DECK LOG BOOK & WAR DIARY

CONDENSED






USS DENVER

CL 58




APRIL 1, 1943

TO

APRIL 30, 1943

Thursday, April 1, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in Berth No. 3, in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. RENSHAW is moored to our port side. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SAN FRANSISCO, CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, MARYLAND, COLORADO, RIGEL, ALDEBARON.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before with U.S.S. RENSHAW tied up alongside our port side. 0700 U.S.S. KANKAKEE underway to shift berths.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 -16

Anchored as before.

G. C. Wilson,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before with U.S.S. RENSHAW tied up alongside our port side.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Friday, April 2, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides in Berth No. 3 in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Condition III modified. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. The U.S.S. RENSHAW is moored to our port side. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, SAN FRANSISCO, CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, MARYLAND, COLORADO, RIGEL, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, and ALDEBARON.

G. C. Wilson,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0623 U.S.S. CONY underway. 0632 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway. 0705 U.S.S. WICHITA and SAN FRANCISCO underway.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0800 Assumed ready duty. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. 0850 U.S.S. RENSHAW cast off from alongside the port side. 0940 U.S.S. EATON stood in and moored to port side of U.S.S. COLUMBIA. 1030 Sent 45 hand recreation party ashore with following shore patrol personnel: FRANKS, D. E., GM1c, #342 04 30, USN; FRINK, L. R., #151 67 60 BM2c, USNR; and BRITT, R. M., #262 32 98, FC3c, USN.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Ship having ready cruiser duty in Condition 2.5. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1414 Cargo ship GEORGE ROBERT HARPER stood in and anchored.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1710 U.S.S. WICHITA, SAN FRANCISCO, CONY and SAUFLEY standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Saturday, April 3, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored as before. Anchored in Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened, Condition "B" set, Condition of Readiness 2.5 with A. A. Battery manned. Ship the Ready Duty Cruiser. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, SAN FRANSISCO, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, COLORADO, MARYLAND, CONWAY, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, RIGEL, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, RIGEL, and CHENANGO.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0637 U.S.S. EATON got underway and stood out. 0648 U.S.S. PHILLIPS got underway and stood out. 0708 U.S.S. MARYLAND and U.S.S. COLORADO got underway and stood out.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0800 This ship relieved of Cruiser Ready Duty by the COLUMBIA. 0830 CONY standing out. 0900 SAUFLEY standing out. 0915 Held Quarters for muster and Captain's inspection. 0930 SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON standing out. 1045 Mustered all hands aft for presentation of letters of commendation.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Lowered Plane No. 8 into the water for routine flight, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger B. A. DuCote, ARM3/c. 1300 Made daily inspections of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1430 Lowered Plane No. 7 into the water for routine flight., pilot Ens. Andrews, passenger E. J. Kirby, S2/c.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1627 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Andrews, passenger E. J. Kirby, S2/c, 202-47-12, U.S.N. 1700 U.S.S. WILSON got underway to fuel. 1730 U.S.S. SUWANEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, MARYLAND and COLORADO stood in. 1745 U.S.S. WILSON moored to tanker U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1925 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2005 U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside to port.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S. Navy.

 

