Unveiled: Hidden parts of U 96 discovered in Wilhelmshaven!

Unveiled: Hidden parts of U 96 discovered in Wilhelmshaven!

A remarkable discovery has once again moved the maritime history of Germany into the spotlight. Parts of the famous submarine U 96, known for Lothar-Günther Buchheim's novel "Das Boot", have appeared in Wilhelmshaven, according to new research. In an additional chapter in his book, journalist Gerrit Reichert reports that at least the rear where the diesel engine was housed, and possibly the bug after the submarine of the submarine was left behind.

The U 96, which is considered one of the most used German submarines during the Second World War, sank a total of 29 allied ships with an overall tonnage of 178,651 gross register (BRT). The U 96 is a decisive actor in the "Battle of the Atlantic", where German submarines were made against Allied merchant fleets. The fame of the submarine was particularly consolidated by the film adaptation of the novel published in 1981, which impressively describes life on a submarine.

research and discovery

Gerrit Reichert, who already attracted attention with his book "U 96 - Reality and myth", has together with Dr. Frank Ganseuer, a naval expert from Wilhelmshaven, researched on site for a year. Your investigation illuminates the whereabouts of the submarine and finds that the remains were used in 1948 as filling material for the Grodendamm. This dam, which separates the former war port of Wilhelmshaven from the Banter See, has a direct connection to the history of U 96.

The destruction of the submarine happened on March 30, 1945 by an air raid of the 8th Air Force of the USAAF. Fortunately, there were no crew members on board at this point, which prevented a possible tragedy. U 96 was decommissioned on February 15, 1945 after it had successfully completed its missions. These backgrounds are not only of interest to historians, but also contribute to the living cultural history of Germany.

Reichert's work, which will be published in an expanded edition on October 7, 2024, contains over 150 sometimes unpublished photos of the submarine. These rarities offer a unique insight into life on board and the importance of the U 96 in the Breath of Maritime History. On October 17, Reichert will present his latest discoveries at the Frankfurt Book Fair and are available for discussions.

cultural relevance and new light

The myth of the U 96 not only lives on through literature and film art, but also receives fresh boost through the new research results. U 96 remains a symbol of the struggle for survival at sea during the Second World War and has both historical and cultural dimensions. This makes the submarine a silent witness to the story of Wilhelmshaven, whose remains are still integrated into the structure of the place.