Captain Sommer and U-853 Investigation

Richie Kohler, along with historian Axel Knisley, investigates the role of the German submarine U-853 in the sinking of the Eagle 56. They explore the background of Helmut Sommer, the original captain of U-853, and his replacement, Helmut Fromsdorf. Nora Sommer, the daughter-in-law of Helmut Sommer, provides personal artifacts and insights into Sommer's leadership style. The horse symbol, associated with U-853, offers clues about the submarine's activities and Sommer's unique approach to leadership, which included calming his crew by encouraging them to carve items during stressful times.

What was the primary focus of Richie Kohler and Axel Knisley's investigation?

• The history of German U-boats

• The life of Helmut Fromsdorf

• The design of German submarines

• The sinking of the Eagle 56 by U-853

Who was the original captain of the U-853 before Helmut Fromsdorf?

• Nora Sommer

• Axel Knisley

• Helmut Sommer

• Richie Kohler

What personal connection did Nora have to Captain Helmut Sommer?

• She was his daughter

• She was his sister

• She was his daughter-in-law

• She was his wife

What symbol was associated with Captain Sommer's submarine?

• A yellow lion

• A blue dolphin

• A red eagle

• A red horse

How did the horse symbol contribute to the investigation?

• It was a common symbol on all U-boats

• It was unrelated to the investigation

• It was evidence linking U-853 to the Eagle 56 attack

• It was a symbol of peace

What activity did Captain Sommer encourage his crew to do during enemy attacks?

• Write letters home

• Exercise

• Sing songs

• Carve small items

What was the purpose of the crew carving items during attacks?

• To pass the time

• To create souvenirs

• To calm their nerves

• To practice their skills

How did Richie Kohler describe Captain Sommer's relationship with his crew?

• Fatherly and caring

• Indifferent and cold

• Strict and authoritarian

• Distant and formal

What was unique about Captain Sommer's leadership style according to Richie Kohler?

• He focused on discipline

• He was very conscientious of his crew's well-being

• He ignored his crew's needs

• He was very strict

What did Richie Kohler find surprising about Captain Sommer's approach?

• His efforts to calm his crew during attacks

• His lack of experience

• His interest in technology

• His focus on military strategy