A Baralong Fate: A German submarine-service expression for being trapped by a British Decoy Ship. (See Decoy ship, Mystery ship, Q ship). These were commonly called in the German Navy "Trap Ships." The expression "A Baralong Fate" originated after the memorable surprise and sinking of the German submarine U 27 on August 19th, 1915, off the south of Ireland by the "Mystery" or "Q-ship," Baralong. The Baralong, disguised as a "tramp steamer," came upon U 27 while attacking the Mule-Transport Numidian, and hoisting the White Ensign disclosed her guns and opened fire, with ultimate disastrous results to the submarine, whose survivors tried to board the Numidian, and were knocked on the head by the Yankee muleteers.[1]
References / notes
- ↑ Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.17.
Glossary of words and phrases
The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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