U-199's Commissioning Celebration
| U-199 was built at AG Wesser in Bremen and commissioned on November 28, 1942. Traditionally, the U-boat commander would give a short speech followed by the raising of the flag. The crew and representatives of the yard would enjoy a drink inside the boat and a celebration at the festival hall of the yard that evening. |
These photos were generously provided by Klaus-Peter Pohland, who is a friend of the daughter of Niko Clausen.
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Honored guests Mr. and Mrs. Rosiefsky present a mascot for U-199 to her commander, Kapitänleutnant Hans-Werner Kraus. Mrs. Rosiefsky and her husband owned the restaurant "Ratskeller" in the mayors house at Bremen. The restaurant was visited by all U-boat officers while staying in Bremen for pre-commissioning training courses at the building yards or for overhauls. There was a round table for officers in the restaurant and Mrs. Rosiefsky developed a close relationship with them. The couple was invited to attend commissioning ceremonies and commissioning celebrations. Mrs. Rosiefsky unofficially adopted several U-boat crews and was known as the U-Boots-Mutti (U-boat Mother). This commissioning celebration wold appear to be held at the restaurant "Ratskeller". The coverings on the walls serve to block light in case of air attack. |
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Kraus links arms with honored guests. |
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Mr. Rosiefsky addresses the crew. |
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Another view of Mr. Rosiefsky addressing the crew. |
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Another guest addresses the crew. |