Karl Jackel German submariner, chief navigator Date of Birth: 20.12.1912 Country: Germany

1. Embarking on a Naval Career
2. Submarine Warfare: U-29 and U-160
3. The Final Patrolls: U-907 and a Controversial Honor

A Dedicated Submariner: The Life and Service of a German Ober-Steuermann

Embarking on a Naval Career

In April 1937, a young German embarked on his naval journey. With unwavering determination, he joined the Kriegsmarine and began his training to become a highly skilled Ober-Steuermann (Chief Navigator).

Submarine Warfare: U-29 and U-160

In April 1940, he received his first assignment as a navigator aboard the submarine U-29, under the command of Otto Schuhart. During four patrols, he spent a total of 129 days at sea, navigating the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

From October 1941 to June 1943, he served as a navigator on U-160, commanded by Georg Lassen. During this time, he completed four more patrols and spent 321 days in the relentless depths of the sea.

The Final Patrolls: U-907 and a Controversial Honor

In May 1944, he was assigned to U-907, where he remained until May 1945. During this period, he navigated two patrols, spending 86 days at sea.

On May 8, 1945, as the war drew to a close, he was awarded the prestigious Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. This honor, posthumously bestowed, remains the subject of debate and controversy.