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Hans-Georg HessGerman submarine officer, Oberleutnant
Date of Birth: 06.05.1923
Country:  Germany |
Content:
Oberleutnant Erich Hess
Early Life and Naval ServiceErich Hess was a German naval officer who served as a U-boat commander during World War II. In April 1940, he joined the German Navy as a volunteer. Initially assigned to mine warfare, he transferred to the U-boat fleet in April 1942.
U-Boat Service
Hess embarked on five patrols aboard U-466, primarily operating in the North Atlantic. During his fifth patrol, the submarine was redeployed to the Mediterranean Sea. On October 10, 1944, Hess was appointed commander of U-995, which he led for the remainder of the war.
Arctic Warfare
Under Hess's command, U-995 conducted five combat patrols in Arctic waters, spending a total of 113 days at sea. During these missions, he sank five merchant ships with a combined tonnage of 9,062 gross register tons.
Awards and Recognition
On February 11, 1945, Hess was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross for his wartime achievements. By the end of the war, he had become one of Germany's most successful U-boat commanders.
Post-War Life
After surrendering to Allied forces in Trondheim, Norway, on May 8, 1945, Hess spent nearly a year in Norwegian captivity before being released. He pursued a legal education and practiced law in Hanover, Germany.
