 600 too torpedoboats, were sunk. The B.B.C. has not men-
tioned it yet,
Lieut.Comdr. Graubart returned from an inspection trip to
SWITZERLAND.
MONDAY,
The air raid last night and this morning came in two seo-
14 October
tions, the first being blank, but the second doing considerable
damage. The Vichow hospital was hit for the second time and
damage was done to dwelling houses on Kantstrasse, apparently
intended for the radio broadcast transmitter or the large wheat
reserve storage in the Exhibition buildings located nearby.
The tall story of the war is reported in today's O.K.W.
communique as follows: "The crew of & bomber off the THAMES
ESTUARY executed an especially bold attack on a strongly pro-
tected convoy of 18 areed merchantships. Since the plane had
no more bombs on board, it attacked with machine guns and set
one ship on fire aft."
Testerday's air score: 13 British, 1 German.
TUESERAY
Lieut. Comdr. Graubart accompanied the Military Attache
15 October
party in their inspection of an ammunition plant at MAGDEBURG.
(z Report R-575 of 18 October 1940).
The Russian Naval Attache called on no. I gave the Charge
the following namo concerning his call:
"The Russian Naval Attache called on no late yesterday
afternoon. He remarked that his Embassy also subscribes to the
U.P. Service, from which he learned that German naval officers
and men had gone into GALATZ, Rumania for the purpose of build-
ing up a naval base there (Mr. Runt, who was in yesterday from
Bucharest, told no that the Italians were doing the same at
CONSTANZA). The Russian had no further information on the gen-
eral European situation.
-191-
TUESDAY,
"Se inquired concerning the U.S. Naval building program,
15 October
remarking that he understood all those things were public in-
(continued)
formation in the U.S. I told his that unfortunately I was not
in possession of the information since I had not received mail
for & long time. I showed his a copy of the Warschauer Zeitung
of 18 October, in which Rear Adairal Gadow (Retired), German
Havy, had an article on the U.S. Havy, and told his that that
was the latest information I had on the subject.
"He was curious about the U.S. taking over Hongkong or
Singapore from the British, to which I told him that as far as
I knew, nothing like that had taken place."
The Germen O.K.W. admits heavy damage recently by British
7-1
bombers to LEHAVRE and DUTCH territory.
Testerday's air score: 6 British, 1 German.
WEDNESDAY,
My Swedish colleague called on no this morning. He also
16 October
had the news of the Germans and Italians building naval bases
at GALATZ and CONSTANZA, Rumania, respectively.
is he left, the new Rumanian Military Attache called. Be
denied that either Germeny or Italy were building naval bases.
He did admit that a few German troops were in RUMANIA for the
purpose of instructing the Rumanian Army in modern weapons and
methods of warfare.
Testerday's score in the air war: 88 British, 7 German
planes shot down.
The B.B.C. today commented on the naval action off SICILY
on 12 October. H.M.S. AJAI engaged the Italian destroyer
DARTIGLIERI (1620 tons) and two torpedoboats (600 tons each)
at 2:30 a.m., 12 October, sinking the two torpedoboats and
badly damaging the DARTIGLIERI. The following evening, N.M.S.
YORK sighted DARTIGLIERI in tow of another destoyer, the latter
slipping its tow as soon as presence of YORK was detected and
headed for home under cover of a smoke-screen. TURK allowed
DARTIGLIERI 50 minutes to abandon ship and then finished her off.
H.M.S. AJAX suffered minor damage and casualties above water-line.
The Italian communique daiss the sinking of a PERSEUS class
submarine by the Italian sub TOTI.
THURSDAY,
The Attache dinner at Horcher's last night was a bit our-
17 October
tailed due to the prospect of air raid (which did not come).
In reply to the Dean's speech of welcome, the new Chinese Mili-
tary Attache subtly caused the Japs and Germans to squira.
The press announces the appointment of Suner as Spanish For-
eign Minister. Dirty work at the cross-roads my be expected
any day now.
Yesterday's air score: 8 British, 2 Germens.
FRIDAY,
Bad the A.R.P. duty at the Embassy and spent a very quiet
18 October
might. The moon was full and the atmosphere very clear. Night
pursuit would have had an easy time with bombers. Closed pouch
16 A
No. 400 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-192-
FRIDAY,
The German O.K.W. claims that a group of their destroyers at-
18 October tacked a superior force of British druisers and destroyers and put
(Continued) it to flight after getting in one torpedo hit. I frankly don't be-
lieve it, for no matter how stupid the British have been, they have
always fought.
Lieutenant Bleichrodt is getting ready for the Knight Cross,
having sunk & total of 95,862 BRT.
An Army battery and dive bombers sank a British submarine off
LE HAVRE.
Yesterday's air score: 17 British, 7 German planes.
SATURDAY,
The German press was full of their victorious U-boats - 51
19
October ships of 173,650 BRT in the past few days. Lieutenant Frauenheis
got 10 with 51,000 BRT, Lieutenant Kretschmer 7 with 45,000, and
Lieutenant M8hle, a new name, 7 with 44,050 BRT. Two others, un-
named, sank 7 ships with 35,600 BRT.
No British planes claimed shot down, but the Germans admit
losing 2 of theirs. Remarkable!
SUNDAY,
German U-boats attacked another convoy, sinking 17 ships of
20 October 110,000 BRT. Lieutenant Prien scored heavily, sinking 8 ships of
50,500 BRT, thereby bringing him into a total of more than 200,000
BRT, the Oak Leaves on the Knight Cross, and a telegram from the
Fuehrer. The Germans claim 527,000 BRT sunk in the past two days.
There were no air losses given in today's communique.
MONDAY,
Berlin had a double air alara last night. The first was com-
21
October
paratively short and there wasn't much activity, but the second from
0330 to 0600 was not only the latest lasting but one of the heaviest.
A British plane was exploded in the air and pieces crashed within a
mile of my house in Grunewald. Several bombs fell near Innsbrucker
Plats railway station, blasting out windows and building fronts. A
considerable number of people were killed in these raids.
Covered by R-590
The Greak Naval Attache called on me today and gave no the
following information which I turned over to the Charge:
There will be nothing of greater than present intensity in the
WEST. His sources did not point to an invasion.
What happened at the BRENNER meeting has not yet fully come
out, but apparently it is to operate against EGYPT. The Germans
have three routes to the Southeast - one overland by TURKEY which
is very difficult in the winter time due to there being only one
rail connection and one road across; further, the country is very
sparsely settled and is usually under water in the winter time;
the second route is via the GREEK islands, which Hitler is opposed
to since he does not want to bring the war into that land of "an-
F-6
cient culture" (this is the second source from whom I have heard
that quotation); the third route is via ITALY, SICILY, TRIPOLI and
LIBYA. This seems to be the most probable route.
What STRIA'S reaction will be seems to be a big question mark
as although they have their orders from the VICHY Government, the
local people are strongly de Gaulle.
Relations between TURKEY and RUSSIA are much better than they
have ever been.
-195-
MONDAY,
The 5-Power Pact was directed against RUSSIA solely. The
21 October Russian Naval Attache told his twice in the same conversation, very
(Continued) seriously, that the Russian Government will deliver a strong note
of protest to Berlin this week concerning the German troop movements
7-5.
in the BALKANS, especially in RUMANIA.
The Bulgarian Minister of Agriculture, recently in Berlin quiet-
ly getting his instructions from Ribbentrop, will soon be Prime Min-
7.6
ister. The Bulgarianpeople are friendly to Russia, the Government
friendly to the Axis, and the King on the fence.
Parts of torpedoes found from the 15 August attack on the Greek
cruiser HELLE, have been established to be Italian. The Italian sub-
7.3
marine 159 or 169 - Lieutenant Ferreri - sank the HELLE."
The Germans are using torpedo planes, following the Italian ex-
ample. The O.K.W. claims 5 ships of 20,000 BRT sunk by this means
off the East Coast of ENGLAND.
Testerday's score in the air: 19 British, 4 German.
TUESDAY,
The B.B.C. announced that H.M. destroyer KIMBERLEY (1690 tons)
22 October sank the Italian destroyer FRANCESCO NULLO (1058 tons) in the RED
SEA.
Testerday's air score: 2 British, 2 German planes.
WEDNESDAY,
The local press announces that Ritler received Laval, in the
25 October presence of Ribbentrop, "somewhere in France". There are all sorts
of rumors current, but most incline to FRANCE coming into the war on
the side of the AXIS, which is hard to imagine, except for the fact
F-3
that the French have shown themselves as utterly worthless descendents
of a long line of bachelors in this whole war.
Testerday's air score: 3 British, 2 German planes.
THURSDAY,
The morning papers announced the "conversations in dordial
24 October spirits of comradely alliance between GERMANY and SPAIN", in which
Hitler greeted Franco at the Spanish/French frontier. Ribbentrop
and Suner were present, so one can be assured no good will come out
of it.
Had an air raid from 0525 to 0810, this morning, which came
close to disposing of the U.S. Naval Attache Berlin and his Assistant
for Air. Three explosive bombs of approximately 100 kg. (220 lbs)
each were dropped at 0409 within 100 yards of our respective villas.
With the luck of the British, they hit 1) the outdoor yard of a res-
taurant, 2) the park next to a street car waiting room, 5) the open
street. One incendiary bomb fell in the street near us, and two more
7-1
at the Grunewald S-Bahn (elevated) station, about a kilometer away.
No damage done. More was done in the Kant Strasse again, and it is
reported that 20 fires were going at one time early this morning.
The usual hospital was hit, or near hit, in the Ranke Strasse.
Yesterday's air score: 0 British, 1 German.
-194-
FRIDAY,
Received pouches Nos. 425, 302, 560 - 315, 550 - 142 (Zed
25 October
Shipments 76 to 79, inclusive), first pouch mail we have had
from the U.S. since 16 September 1940.
A-A
Closed pouch No. 247, to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-195-
FRIDAY,
Berlin experienced another "double-header" air alarm, the
25 October
first coming at 0050 and enduring until 0150, the second from
(continued)
0245 to 0550. The only significant objective hit, according to
initial press accounts, was a crematorium. According to B.B.C.
comment on this night's attacks, the last of the British raiders
left Barlin at 0345. If this be true, then the local citizenry
were kept in their cellars "after school", perhaps to prevent
them from getting out to see for themselves what, if any, damage
had been effected. A large fire was observed raging during the
early morning attack, which may have been the reason for keeping
class "submerged" until after it had been brought under control.
This fire was admitted later in the official communique - a lumber
yard having been set afire by incendiaries.
The U.K.W. and also the Italian broadcast announce the par-
ticipation of Italian bombers over England.
Testerday's air score: 5 British, 0 German.
SATURDAY,
Testerday's air score: 17 British, 9 German planes. Major
26
October
Mölders downed his 52nd and 55rd air opponents. His promotion
to Lieutenant Colonel, Air Force, on having recently achieved his
50th, was announced.
SUNDAY,
Havy Day at home.
27 October
Had the Embassy A.R.P. duty with an alara from 2245 to 2534,
with nothing seen or heard in all Berlin. The press gives thanks
to the efficient A.A. defense girdle around the capital which pre-
vented the enemy aircraft from reaching Berlin. Maybe so, but
based on the actual downing of R.A.F. planes over Berlin since
the raids began, it appears to as more likely that Berlin itself
was not on the R.A.F.'s schedule this night.
The press exulted in the bombing of the 88 EMPRESS of BRITAIN
(42,348 BRT) and setting it on fire 100 km. (54 sea miles) west of
ARELAND.
Testerday's air score: 9 British, 4. German planes.
MONDAY,
The Italians marched into the land of ancient culture, GREECE,
28 October
at 0530, after issuing an ultimatum at the usual ungodly Axis hour
of 0500. Definite news of strength of attack or resistance, is
lacking. Rumor has it that there are 460,000 Italian troops in
?A.W'
ALBANIA; that the GREEKS have a maximum of 350,000 men, with 14
divisions plus a cavalry division, immediately available.
Attended a farewell luncheon for Rear Admiral Tendo, Japanese
Naval Attache, who is leaving Wednesday, SU Uctober, via Trans-
WSiberia. The Greek Naval Attache had at first accepted, but tele-
phoned his regrets about an hour before the luncheon. The luncheon
passed off smoothly enough, no one sticking out his neck or making
provocative statements.
Admiral Yendo's successor is Captain Yokoi, who comes from
duty in command of a seaplane carrier. Re was Admiral Yendo's suc-
cessor in a previous tour of duty as Naval Attache Berlin, 1934/37.
Tendo's new duty has not been announced, but it is assumed he
will command a division of battleships.
The U.K.W. reports the sinking of the EMPRESS of BRITAIN by
the U-boat under the command of Lieutenant (Jg) Jenisch, who was
only recently the recipient of the Knight Cross decoration for
his achievements in sinking 104,816 BRT of enemy shipping. with
this new credit of over 42,000 BRT, he seems to be well on the
road towards the uak Leaves award, which decoration has been con-
ferred on only one naval officer to date - Lieutenant Prien - who
is credited with having sunk over 196 200,000 BKT of enemy shipping. 196
MONDAY,
Yesterday's air score: 17 British, 9 German.
28 October
(continued)
TUESDAY,
The British Admiralty admitted the loss of the Canadian
29 October destroyer MARGAREE (I can't find it in Jane's Fighting Ships).
The furniture and office equipment of the Naval Attache's
OP.16-A
Office, The Eague, arrived today, and was stowed in the Embassy
basement. Rugs and curtains were removed from their packing
and put into use to preserve them from moths. Incidentally,
BERLIN is the worst place for noths that I have ever lived in.
The German morning press had very little to say about the
Greco/Italian war. The afternoon papers had time to get their
lead from Goabbels. Ribbentrop - or maybe Ciano - will probably
soon emerge with another bunch of documents which will make any
sane thinking man billious even to glance at.
Foreign press and radio news about the new situation was
practically nil. It seems as if the Italians have stopped "to
give the Greeks time to reflect" upon their past conduct.
The morning papers furnish the names of four more Havy offi-
cers awarded the Knight Cross, vis: Lieutenant Bleichrodt,
Lieutenant Oehrn, Lieutenant (jg) Lath, each commanding a U-boat,
and Lieutenant (1g) Suhren (Engineering), chief engineer of a U-boat.
Bleichrodt has sunk a total of 105,596 BRT and the gunboat "DUNDEE";
Oehrn has sunk 105,071 BRT, a British gunboat and an auxiliary war-
ship; Lath is credited with but 87,256 and one enemy submarine; (Par
for the Knight Cross award has been 100,000 BRT); Suhren, chief
engineer of a U-boat, has taken part in seven trips, his boat (or
boats) having destroyed 201,993 BRT, 1 enemy cruiser, 1 gunboat and
severalauxiliary warcraft. (z Report R-593 of 29 October).
A.V.
Attended the celebration of the Anniversary of the Turkish
Republic. Many Germans, some Italians, few Spaniards and no Greeks
present. The Turks are a little apprehensive that this might be
their last celebration.
Yesterday's air score: 10 British, 8 German.
WEDNESDAY,
The first snow of the season this afternoon - not much and
50 October
it didn't stick - just enough to tell us (if we needed telling)
that another cold, dirty, probably hungry, war winter is at hand.
Went to the Charlottenburg Station this afternoon to see
7-2
Admiral Yendo off at 1723. Be is going Trans-Siberian. According
to his own statements, corroborated by the Soviet Russian, MANCHU-
KUO is full of bubonic plague, and the crossing might be dangerous.
The Italian pulled one of his damn fool remarks on the sta-
tion platform full of Japs and Germans. On seeing me he said, "I's
surprised to see an American here". I asked him how come? Be re-
plied, "You are half enemy". I said, "Well, the other half is here
to bid Admiral Tendo goodbye." We were both smiling when we talked.
We have frequently bantered each other privately but never before
such a large and diverse audience.
The OKW mentions the raider in overseas waters again - 8 ships
of 18,400 BRT, bringing its total to date to 45,000 BRT.
Testerday's air score: 47 British, 17 German.
-197-
THURSDAY,
Called on the Greek Naval Attache and prepared the follow-
81
October tng nemo for our Charge on my return:
"Called on the Greek Naval Attache this noon. In the con-
versation he made the following statements:
a) The status of the Greek Legationhers has not yet been deter-
mined. He is standing by for orders to leave, although he is con-
fined to his quarters by a gall bladder inflammation.
b) The Italian attack on Greece was a surprise to the OKW in Ber-
lin, at least, they told him that Mussolini several times has ta-
ken action without first asking Berlin.
e) Re estimates the attack on Greece to be a distraction of world
observation away from the failure of Graziani in Egypt. It wight
also be used to divert British naval strength from home waters to
facilitate German invasion of England.
d) It is possible that Germany will give Italy a 16 day trial in
taking Greece, after that Germany will step in and do the job.
Possibly Germany will do so without waiting.
o) He knew nothing of the rumor I heard yesterday that 5 divisions
(1 motorised) of German troops were coming through Jugoslavia and
did not believe it; figures 500 dive-bombers would be far more of-
fective than any troops Germany could send. Should the Germans at-
tempt coming in via Bulgaria - which is a possibility - Turkey will
also become involved.
f) He estimates the Italians are trying to take Corfu island from
the landward side by pushing down from Albania.