Sunday, April 4, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, Condition "B" is set and Condition of Readiness is a modified Condition III. U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside port side. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, SAN FRANSISCO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO SANGAMON, and RIEGEL.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0628 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway from port side. U.S.S. WILSON underway. 0700 U.S.S. CHENANGO and U.S.S. SANGAMON underway.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 Held Quarters for muster. 0830 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway to shift berth. 0840 U.S.S. RENSHAW anchored. 0905 PC 476 got underway and stood out. 0915 Pursuant to the order of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol left the ship, HOLLAND, J. W. GM1c USN in charge. 0950 U.S.S. EATON got underway from alongside tanker to shift berth. 1028 U.S.S. PHILLIPS stood in and moored along port side of tanker. 1117 U.S.S. PHILLIPS got underway to shift berth. 1125 The temporary shore patrol HOLLAND, J. W. GM1c USN in charge, returned aboard ship having completed temporary duty.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S. Navy.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol left the ship with FAY, L. E., FC1c USN, #234 14 67 in charge. 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. Twenty-six foot motor whaleboat belonging to U.S.S. SAUFLEY (DD465) was found adrift and grounded on beach. Motor whaleboat could not be dislodged before dark and was left to be recovered in the morning. 1710 The temporary shore patrol, FAY, L. E. FC1c in charge returned aboard ship having completed temporary duty.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Monday, April 5, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, Condition "B" is set with modified Condition III. The U.S.S. SAN FRANCISO has the Cruiser Ready Duty. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SAN FRANSISCO, CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, ALDEBARON, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, COLORADO, MARYLAND, and RIGEL.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0630 U.S.S. RENSHAW (DD499) underway and stood out. 0635 U.S.S. PHILLIPS (DD498) underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 U.S.S. WICHITA (CA45), U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA38) and U.S.S. COLUMBIA (CL56) got underway and stood out of harbor. 0708 Plane No. 9928 lowered into water with pilot. Ens. Haseltine and passenger, Decote, RM3/c. 0710 Plane No. 9875 lowered into water with pilot Ens. Allison, and passenger Rasmussen, RM1/c. 0711 Plane No. 9928 took off. 0712 Plane No. 9875 took off. 0735 U.S.S. ALDEBARON (AF10) got underway and stood out of the harbor. 0730 Manned radar stations and radar plot for fighter director and tracking drill.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered the crew at Quarters. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1030 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Decote, W. J., ARM3/c. Plane suffered some damage due to cowling coming loose. 1038 Hoisted Plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Rasmussen, W. J., ARM1/c.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol, SNELL, C. E. WT1c V-6 USNR in charge, left the ship for duty. Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder, and hanger space, magazine and shell stowage sprinklers, conditions normal. 1410 Fired no load charge from starboard catapult.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S. Navy.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1610 SC 700 standing in. 1710 U.S.S. WICHITA standing in. 1715 U.S.S. COLUMBIA standing in. 1718 U.S.S. EATON standing in. 1755 U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO, U.S.S. RENSHAW, U.S.S. TRACY standing in.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Tuesday, April 6, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 40 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain on the port anchor. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Condition of Readiness is a modified Condition III. The U.S.S. COLORADO has the ready duty. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, SAN FRANSISCO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, CONWAY, RENSHAW, CONY, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, WILSON, SAUFLEY, TRACY, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, and RIGEL.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0535 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 3. 0630 Boiler No. 3 cut in on main steam line. 0645 U.S.S. PHILLIPS got underway and stood out. 0705 U.S.S. MARYLAND got underway and stood out. 0706 U.S.S. COLORADO got underway and stood out.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S. Navy.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 U.S.S. BALCH stood in and moored port side to Tanker U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 1052 U.S.S. MUSTIN and U.S.S. MORRIS stood in moored to U.S.S. LACKAWANNA.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1245 Temporary shore patrol with McGIRT, E. L., GM1c USN #262 38 10 in charge left the ship. 1400 Plane No. 9928 hoisted out with pilot Ens. Haseltine, and passenger Stevens, W. C., AMS2/c and took off.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1600 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 9928. 1725 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE stood in and anchored. 1817 U.S.S. EATON got underway and stood out.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Wednesday, April 7, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor, Efate

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 37.3' S.

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 40 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain on the port anchor. Boiler No. 3 on the line for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, Condition "B" set throughout the ship, Condition of Readiness is a modified Condition III. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the ready duty. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, SAN FRANSISCO, SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, RIGEL, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, CONWAY, WALLER, MORRIS, MUSTIN.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0735 U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS and HUGHES stood in.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 -16

Anchored as before. 1225 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 1302 Exercised crew at fire quarters. 1303 First stream at scene of fire. 1310 Secured from fire quarters. 1318 Secured from general drills. 1323 Set Condition 2.5, Watch II in A.A. Battery. 1330 Allowed fires to die out under boiler No. 2. 1350 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1404 Lighted fires under No.4 boiler. 1409 U.S.S. BALCH underway and stood out. 1415 U.S.S. MORRIS underway and stood out. 1420 U.S.S. MUSTIN underway and stood out. 1440 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 1445 U.S.S LOUISVILLE got underway from alongside tanker and stood out. 1455 U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO got underway and stood out. 1500 U.S.S. WICHITA got underway and stood out. 1507 U.S.S. PHILLIPS underway. 1525 U.S.S. CONWAY underway. 1529 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway. 1530 Stationed special sea details, made preparations for getting underway. 1558 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER and CLEVELAND underway. 1600 Underway, Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. Draft Forward 23' 6", Aft 24' 10".

