German U-Boat

All U-boat recruits started their training as infantrymen, where they learnt basic combat and survival skills. After graduating, the recruits attended basic naval training aboard a sail training ship and a modern cruiser. After they had completed naval training, those who opted for submarine service had to attend submarine school. During this phase, recruits would learn about the inner workings of the U-boat and sit for specialized exams, where if they passed, were appointed such ratings as officers, radiomen, torpedo mechanic and so on. The U-boat crew would visit the shipyard and familiarize themselves with their boat while under going construction. Once complete, it would become their platform for hands-on training, where the entire crew practiced diving and maneuvering and combat procedures.

In total, it took no less than five years training before the young men would report for their first tour of duty. By 1943 however, U-boat losses were so great that in an effort to rush crewmen into combat, the training time was shortened and standards were lowered, resulting in a less qualified crew. In the end, these young men paid the price by needless operational errors and a high rate of combat casualty.