A.W.
g) The Greek Government will probably remove to Crete.
h) Three West Coast and two East Coast Greek bays have been mined
F-6
with British knowledge and/or assistance. The Greek islands of
Chios, Lemnos, Andros and one other will probably be fortified by
the Brktish.
1) All cities containing any Greek antiquities are to be spared,
per German orders.
1) There are 300 Italian fliers operating out of German air bases.
The Germans have an equal number working with the Italians.
k) The Germans are building 20 submarines per month. There are
also a large number of pontoons (floats) large enough to transport
tanks being built at Wilhelmshaven. The new German battleship
show
TIRPITZ 1a at Wilhelmshaven, camouflaged red brick, to resemble an
F1
apartment house, while she is lying alongside the pier."
A.W.
Yesterday's air score: 18 British, 5 German.
FRIDAY,
Major Galland, Air Force, shot down his 47th, 48th and 49th
1
November
opponent. One more and be will probably be promoted as was Lieut.
Colonel Molders.
Closed pouch No. 138 to go out via BERN and LISBON. NET
-198-
FRIDAY,
Received Zed Shipments Nos. 72, 73, 74, 75, 80 and 81
1
November (Pouches Nos. 202, 267, 558, 335, 457, 394 and 17) of 13, 17,
(continued) 20 and 24 September, and 11 and 15 October. Pouches Nos.
op-16-A
352 and 378, transmitted by Zed Shipment No. 72, were not re-
ceived, but, according to the Embassy mail room, should be
here within the next few days.
The O.K.W. reports the sinking of a 6,000 BRT steamer by
bombs far west of IRELAND.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 0 German.
Berlin had another "repeater" air alara during the night,
the first coming at 2110 with "all clear" at 0100, the second
from 0310 to 0500.
SATURDAY,
A quiet day.
2 November
The O.K.W. reports the breaking up of a British convoy
by air attack, in which one destroyer and three merchantships
were sunk.
Yesterday's air score: 10 British, 2 German.
Major Galland shot down his 50th air opponent, thereby mak-
ing him eligible for promotion.
SUNDAY,
The Italians aren't making a great deal of headway against
3 November Greece, and blaming the weather for their failure.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 7 German planes shot
down. The Germans also blame the weather for their greater los-
ses.
MONDAY,
How closely the Germans watch over the intercourse with
4 November
foreigners by their own officers is illustrated by the following.
Captain Kiderlen had been the Chief of the Attache Group from
1935 to 1938, and as such, of course, issued the permits for
other naval officers to visit foreigners. He returned to the
Navy Ministry after a cruise as executive officer of the armored
ship DEUTSCHLAND some time during the winter or early spring of
1940. Attempts to see him were sidetracked, as were any refer-
ences to him in conversation with the present Attache Group. The
Foreign Naval Attaches present invited him to attend the next
monthly dinner at Horcher's, but the Attache Group regretted that
he was not in a position to accept.
The O.K.W. reports the sinking of the XCLs LAURENTIC (18,724
BRT) and PATROCLUS (11,314 BRT), and the steamer CASANARE (5,376
BRT) by Lieutenant Kretschmer's boat. That brings his total to
217,196 BRT and puts him in line for the Oak Leaves to the Knight
Cross.
Testerday's air score: 3 British, 2 German.
TUESDAY,
Received the missing pouches mentioned in the diary for 1
November (pouches Nos. 552 and 378 of Zed Shipment No. 72).
16-A 6 November
Election day at home. The German papers mention it, but
not any too fully.
The German O.K.W. reports that their Air Force dropped 1500
bomba on England between 1900 and 0650.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, 1 German.
-199-
WEDNESDAY,
Mr. Rues of the International News Service, called on no this
of
November
afternoon and told no of his interview with Reichamarshall Garing
which I heard over the German radio Monday night, and of his plane
trip over Berlin to inspect damage.
Be remarked that really very little damage was apparent.
There were evidences inverious places of patched construction,
where bombs had hit, but repairs had been fully made. The big
plants at Siemens Stadt and Rheinmetall Borsig had been lightly
damaged, with repairs completed, but the tremendous Heinkel plant
at ORANIENBURG, north of Berlin, had not even been touched.
Some of the other news which he had on the general situation
was that the Propaganda Ministry had whispered to them a couple
of weeks ago that Molotov would soon be in Berlin to sign a new
treaty of friendship and alliance, but that they had been barred
from transmitting this information.
The dicker with RUSSIA is that GERMANY cedes PERSIA to
RUSSIA in exchange for RUSSIA'S non-interference to GERMANY'S
march through BULGARIA, TURKEY, SYRIA and PALESTINE, to EGYPT.
Another item was that high officers of the German Wehrmacht
(Armed Forces) were in favor of declaring war on the UNITED STATES
immediately, in order to stop help coming to BRITAIN, considering
that the U.S. would arm itself first before rendering any further
aid to BRITAIN. Ribbentrop opposed this. What Hitler thinks about
it, or what he has decreed, is not known, but I again heard the
statement that Hitler, having taken the initiative in all things
so far, will continue to take the initiative by being the first
to break relations.
The B.B.C. reports that the U-boat which sank the EMPRESS of
BRITAIN, has been sunk, and the British have prisoners to prove it.
That puts Lieutenant (jg) Jenisch, a promising young submarine
skipper, out of the way.
The O.K.W. reports over 7,162,200 BRT of enemy shipping or
shipping useful to the enemy, destroyed since the outbreak of war
(Report R-616 of 7 November).
Yesterday's air score: 23 British, 6 German.
THURSDAY,
The papers yesterday published a picture of President Roose-
7 November velt, with a short article to the effect that he had been reelected.
The Greek Naval Attache called on ne at noon today, and con-
firmed the fact that the Italians are not moving along very fast
in GREECE. Be did not know if and when the GERMANS were going to
intervene to assist the Italians in their conquest of Greece, be-
cause it was a question of Italian pride to finish up a job which
they had undertaken, apparently on their own initiative and with-
out previous consultation with BERLIN, or the loss of prestige to
the Axis by suffering defeat at the hands of little Greece.
Be said his relations and those of his Legation with the
Germans were still quite friendly and cited the instance of a
GREEK opera singer who was roundly applauded beyond all due recog-
nition of his ability at the Berlin Opera House the night following
the Italian invasion of Greece.
He has heard rumors of friction in the AXIS and Mr. Sitler
being of the mind to ditch the whole thing if and when be can es-
tablish firmer relations with RUSSIA. The trade of PERSIA to RUS-
SIA in exchange for & free march through BULGARIA and TURKEY to
EGYPT, was also known to the Greek. Indications of discord in the
-200-
7 November MOROCCO in order to keep the ITALIANS away from GIBRALTAR, and
THURSDAY, AXIS were that Ritler had promised SPAIN a large portion of FRENCH
(continued) ITALY is to get none of the EGYPTIAN conquest. On the other hand,
partly because she will then have something left at the end of the
ITALY is not exposing her Navy, partly because of lack of fuel oil,
war to protect her own colonies from GERMANY, and to harry GERMAN
intercourse with their colonies. The Greek also a tated that, in
exchange for peace with ENGLAND now, he had heard that GERMANY
would give ENGLAND some ITALIAN colonies.
He further stated that GERMANY had proposed that SWITZERLAND
take over the duties of EUROPEAN Clearing House, under GERMAN con-
trol. The SWISS have not yet replied. The SWISS were also quite
worried over the prospects of an invasion and were converting their
money into credits in the United States as rapidly as possible.
Had the Embassy A.R.P. duty last night. An alarm at 0403.
Firing about 5 or 6 miles to the North, swinging to Northeast about
0430, then to the West, approximately SPANDAU. 0530 Secure.
Attended the SOVIET reception this afternoon. The German Navy
Lieut.Comdr. and Mrs. Freiwald, Lieut. Comdr. and Mrs. Klusemann,
representatives, Captain and Mrs. Schulte Monting, Captain Bürkner,
and Lieutenant von Krosigk, were most pleasant and friendly.
The O.K.W. reports that a bomber broke up a convoy 500 km.
BRT each.
(270 sea miles) west of IRELAND, destroying 3 freighters of 6,000
Yesterday's air score: 9 British, 8 German.
FRIDAY,
Closed pouch No. 378 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
8 November
-201-
FRIDAY,
8 November
A
Received Zed Shipment 82, pouch 331.
(continued)
The O.K.W. reported the destruction of an entire convoy,
totaling 86,000 BRT, in the NORTH ATLANTIC, by naval surface
forces.
A heavy cruiser and three merchantships totaling 20,000
BRT were badly damaged by dive-bombers in the THAMES ESTUARY.
Yesterday's air score: 11 British planes and 1 barrage
balloon, 3 German.
Major Wick shot down six enemy planes on 6 and 7 November,
bringing his total to 55, and pobably a promotion to Lieutenant-
Colonel.
SATURDAY,
The Fuehrer held his annual speech at MUNICH last night
9
November
in the boson of his buddies. The talk was scheduled for 2050
but was actually held at 1810. The British delegation to the
party arrived late, as usual - about 2130 - and their bombs
missed the mark. The theme of the Fushrer's speech was "The
British started the war, we'll end it. The war will end with
our victory!!" There was an expression in the Middle West when
I was a boy - "Talk is cheap, but it takes money to buy whiskey",
which is By comment on Mr. Sitler's annual tonsillectomy.
The O.K.W. reports the sinking by dive-bombers of six nor-
chantships of 54,000 BRT, the severe damaging of two more total-
ing 7,000 BRT, and a 10,000 ton cruiser off the East Coast of
F-10
ENGLAND. Nine more merchantships and another 10,000 ton cruiser
were damaged.
Yesterday's air score: 18 British, 4 German.
SUNDAY,
The press and radio report a severe earthquake in RUMANIA,
10 November less severe in BULGARIA and TURKEY. Early estimates of 500 -
600 killed, mostly in BUCHAREST. I wonder if the German Propa-
ganda will claim that the British Secret Service instigated the
quake!
The press and radio proudly announced that U.S.S.R. Premier
Molotov will visit BERLIN Tuesday. Temorrow or the day after
they will gleefully tell their readers and listeners that the
news smote the outside world, particularly the plutocratic de-
mocracies, like a bombshell (diary 6 November).
The O.K.W. reports seriously damaging a 25,000 BRT mer-
chantship with bombs 500 km. (270 sea miles) west of IRELAND,
Two freighters of 8,000 BRT each were badly damaged by
air bombs.
The British submarine H-49 (410 tons) was sunk by a German
warship.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, 2 German.
Lieutenant Colonel Hagen's dive-bomber squadron is reported
to have sunk 210,000 BRT and badly damaged 306,500 BRT of enemy
shipping since the outbreak of war. They destroyed: 1 monitor,
4 destroyers, 5 lightships, and damaged 6 cruisers, 1 A.A. crui-
ser and 10 destroyers.
MONDAY,
The British admitted the loss of H-49 (diary 10 November).
11 November The B.B.C. stated that the EMPRESS OF JAPAN (26,052 BRT) had been
-202-
# blasted his way
through the second column,
MONDAY,
hit, but got into port under her own steam (diary 10 November).
11 November
(continued)
The German medium wave broadcast this evening carried a pro-
pan of the victorious homecoming of Lieutenant (jg) Jenisch who
sank the EMPRESS OF BRITAIN (diary 28 October), and who in turn
vas sunk by the British (diary 6 November). Somebody is lying!!!
The script must have been prepared by someone who had just
finished reading a Wild West dime-novel, the kind we used to hide
behind the Geography at school. According to it, young Jenisch
sighted a convoy steaming in five columns. The center column, of
course, held the morsel be was after. To get to it, he blasted
one ship out of the wing column, ducked through the hole, looked
around and then potted his originally intended victim. By that
time the British escorting destroyers began to observe that all
was not well in the convoy, and Lieutenant (jg) Jenisch had to
keep down for a while. Baron von Manchhausen lives onll
Testerday's air score: 4 British, 5 German.
Armistice Day, but no longer respected in Europe. Twenty-
two years ago today, World War I was 'armisticed', after four
years and three months of bitter warfare. We are now in the 15th
month of World War II, the duration of which somehow seems deg-
tined to exceed the original.
TUESDAY,
Mr. Molotov (né Skjradin) arrived at the Anhalter Station
12 November
BERLIN this morning, greeted by the usual German handshakers,
and the Japanese, Chinese and Turkish Ambassadors. Alfieri, the
Italian, was absent in ROME with diplomatic, or possibly real,
illness. His Chargé pinch-hit for him.
7
The B.B.C. had a lot to say about why Molotov was brought in
via Anhalter, which is considerably out of the way and requires
unusual rerouting from the Schlesicher and Friedrich Strasse Sta-
tions, which are the normal arrival points from DANZIG and the EAST.
They implicated that the R.A.F. had put Schlesicher Station out of
action on 1 November. The 1 November raid was the worst BERLIN
has had to date, and there may be some truth in the B.B.C. conten-
tion.
The British Admiralty states that the German report of an
entire convoy destroyed in the NORTH ATLANTIC is all wrong (diary
8 November). The convoy consisted of 58 ships, of which 29 have
arrived in British ports to date. The attack took place 5 Nov-
ember. The auxiliary cruiser escorting the convoy was sunk, but
survivors were picked up by a Swedish ship and brought to a Cana-
dien port.
The Admiralty further stated that the German announcement of
7 ships sunk by air attack (see below) was also wrong. 2 ships
were damaged. 8 German planes were shot down, one each by a crui-
ser, a destroyer and an escort ship.
The Minister for Home Security reported 6,354 Londoners killed
during October, compared with just under 8,000 killed during Sept.
If Berlin were to suffer in porportion (4.5 million inhabitants com-
7
pared to London's 7 million), they would have folded up long ago.
They can't take it. The British run a good chance of losing this
war by being too dean humanitarian. They fly the 1800 mile round
trip, risking nen and machines, burning up valuable gasoline, and
then drop a few firecrackers when they get here. Thank God they
have at least stopped dropping propaganda leaflets, packets of
coffee and spools of thread. Don Quixote methods won't beat GERMANY.
-205-
TUESDAY,
The B.B.C. claims 26 planes shot down yesterday - 18 Germans,
12 November 18 Italians, against 4 British lost.
(continued)
The O.K.W. reports that dive-bombers successfully attacked a
strongly protected convoy (a convoy is always deseribed as "strong-
ly protected". Further, when the Axis attacks, it is always "suo-
cessfully"; when the British attack, it is always "the unsuccess-
ful attack was beaten off"). Anyway, 7 merchantships totaling
44,000 BRT were sunk and 5 more were badly damaged.
Testerday's air score (O.K.W. count): 22 British, 7 German,
6 Italian. (Compare the British method of soorekeeping above. The
reports of land operations can be accurately checked and have been
reliable so far; naval operations are not so subject to strict
checking, and I believe the report only when the opponent admits
the loss. But in the air it is impossible to check anything, and
consequently I believe none of the figures given out except for an
indication of comparative day by day intensity of action. When
losses are admitted, it merely means that at least so many were lost.
The constant "F", by which one multiplies the admitted losses to
obtain the true losses, probably varies with the phases of the
moon).
WEDNESDAY,
My Swedish colleague called on no today. In general con-
18 November versation he said that everything is quiet up his way now, that
neither GERMANS nor RUSSIANS are exerting such pressure. His idea
of Molotov's visit is that if Molotov can be induced to sign on
the German dotted line, GERMANY will throw ITALY overboard (diary
7 November). Be also told me that ITALY started the GREEK fracas
without consulting GERMANY, and that if GERMANY can line up RUSSIA
now, she will let ITALY stew in her own juice.
Be said he had heard that ENGLAND is contemplating sending an
Expeditionary Force into PORTUGAL. That's bad news, as GERMANY
will have troops there long before the BRITISH weigh anchor, and
Mr. Ribbentrop will publish another batch of documents.
No had the earliest air alara to date - from 2058 to 2252.
Some firing to the southwest, south and southeast from By house.
It is quite conceivable that the Germans staged it themselves to
show Molotov how good their A.A. defense is.
The B.B.C. proudly broadcasted the Admiralty communique re-
porting the damaging of two and possibly three Italian battleships
and two cruisers at TARANTO, by planes of the Fleet Air Arm.
British planes had also attacked an Italian convoy of 4 supply
ships in the STRAITS OF ORTANTO, sinking one, badly damaging two
and damaging the fourth. The two escorting destroyers made a full
power run for home.
The B.B.C. reported that 6 more of the convoy reported by the
Germans as entirely sunk had arrived in port (diary 8 and 12 Nov.),
reducing the number missing to 5. The XCL which so heroically de-
fended the convoy was the JERVIS BAY (14,164 BRT), which is admitted
lost.
One of Lieut.Comdr. Graubart's German contacts stated that
Mussolini is about to visit BERLIN and that another "big tog",
whose name he would not divulge, is also about to report in. Indi-
cations point to M. Laval, which will make a longer, but somewhat
bent, new Axis - MADRID PARIS BERLIN MOSCOW TOKYO. ROME
is"sitting on infinity".
