Comments by "Ben Wilson" (@benwilson6145) on "The Drydock - Episode 188" video.

  1. ONI Report One torpedo struck amidships on the port side, one on the starboard quarter, and possibly a third on the port quarter; The torpedo which hit the starboard quarter wrecked the steering gear, jamming the rudders and causing the Bismarck to turn slowly in circles to the starboard. Frantic efforts were made to repair the damage: It was announced that the man who succeeded in freeing the rudders would be given the Knight Insignia of the Iron Cross. Divers succeeded in centering one rudder, but the other could not be freed, Efforts were made to steer the ship by her engines, but after a short period, instead of proceeding on her intended southeasterly course, the Bismarck was actually northwest of her position when the attack was made. There appears to have been further controversy among the officers. The captain, when asked by an officer whether he should try to blow off the jammed rudder, is reported to have replied, "Do what you like; I am through with it." The ship's best speed was now reduced to 10 to 12 knots.
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  2. The British did a much simpler system , they used Merchant ships as as Anti Aircraft Ships, the Ulster Queen using radar shot down a JU88 through the clouds on PQ18.
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  3. Rivet holes have there use, they stop cracks in the steel.
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