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

1600 Underway with Task Force 19, from Berth No. 3, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, The Captain Conning, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Steering various courses at various speeds conforming to channel, following movements of column leader, order of ships MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER. 1641 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1644 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., in column formation. 1649 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1657 Changed speed and formation speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1700 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1730 Commenced scheduled exercise, 5"/38 firing at high altitude sleeve. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 149.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 on the line. Conducting A.A. Exercise. 1817 Opened fire on sleeve. 1818 Ceased firing. 1845 Commenced firing. 1845 Darkened ship. 1846 Ceased firing. 1848 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1925 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 270o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 195.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 -24

Steaming as before on course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots 182 R.P.M. 2005 Dropped float light for destroyer A.A. machine gun practice. 2011 Commenced firing 40 mm. at float light to port and starboard. 2030 Secured from General Quarters. 2045 Ceased present exercises. 2052 Changed course to 325o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 20 knots, 202 R.P.M. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 198.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER

 

Upon departure from Havannah Harbor of Rear Admiral Giffen in WICHITA this date, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, Comcrudiv 12 in MONTPELIER became Commander Task Force 19 consisting of Crudiv 12, plus destroyers CONWAY, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, WALLER, EATON and SAUFFLEY of which latter two are at present performing temporary duty with other forces. Departure of Task Force 19 from port this date was in accordance with orders of Commander, Third Fleet to rendezvous with Task Force 15 at 2000 G.C.T., 7 April in Latitude 15o 00' South, Longitude 165o 00' E., and maintain certain designated operating positions.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

 

Thursday, April 8, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 58.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 17.8' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 35.2' S.

 

00 - 04

Steaming as before on course 325o T. & P.G.C., 316o P.S.C., at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. Ship darkened, in Material Condition "B", and in Readiness Condition III. Steaming in Cruising Formation 2, MONTPELIER formation guide and U.S.S. CLEVELAND section guide. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) AND (OTC), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and destroyers, as anti-submarine screen, U.S.S. CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, and WALLER. Variations of speed to maintain station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 325o T. & P.G.C., 316o P.S.C., at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0455 Received report that Guadalcanal is in Condition "Red", enemy air raid. 0505 Received report that Condition is "Green" in Guadalcanal, all clear. 0556 General Quarters for dawn alert. Received report that Condition is "Red" in Guadalcanal. Formation commenced changing course to 005o T. & P.G.C. Obtained S.G. Radar contact of unidentified ship bearing 058o T. & P.G.C., distance 18 miles. 0640 Sighted ships of Task Force 15 (ENTERPRISE Task Force), bearing 083o T. & P.G.C., distance 18,200 yds. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, Task Force 19 joining Task Force 15. 0718 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition III, and Condition "B". 0736 Proceeded to station 2.5-240, circle spacing 1000 yds. Formation Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), formation Course and axis ship 321o T. 0750 Received new station assignment, 2.5-225, and proceeded to new station, speed 13 knots (131 R.P.M.), on course 330o T. Task Force 19 now joined with Task Force 15 which consists of following ships: U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (O.T.C.), SAN DIEGO, ELLET, MC CALLA, BUCHANAN, plus EATON, and H.M.S. LEANDER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 204.3.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 321o T. & P.G.C., Speed 13 knots (131 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0803 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0817 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0830 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 6 (GTI). 0830 Mustered crew at quarters. 0837 Received U.S.S. EATON alongside our starboard quarter to receive mail. 0845 U.S.S. EATON cast off. 0930 U.S.S. ENTERPRISE launched six aircraft. 0944 U.S.S. ENTERPRISE recovered six aircraft. 1027 Change course to 341o T. & P.G.C. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6, base course 321o T. & P.G.C. 1054 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 321o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, 182 R.P.M., Zig-Zag Plan No. 6. 1231 U.S.S. ENTERPRISE launched and recovered aircraft. On course 070o T. & P.G.C. 1249 Resumed Zig-zagging, on base course 321o T. & P.G.C. 1538 ENTERPRISE launched and recovered aircraft on course 015o T. & P.G.C. 1546 Resumed Zig-zagging on base course 321o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 321o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), turns as necessary to maintain station, Zig-Zag Plan No 6. 1628 Carrier signal to recover aircraft, changed course to 355o T. 1638 Resumed base course 321o T. in Zig-Zag Plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 321o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 1803 Formation changed course to 031o T. & P.G.C., simultaneous turn method. 1823 Formation changed course to 321o T. & P.G.C., simultaneous turn method. 1839 ENTERPRISE commenced recovering planes, course 321o T. & P.G.C. 1855 General Quarters for dusk alert. 1915 Commenced Battle Problem. 1932 Shifted control to steering aft. 1933 Shifted steering control to bridge. 1934 Shifted steering control to Conn. 1945 Secured from Battle Problem. 1949 Shifted steering control and Conn to bridge. 1958 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 2140 This task force ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270o T. & P.G.C. 2145 Shifted from steering unit No. 2 to Unit No. 1. 2155 Shifted from steering unit No. 1 to Unit No. 2. 2200 Changed course to 200o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.8.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Friday, April 9, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 46.1' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 52' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 20.0' S.

