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Helmut WitteGerman submarine officer, captain of the 3rd rank.
Date of Birth: 06.06.1915
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Naval Career
- Service on Surface Vessels
- Transition to Submarine Warfare
- Command of U-159
- Awards and Recognition
- Post-War Career
Early Life and Naval Career
Erich Witte was born in Germany in 1912. On September 26, 1934, he joined the German Navy as a cadet. After rising through the ranks, he was promoted to Lieutenant on April 1, 1937.
Service on Surface Vessels
Witte initially served on various surface vessels, including the light cruiser "Köln," the destroyer Z-22, and torpedo boats. This experience provided him with a solid foundation in naval operations.
Transition to Submarine Warfare
In July 1940, Witte transferred to the submarine force. He served as watch officer on U-107 under the command of Günther Hesler.
Command of U-159
On October 4, 1941, Witte was appointed commander of U-159. During his tenure, he completed four patrols, spending a total of 261 days at sea. In September 1942, he successfully operated as part of the "Eisbär" wolfpack.
Awards and Recognition
Witte's accomplishments earned him the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross on October 22, 1942. By the end of the war, he had sunk 23 vessels with a total tonnage of 119,684 BRT and damaged one vessel with a tonnage of 265 BRT.
Post-War Career
After the war, Witte was interned by British forces in May 1945. He was released in July 1945 and worked in a factory. Later, he held executive positions in various large-scale enterprises.