The press today carries & short article on the British nasty
radio remarks for using Anhalter Station for Molotov's reception.
-204-
WEDNESDAY, The Germans give no reasons but state that Schlesischer Station
18 November is O.K. and conclude "The choice of stations at which GERMANY
(continued) will receive important visitors, depends upon German desires, and
not on ridiculous British illusions". Maybe so, but it still
seems odd.
Yesterday's air score: 0 British, o German.
The O.K.W. has occasionally issued a supplementary report,
increasing the number of British planes whot down on some previous
day, or decreasing the number of Germen planes lost, but never in-
creasing the number of German planes shot down. They did the
next best thing, however, by announcing that the Italians lost 10
planes on the 11th, instead of only 6 (diary 12 November).
THURSDAY,
The usual crop of rumors about differences of opinion be-
14 November
tween Hitler and Raeder concerning the advisability of an invasion.
A concentration of German naval shipping is rumored at WILHELMS-
HAVEN.
A piece of reliable information gathered from foreign col-
leagues is that GERMANY has an Army of 8 divisions under General
Dollmann in southwest FRANCE, one of 16 divisions under von Reiche-
nau in southeastern Germany (CZECHOSLOVAKIA and AUSTRIA), and one
of 16 divisions under von Blaskowits in RUMANIA, These armies are
standing by for a push into AFRICA - 1) via SPAIN and GIBRALTAR;
2) via ITALY and LIBYA; and 3) via BULGARIA, TURKEY, SYRIA and
PALESTINE. Our Military Attache is cabling this home.
The R.A.F. came over early again tonight - 2055. Secure was
sounded at midnight. There was considerable activity out our way
around 2130. After that the action was out to the North - Siemen-
stadt and Northwest - Gesundtbrunnen.
Molotov left for MOSCOW via Anhalter Station at noon. A
short communique was issued in which nothing was said except that
the two parties had had an understanding. Evidently Molotow signed
no dotted line.
The O.K.W. reports several ships sunk off the British Isles
by bombing.
Yesterday's air score: 3 British, 5 German.
FRIDAY,
The R.A.F. came back at 0515 for a second raid on BERLIN
15 November which lasted for about an hour and a half. It is believed, from
the sharpness of the sound, that one plane was exploded in mid
air near the Grunewald. The Germans claim 8 shot down - 5 over
Berlin, 2 in the outskirts, and 3 on the way back.
Closed pouch 351 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-205-
FRIDAY,
At & reception this afternoon, the Chinese Military Attache
15 November told Lieut. Comdr. Graubart that Molotov had conferred with the
(continued) Chinese Ambassador during his stay here, at which conference the
Military Attache was present. Molotov asked the Chinese if they
would settle their differences with the Japanese. The Chinese
said "No". They had been beaten and kicked around for four years
and the tide was just beginning to turn. They would definitely
not come to any compromise peace now that they were starting to
win.
Molotov pell another visit to Ritler after this conference.
The Soviet Naval Attache remarked that Russia had been
called all sorts of dirty names but they never let a real friend
7-5
down. They considered China their real friend and would continue
giving her aid, even if they signed a pact with Japan to stop it.
This information was turned over to the Chargé.
Yesterday's air score: 20 British, 5 German planes destroyed.
16 SATURDAY, November anese Embassy and also had dinner there - a rare thing for his to
The Fushrer attended the 2600th anniversary party at the Jap-
do.
Testerday's air score: 13 British, 6 German.
The Richthofen Squadron, under Major Wick, shot down its 500th
enemy plane.
17 SUNDAY, November was somewhere in Germany, but not in the "alara" district or the
Had the A.R.P. duty at the Embassy last night. The R.A.F.
"Pre-alarm" district. The Prop Ministry informs the local news
agencies of the presence of enemy planes over Germany and we get
the word from them.
German papers are full of the destruction of COVENTRY by their
Air Force.
Yesterday's air score: 5 British, 1 German.
MONDAY,
The Greek Naval Attache called on us this noon. Re has gone
18
November
officially, but is remaining another five or six days to take his
final gall bladder treatments.
7
He recently paid his farewell calls on the Navy Ministry. All
hands were very friendly. Grand Admiral Raeder regretted very much
that Greece and Italy were at war. The Attache Group remarked that
it was not impossible for a peace to be concluded shortly, to which
the Greek said that that would be all right, but Greece would stipu-
late the conditions, and not Italy.
He stated that some time ago the Spanish Naval Attache had
been worried about their lack of defense in the CANARY ISLANDS and
that the British might grab them. Now he is no longer worried since
the defenses there have been considerably strengthened. The condit-
ions in SPAIN are such that she cannot possibly enter the war.
The Greek stated that invasion material was being unloaded
from German ships sunk (presumably by British bombs) alongside the
docks at ANTWERP, and that German transports were lying empty and
dead at the quays of LE HAVRE. Evidently, the invasion idea has
been abandoned pro tem.
-206-
MONDAY,
He feels, as do I, that with the Italian invasion of Greece,
18 November
the British position in the Eastern MEDITEPRANEAN has been con-
(continued)
siderably strengthened, as the British now have Greek bases from
which to defend EGYPT and attack Italy.
The successful R.A.F. attack on TARANTO has made it possible
for the British to divide their MEDITERRANEAN SQUADRON into two
units of three battleships each, thereby providing a continuous
patrol between EGYPT and the GREEK islands, one unit patrolling
while the other rests and refits.
The new Japanese Naval Attache, Captain T. Yokoi, paid his
first call on ne today.
Received Zed shipments 83 (pouch 323), 84 (pouch 262) and
85 (pouches 295 and 395).
Attended a tea given by Lieut. Comdr. (E) Besthorn, the new
Chief of the Attache Group. Besthorn had been the junior member
of the Attache Group before the war, then went to THE HAGUE as
Naval Attache to HOLLAND and BELGIUM. Be remained as liaison
officer after the German troops moved in.
All German Naval Attaches, except those to WASHINGTON,
BUENOS AIRES and TOKIO, were present at the tea. They have been
7
here for several weeks and have been visiting various activities.
I found them all pleasant and cordial.
Ciano and Suner arrived at SALZBURG for a conference, and
Antonescu is reported busy with Mussolini, and will probably come
up to Germany later. One report has it that Antonescu is asking
Mussolini to help his from the Germans.
Testerday's air score: 3 British, 7 German.
Major von Maltzahn's pursuit squadron achieved its 501st
air victory.
TUESDAY,
The British admit the loss of the submarine RAINBOW (1475
19 November
tons) as being so long overdue.
King Brois of BULGARIA visited the Fuehrer and pretty soon
Germany will say that she has Europe in the bag, from Ushant to
the Dardanelles, and from North Cape to Algecires - why are we
fighting anyway?
The O.K.W. reports one U-boat having sunk four ships of
23,880 BRT, another four, of which two were tankers, of 21,340 BRT.
WEDNESDAY,
This is the old Geruan holiday Buss and Bettag (Penance and
20 November
Prayer Day). In 1958 it was still a holiday, similar in away, to
Good Friday, but it hasn't been observed publicly since. The fol-
lowing Sunday has been set as the day for those to repent who
still feel the urge.
HUNGARY joined the AXIS today, being thereby raised from the
status of German mistress to common-law with. Her joining the
11-A
All Baba gang doesn't affect the course of history one iota - she
was a German stooge all along - but it reduces by one the countries
we can slide out to, if and when it becomes necessary to leave
Berlin.
The Air Force worked over BIRMINGHAM yesterday, dropping 500
tons of bombs. This was in "retalistion" for last night's visit
of the R.A.F. to BREMEN, HAMBURG and KIEL, which scuttle-butt
dope has it, was pretty heavy.
-207-
NEDWESDAY,
Lieutenant Wohlfahrt was mentioned in the O.K.W. report
20 November
as having sunk 61,500 BRT to date, with & small submarine.
(continued)
Testerday's air score: 2 British, 5 German.
THURSDAY,
Thanksgiving Day. Thankful, among other things, that there
21 November
are still turkeys to be had from Denmark. Last year we received
poultry regularly from Holland.
The Fushrer received Teleki and Casky after their renewing
the VONS of vassalage.
Antonescu crossed the German border enroute to BERLIN.
A British Wellington bomber made a forced landing in SICILY.
The Italians made an undeservedly rich haul - Air Vice Marshal
Boyd Tudor.
The O.K.W. reports the loss of the first S-boat (PT) since
the war began. They claim having sunk 6 destroyers, 2 submarines
and 212,000 BRT of merchant shipping with this type.
Yesterday's air se ore: o British, 2 German.
FRIDAY,
N.A
Closed pouch No. 437, to go out via BERN and LISBON.
22 November
DEC 18 1940
2
-208-
FRIDAY,
Testerday's air score: 0 British, 2 German.
22 November
(continued)
SATURDAY,
RUMANIA signed up with the AXIS team today. Like HUNGARY,
25 November she isn't changing the course of history by 80 doing.
The SOVIET Naval Attache called on ne this forenoon. Re
inquired if I knew anything, which I did not, of the rumored de-
parture of the FRENCH Fleet from TOULON five days ago for a des-
tination either 1) to join the BRITISH forces, or 2) to FRENCH
colonial ports.
He stated that the BISMARCK finished her trials and joined
the fleet 10 November. The TIRPITZ is to follow in about a
month's time. Their commissionings were reported in ALUSNA
031500 of July and 221030 of August.
Re also mentioned that the Germans were building a few
large (approximately 1200 ton) submarines.
Attended the monthly Attache meal today. On account of
the probability of air raids we at last persuaded the Dean,
Col. Juhlin-Daunfelt (SWEDEN), to hold luncheons instead of
dinners. As a result we had the largest gathering I have yet
attended. The luncheon passed off very smoothly and quietly,
although the Japanese/Chiness and Italians/Greeks were in knife
throwing distance of each other.
There was a short - about an hour or hour and a quarter -
air alarm about mid-evening. There was no sight or sound of
firing visible from my home. Several people, however, said they
heard very distant A.A. firing. Covered by R650
Testerday's air score continued desultory: 1 British, 1
German.
SUNDAY,
The German radio reported that their Air Force was over
24
November
BIRMINGHAM again, the first time dropping 500 tons of bombs, the
second time 300 tons. These figures are stupendous, but serve as
an indicator of the terrific amount of explosives which a nation
must have in store at the outbreak of war and the daily replace-
ment necessary.
The B.B.C. reported that the R.A.F. had been over BERLIN
last evening, dropping 1000 incendiary bombs between Potsdamer
and Lehrter Stations, and that one pilot counted 28 separate fires
ablaze at one time. This report is either a deliberate lie with
some ulterior motive, or else the British bombed hell out of some
place else, thinking they were over BERLIN. The American Embassy
lies on the direct line between these two stations - about 2.5
im. (1.6 miles) apart - and by the law of averages the Embassy
buildings and grounds should have collected 40 to 50 incendiaries,
which we didn't, thank God! Covered by R650
U-boats are mentioned in the O.K.W. report, the first time
in four days. This one, unnamed, reported six steamers of over
29,000 BRT sunk.
The Italian fliers are mentioned again in the German communi-
que. They shot down 6 and lost 2 of their own. The Germans claim
5 British for themselves with a loss of 7. The day's account is
thus: 11 British, 7 Germans, 2 Italians.
-209-
MONDAY,
The Air Ministry called the various foreign press men and
25 November Air Attaches together this morning for a tour of the British al-
leged bombing, personally conducted by no less a personage than
Lieut.Gen. Bodenschatz, Garing's adjutant and greatest "yes-man".
Since Bodenschats reflects all of Garing's moods, it was evident
that every ton of Garing was quivering in Wagnerian rage. I don't
understand why, since in his interview with Russ of I.N.S. about
three weeks ago (diary 8 November and Report R-619 of 8 November),
Garing stated that he had ordered all news of British air raids
on Berlin barred from the cables, just to see how much the Brit-
1sh would lie. Now that he has conducted his experiment, it is
difficult to understand why he should be 80 enraged at the answer.
Country R. 650
Four weeks ago today the Italians attempted to push GREECE
over. Today, the conflict is going on in the ALBANIAN instead
of the GREEK Municipal Stadium, and a lot of Italian participants
are out on the side-lines, interned in YUGOSLAVIA. Italy has
substituted Badoglio at quarterback, but they are continuing their
"glorious" traditions of CAPORETTO and GUADALAJARA. The German
attitude on the whole thing is rather odd. In private, they get
a chuckle out of their AXIS partner's dilemna. Although the
present turn of events may seem to be playing into German hands,
in that Germany will have to "protect" Italy, and that such ac-
tion will shut Mussolini's loud-mbuth at the Peace Table (consid-
ering a German victory), Britain's position in the MEDITERRANEAN
has been tremendously strengthened by the acquisition of GREEK
bases. The morale effect of Greek resistance has done much to
stiffen the spines of TURKEY and YUGOSLAVIA. The Greek resistance
to Italian aggression may well be the turning point of the entire
war.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, 5 German.
TUESDAY,
E6A
Received Zed shipments 86 and 87, pouches #259 and 245,
26 November respectively.
.Comdr. Graubart, accompanied the Military Attaches on
a visit to BOCHUM, where steel mills are to be shown.
Rad the A.R.P. duty tonight. We had a one hour raid start-
ing about 2230. Ceiling was low, sky completely overcast. There
was some firing about 5 km. (5 miles) to the south, approximately
at SCHONEBERG, west of TEMPELHOF.
Lieut. Schepke was again mentioned in the communique - this
time for sinking 41,400 BRT.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 0 German.
WEDNESDAY, 27 November showed us a postcard size picture of the CA PRINZ EUGEN.It was
A Hamburg acquaintance of Lieutenant Lattu called today and
out of his hands but 8. few minutes. A photo copy is forwarded
in Report R-649 of 27 November.
The PRINZ EUGEN has just joined the fleet. Her commission-
ing was reported in Alusna 181730 of June.
The A.P. and U.P. told ne of an Iron Guard purge in BUCHA-
REST, in which 64 political prisoners were taken out to Codreanu's
grave at 0130 today and shot. Nice people!
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 2 German.
-210-
THURSDAY,
Attended & reception at the Japanese Naval Attache's on the
28
November occasion of the detachment of one of his assistants. The usual
crowd was present, all very pleasant and apparently in good spir-
its except one Rear Admiral in the Havy Ministry whoseename I do
not recall right now, who sounded off to no about the American
neutrality patrol. While it may serve to keep any belligerent ac-
tion from taking place within the neutrality sone, the Germans
feel it is a serious detriment for their merchantships trying to
beat their way home, such as from Tampico last week, to be very
obviously escorted through the neutrality zone by an American
destroyer. All possibility of slipping through secretly is thus
deprived them. In connection with the extent of the neutrality
zone, he considered that that was a pretty large order, not only
the 500 miles off the coast but in the case of the middle Atlantic
where the zone goes half-way from the Brasilian and the African
coast. He stated that the German Naval Direction has gone to con-
siderable trouble from the moment that our neutrality zone was pro-
claimed, to flatly order their commerce raiders, submarines, etc.
to keep outside of this zone. I did not have the chance to men-
tion the GRAF SPEE as we were interrupted and the conversation
came to an end.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 5 German.
FRIDAY,
Discussed yesterday's talk at the cocktail party with our
29 November Charge who considered it merely as an individual blowing off
steam, and if the German Navy Ministry wanted to take any official
cognizance in the matter, they would notify officially either me
or their Naval Attache in Washington.
The B.B.C. reported a naval engagement in the Western MEDIT-
ERRANEAN on Wednesday, 27 November. According to this version,
Italian units consisting of two battleships (1 LITTORIO nad 1
CAVOUR class) and several cruisers and destroyers were sighted by
British reconnaissance planes at about 1000, west of SARDINIA.
British forces immediately took up the pursuit and at 1221 their
light units opened fire. Action was soon broken, the Italian
forces racing for shelter. Shme hits on Italian units were ob-
tained at extreme ranges. Efforts of the British BB RENOWN to
engage the Italian BBs failed. Chase of the Italian units was
then taken up by aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm (ARK ROXAL) and
a torpedo hit scored on the LITTORIO class BB. Hits were also
registered on a cruiser of the BONZANO class and two cruisers of
6,000 tons. In addition, serious damage was done to two Italian
Berwick
destroyers. Only British casualty was the cruiser BERWIK which
received two hits.
The Italian communique for yesterday reports the action south-
east of SARDINIA, in which they damaged a cruiser of the KENT class
and another of the BIRMINGHAM class. They admit that their cruiser
FIUME was hit by a projectile which did not explode, and that one
of their destroyers, the LANCIERE, was badly hit but was towed
back to base. The Italian air force then came out and bombed
the aircraft carrier ARK HOYAL (good old ARK ROYAL), a battleships
and cruiser. The battleship is reported to have been seen later
stopped and burning.