 

00 - 04

Steaming on course 200o T. & P.G.C., 190o P.S.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M. Nos. 2 and 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. Steaming with Task Force 19 and operating with Task Force 15. Ships present: Task Force 19, MONTPELIER (COMTASKFOR 19 and COMCRUDIV 12), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, EATON, PHILLIPS; Task Force 15, ENTERPRISE (SOPA), SAN DIEGO, H.M.S. LEANDER, BUCHANAN, ELLET, MC CALLA. ENTERPRISE the Guide. DENVER station 2.5-225. 0300 Changed Fleet Course to 090o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 090o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), speed as necessary to maintain station. 0447 U.S.S. SAN DIEGO reported contact bearing 321o T. distance 7 miles. 0452 U.S.S. WALLER despatched to investigate contact. 0600 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0622 Heavy rain squall. 0700 Ran out of rain squall, visibility good. 0715 Secured from General Quarters. 0722 Heavy squall and fog. No further development on previously reported contact. 0755 Visibility increased, continued squally. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 355o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0825 Made radar contact on unidentified plane bearing 109o T. distant 16 miles. 0830 Mustered crew on stations. 0832 Identified plane as friendly. 0835 Sighted plane bearing 085o T., identified as B-17E Bomber. 0839 Commenced maneuvering, following motions of ENTERPRISE, to launch planes. 0845 ENTERPRISE launched 6 planes for patrol purposes. 0850 Resumed course 355o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.). 0856 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 0951 Shifted from steering unit No. 2 to unit No. 1. 1120 Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1132 Ceased zig-zagging, commenced steering various courses at various speeds, maneuvering with ENTERPRISE during recovery of planes. 1158 ENTERPRISE completed recovery operations. Steadied on course 210o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.). H.M.S. LEANDER left the formation and proceeded as previously directed. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 210o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1222 Changed speed to 24 knots (243 R.P.M.), U.S.S. ENTERPRISE launched 2 planes. 1244 Changed course to 240o T. & P.G.C. 1254 Carrier launched 4 planes. 1255 Commenced scheduled exercise, fueling of LARDNER and MC CALLA. U.S.S. DENVER assumed fleet guide on base course 210o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1300 U.S.S. MC CALLA coming alongside our port side. 1305 Put lines over to U.S.S. MC CALLA. 1315 First fuel line secured to U.S.S. MC CALLA. 1316 Second fuel line secured to MC CALLA. 1326 Commenced pumping oil to U.S.S. MC CALLA. 1430 Secured pump on after hose, hose parted and carried away. 1441 Replaced after hose to U.S.S. MC CALLA and resumed pumping. 1509 Secured forward fuel pump, taking back suction. 1516 Secured after fuel pump, taking back suction. 1518 Forward hose secured and returned aboard. 1523 Aft hose secured and returned aboard. 1524 Cast off all lines. 1526 Changed speed to 18 knots (181 R.P.M.) and reformed cruising disposition on base course 210o T. & P.G.C. 1535 Changed course to 315o T. & P.G.C. U.S.S ENTERPRISE launched 6 planes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 137.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 210o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 210o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 6, speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.),.turns to maintain position. 1830 Set all ship's clocks back one-half hour to -11 1/2; Zone Time. 1825 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1835 Changed course to 295o T. & P.G.C., carrier preparing to recover aircraft. 1836 Changed course to 310o T. & P.G.C. 1838 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1845 Changed speed to 17 knots (176 R.P.M.), carrier completed recovery of aircraft. 1846 Changed course to 170o T. & P.G.C. 1849 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1858 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1927 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 1935 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 210o T. & P.G.C., 1940 Changed course on signal to 270o T. & P.G.C. 1945 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 6 on base course 270o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6 (G.T.I.) 2200 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2210 Changed course and formation course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 2250 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 2345 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. 2353 Shifted from No. 1 to No. 2 steering unit. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

