Here is the answer to the trivia question we hit you with in KTB #106 last month; what submarine Skipper was known as THE GANGSTER by his friends? We get the answer from PETER HANSEN (251-LIFE-1987).

Horst Holtring, the Skipper of U-604 was called THE GANGSTER because he was one of the very few naval officers who often had a pistol or revolver as sidearm, under his uniform jacket, something that was very unusual; nay, exceptional even, and many satirical comments were made about it by other officers including his classmates, openly or low-voiced."

In an ironic twist of fate, when U-604 was sunk by USS MOFFETT (DD) and planes of VB.107 and VB.129 off the South American coast, there was so much damage to the batteries that the boat was filled with chlorine gas and Holtring had major damage to his lungs, which obviously caused him great pain. 22 survivors of U-604, including Holtring, were picked up by U-185 and Holtring begged to be shot with his own pistol. We do not have any record whether his wishes were carried out. The survivors were later transferred to U-172 for the return trip to Europe.

More 'Gangster'

The 'Gangster' [KTB 107]
Update on The 'Gangster' [KTB 108]
Another Update on The 'Gangster' [KTB 109]

For KTB #108 next month, who was known as LUCKY FLUCKEY?

Come on, you can't miss this one - but who knows how this nickname came about? To all our Members, if you know of any submarine Skipper (of any navy) with a nickname, we would appreciate it if you'd drop us a note with the nickname and any additional information that is available.