Closed out pouch No. 259 to go out via BERN and LISBON,
-211-
FRIDAY,
Attended a reception given by the Swedish Naval Attache to
29 November meet his new assistant, Lieutenant (1g) Almstrom. So far as I
(continued) know, this is the first occasion of the Swedes having an Assis-
tant Naval Attache. Lieutenant Almstrom is a Naval Aviation Ob-
server and will probably serve as an assistant to Colonel Enell,
the Swedish Air Attache, as well. Mrs. Mirow, wife of the ex-
chief of the Attache Group now captain of the ENDEN, is back in
BERLIN and expects Captain Mirow home for Imas leave. Mrs. von
Davidson, wife of one of the former Attache Group, and now captain
of the destroyer RICHARD BEITZEN, is in town for a few days. She
has been living in South Germany, away from the possibility of air
attacks. Incidentally, all the Germans who can afford it, have
their families away from Berlin, particularly in AUSTRIA, which
F-1
is humorously referred to as Berlin's Luftschutskeller (A.R.P.
cellar). It is variously reported that Goebbels is having a wing
of Schoenbrunn Palace (Vienna) overhauled for his family, and the
F
Goering menage has kept open the resot hotel at Bad Gastein which
normally closes in September and where the rates for room are
55 - 60 Marks ($22 to $24) per person per day.
F-1,
The O.K.W. and press report a destroyer skirmish in the Kes-
tern end of the CHANNEL. The Germans claim to have sunk two Brit-
F-10.
ish destroyers without suffering damage to themselves. R-659. quoteo
the german communique. Evidentlyno other german information available
The German Air Force continued their tour of destruction of
English cities, attacking PLYMOUTH in the night 27/28 November.
Yesterday's air score: 13 British, 4 German.
SATURDAY,
LONDON, LIVERPOOL and BIRKENHEAD were the objects of German
30 November air attacks.
The German press reports that the British torpedo plane at-
tack on a German supply ship off the FLANDERS coast was unsuccess-
F-10
ful. B.B.C. claims the ship was sunk. The Germans later admitted
that it was hit with torpedoes from motor torpedoboats, but was
safely towed in to port.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 2 German.
SUNDAY,
Lieut. Comdr. Graubart left for STUTTGART to attend the meet-
1
December ing of the V.D.I. (Verein Deutsche Ingineure - Society of German
Engineers). Excellent report on this, 1-667
The British admit the loss of Submarine TRIAD (1095 tons) as
being BO long overdue.
The Gemman press reported the naming of a German destroyer
flotilla the NARVIX Flotilla, in commemoration of the destroyers
lost there 10 and 13 April 1940. no report this
The B.B.C. tonight reported that GERMANY had incorporated
LORRAINE into the REICH.
Yesterday's air score: 6 British, 4 German.
MONDAY,
The press reports that Major Wick, Commanding the Richthofen
2
December Squadron, holder of the Knight Cross with Oak Leaves, and current
leading ace, was himself shot down while achieving his 56th air vic-
tory on 28 November. Word of mouth reports state that the fight
took place after sundown over the CHANNEL and that both pilots
bailed out. Darkness made search impossible and the icy waters of
the CHANNEL did the rest.
Yesterday's air score: 11 British, 2 German.
-212-
TUESDAY,
The British admit the loss of the destroyer STURDY (905 tons)
5 December
and damage to the destroyer JAVELIN (1690 tons) in the CHANNEL
F-1
action (diary 29 November).
The Italian communique claims the torpedoing of & British
cruiser by a. submarine in the SICILIAN CHANNEL.
The Germans claim a big day with submarines. 15 ships of
110,000 BRT, plus an XCL of about 17,000 BRT, were sunk out of
one convoy, and two more ships totaling 16,000 BRT of the same
convoy were probably sunk. Another Uboat sank two ships totaling
21,247 BRT, one of which was the modern motorship VICTOR ROSS
(11,247 BRT). The total claimed for the day is over 160,000 BRT.
Lieutenant Mengersen is mentioned for the first time. His
U-boat sank five ships of 41,000 BRT out of the convoy mentioned
above.
There was bad weather with consequent reduced flying.
Yesterday's air score: 0 British, 1 German.
WEDNESDAY,
Lieut, Comdr. Viktor Schütze, commanding a submarine, had his
4
December first mention in the O.K.W. report for having sunk six armed enemy
merchantships of 51,500 BRT, bringing his total to date to 94,500
BRT.
The O.K.W. report mentioned no air losses for yesterday.
The Italian communique claims the torpedoing of two enemy
cruisers by torpedo planes in SUDA BAY. Also that one of their
submarines torpedoed an enemy destroyer in the ATLANTIC 1 December.
THURSDAY,
Lieut.Comdr. Graubart returned from STUTTGART (Report R-667
5 December of 6 December).
Air activity has been declining lately due to bad weather.
F-1
No usually have a touch of snow in the morning which quickly
changes to drizzle, and the sky is thickly overcast all day. Sun-
light is only a. memory from last August.
Yesterday's air score: 8 British, 3 German.
FRIDAY,
Field Marshal von Mackensen celebrates his 91st birthday today.
6 December
Closed pouch No. 245 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-218-
FRIDAY,
Transferred HUNTOWSKI, S.A., CEM, to the Receiving Sta-
6 December tion at Washington, D.C., as courier via BERN and LISBON.
The O.K.W. reports an action in the South ATLANTIC be-
tween German and British auxiliary cruisers. The B.B.C.
states that the XCL CARNEVAN CASTLE entered MONTEVIDEO to
have some damage repaired. There is no information as to
damage to the German XCL, or as to what ship it was.
Yesterday's air score: 10 British - 7 German.
SATURDAY,
The weather recently has been particularly bad, usually
7
December a snow in the early morning which then mixes up with rain
and turns to a rapidly melting slush. The sky is overcast
heavily all day, with usually a cold raw drizzle. Also there
is a full moon. The generally overcast condition prevents
any of the moonlight from getting through. These conditions
have not been particularly good for flying as there is very
great danger of icing.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British - 0 German. Two of
the seven German planes reported missing yesterday are reported
today as having rejoined their commands.
SUNDAY,
My Spanish colleague had luch with me today. According
8
December to him, Spain to absolutely and firmly in the neutral column
in this war. As regards food conditions in Spain, none of
the Spaniards here openly admit how bad the situation really
is in Spain, but by every inference give one to understand
that it isn't good. A Spanish naval commission which has been
visiting Germany for the past few weeks returned to Spain this
morning. The Spaniard, in common with his countrymen I have
encountered, has very little use for Italians. He had recent-
ly seen a movie made in Italy displaying the wonderful work
of the Italians in the Spanish Kar, especially in ferrying troops
by air from Morocco to Spain. This annoyed the Spaniard no end
for he said the while world knew it was the Germans with JU-52s
who had done the actual transporting. He was the first to
tell me the story of the supposed sign on the Italian/French
border in the vicinity of Nice, which reads, "Attention Greek
Troops! This is the French Border!"
The O.K.W. reports the sinking of four merchantships, in-
cluding one large tanker, by submarines.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British - 2 German.
MONDAY,
Called on my Italian colleague this morning. Re has just
9
December recently moved into the new Italian Embassy which was built for
them on Tiergarten Strasse in exchange for their old one which
is scheduled to be torn down in the reconstruction of Berlin.
Without waiting for me to spar around and find out how the sit-
untion was going in Greece (not 80 well for the Italians), he
quite frankly stated that the Italians were not doing so well
in the Greek campaign, that the reason therefore was that they
were not fully prepared for military operations in sufficient
magnitude. He stated that their "politicians", presumably
meaning diplomatic service, intelligence service, etc., had
given his Government completely erroneous information about
possible Greek resistance - as a matter of fact had reported
that as soon as the Italian troops crossed the border the Greeks
would rush forward to embrace them and to strew flowers in their
path. Now, he said, they would have to consolidate and build
up strong reinforcements and the war would go forward next spring.
-214-
MONDAY,
Inregard to the replacement of Admiral Cavagnari as Chief
9 December of the Naval Staff, he stated that the Admiral had held that
(continued) position for seven years, in which time he had come to believe
that he was in there for life, and failed to cooperate with the
Army and Air Force and other Government departments.
Italy is now rationed in - of all things - SPAGHETTI, which
is as deeply felt as if the Germans were rationed in potatoes.
Captain Pecori, however, stated that the Italians had unrationed
bread. This reminds me of the story recently going the rounds.
On the occasion of Suner's recent visit to Mussolini, the latter,
in order to impress Suner with the tremendous richness of the
Axis, had an Aide interrupt a very serious conference somewhat
along these lines. The Aide rapped at the door and entered a
little embarrassed at having disturbed a serious meeting. Said
he: "Duce, I am terribly sorry to interrupt, but there is a very
great decision to be made. We have just received another ship-
ment of grain and don't know where to put it." Mussolini, a
little scowling at having been interrupted, replied: "Put it
in the grain warehouses." Atde: "But Duce, the grain warehouses
are full". Mussolini: "Well then, put it into the reserve grain
warepouses". Aide: But Duce, the reserve grain warehouses are
also full." Mussolini: "Well then, hire a gymnasium or en un-
used theatre or school and put it in there." Aide: "But Duce,
these are also already full." This put Mussolini into a deep
meditation, which Suner quietly interrupted with: "May I be per-
mitted to make a suggestion, Duce?" Mussolini: "Certainly, cer-
tainly". Suner: "Then, Duce, may I suggest that you put some of
this grain into the bread!"
Yesterday's air score: 2 British - 1 German.
TUESDAY,
Received Zed shipments 90 (pouches 370-302-423-528-400)
10 December and 91 (pouches 424 and 394).
OP-16A
The Swiss Military Attache called on me today to pick up
general naval information for his annual report. In the course
of his conversation, generally, he stated that Switzerland was
now on rations as regards clothing and shoes, and very recently
also in chocolate. The Swiss have long been rationed in gaso-
line. Their situation economically has long been very poor in
view of the fact that their greatest crop is tourists and that
their entire fine mechanical industry depends upon import of raw
materials from abroad, and export of their wares to foreign
countries. Tourists are non-existent and export-import has
shrunk tremendously. Switzerland itself does not produce suf-
ficient fodder for her dairy industry, nor sufficient grain to
feed her population. Be said that if all food imported ceased,
Switzerland could last about three months, which might be a bit
pessimistic. They do not fear a military invasion by Germany,
but they are already under Germany's economic domination.
The O.K.W. reports that & raider in overseas waters has
reported a tonnage sinking to date of over 100,000 tons. Lieut.
Comdr. Viktor Schüthe, commanding a submarine, sank 45,000 BRT
on his last trip.
Yesterday's air score: 3 British - 5 German.
WEDNESDAY, 11 December ATLANTIC, torpedoed and badly damaged the Canadian destroyer
The press reports that an Italian submarine operating in the
SAGUENAY.
The B.B.C. late tonight reported that SIDI BARANI had been
taken together with three generals and several thousand troops.
Two Italian divisions were completely cut off and were about to
fall into British hands.
-215-
WEDNESDAY 11 December of their outposts had been pushed back to SIDI BARANI by over-
The Italian communique very modestly reported that some
(continued) whelming British forces and brought the story to & conclusion
at that point.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British - 0 German.
THURSDAY,
The B.B.C. reports between 20 and 50 thousand Italian pris-
12 December oners taken in Africa which seems to bring General Grasiani's
African campaign to a decided halt.
Received information through our Embassy that the British
air raid on DUSSELDORF last Saturday (7 December) was the heav-
iest of the 140 that they have had to date. Upwards of 100 per-
7-1
sons were killed and considerable damage was done to military
objectives. The Dusseldorfers are in a high state of nerves and
believe that the British retaliatory attacks are beginning.
Another item was that there will be constructed in BERLIN
and in VIENNA, a hundred gas-proof air raid shelters. The con-
struction of these in Vienna and Berlin has already started. The
shelters are to be equipped with air purification systems and
air locks. This is apparently some more of the deliberate German
propaganda that the British will use gas in order to justify their
own contemplated use of gas in their attacks on England. The
Germans have been trying very hard to find gas. They "found" some
in POLAND and again in the GRAF SPEE River Plate action, and are
apparently trying to manufacture a good reason for retaliation.
Another piece of information furnished by a ship's chandler
who supplies German submarines, was that there are from 60 to 65
German U-boats at present in active operation and that they expect
to have approximately 100 short range submarines in the near fu-
ture. (ALUSNA to OPNAV cablegram 15600, Dec.).
Routed to OP 10/11 12, 13, 38, 16, 16% 16.F, F-1. Information
The B.B.C. announced the sudden death of Lord Lothian in
on subs
Washington.
and our
Yesterday's air score: 4 British - 2 German.
period subject. that
FRIDAY,
Closed out pouch No. 502 to go out via BERN and LISBON. (10/-40)
13 December
-216-
FRIDAY,
My RUSSIAN colleague called this afternoon. Be was in-
18 December terested in obtaining & copy of the U.S. Marine Corps Regu-
(continued) lations. I suggested that his opposite number in Washington
could obtain one at Beadquarters U.S.M.C. Re said that
RUSSIA did not yet have a Naval Attache in Washington but
expected to have case in a few months. I then suggested that
one of their Washington Embassy Secretaries could obtain the
publication. request
His estimate of GERMAN submarines in commission 1 Dec.
1940 is 165. Their monthly additions are 25 to 50. Be 08-
timates 40 lost for the entire war, which I find quite low.
(z Report R-684 of 16 December 1940).
Regarding the Italian situation, be had heard that the
Germans were sending a General and Staff to assist each Ital-
ian division, that there was no idea of sending German man
power to Italy at present.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British - 4 German.
SATURDAY,
The B.B.C. announced today that Marshal Petain had re-
14 December placed Laval as Vice-Premier and Foreign Minister by Flandin
as Foreign Minister only. Both are pro-German, but Flandin
has less of a following than Laval, and his importance in the
Cabinet is decidedly less. Looks like the French compass may
be swinging toward true North again.
Yesterday's air score: o for both sides.
SUNDAY,
Attended a small reception this afternoon at which Scapini,
15 December the French Agent, with rank of Ambassador, and his staff of as-
sistants wholeve just arrived to take over the French Prisoner
of War Section and its concurrent headaches from our Embassy,
were present. The whole troupe is defeatist and pro-Nazi. One
realizes they would hardly be personae gratae here if they weren't,
7-3
but they don't have to be BO out and out Nazi as to tell Ameri-
cans - who were the only other nationality present - that the
world will go to hell surely if Germany doesn't win this war.
Their argument was that Stalin and Communism will win with Eng-
land.
Testerday's air score: o for both sides.
MONDAY,
Had two air raids over night, the first in 19 days. The
16 December first lasted from about 2115 to 1030 and was little more than a
pathfinder plane coming over. There was a short sharp burst of
gun fire in my neighborhood, then all was quiet. The second
alars was from 0410 to 0630. Considerable disturbance was caused
in the second raid. Seven high-explosives were dropped on Tauen-
tzienstr., a shopping district ranking only after Kurfürstemdam
and Unter den Linden. One bomb hit the street car tracks and
went through to the subway underneath. The others also dropped
in the street or in courtyards, with typical British luck. The
windows of Kadewe, Berlin's second largest department store,
Rollenhagen the famous delicatessen, Wilm, the number one jeweler,
and many other famous Berlin store names, were blasted out, and
Tauentzienstr. was promptly blocked off. Another bomb hit the
elevated tracks between Charlottenburg and Westkreus. The Propa-
ganda Department stupidly announced that again only two hospitals
were hit, when all of Berlin could see that the shopping district
had been the target. They also announced two killed and five in-
jured, but word of mouth figures ran up to fifty killed.
It isn't so much the damage to military objectives that the
-217-
MONDAY,
R.A.F. can and must do here in BERLIN - they must come often and
16 December
keep these people sleepless and irritable, and they must hit ob-
(continued)
jectives which the Prop Ministry will lie about and everyone can
see with his own eyes that they are lying.
Testerday's air score: 2 British - o German.
TUESDAY,
The morning papers were full of Lieut. Kretschmer having
17 December returned from his sixth trip with 34,935 BRT sunk, and a total
to date of 252,100 BRT, By which he stands No. 1 among the German
U-boat captains (z Report R-689 of 17 December). Lieut.Comir.
Viktor Schütse has been awarded the Knight Cross for having sunk
a total of 109,517 BRT (20 ships) (Z Report R-690 of 17 December).
Yesterday's air score: 1 British - 0 German.
WEDNESDAY,
The Russian Naval Attache was in again to see ne about an
18 December article which he said recently appeared in "Our Navy" concerning
four new German battleships, the FRIEDRICH DER GROSSE, DEUTSCH-
LAND, MACKENSEN and HINDENBURG, I told him quite frankly that I
hadn't the foggiest idea where "Our Navy" had picked up this
yarn, and assured him that "Our Navy" was not an official publi-
cation.
Be remarked that he had heard that the BISMARCK and TIRPITZ
are reported to displace 42,000 tons instead of the listed stand-
F.10
ard 35,000. This is quite possible. Their dimensins are 7291
X 118 x 26 feet (241 x 36 X 7.9 meters), a product of 68540 cubie
meters. A cubic meter equals a ton. Allowing a block co-effic-
ient of .6 (MARYLEND class has a co-efficient of .64, RICHELIEU
.54, SCHARNHORST .51, NELSON .57, and KING GEORGE V .58, the ton-
nage figures out to be 41,124.
