DHM1088B. Operation Drumbeat by Anthony Saunders. The entry of the United States into the war opened up vast new hunting grounds for the German u-boat fleet. Operation Paukenschlag (Drumbeat in English) began in January 1942, bringing the U-boats their easiest pickings of the war. Over 300 allied vessels were sunk during the Paukenschlag along the US coastline, ranging from New York harbor, to the Straits of Florida. This period, also known as the second Happy Times to the men of the U-boats, was only brought to an end in mid 1942 by the formation of allied convoy systems. On the evening of April 5th 1942, U552, commanded by Kapitanleutnant Erich Topp, sealed the fate of the British tanker MV British Splendour east of Cape Hatteras. The U-boat was part of the fourth wave of boats of Operation Paukenschlag, she returned to Saint Nazaire on April 27th 1942 having sunk seven ships during the patrol. Signed by Two Knights Cross U-Boat Commanders, Alfred Eick (deceased) and Jurgen Oesten (deceased). Alfred Eick, Jurgen Oesten Knights Cross edition of 50 prints. Image size 25 inches x 15 inches (64cm x 38cm)
