Förster was repatriated to Germany in 1945 during a prisoner exchange. He later committed suicide, criticisms from fellow U-Boat commanders noted as a contributing factor.
Förster's repatriation to Germany in 1945 marked the beginning of the end for him, as he ultimately took his own life. His fellow U-Boat commanders were vocal in their criticism, and this criticism was seen by them as a significant factor in his decision.