OP-16-A-3
Received Zed shipments 92 (pouch 412), 03 (pouches 375 and
328), and 94 (pouches 364 and 422).
Yesterday's air score: o for both sides.
THURSDAY,
Lieutenant Commander Pihl left on 10 days leave to Italy.
19 December
The Swedish Naval Attache dropped in for a moment* Re is
going home on leave Saturday. Be had nothing new - just that
England is getting/terribly ashore and in her commerce and
can't last much longer
Yesterday's air score: o for both sides.
FRIDAY,
Closed out pouch No. 202 to go out via Bern and Lisbon.
20 December
I an going on leave to Budapest tonight to get some relaxa-
tion from the blackout, the thousand and one restrictions, and
the feeling of being in a vacuus where only pre-digested Propa-
ganda Ministry bunk is handed out.
-218-
SATURDAY,
The German communique announced the award of the Oak
21 December Leaves decoration to Lieutenant Schepke, commanding & U-boat,
for having sunk his 40th enemy ship, bringing his total tonnage
sunk to 208,975 BRT. (2 Report 1 of 3 January 1941)
The morning press devotes headlines to the Three-Power Pact
(Germany/Itely/Japan), giving prominence to Mr. Matusoka's recent
utterances in Toko, and intimating that Japan has issued a clear
warning to the U.S.A.
The R.A.F. raiders were over the capital last night, their
first visit lasting from 10:15 to 1:00 a.m., the second from
4:45 to 7:30 a.m. The second all-clear signal was sounded pre-
maturely at about 7:00 a.n., as a result of hich the shelter
dwellers emerged from their cellars to be greeted by violent A.A.
fire still in progress overhead. It is reported that night pur-
suit planes were active during the latter raid, and this may have
accounted for the confusion.
Incendiery and high explosive bombs were dropped both in
Potsdam and Berlin. One H.E. bomb fell in the vicinity of Anhalter
Bahnhof and fires are reported to have been started in the vicnity
of Alexander Platz and Northern Berlin.
The German press announced that 6 persons had been killed
and 17 injured during the raids. Word of mouth reports place the
number killed at 63 and 47 houses destroyed.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 0 German.
SUNDAY,
Today's local press and radio news indicate German concern
22 December over U.S. aid to Britain - doubtless German reaction to Pres.
Roosevelt's recent declaration that he will ask Congress to modi-
fy the U.S. Neutrality Law to enable further aid to Britain.
German aggravation at the U.S. is further emphasized in
their demand for the recall of two American secretaries and a
clerk attached to the US Embassy at Vichy, on grounds of espion-
age activities.
The B.B.C. news broadcast claimed that 168 Italian aircraft
had been destroyed since the beginning of their African offensive
some 12 days ago (88 in air fights, the remainder on the ground),
as against own losses of 14 planes.
The situation on the Albanian front continues more or less
uneventful.
MONDAY,
The British Admiralty has admitted the loss of their sub-
25 December marine SWORDFISH, as being long overdue.
The B.B.C. announced that Lord Halifax, Foreign Secretary,
had been selected for the post of British Ambassador to the U.S.
Anthony Eden has been chosen to succeed Halifax as Foreign Secy.
Last night's German air attacks over England were concen-
trated on Manchester and, according to German and British reports,
took on large-scale proportions.
A German press item, date-lined Rome, claims that over 25
per cent of the usable merchant shipping tonnage available to
England, has been lost.
Another German press item, date-lined Buenos Aires, features
the precarious condition of the British Fleet. This report claims
219
MONDAY,
23 December
British losses of 169 warships to date, including 35 destroyers.
(continued)
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, 1 German.
TUESDAY,
24 December
The B.B.C. today announced that seven ships had been sunk
by enemy action during the week ending 15 December, totaling
some 41,000 BRT (5 British, 2 others).
Winston Churchill spoke last night over the B.B.C. to the
Italian people, during the course of which he stressed the point
that Mussolini himself was responsible for leading the Italians
into the present conflict.
This morning's German press announces that the Japanese
Ambassador in Berlin, Kurusu, has been recalled, to be replaced
by General Oshima. General Oshima is no new-comer to Berlin,
he having previously served here as Military Attache as well as
Ambassador. Kurusu is being dropped apparently for having an
American wife, and for not being sufficiently bloodthirsty for
the present regime.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 1 German.
WEDNESDAY,
25
No enemy air activity over England and Germany during the
December preceding night, doubtless out of deference to Christmas.
Here in Berlin, all shops and business activity closed down
at 5:00 p.m. yesterday, as usual on Xmas eve, and two hours later
hardly 8. person was on the streets. Xmas with the Germans is
stfictly a family home affair and this year they observed it as
in the past, but with a touch of forlornness. The playing and
singing of the old Xmas carol "Silent Night, Holy Night", was
tabooed by the authorities this year, the ground no doubt being
that it is too akin to religion.
Shops were practically bought out of everything during the
holiday season, giving store owners concern as to where and when
replacement merchandise will be obtained. Some of the larger shops
have already closed off part of their floor space because of lack
of wares.
The reduction of the butter ration from a quarter pound to
an eighth of a pound for the Xmas week, was a sad knock to Germans.
Butter bootlegging, as well as coffee, although punishable by
heavy sentences, is making its rounds. Bootleg butter brings
from 10 to 20 Marks ($4.00 to $8.00) per pound, while coffee may
be had at from 20 to 25 Marks per pound ($8.00 to $10.00). Germans
will pay any price for buttor and coffee, especially the former.
Yesterday's air score: o British, o German (no activity).
THURSDAY,-
The second Xmas holiday celebrated by the German people and,
26 December like the 25th, all very quiet.
A Berlin press item date-lined Milan, announces that a Japa-
nese Military Commission has left Tokio for Berlin.
For the second day and night running, no enemy air activity
took place over England and Germany.
FRIDAY,
Nothing much of consequence. An item in today's press an-
27
December nounced that a Japanese Tourist Bureau is to be opened in both
Berlin and Rome.
220
FRIDAY,
Another informs that the four Dutch radio stations in
27 December Holland, held by private interests, are being taken over by the
(continued)
"State".
Received an anonymous letter today - delivered to the Em-
bassy in person. The writer, after expressing his friendliness
to the U.S.A. and Britain, states that Hitler has made preparations
for gas warfare in connection with his invesion of England. Ris
information comes from a friend who is employed by I.G. Farben. It
is further stated that all civilians are being instructed to have
a serviceable gas-mask in their possession by the end of the month.
Received Zed shipment No. 95 (pouches Nos. 361 and 75), dis-
OP-16A
patched from Washington on 2 December.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, 0 German.
SATURDAY,
Prominence is given in today's press to Pres. Roosevelt's
28 December
plan for altering the U.S. Neutrality Law to permit U.S. shipping
to enter Irish ports, under convoy, for the purpose of delivering
war materials to England. The plan is stated to be dangerous
for the U.S.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 1 German.
SUNDAY,
This evening's B.B.C. broadcast announced that a naval en-
29
December gagement took place Xmas morning in the North Atlantic between
British light naval forces and a German raider. The raider had
attacked a convoy being escorted by British light naval forces,
but withdrew at high speed immediately the presence of these for-
ces became known. British units gave chase and one hit is claimed
to have been registered on the raider at extreme range, the extent
of damage ensuing not being determined due to poor visibility and
range. During the engagement, the British forces contacted the
S.S. BADEN, presumably the raider's supply ship, whereupon she
was set afire by her crew, to be finished off by British gun fire.
The 10,000 ton British cruiser BEEWICK incurred casualties of 5
dead in the action with the raider, however, the British report
claims that the BERNICK is remaining at sea continuing her opera-
tions.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, o German.
MONDAY,
The German official communique today makes superficial mention
30
December of the naval engagement in the Atlantic on Xmas morning. One
British merchantship of 6,000 BAT is claimed to have been sunk and
several hits made on a heavy British cruiser. The German report
claims no damage to their raider.
A belated "Xmas" package exploded in the Anhalter Bahnhof
(baggage or mail room) today. Various reports place the number
killed at from 2 to 150. The ticket offices were destroyed and
passengers boarding trains at this station had to make purchase
of tickets elsewhere. One story heard is that Hitler was supposed
to have left Anhalter Bahnhof today, but instead, departed yester-
day.
President Roosevelt's talk to the "merican people last
night has drawn no notice in the German press as yet.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 0 German.
221
TUESDAY,
The end of the old year. Germens will be permitted to
31 December celebrate New Year's eve in Berlin until 11:00 p.m. (curfew).
The Knight Cross of the Iron Cross has been awarded to
Lieutenant Kaden, commanding a submarine chaser (2 Report 2 of
8 January 1941)
Yesterday's air score: o British, o German.
WEDNESDAY,
The B.B.C. news broadcast today stated that shipping losses
1 January
for the week ending 22 December amounted to 43,300 BRT, this fig-
1941
ure including 15 British ships of 33,200 BRT and 5 neutral vessels
of 10,000 BRT. The weekly average of shipping losses since war's
beginning, esclusive of losses at Dunkirk, has been 63,000 BRT.
The B.B.C. also announced that for the two week period end-
ing 28 December, the Axis powers suffered losses of 109 aircraft
(98 Italian and 11 German), as against own losses of 23.
The B.B.C. also claimed 3090 enemy planes destroyed by
fighter aircraft during 1940, and a grand total of 3500 including
those shot down by A.A. ground defenses. Own losses during the
year were stated to be 1050 aircraft.
Both Hitler and Stelin made New Year day speeches.
Yesterday's air score: 0 British, 0 German.
THURSDAY,
The morning papers list British warships lost since outbreak
2 January
of war (as admitted by the British Admiralty). These losses com-
prise 1 battleship 2 aircraft carriers, 3 cruisers, 37 destroyers,
23 submarines, 3 escort ships, 7 minesweepers, 14 auxiliary crui-
sers, 87 armed fishing vessels, 4 patrol boats, and 24 various other
auxilieries (2 Report 3 of 3 January).
Received Zed shipments Nos. 96 and 97 (pouches 305 and 304,
OP-16-A
and 438, 516 and 169).
Returned to BEFLIN at 1445 from leave, the train being 41
hours late. On the trip to BUDAPEST the train was 101 hours late,
due largely to having missed the express connection at the Hungar-
ian border and being forced to wait for the next local to pick us
up.
F-5
The DANUBE was full of ice and had been closed to navigation
on 18 December, eleven days earlier then last year.
F-6
BUDAPEST appeared quite bright and gay after having been
steadily in BERLIN for five months. Resident Americans, however,
said that it is running down at the heel considerably. Lighting
has been cut about 25% to conform to Axis pressure for economy.
Materials of all kinds are being sold out, with very little
chance of replacement. Prices have risen considerably since the
wor started. The various Rungarians with whom I talked are anti-
Axis and especially anti-German. They have no love for the Axis
and signed up only because both Government and Country are weak.
The average Hungarian hopes that the U.S. will soon get into the
war and polish it off quickly.
Hungary observes four meatless days per week, but this isn't
as bad as it sounds, since they don't consider mutton or fowl to
be meat, and if a meatless day falls on a holiday, it goes by the
board.
Sugar and fat are rationed. Benzine is theoretically rationed,
but judging from the enormous number and the cheapness of taxis in
operation, there are probably plenty of loopholes in that rationing
too.
222
THURS AY,
Met several Americans in Budapest connected with Socony-
2
January
Vacuum and Standard 011 of New Jersey who are interested in the
(continued) Hungarian oil fields near the Jugoslav border. They stated there
is enough oil there for Hungarian needs.
During the time of my leave, the Hungarian train schedules
were greatly reduced in order to permit passage of German troops
to RUMANIA, Almost had heart failure because my return trip train
was cancelled for three days, but it was restored in time.
Called on the German Military Attache at the first opportuni-
ty after arrival, 50 that there can be no dirty cracks about my
having also seen the British Legation Secretary and the Naval At-
tache, Captain Larkin, Ret., who resembles Mr. Churchill like a
twin, minus cigar. He has just this week been transferred to Bel-
grade.
While in Budapest I saw daily the American Legation staff,
particularly Major Partridge, the Military Attache who was former-
ly in Borlin, Mr. Schott, Second Secretary, who was my classmate
and section mate for four years at Annapolis, and Mr. Peters of
United Press, whom I had previously known in Berlin and Copenhagen.
Train service in war time is rather poor. We rode in coaches
that hadn't been cleaned in years, and usually with insufficient
heat. Dining car service was catch as catch can. We caught one
across Slovakia on the trip to Budapest, and didn't make any on
the return. There was no water for drinking or flushing, and prec-
ious little for washing on either trip.
The O.K.W. states that a raider operating in the Pacific has
sunk 64,155 BRT to date and has landed survivors on a South Sea
island.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, o German.
FRIDAY,
Getting caught up with local and pouch mail in the office
8 January
and at home. Find I have collected a beautiful cold from the re-
turn trip in a poorly heated car.
The outgoing pouch schedule has been changed from Friday to
Tuesday, since direct train connection from Geneva to Lisbon has
been effected.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 1 German.
SATURDAY,
An item in the local press today states that one of the princi-
4 January
pal tasks of Lord Halifax, new British Ambassador to the U.S., will
be to induce the U.S. to deliver additional destroyers to Englend.
commerce
Another local press item today states that the German/raiders
operating in the South Pacific have sunk a total of 17 enemy merchant
ships to date.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 1 German.
SUNDAY,
The B.B.C. announced late tonight that BARDIA had been taken
5
January
with about 25,000 Itelian prisoners.
A rumor, which had all the earmarks of being reliable, cume out
to the effect that trouble had popped, or was on the verge of pop-
ping in Bulgaria and Saloniki. Could find no verification, and stuck
close to the radio all day for further news.
The A.P. office told ne in the evening that the Soviet Minis-
tero to Jugoslavia, Hungary, Rumania and Bulgaria had been suddenly
223
SUNDAY, called to Moscow for consultation during the day. Possibly there
5 January was some connection between the Russian action and the absence of
(continued) German action as advertised.
Yesterday's air score: 2 British, 0 German.
MONDAY,
Lieutenant Lattu (sc) left for Stockholm by air for an inspec-
6 January tion trip.
The number of Italian prisoners captured at BARDIA has risen
to over 30,000, according to information from the B.B.C.
YesterdayWair score: 2 British, 0 German.
TUESDAY,
9016-
Closed out pouch No. 304 to go out via Geneva and Lisbon.
7 January
224
TUESDAY,
The B.B.C. news broadcast this evening announced that for the
7 January week ending 30 December, British and Allied shipping losses totaled
(continued) 37,500 BAT (8 British and 4 Allied ships), a considerable reduction
in the average weekly sinkings which have amounted to 63,000 BRT.
Yesterday's air score: 0 British, 1 German.
WEDNESDAY,
The B.B.C. stated that the number of Italian prisoners taken
8 January by the Greeks in the Albanian\campaign BO far amounts to 14,000.
An Italian news broadcast in English this evening heaped much
wrath on President Roosevelt for urging the modification of the U.S.
Neutrality Law and the Johnson Act. The point stressed was that the
President was attempting to circumvent the Johnson Act by taking
payment in kind from Britain after the war. The Axis, stated the
commentator, would choose the time when they would force England to
her knees, that American help would come too late, that the Axis
would take over the British possessions in the Old World, while An-
erica would stab England in the back and acquire British possessions
in the New World. The commentator further stated that the Axis had
no interest inthe New World, had no designs on the American Conti-
nent, which fact the Axis was quite eager to guarantee. In short,
both Italy and Germany had full respect for the American Monroe doc-
trine and asked what could be fairer?
It was quite evident from the gist of the commentary that
Italy (Axis) foresees American entry into the war.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, 0 German.
THURSDAY,
German press items carry the British Admiralty's announce-
9
January
ments of the loss of the Free French submarine NARNHAL and the British
submarine REGULUS.
The German communique published today claims 4. merchantship of
2,500 BRT sunk by a motor torpedoboat attack at the mouth of the
Thames. This German success was made out of a convoy protected by
destroyers.
The German press for today attacks President Roosevelt's mess-
age to Congress, headlining the item in one paper("V8lkischer Beo-
bachter") "ROOSEVELT SPINS HIS OLD YARN".
Yesterday's air score: o British, o German.
FRIDAY,
An item in today's local press states that it is not compulsory
10
January to evacuate children from those cities threatened by air attack.
A headline in today's issue of the V5lkischer Beobachter, date-
lined Tokio, reads: "ROOSEVELT'S CATASTROPHICAL POLICY MUST BE RE-
JECTED BY THE WHOLE WORLD," the item, quoting from Japanese news-
organs, sharply criticises Roosevelt's message to Congress.
The German man in the street, who has no voice in his country's
politics, and who has but scant opportunity to obtain information
other than from German propaganda sources, is rapidly becoming re-
signed to the belief that America is definitely coming into this war.
Yesterday's air score: o German - 2 English.
SATURDAY,
Licutenant Commander Graubart was to have left by air on an
11
January inspection trip to Zurich. The plane (Italian) wouldn't start and
there were no stand-bys so the trip had to be postponed to Monday.
