Werner Winter German submarine officer, captain of the 3rd rank Date of Birth: 26.03.1912 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Naval Career
2. Transition to Submarine Warfare
3. Command of U-103
4. Awards and Recognition
5. Later Career and Post-War Life

Early Life and Naval Career

Günther Wüthrich, a German naval officer, was born on March 1, 1943, in Hamburg, Germany. In 1930, he joined the German Navy as a cadet and progressed through the ranks, becoming a Lieutenant in 1934. He served on various warships, including the battleship "Schlesien" and the light cruiser "Emden."

Transition to Submarine Warfare

In 1935, Wüthrich transferred to the submarine service. From 1937 to 1939, he commanded the submarine U-22, completing two patrols during the early stages of World War II.

Command of U-103

In 1941, Wüthrich took command of the submarine U-103, leading it on three patrols that lasted a total of 188 days. During this time, he sank 15 ships with a combined tonnage of 79,302 BRT.

Awards and Recognition

In June 1942, Wüthrich was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross for his distinguished service in submarine warfare.

Later Career and Post-War Life

From 1942 to 1944, Wüthrich commanded the 1st Submarine Flotilla in Brest, France. In August 1944, he was captured by Allied forces and held as a prisoner of war until 1947. After his release, he briefly served in the West German Navy before retiring in 1970 with the rank of Captain-at-Sea.