U-177 struck Nova Scotia with three torpedoes off Natal at about 07:15 on 28 November 1942. The unescorted troopship had been proceeding in a straight line and sank within ten minutes. U-177 recovered two survivors to identify the ship and learned that most of those aboard had been Italians, including interned merchant sailors. The Laconia Order prohibited rescue attempts, so the submarine withdrew and requested instructions. German headquarters ordered the commander to leave the survivors and continue the patrol, despite their Italian nationality, then sought Portuguese assistance.
Chapter · 2:54:01-2:56:28
Nova Scotia, U-177, and the Laconia Order
After sinking Nova Scotia, U-177 learned that many survivors were Italians but received orders to leave them and continue its patrol.