OP-16A
Received Zed shipments 98 and 99 (pouches 390, 466 and 277 and
-225-
16
SATURDAY,
11 January
488) dispatched from Washington on 18 and/December, respectively.
(continued)
The German and Italian official communiques today both report
the employment of German/Squadrons in the Mediterranean, claiming
hits registered on two aircraft carriers, one cruiser and one de-
stroyer. A German press story states that this is the first Stuka
(dive-bomber) attack in the Mediterranean.
Yesterday's air score: 8 British, 6 German.
SUNDAY,
Proceeded to Hamburg in connection with the funeral services
12 January of the late U.S. Consul General Murphy.
The ALSTER Lake, in the middle of Hamburg, was camouflaged
with cinders to represent a continuation of the city and thus de-
prive British bombers of a valuable landmark (Report R-29 of 14 Jan.).
Took a short walk around Hamburg in the late afternoon to see
results of recent air raids (Report R-30 of 14 January).
Reichsmarshall Goring today celebrates his 48th birthday.
Yesterday's air score: o British, 0 German.
MONDAY,
Attended the funeral services of Consul General Murphy which
13
January were conducted by Dr. S. N. Herman, pastor of the American Church
in Berlin. Consul Hodgdon, Major Wolfinbarger, A.C., USA, Asst.
Military Attache and I represented the Embassy. Returned to Berlin
1930.
Nothing much in the Axis official communiques published today,
neither in the German press. The Italian communique claims a torpedo-
boat hit on a British cruiser of the Birmingham class in the Mediter-
ranean, which left the cruiser in a sinking condition.
Yesterday's air score: 6 British, o German.
TUESDAY,
Closed out pouch No. 169 to go out via Geneva and Lisbon.
14 January
-226-
The B.B.C. amount that British shipping leases for -
first mek in Junuary anounted to 14,700 net (4 British ships),
the lowest figure in the last eight smiths of the mr.
Called - the Deadeh Novel Attache. be has just returned
free a long holiday leave at home. Information reported in L-D, 49,
# and 85 - gethered is this comversation.
Them dropped in to ⑉ w Swedish colleague the has also just
recently returned from home leave and the is now in his now office
at 47 Tiergartes. Information reported in B-40 was obtained from
his. a also stated that be had heard that Germany was arrenging
to by two and a half million tons of wheat from Russia to give to
Spain to case stervation there. Sounds quite preposterous from my
engle!
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, 0 Germen.
WEDNESDAY,
Sent ALUSMA 151500 to OPMAV, based on information recently -
15
January
firmed by RUBSIAN and DANISH Neval Attaches and MICONSUL STUTTGART
report that the Department's message to the three British women at
Staleg 1 had been delivered yesterday at 1600.
The B.B.C. admitted that the cruiser SOUTHAMPTON had been so
badly damaged in action in the SICILIAN CHANNEL that the had to be
sunk.
No air activity yestarday. The weather has been perfectly leasy
for quite a while. The sky is dull, leaden, completely overcast and
although I have three large windows in my office I have to burn the
overhead and desk lights continuously.
THURSDAY,
The B.B.C. reports that the R.A.F. has been visiting WILHELMS-
16 January
HAVEN for the past few nights with great success.
The German O.K.W. today admitted the attacks. Several houses,
etc. were set on fire but no damage worthy of mention having been
done. However, they admitted 20 dead and 35 wounded.
No air losses reported.
FRIDAY,
The German O.K.W. reports a big dive-bombing attack on MALTA
17 January
and the ILLUSTRIOUS. While the Germans did not claim sinking the
ILLUSTRIOUS they did claim having damaged her so badly that she
will be out of action the rest of the war.
The B.B.C. admitted the attack on MALTA but said nothing about
the ILLUSTRIOUS. They claim having gotten 12 German dive-bombers.
Testerday's air score: 5 British, 5 German.
Received Zed shipments 100, 101 and 102 (pouches 584 and 367,
117, and 352, dispatched from Washington, 20, 23 and 26 December,
respectively.
SATURDAY,
The B.B.C. claimed 10 more definite and 5 probably German dive-
18 January
bombers in mother attack on MALTA.
The ALBANIAN and LIBYAN theatres haven't such to report, though
I dom't believe things are at all quiet there. The fall of TOBROX
is expected from day to day.
Testerday's air secre: $ British, 2 German.
-997-
The B.B.C. reported the retaining of KASSALA - the sum-
NISHIPLAN border - that - sprising of natives against the Ital-
in rule had been quietly supported by a commission of British
officers for - time. Maile Salassie is reported back is ETHIO-
PIA, rallying the faithful behind his.
Testerday's air secre: 1 British, 2 German.
MONDAY,
The 0065 B.B.C. reported that our State Department transmitted
20 January
- apology for mob action in SAN FRANCISCO where the Smstika -
pulled down firm from the German Consulate. The BERLIN norming papers
carried the story, stating that two members of the USS CRAVEN crew
were responsible.
The RUSSIAN Naval Attache called on no this afternoon, and after
and hour tacking and weaving, be mentioned his curiosity concerning
figures of the German Havy. I had nothing for his but together 90
computed complements and came to an estimate of about 75 to 80,000
for seagoing navel duties, and another 75,000 for Coast Artillery
which is part of the Naval Establishment, and which is at present
stationed from Northern NORWAY to GULF OF BISCAY. (Report R-62 of n
January).
Missed hearing the President's inaugural address due to being
out to dinner. The 0045 B.B.C. did not comment such on it.
Testerday's air score: o British, 5 German.
The B.B.C. claims 57 German Stukas (dive-bombers) shot down in
the MEDITERRANEAN in the last three days.
TUESDAY,
The SWEDISH Naval Attached called on me during the morning to
21 January
en ist U.S. Navy aid in getting U.S. export licenses for three See-
dish tankers now in U.S. waters (Report R-61 of 21 January).
cfroit
Closed out pouch No. 505 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-228-
TUESDAY,
Testerday's air score: o British, 8 German.
£1 January
(continued)
REDNESDAY,
Today's prede and radio amounted yesterday's meeting of the
22
January twis landersy just where it took place or what was discussed runde
matters of conjecture. Preperations for spring house-eleeming, prob-
ably in the Balkan theatre, doubthes - is for full consideration.
The evening B.B.C. news broadeast admitted 30,266 BAT British
merchant shipping sunk during the second week in January (ending 18th),
died dialmed this figure will bakew the last six death's
TRUESDAY,
The B.B.C. also announced that the B.L.F. asseult on TOBRUX had
25 January
started.
the British Admiralty admitted the loss of the destroyer DEPARTON
up undersator emplosion off the MANUAL Coast.
The German O.K.W. reports one of their raiders having sunk 51,000
BRT additional.
The Australian troops took TOBRUK and are keeping the Itelians on
the run.
Attended the monthly Horeher luncheon. There was quite a large
attendance and a large quota of German guests.
Yesterday's air score: 5 British, 1 German.
FRIDAY,
One of our Vice Consula, Mr. Rose, reported a conversation he had
24
January
with Lieut.Comir. Mometti, aide to the Italian naval linison officer
in Berlin, last night. (Reports R-73, 74, and 75 of 25 January).
Testerday's air score: 1 British, o German.
SATURDAY,
Lieut.Comdr. Graubart returned from SWITZERLAND.
26 January
The B.B.C. announced the arrival of the bettleship KING GEORGE 1
in ANNAPOLIS with Lord Halifax, the new Ambassador on board.
Mr. Willkie arrived in LISBON emroute LONDON.
The Australian troops are comtinuing to push the Italians and are
now neer BERNA,
Received Zed shipment 103, pouches 293 and 464.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, o German.
SUNDAY,
The Attache lumcheon on Thursday wasn't so smooth after all.
X
Jenuary
The Japanese Military Attache, Major General Okamoto, had first de-
climed to attend, and then in the last hour had telephoned his accept-
ance. Re as seated at one of the finger tables, just around the cor-
ner from the head table. This apparently wounded his military pride,
especially as the Chinese Militery Attache set at the hand table, and
reportedly advertised his exalted position and the Jap's lewer - by
profesely mailing at and toasting everyone in sight. I was at the
other end of the head table and unfortunately missed this empuisite bit
of Oriental torture. At any rate, the Japanese N.A. w greatly offend-
ed, lodged a protect with the Deam, Colonel Juhlin Desmfelt (SWIDEN),
who is the sould of protosol (having been N.A. is RIGA for six years
and is BEELIN for almost eight). refused to accept Juhlin Deumfolt's
apology and reported his to the Attache Group.
Yesterday's air score: o British, 0 German.
229
Last night's B.B.C. quarted American reserts of ricking in
Berthern Itely - - MILAS and TRIBUTS, which reports tend to esimeido
with other reports and Funore to the effect that Italy is repidly
F-3
filling - with Common troops and Gestape. Muscelini - to be
needing more and nore "protection" from de General overlord.
The B.B.C. also announced Billkie's arrival in LONDON juster-
1
Closed poush No. 98 to go out via BEAN and LISBON.
-280-
The B.B.G. - deleging Legges of 69,000 mer for the
third vesk of Junuary - 84,700 202 British, 25,500 BEF Neutral.
Testerday's dr - 0 British, 5
the British Matrolity assumed the less of the subserias
(1086 teme).
Great Matral Insder - & MP talk to the shipperd workers
at Boothing which - breadeasted in all German shipyards. the
highlights - that no power on earth - DETO SINGLAND, and that
GERMANY would build a Nevy worthy of a World Power.
REDUESDAY,
The death of General Metams, the Greek Prime Maister, -
29 January
amounted. I hope the Greeks have a good, hard hitting relief to
him.
The O.K.W. reports a U-boat having smit 11,500 BET. This to
the first mention of 5-boat activity since 19 January and the
amount reported is rather misportant. Apparently the U-boats
aren't having such happy husting any more.
Testerday's air score: o British, 1 German.
THURSDAY
Mr. Ritler addressed the World from the Berliner Sportspalast
SO
January
on the 0th emiversary of the Nesis' seisure of power. His speech
followed the usual pattern, starting in calaly and working up to
a tonsil tearing erossendo about two-thirds the my through. In-
stead of starting his historical introduction with 1918, he backed
up to 1871 for his take-off. Re was back in his old bearhall form
with pleaty of sereersm. to to threats for the U.S., I didn't get
any particular reaction out of his speech. First, that at the be-
ginning of the war be and his General Staff had explored all possi-
bilities for their ensuies and they were still sure of victory. Be
had to say something to his hangers-on, and he couldn't say less.
Second, my ship proceeding to ENGLAND, whether convoyed or not, would
be torpedoed. That had been previously stated, in effect, is the
German deslaration of blockade on ENGLAND. Third, that if AMERICA
entered the war, EUROPE would defend itself. Bad be said less on
any of these points, the German morale would have suffered.
The statement that the war would take a spurt in the Spring
was no surprise to anyone. It would probably be going on with con-
siderably greater intensity right now if the weather permitted.
The B.B.C. amounced the capture of DERMA in LIBYA, and the
continuation of the push to the Southeast to drive the Italians out
of all AFRICA except TUNIS.
Testerday's air score: o - o, and the German plane reported
lost day before yesterday, has returned to the fold.
FRIDAY,
A U-boat is reported to have sunk 20,000 BAT of enemy shipping.
51 January
The DANISH Naval Attache called on ne this morning and gave no
the information reported in Alusna 311600 to Opnav and Report R-97
of 1 February 1941.
The Italian communique reports the bombing of SUKZ and ISMAILA
by the German Flying Corps.
Testerday's air score: 12 British barrage balloons, 1 German
plane.
-251-
SATURDAY,
Miss Signid Schults of the Chicago Tribune, Mr. Maresh of
1 February the Christian Science Monitor, and Mr. - of Pross Wireless,
left BERLIN last night enroute home via LISBON.
Hith Signid good, our crop of fantastic runors will drop
practically to sero.
Received Sed shipment No. 2 (poushes 455 and 420), disputabed
from Washington 6 January. Pouth No. 580, listed - this oblyment,
was not received, but will probably arrive in the amt day of too.
Testarday's air soore: 0 - 0.
The B.B.C. reported that the Germans were continuing the you-
February sure on FRANCE with the objective of obtaining all or part of the
FRENCE Fleet and bases is AFRICA. I truet Mairal Lasty will busy
the French spine stiff to stop this violation of Armistics terms.
Testerday's air secre: 1 British, 2 Gerwan.
MONDAY,
Pouch No. 550, missing from Sed Shipment No. 2, - reseived
8 February this norming, - wall as Zed Shipment No. 1, consisting of poush
No. SOL, dispatched from Washington 3 Jenuary 1941.
The B.B.C. tonight empouneed that during January the air
soore - two hundred forty odd easy planes shot im egainst
thirty-fow British. My compilation of German - reports of
Italian communiques (B-108 of 5 February) above that the into
claims 188 British and admite 57 German, 19 Italian.
Testerday's air secre: 8 British, 0 Gerumn.
TUESDAY,
The mid-day B.B.C. - broadeast stated that for the fourth
4 February
week in January, British shipping losses enounted to five ships
of 25,514 MT, and two neutral ships of 5,080 M.
Closed out pouch No. 75 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-252-
O.K.U. superts reider operations in foreign enters to the
$ al 1 5 1 I Y I 1 6
I who 1 I J I
1 . I I a I
to - in - O.K.V. report, tide time for
E a $ and I 1 3 I I a
3 1 I £ I i I LILL 1 a I I
have then - adult there - - air mid - a particular place.
1 - I - I I
The B.B.S. a daylight mid by the R.A.F. - -
in
1
files
I
1
planse
PIN $ I 1 & June i I a $ I I 1 I $
date
1
planes.
Captain Occau, Air Foree, Communder of a Fighter Squidren, &
chieved do 60th air vietory, end is in line for the Oak Leaves to
the Irea Gross.
Yesterday's air secre: 18 British, 5 German.
The B.B.C. announced the safe arrival of the CV "ILLUSTRIOUS"
at ALEXANDRIA from MALTA under her own power. What - excellent preo-
tical refutation of all the O.K.W. and Italian communique boken!
FRIDAY.
BENGASI - captured yesterday according to a B.B.C. annomos-
9 February
next. Once General Nevell's Army got underway it moved with a ra-
pidity that dassled the Italians and the world.
The O.K.N. again reports & 5-boat sinking two ships totaling
12,000 BRT. in 8-boat (PT) is reported to have sunk a coastrise
stoomer off the East Cossrt of HIRKAND.
Testerday's air soore: 2 British, o Germen.
SATURDAY
The cold weather broke oversight and this norming the streets
8 February
are soupy with alush. The main thoroughfares had been fairly wall
eleared of snow by French and Belgian prisemers, but the ourbs and
parkage strip were piled high.
Received Zed shipments No. 5 - poushes Nos. 517, 448 and 12 -
via LISBON and BERN.
The Gurson pross date - increase in the death list at DUB-
SELDOMP from 5 reported on 5 February, to 56 reported today.
The Italian communique admite evasuating BENGASI in order to
spare the Italian and mative civil pepulation.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, o Germen-
SUNDAY,
The than continues and today we have a drissle to make this
9 February place over more uninviting.
The B.B.C. late tomight announced that Admiral Darlam had re-
placed Flendin in the French Cabinet, and Leval is still out.
-258-
the O.K.N. seports & - benking raid - META. Poor old
2 - de forces have boon booking 10 state Im at
(continued)
about - no 10 - to be as undestrustible
as the of
Testerday's air - 2 British, 2 German.
the B.B.C. anount last sight that their Western
10 February novel furees - rist in Musselini's immeriet of - Not-
- and beakerded - - practical and the
only kind the totals understands. I hope there will be may more in
increasing intensity.
General Nevell's troops are reported 176 miles beyond BENEAST.
At that rate they will - be bounsing Benite out of TRIPULI, and
the U.S. Marines will have to share a stanna with the incoss.
Consul Bodgdom, Acting Consul. General at Berlin, left for daty
in the HAPLES Consulate last night. From frying pas into the fire
describes that move, although the frying pas has been cold since 20
December.
Closed pouch No. 464 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
_994_
The B.B.O. announced that their Minister to Mr
10
hereby
Reginald Heare, had asked for his passports, that
(continued) relations between GREAT BAITAIN and RIMANIA would be Into off
M d interday, 15 February. the statem given - the frimily
attitute of RUMANIA in allowing GREAT troops to - / as a
for - sperations. Should the GERMANS deri mp
thing dom there in the BOUTHEAST, the BRITISH - book the N-
MARITAN eil fields or transportation facilitiesdang be -
without violating my diplomatis nisoties.
The O.K.U. and Corumn pross had 4. lot to say about the Bumber
Squadren of Captain Fliegal which attacked & convey 890 sea miles
met of PORTUGAL, sinking 24,800 Mr and badly denaging four more
ships. Signe 1 - 1040 this - se reported to barre sui
$50,000 BET and damaged a Lerge 1 of any shipping.
German reconnaissence planes are reported to have mehine-
- a British air field in
the Italian comminique nontions the
r
9 February. Mo military damage - dame, of course, and - that
sentence of the item states, 40 calmess and the dissipline of
the Genosse population was beyond all praise." I'll bet it vas
a sight to behold, and could have been heard for miles!
