Operational Necessity?

The Dave Bowman Show

In this riveting episode of Dave Does History, we return to the ocean depths and the haunting story of U-852, the German U-boat that made history not for its wartime victories, but for the war crimes committed by its commander, Kapitänleutnant Heinz-Wilhelm Eck, and his crew. Join us as we explore the sinking of the SS Peleus, the harrowing decision to massacre survivors, and the unprecedented trial that followed, making Eck and his officers the only U-boat crew ever charged with war crimes during World War II. Through vivid storytelling, historical insights, and a critical look at the moral dilemmas of warfare, this episode examines the fine line between duty and humanity in the unforgiving depths of the ocean. Perfect for history enthusiasts and submarine veterans alike, this episode challenges us to confront difficult questions about accountability, justice, and the enduring lessons of the past.