Captain Martin sent a message to the German gunnery officer von Mullenheim, asking him if he would like to visit the other survivors housed in the recreation space. The Captain wanted to know if there was anything the prisoners required for their immediate needs, which they could have if it was available on board.  The German officer willingly agreed and after visiting his men he joined Captain Martin on the Bridge. During their talk von Mullenheim made clear his disapproval of the aborted rescue of the men in the water. He was quickly put in his place by the more experienced captain who made it plain that the issue was not open for discussion. The presence of U-Boats left him no choice but to consider his men and his ship as the first priority. With hindsight he acted wisely and correctly, a fact begrudgingly acknowledged by the Germans.

 

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Sinking the Bismarck