Yesterday's air secre: 2 planes and 4 barrage balloons,
British; 2 German planes.
UNITH
TUESDAY,
The B.B.C. amounced their shipping lesses for the week ont-
11 February ing 2 February: 11 British ships of 44,400 BRT, $ Allied ships
of 18,800 BRT and 1 Neutral of 3,000 BET, total 61,200 Mr. -
vary lesses were said to have averaged 54,000 BRY weekly.
The O.K.W. reports that the British daylight raid - the
CHANNEL coast was broken up before it started and that the British
lost 9 planes thereby.
The British night raiders were over Destern GERMANY last sight.
INTONA
Be had a pre-alars that is, alare in the next some, "stand-hy" in
this one - last night. HANNOVER and BRAINSCHWEIS eaught hall, M
did a train enroute HANNOVER to BILL. Possibly as a result of this
a decree has boen issued forbidding - and children riding trains
at night. The Berson Gooring Steel Works near BRAUNSCHREIS suffered
80% damage, lesing one blast furnase (Aluses dispatch 161000, No.,
and $ Report B-124 of 15 Feb.). The O.K.W., of course, stated that
no military or industrial damage was done and the fee fires that
were started could be extinguished quickly.
Lieutemant Colonal Milders achieved his 50th air vietory.
British warships bombarded positions along the FLANDERS Coast,
but were quickly driven off, according to the Germans.
Testerday's air score: $5 British, 2 German.
WEDNESDAY,
Received Sed shipment No. 5 dispatched from Washington 19
12 February January (poush No. 563), via BERN and LISBON. Shipment H is nie-
16A
sing.menthere, and the mail room bean't the feggiest idea
where it my be.
The German O.K.V. upped the damage done w Captain Fliegal's
Bomber Squadron (diary 10 February) to I ships of 29,500 BET smit.
They also upped the British planes shot dom - 10 February
from 85 to as (diary 11 February).
Yesterday's air secret 4 British, 0 German.
: $ $ 1 1 1 a e LILL info 1
a I I 8 2 r I 1 I I .
chilps W - cardidge operating to -
so G.E.S. de reported - blocking of the - -
i r i I I e I I $
The proce reported that LIKENDERS legal currency has been
corrected to the Redebruck - of s and
new frame and (military I.O.S.'S)
1 I of INC. 1
Testerday's air secure: 4 British, $ German.
The O.K.U. stated that the damage dame to the convey sent-
14 Hiresty issued yesterday - 14 ships of approximately 82,000 MY suit.
Baiders operating in the ATLANTIC and overseas waters are reported
to have suit 670,000 - to date.
The Italian communique reports that British paradrute treeps
landed in CALABRIA equipped with machine - onl
demolition charges but were killed or captured before they could
do my damage.
The B.B.C. had a different version, stating waterworks and
rail lines sure blown up, confirming their story with the Italian
report that goods transportation is this area was suspended.
The 3.3.c. kinted at trouble in the FAR EAST, stating that the
Australian Mar Council had had an artraordinary session and would
have another tomorrow. No details, but disquisting implications.
Testerday's air secret 1 plane, 5 barrage balloons, Britikh;
1 Germen plane.
SATURDAY,
The B.B.C. reported that the British bombers were over CELSEN-
16 February
KIRCHEN last night and did considerable damage. The O.K.N. stated
that they - over a city in Western GERMANY and had dropped -
pleaive and incondiary bombs. As usual, only civilians were killed
and only sinor damage was done to residences.
The Italians elaim to have scored a bomb hit on a cruiser of
the CAIRO class (4,200 tons) and on another eraiser.
The British diplomatic and Consular missions left RUMANIA to-
day for TURKEY.
Testerday's air score: 10 British, 1 German.
SUNDAY,
The B.B.C. tonight announced a British nine field in the vi-
16 February ciaity of SINGAPORE. The PAR EASTERN situation is still toushy
but no one has put out any details as to what is going on.
The O.K.N. reports a U-boat having sunk 5 ships of 19,000 MY
total, and a warship operating in overseas waters, whose previous
total was 110,000 BRT, having susk 10,000 NET more.
For the past several nights - have had pea soup fog, which is
undembtedly postponing. the British visit. They have been going to
Testers GERMANY instead.
Yesterday's air secret 10 British, 1 German.
-
The B.B.C. this evening reported a British leaflet raid
Newsy over frothers PULAMB. I stoply - understand the British.
If they risk their planse and - and empend the - for -
I 1 á r a I - a the a I 1
1 PM à a I 1 1 I 1 1 E
these programs understand?
General Outsinn, the nov Japanese Ambassador, arrived this
afternoon for his second tour of duty here.
The O.K.N. reports - E-beat having susk 11,000 BET and
emother reising its figure from 20,000 to 24,000 BRT.
Yesterday's air secret 5 British, 5 German.
TUESDAY,
The seraing papers carried the story of a BUEGARIAM/TUNNISH
18 February deslaration of perpotual peace and friendship. I wonder whose
throat is being prepared for the kmife.
Closed pouch No. 855 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
-287-
MAR 91 1941
H
TUESDAY,
The B.B.C. reported merchantship losses for the X
ending
18 February
10 February as amounting to 29,800 BRT.
(continued)
Testerday's air score: 2 British planes ed 5
loans; 2 German planes.
OFF or OF
NAVAL INTELLIGENCE
WEDNESDAY,
Yesterday's air secre: 1 British, 2 Germen.
19 February
TRUNSDAY,
Attended the monthly attaché Sunshean at Scrober's. There
20
February
- no guests, and the outgoing Iii) Miltary Attache was not
present. The Swedish Neval Attache told no that it was "SOMARN-
HORST" and who destroyed the British cenvoy in the
ATLANTIC about 12 February (Aluses 261400 and B-189 of an Feb.).
Testerday's air secret $ British, 2 German.
FRIDAY,
The morning press amounted that German Noval and Mr forces
21
February
had destroyed 127,600 set of easay skipping during - wet 8/0
February (24187 of al February). This is oub I with
the British report (10 February above) by state me.
Lieut.Comdr. Graubart visited the Soviet Naval Attache and
obtained the information contained in Aluma 221180 of 22 Feb.
and R-138 of 24 February.
Testerday's air soore: 2 British, o German.
SATURDAY,
Washington's birthday. Last year the had the first break in
22 February
a 60 day freesing stretch. This morning we had a fairly heavy
snowfall after a week or more of clear weather with temperatures
above freezing.
Last night ended the ninth successive week without an air
alara in Berlin.
Received Zed shipmentsNo. 6 (pouches Nos. 325 and 355) and
No. 7 (pouches Nos. 353), dispatched from Washington on 24 and
27 January, respectively.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, 0 Gernan.
SUNDAY,
The O.K.W. for 22 February published in this morning's press
23 February
reports that Geram naval forces sank the armed British merchant-
ship CANADIAN CRUISER (7,178 BRT) in the INDIAN OCEAN. The O.K.V.
reparts that the ship was flying the American flag and had American
insignia painted on the sides. The Charge reported this to the
State Department by. telegram.
No air losses reported for yesterday, but the O.K.W. states
that between 12 and 22 February, = enemy planes were shot down
and numerous others destroyed on the ground. German losses in
the same period were 15 planse.
MUNDAY,
Closed pouch No. 335 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
24 February
-256-
the Due - to Me thester underlings yesterday and, in
a 1 I a È € I r I à
a I TRU E a $ $ 1 I 1 1 $
I I I I I a i 6
I 4 I 1 . o I
Instaring's att-day papers - that the Poster would
quick that at 5 o'clask - sum - the expends - to be
- - a speeth - mine at Have - consumed approxi-
mindy - - - and - datelly a - Mr. Miler's
struggle for power and the righting of - implood - Commany at
Versuilles. Other then the through of intensified warfare
against the British, to bagin in April, the speech - little name
them - resinging of the femilier last based a the Yes-
sailles Treaty.
the B.B.C. has at last commented - the German claims regarding
=-10
the attack - a British - in the Atlentic - 12 Pointary, in
which attack the Gurum O.E.N. claimed the entire contry of 14 chips
totaling 82,000 me, had bom destroyed. the B.B.C. version is that
the - comptimed of 10 ships, - attached - 12 Pobruary off
the Assres. Team of the ships have reached part safely, five are
to have born sunk, while the remaining four are not yet -
due. Including the lesses sustained is this attack, the British
admit 57,600 BRT shipping lest during the week 9/16 Pobruary.
Testerday's air secre: 1 British, o German.
This norning's German press — that Runnie is to have
February
a plobissite - Sunday, 2 March - to vote "yes" of - on the
question of Government by Anteneses & Oo. the ballot will have
the superfluies " cross blank appearing thereon only to give the
record a feint trace of legality. German remote control will retain
intensess with at least 99.45 majority.
The Balken buile is buiging with persentous singivings; re-
ports and runors are continually circulating about German troop nove-
nests in the humanian/Del.gurion area; Men, following a short visit
to Reypt, is on kis may to Amkara, to arrive this afternoon, for
important discussions with Turkish Government end military leaders.
I under if the Germans will wait for the passage of the incrices
Loud-Lease Bill before starting south to recour their Fascist mar
boby merconed in Albemin? Certainly such German action would be
wall-timed to commer-ast the immense significance of the passage
of the Lond-Lease Bill.
The information contained in Aluma-Berlin talegres 201400
(February) and Report R-186 of 21 February, relative to the basing
of German httleships and heavy eraisers - Prost, appears to have
some confirmation in the fact that the B.B.C. last night assounced
that as air attack had boom made on the dooks at Brest the night be-
fore, where a eraiser of the Admiral Hipper class was among the
targets boabed.
Testerday's air soote: 5 British, 0 German.
Both the B.B.C. and local press report the death on 24 Feb.
27 February
of Vice-Admiral trusted de la Periere, of World-Mar I 5-boat fume.
Admiral Periere - German neval commendent of French occupied terri-
tory. Details of his death are lacking the German press attribute
-230-
it to the 3.3.6, is its - informed - that
(
1
-
I
I
first
-
1
of
-
Breat
Motrict.
I
1
with
1
I
Maletry
$
Parts.
Univer
Me
are
the
-
1
Visa-
Matral
I
to
1
I
Matural probobly) the Floot, to - #
-
I
1
-
stral Berray, with Motriet Communicate at Borgen, Visa-Minical
- Schrodor, of probably ⑉ at Oale and - in brinn Hereby.
the Swedish Purliament has authorized - additional $6,000,000
Krease for defense to German dominance of Seeden is
a proting will established fast the defense appropriation must be
labeled
Local proce comment on the American Loud-Lease mill, - under
Senshe discussion, is chiefly confined to the remarks of the -
nexts of the Mill.
The British imbasseder to Mossow, Sir Stafford Cripps, is fly-
ing to Amizara today for conference with Mien and his party, who are
in session with Turkish Government and military efficials.
Testerday's air secre: 27 British, 10 German.
28 February PRIDAY, years, even then he was Military Attache here, worked for the Three
General Oction, the now Japanese Imbassador, the one the for
Power Past, was reseived by the Fashrer at Bereirtengaden today.
I don't expect my good to come out of that meeting.
The O.K.W. reports that long-range bombers senk nine ships of
58,000 BET and badly damaged seven others out of a courvey 270 sea
miles west of Ireland.
Lieut.Comdr. Pibl west on leave to accompany his wife, who is
carouts to the U.S., as far as Lisbon.
Testerday's air score: 0 British, 0 German.
SATURDAY
Balgaria - industed into the Three Power Past and the you
1 March
Order at moon today, with the usual Avis pomp, circumstance and fire-
works. the hasn't been handed the bill for the initiation fee yet,
but it will be pleaty. for joining want entirely a surprise, but
after the herois Greek resistance I expected her spine to be stif-
fened sufficiently to remain neutral, at least.
Grosse, to open the jaws of the Albanian bear trap and let Mescolini
Germany will now be able to put a great deal of squeese on
free.
There is a story is limited circulation that last summer or
60 million live (8 million dollar)bribe to stage a revelution. the
fall, Musselini approached the brother of the Greek King with a
King's brother consulted with Hotama who advised his to take the
may and play along with the Italians. Homoe, the lack of Italian and
discomfiture when the Greek pushover did not materialise -
preparation for the compaign and great Italian emberrasment 28
October 1940. It may be only symbolic but I hope it's true. If
-240-
SATURDAY
the Greeks have to conclude a separate pease with Italy by reason
IT
of Rither's pressure and if there's my - like 80 million life
(continued)
specified for Grosse to My Italy, the 11 met be true.
Today is the 6th enniversary of the fouling of the present
Ger
Germa Mr Force.
the pross today reports the funeral services for Visa Medical
do la Perriers hold is Paris. Admiral Schurter delivered the funeral
cration. The pross article did not definitely state so, but informed
that Vice Admiral de la Perriere was killed in & plane crush entroste
to Berlin there he me to receive a now assignment.
Testerday's air secre: 2 British, o German.
SUNDAY,
Insterday's papers had a lot of hoadlines about the 740,000 MP
March
reported sunk by Havy and Air Force. This report with criticism is
reported in B-188 of 4 March.
Today's papers are, of course, full of the world stirring -
trance of Bulgaria into the hanguan's noose.
Testerday's air secre: 1 British, 0 German.
MONDAY,
The papers quote the usual run of back-alapping telegrous w-
5 March
twoom Ritler, Ribbentrop, King Boris, Fileff, Eing Bearnal, Masselini,
Ciamo, Materika and Oshima.
On Saturday night the R.A.F. visited IKJ in a very thorough
fashion. Not only the B.B.C. claims it but the O.K.W. report eduits
18. According to the latter, only hospitals, and residences
were kit, as www.
The Soriet Neval Attachs, who, insidentally, - promoted to
Captain - 1 March, called on no today. In discussing the process
situation, he mentioned various items reported in Alume-Derlin tale-
gree 051415 and B-158, 154 and 155 of 4 March. In comestion with
the Gorman compation of Bulgaria, be remarked that it now opened
the read for the British to boath humanian oil fields, class they
would not have to fly over neutral territory. be mid that Runsia
obtained gaseline from Runanta in exchange for grain and cotton, of
that if the eil fields were bombed and humanis could not deliver -
line, Russia, of course, couldn't deliver grain. I resulted that -
may would then have to get more sil from Russia, to which be said
"quite 80", but that the price would go up.
la view of the recial and other relations existing between M-
garia and Seviet Russia, I asked his what - Bussia doing about
Bulgeria's extrance late the And company. be said they was't
doing smything, but were thinking a let.
I tried to find out sex Bussia planned to put process a -
east Turkey while the Cormas marched across the vestern et late
Syria and themse Egypt of I have to secre that - -
a wild pitch because he didn't oven notice it.
no inquired if I was being shadowed. I told his I dan thisk
I was, - a Gestage could probably get all the information . ,
novements from w German shouffer without & grost deal of terture.
Captain said that be had been followed recently by - care
and that - time be had given then a trip unal
the Grosser Mers, a circle about the sise of Depent Circle. B.
Woods, our Commercial Attachs, Lieut,Oul. Beharthal, 14.00l. -
ma, and Major Lovell, Assistant Military Attaches, have been fai-
loved by care and usually they have played - presk or other -
-241-
I
-
lost
I
to
labor
decerved
t
I
Issued
I
deffer's
lunchoon
I
I
- bio Leaving the building
publici
min-book
1
observed
- be to to has no-
were similarly
fullowed
in
April
1989,
the
at in of 1000 - '80 when
- - a little temps. I whole - is a
burlange. to - - telephones - tapped and - conings and
goinge have born discrectly observed the utolo time. Therefore I
can't - the very obview hereoplay sou.
a Bootle's Novel Attache called a so shortly after the Seviet
left. no sine and Captain Possri's (Italism) detectment the of
of time north, Gapbain Forshall will become Dean of the Noval #
teshop'. be - convinced, of at least puts - a goid not, that
Germany is invisoible and that it's all over but the shouting.
Hells be - talling - the - reported in B-155 of 4 March,
Captain Yes Schwerin, the Swedish Asst. Military Attache, was tel-
ling Major Lovell the same story. I dom't say the Seedes would 4-
liverately give - a "plent", but I believe it to be one just the
same. The Greek, Captain Constantinides, used to be charged with
then. They have often bom fed to our pross representatives the
have generally viewed then with cold suspicion, like a welf smal-
ling a chunk of peisoned meet.
The German radio states that the British Admiralty admite the
loss of the oseart vessel EXECUR (900 toms).
Received 2nd shipments 8 (poush 215), 9 (pouch 582) and 10
(pomh 387) via Lisbon and Born.
Testerday's air score: 1 British, 0 German.
TUESDAY,
Lieut.Comir. Grasbart left early this morning to attend the
4 March
Spring Pair at Leipuig, which vas opened Bunday by Dr. Goobbels.
The B.B.C. quoted Moscow last night to the effect that the 80-
vist Union was distinctly not tiskled pink over Bulgaria's action
in joining the Three Power Past. Maybe the "Drang Bach Ostem" will
start soon? Quien sabe?
