Chronology of World War II
More U-boat aces hunted down
Sunday, March 16, 1941 www.onwar.com

In the North Atlantic... Kretschmer's U-99 and Schepke's U-100 are both sunk in a convoy battle. These sinkings, combined with the loss of Prien ten days previously, are a severe blow to the morale of the U-boat crews as well as a serious military loss because of their unusual ability. The sinking of U-100 is symbolic as being achieved with the aid of new radar equipment. Kretschmer is captured after his ship is sunk.

In East Africa... A small British force arriving by sea from Aden in two light cruisers, two destroyers and seven other vessels lands and captures the port of Berbera. The capture takes only a little time and immediately afterward they begin to advance inland. There are alos British gains in the battle around Keren. The 5th Indian Division, which has been unable to advance on the first day, now takes the Dologorodoc position south of the Keren road. The next five days are dominated by Italian efforts to mount counterattacks.

In the Balkans... The Italian offensive is called off. In the past few days they have incurred 12,000 casualties and taken absolutely no ground. However, the Greeks have been compelled by the Italian offensive to do nothing to strengthen their forces which face the German threat elsewhere.


This chronological study of the Second World War provides a comprehensive day-by-day account of WWII. While focused on the military history of the war, with an emphasis on the battles and campaigns fought, the timeline includes social and political history as well. Some Holocaust related events are already recorded and additional updates are pending. In so far as possible, the images included in this presentation are pictures from the given days. Additional information and images are welcome through the feedback form found on the index.