Ships hit by U-boats


Lake Osweya

American Motor merchant


We don't have a picture of this vessel at this time.


NameLake Osweya
Type:Motor merchant
Tonnage2,398 tons
Completed1918 - Saginaw Shipbuilding Co, Saginaw MI 
OwnerFord Motor Co, Detroit MI 
HomeportDetroit 
Date of attack20 Feb 1942Nationality:      American
 
FateSunk by U-96 (Heinrich Lehmann-Willenbrock)
Position43° 14'N, 64° 45'W - Grid BB 7884
Complement39 (39 dead - no survivors)
Convoy
RouteNew York - Halifax - Reykjavik 
CargoGeneral cargo 
History  
Notes on event

On 19 Feb 1942 the unescorted Lake Osweya (Master Karl E. Prinz) followed three miles behind the Empire Seal, while they approached Halifax. When the British ship was sunk by U-96 at 23.29 hours, the Lake Osweya tried to escape by changing course and zigzagging. But at 04.53 hours on 20 February, the vessel was struck amidships by one torpedo fired by U-96 from a distance of 500 yards, broke in two and sank quickly by the bow. Lehmann-Willenbrock reported that three lifeboats were launched, but none of the eight officers, 22 crewmen and nine armed guards (the ship was armed with two 3in guns) were ever found.

 
On boardWe have details of 39 people who were on board


If you can help us with any additional information on this vessel then please contact us.

Return to Allied Ships hit by U-boats