Closed pouch No. 812 to go out via Bora and Lisbon. It may be
the last if the Lond-Lease Bill goos through and the Japs give B.
Hitler may at all. However, since August 1959, I have
assumed each pouch to be the last I could get out, and the very
first one, the one with the 1959 Annual Air Report, was the biggest
headache of the lot.
-242-
the B.B.C. British chipping leases for the week
enting as February as being 60,850 of (18 British and 1 Noutral)
(continued)
This figure falls emalderchly under - Gereen claim of
me
ank the the - period (277,000 ser by 8-beats and surface
are W Mr Fother) . - in the - O.K.N.
Weekly howlow of the Mr.
the security d the plobiosite hold Sunday, 2 March,
- in - were - 2,000,000 w billets
entersing as against - 2000 - discombers,
- glves about a m.s. to the Insis -
quart of human. A addelight interesting to about is the fact
that before the Aussion/Iungariom/Dulgariss curve-up last
year, had a population of 19,000,000. Estimating that at least 10
to 12 million still resais in shat is left of the country, it would
appoir - - - of votere - have too constrolled, is a
large monthly W the that Sclection Board.
is interesting red letter hand line in one of yesterday's
I I a $ 1 e I 1 the
testioning" - refereing to the - - *yeassful* taking dor
of - interesting is the - is the pross
that from today on the bleshout will be enforeed throughout all of
Bulgaria. The moral of this seems to be - "When Hitler marches in
the lights go out!"
The B.B.C. this evening announced that a special courier had
been sent by Mitler to Ankara with a measage to the Turicish Provi-
demt. Is this the beginning of stronger Gernan diplomatic pressure
on Turkey to sever her British tie-up "or else?" I imagine that the
Krealia foundation is starting to quiver just a little, for Stalia
met foresse that his turn is not far distant. Spring weather in
the Balimos will bring lots of other things than the singing of
birds and budding of trees and flowers.
No air losses reported.
WEDNESDAY
Lieut. Comdr. Graubart returned last night from his trip to
5 March
Leipsig. According to him, the Fair is a distinct flop, the ex-
OP-16-A
hibits being chiefly furs and nick-nacks, with the technical section
completely closed.
No air losses reported.
THURSDAY
The Italian Naval Attache called on no in connection with our
6 Barch
autual detachments from Berlin the end of this month. He is to get
commend of the BOLZANO (10,000 tons), 8 - 8 inch guns, 1952. Ris
relief will be Captain di Angels, until recently in commend of &
7,000 ton cruiser.
Captain Pecari stated that the battleship CERARE was fully
repaired and the DIULIO is just about finished repairs after the
3
damage received at TARANTO. Be said that the BOLZANO had not been
hurt there.
Be has always been extremely skeptical of plane vs. ship, and
is beginning to add U-boat vs. warship to his list of things to be
suspicious about. Be thinks U-boats are all right against morebent-
ships, but, outside of the ROYAL OAK and COURAGEUUS at the beginning
of the var, they haven't shown much success against properly armed
and protected warships.
-243-
FRIDAY,
Yesterday's O.K.N. reported a U-boat having susk 8,000 BET,
7
March
today's reports a U-boat sinking 2 ships totaling 12,061 BRT.
No air losses reported.
SATURDAY,
The British Admiralty admitted the loss of the destroyer DAINTI,
8 March 1875 toms.
Last December, the Spenish Neval Attache noved his wife and four
children to Medrid to escape the bookings in Berlin. They avaided
two raids. They returned this week, bombs or no bombs, in order to
get something to eat as Spain is in a very sad condition senserning
food. Captain Espinosa has & place ready in Bavaria should the beach-
ing business pick up again.
No have had some nice clear nights recently, with a growing moon,
but never sight or sound of the R.A.F.
No air losses reported yesterday.
SUNDAY,
In addition to our being trailed, I have heard very reliably
9 March
that the Under-Secretary in the Foreign Office has issued instructions
discouraging social contacts with Americans. Should they meet - at
parties, etc., they were to be polite and correct, but - more. How
that the Lease-Lond Bill has passed the Senate and requires only minor
adjustments with the House, I imagine it won't be so long will their
attitude becomes absolutely frigid.
Testerday's papers carried an article to the effect that Presi-
demt Roosevelt had turned the heat on the Jugoslev Minister is hat-
ington through Mr. Summer Welles about 10 February, to keep Jugeslavia
from joining the Nov Order. Today's B.B.C. reported that Gererary had
given Jugoslavia a week in which to declare her position. Tought going
for that little country! Even if they Np up with the Aris and the
Axis wins, they're due to be carved up.
I was such elated over the fact that the State Dept. has bound
the Italian Consulates out of Detroit and Newark and has put mild -
trictions on their military personnel is Washington. The only -
for complaint is that they didn't put the same serews - Germany. No
have been restricted in our movements here since August 1988, and made
prisoners of Berlin in August 1939. Our Consulates in Breslan, Preg
and Densig have been closed. What are - waiting for?
The B.B.C. also announced that B. is shout to leave
Tokie for a visit to Moseow and Berlin. with any definite
from him, Mr. Ritler will have the war on - toste de suite.
Testerday's O.K.W. report claimed 45,000 BRT and too 1080 tom 4-
stroyers sunk by S-boats (PT).
MONDAY, 10 March feal very strongly that this may be the last. Captain Pickhards
Closed pouch No. no to go out via Mrs end Lisbon. Again I
should have left You York Saturday, 8 March, and if the blow holds off
three more weeks I'll get away normally; otherwise it may be a long
time before I get to sea duty again.
-244-
Cummer Pibl returned free LISBON by air.
SPAIN, especially regarding transportation and feed, is in a
(continued) any plight. LISBUR, with its suiden empension as the erossroads
of NEXPS, is protty - of a
the Halian resetion to the Lease-Land Bill is that "the U.S.
will experience - unplanement surgrises in the PACIFIC." The Ger-
- resertion to that "GENMANT will - what to do then President
Receivelt signs the Mill Wednesday." Seunds oninous!
Testerday's air secres 3 British, o German.
The British Admiralty admite 41 destroyers lost to date. GER-
MANY claims 45.
The B.B.C. stated that 29 ships totaling 149,058 BET, were lost
during the work ending 3 March, saking it the third highest week of
the war.
Captain Forouson called on Liest.Comdr. Graubart to discuss a
runer he had heard of nine German submarines which had been shipped
to CONSTANZA on the BLACK SEA. The Russian appears a bit worried
over present developments.
No air losses reported for yesterday.
WEDNESDAY,
The Swedish Neval Attached called to tell no that the next
12 March
Attache luncheon to be held at Horeher's on 19 March had been can-
called as all of the Military Attaches were to be taken on a trip
to BELGIUM and FRANCE from 19 - 25 March. The Attache Group of the
Havy Ministry had told his that the Havy would give - an outing
later on.
Lieut.Comdr. Childs, R.M.R., who was the British Asst. Naval
Attache at BOTTERLAM, and who is now interned at RHEINSBERG (about
50 miles m of BERLIN), awaiting exchange, called at the Foreign
Representation Section of the Embassy and on this office. His per-
sonal Gestapo left him at the Embassy door at 0930 and rejoined him
at 1730.
The O.K.W. report claims 2,057,000 BRT sunk during the four
winter months (Report B-172 of 13 March).
There has been a tendency in the official communiques lately
not to give day by day air losses, but to lump them for four or five
days. Today the communique states that from 6 to 11 March the losses
were 11 British, 9 German planes.
THURSDAY,
After 82 days since 20 December 1940, the long assited R.A.F. raid
18 March
arrived at 0030. Weather conditions were ideal for the defense - the
moon was full, not a cloud in the sky and the atmosphere unusually
clear for Berlin. The planes flew at about 8 - 10,000 feet. Search-
light control was excellent. The individual planes were picked up
and held in a "wagon wheel" of searchlight beans which the planes
could not shake off. The A.A. threw everything they had from 88a,
105e and 180s, figuratively including gun tube and sectional remers,
without causing so much as a wing flutter. At times it appeared as
if direct hits had been scored, but when the burste had cleared away
there would be the plane paddling along on course and
speed. A single plane would come over about every 20 minutes. A
total of 9 were soon in the searchlight beans up to about 0530. Ap-
parently, no bombs were dropped by these scouts. About 0580 a larger
group came over, fairly high - about 20,000 feet. The searchlights
did not pick them up at all. A few bomba were dropped, two within
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TOO yurds of ay howe in One demelished the too upper
stortes of - opertment house and do-reafed - adjulning buildings.
(continued)
200 other full haralocoly is a mail aquare. & suries of $ benies
Mt a egartment - new Plate, billing - counding
about 80/80 people is the collar. A fire which burned as nimutes
- started in the Monbit district. the official communique adults
26 people billed, # ununded, bet only the curtomary deallings, -
pátalo, al consteries Mt. They claim 10 british planes
shot which and have taken place somesbere also, and admit
losing 6 of their oth.
Received Sed shipments 18 (poush No. 475) and 14 (poush No.
189) via LISSON and BERM.
FRIDAY,
The O.K.N. reports 15 British planes shot down yesterday - 6
14 March
fighters in air fights over the south coast of Regland, and 9
bonbers by night fighters and A.A. over northwest Germany. Berlin
amaited smother attack, but the R.A.F. remained true to their tre-
dition of no raids on Berlin on a Thursday night.
Seidel, the Neval Attache's chauffeur since 1920, is convinced
that we are coming into the war. At least be told - that when he
- no notice that he me quitting 1 April. Be has a new job
picked out, driving for some Government agency, which assures his of
old age pension.
SATURDAY,
The Gestapo seised Mr. Botwet of the U.P. at their usual -
15 March
godly early morning hour, searched his room and his desk at the
office and hustled him off to jail on the charge of suspected -
pionage. Although they assured Mr. Oschaner, head of U.P. in Ber-
lim that it - not a reprisal move for Mr. Zapp and Trans-Ocean
at home, it very probably is. Consuls Intes and Hurst investigated
the affair for the Embassy. Mr. Hottelet is held incommunicado
until the investigating judge determines whether or not the charge
is sufficiently grounded to bring his to trial.
Saw Lieut. Comdr. Besthorn, Chief of the Naval Attache Group,
at a reception this afternoon. Be said that he was leaving tomor-
row (16 March) for a 12 day trip to Belgium and France with the
Japanese Mission.
Yesterday's air score: 1 British, 0 German.
SUNDAY,
President Roosevelt's Lend-Lease speech was made about 0850
16 March
local time. Radio conditions were poor and we haven't a copy of
it. The B.B.C. rebroadcast extracts of it at 1000 and 1300, which
could leave no doubts in anybody's mind as to the U.S. attitude.
In his Heldengsdenktag (Memorial Day) address at noon, Mr.
Hitler had no comments.
Heard at a luncheon today that Ritler called the Commander
MORNAY to Berehtesgaden and give his unmitigated hall for allowing
the British raid on LOFOTEN. He may consider it as a serious blow
for German prestige, but he will have to expect more and more tip
and run raids along his entire occupied coast line.
All of the leading personalities were at the Arnory for Hit-
ler's speech except Goaring. Be is therefore either in Belgium
or in the Balkans directing the next big push.
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MONDAY,
The British Admiralty admite the loss of the submarine SHAPPER
17 March (670 toms) as being long overdue.
The Aray Attache Group called off the propost Military Attache
outing scheduled for 19/25 March, indicating that either 1) a lot
of action is going to take place in Belgium and Northern Prence about
that time, or 2) that the projected action in some other part of
EUROPE has boom delayed. They always try to have foreign Attaches
out of town when a big push is starting.
There was no resction to President Roosevelt's speech in the
norning papers. It's remarkable how such these people will take
until they can get Japanese assurances.
At the Irish Charge's reception this afternoon, Borr Reinbardt
of the Foreign Office told Mr. Woods, our Commercial Attache (dissy
15 March), that w. gottalet would be released is a starts if b.
Zapp of Trans-Ocean were released in the U.S. Just what I surported
in the first place.
TUESDAY,
The German Propaganda Ministry has determined its reaction to
18 March President'Roosevelt's speech and yesterday's afternoon papers carried
it. The old, old theme is regurgitated - America has me business in
European affility, America need have no fear of Masi invesion, no help
on earth can save England, E. Roosevelt has only words, but the Pub-
rer has deeds.
Closed pouch No. 325 to go out via BERN and LISBON.
NUMBER
-247-
Attended the réservients by the BY Japamese Ambassador Oshime.
for 001. Breithaupt, Air Force, the has boen away since the outbreak
(continued) of var. b teld - the two seppeline were dismentled and the bangars
blown - st the beginning of war (Report R-180 of 19 March).
Attended a farewall dinner given by the Swedish Naval Attache.
Testerday's air score: 4 British barrage balloons, o German.
WEDNESDAY,
The O.K.W. yesterday reported a U-boat sinking five ships of
19 March
55,500 BET. Today it reports 16,500 BRT by two U-boats and two
ships of 10,000 BRT by 8-boat (PT).
The German communique now carries the report, first quoted under
a Rome date-line, then given in yesterday's Italian communique, that
German reconnaissance planes torpedoed two British battleships south
of CRETE on 16 March. The nature of the reporting gives its veracity
a slight odor.
Testerday's air score: 5 British, 1 German.
THURSDAY,
Uboats are reported to have sunk 59,500 BRT out of convoys, in-
20 March
cluding a 20,000 BRT whaling tender, and to have badly damaged 21,000
BRT more of enemy shipping.
Attended Captain Pecori's (Italian) farewell cocktail party. I
expressed surprise at his having so many German naval officers present.
He said, "Ah, but I have worked with these officers".
Saw Captain Kiderlen who was the Chief of the Attache Group in
1938 at the party. He has been back in Berlin for some time but not on
the free list to accept invitations.
Rear Admiral Fricke (Report R-657 of 30 November) tackled no again,
this time over the "Help England Law" as the Lease-Lend Bill is known.
Be has a very determined, serious manner, and, quite unusually, talks
lower and lower as he gets steam up. He spoke of the near impossibility
of preventing friction, now and then reverted to the old theme-song about
"No power on earth can save ENGLAND now". I had listened quietly for a
long time, only once requesting his to repeat because I couldn't hear
over the chatter of the KT party, which threw him for a five yard loss,
but at the last smark I turned on the biggest smile I can muster and
quietly said - "That's your opinion, Admiral." He stopped short, looked
at no with expression changing from annoyance to a lame smile. Others
joining of an instant or two later prevented further conversation. Rear
Admiral Fulls, of the Shipbuilding Section, tried similar tactics on my
wife and was an easy put out. The rest of the group that we always see -
Schulte Montings, Freiwalds, Klusemann, von Krosigk, van Willen Schoulten
were just as pleasant and friendly as they have always been to us. Von
Wahlert, the German Naval Attache to Stockholm, who before the war was
the German director for General Motors, was present and just as "simpat-
100" as ever.
Yesterday's air score: 4 British, o German.
FREDAY,
Remained at home today waiting for the packers to appear. They did
21 March
not, but gave my household staff a long story that they couldn't come
until Tuesday.
Heard at dinner tonight that Lufthansa is cancelling flights to
Lisbon as of 1 April. To godal And I have reservations for 8 Aprill
-248-
FRIDAY,
Testerday's O.K.V. elaimed 69,000 BET sunk out of a convoy by
21 March
U-boats, off the Nest Coast.
(continued)
SATURDAY,
Lufthansa called no up to say that everything was in order con-
22 March
cerming my flight to Lisbon, thank God.
The packers came quite unexpectedly just as I was leaving for
the office this morhing.
The O.K.W. proudly reported the destruction of 22 ships total-
ing 116,000 BRT by a formation of the German Navy under Admiral
Latjens, operating in the NORTH ATLANTIC.
SUNDAY,
The press is full of the wonderful achievement of the German
25 March
Navy, going out into the big ocean with heavy units to destroy con-
voys. Britain had better use a lot of air reconnaissance pretty
quickly to spot these raiders from afar, and to carry enough escort
per convoy to deal with them.
Received a telegram from Alusna Madrid that Captain Pickhardt
had left there 2000 yesterday.
MONDAY,
16-A
Received Zed Shipm ente 15 (pouch 259) and 16 (pouches 142 and 247)
24 March
via Lisbon and Bern.
The siren howled at 2305 last night. No moon, but bright star-
light with a thin, high hase which became apparent in the search-
light beams. There were not many attacking planes and they flew high.
The searchlights did not pick up any of them. There was a lot of in-
effective A.A. shooting. From information gathered to date, there
were very few explosive bombs dropped. The incendiaries burned out
a few attics around the Lietsenburger See neighborhood, the Witten-
burg Plats, and in the vidnity of Horcher's. "Secure" sounded about
0450.
Attended a farewell luncheon at Horcher's given by the Air At-
taches to Major Gripp, Chief of the Air Attache Group, who is leaving
Thursday to become German Air Attache to Switzerland. The luncheon
was really & "Thanks for nothing at all" since the Air Ministry has
been notorious for putting out exactly nothing. The Army does very
well by foreign attaches, the Navy very little, and the Air Force sero.
16-A-
Closed pouch No. 435 to go out via Bern and Lisbon.
-249-