Saturday, April 10, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 04.8' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 51.0' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 19.0' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 000o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.)., standard speed being 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use. Ship darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Cruising with Task Force 19 which consists of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (Comtaskfor 19 and Comcrudiv 12), U.S.S. CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, and destroyers PHILLIPS; WALLER, CONWAY and RENSHAW and Task Force 15 which is composed of the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (SOPA and OTC), SAN DIEGO and destroyers MC CALLA, EATON, ELLET, and BUCHANAN. Combined forces in Cruising Disposition No. 1 with U.S.S. ENTERPRISE as fleet center and guide bearing 006o T. & P.G.C., distance 2500 yds. from the DENVER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 000o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.). 0538 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0610 U.S.S. ENTERPRISE commenced launching planes. 0646 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C. 0651 Secured from General Quarters. 0717 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 6 on course 160o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 160o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 6, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), turns to maintain station. 0815 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0917 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0934 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 0955 Sounded Flight Quarters, prepared to launch aircraft. 1019 Changed course, conforming with carrier turn, to 340o T. & P.G.C., speed increased to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 1023 Increased speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1027 Catapulted Plane No. 7 to port, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c. 1028 Reduced speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), course to 346o T. & P.G.C. 1029 Changed course to 348o T. & P.G.C., speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.), speeds and course to maintain station. 1038 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1040 Changed course to 130o T. & P.G.C., on Zig-Zag Plan No. 6, base course 160o T. & P.G.C. 1043 Changed speed to 18 knots (176 R.P.M.). 1046 Secured from Flight Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 160o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6 (G.T.I.). 1232 sighted destroyer bearing 108o T. & P.G.C., on converging course. 1243 Identified ship as U.S.S. WOODWORTH. 1244 Sighted destroyer bearing 120o T., distant 19,000 yds. 1304 Identified ship as U.S.S. FARENHOLT, (Comdesron 12). 1320 FARENHOLT and WOODWORTH joined formation and took assigned stations in destroyer screen. 1355 Sounded Flight Quarters and made preparations for recovery of plane. 1427 Executed change of front, formation course and axis changed from 321o T. to 110o T. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds to take new station, station bearing 155o T. & P.G.C., distant 2500 yds. from guide. 1435 On station. U.S.S. ENTERprise made preparations for launching and recovery of planes. Changed course to 302o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 20 knots. Commenced steering various courses and speeds conforming to motions of ENTERPRISE. 1455 ENTERPRISE completed operations, 4 planes recovered, 8 planes launched. 1458 Manned all machine gun batteries for Exercise 12-B, sleeve firing exercise. 1459 Recovered plane No. 7 to starboard, "D" method, pilot, Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c. Steering various courses and speeds, acting independently during recovery operations. 1500 Cruiser Division 12 formed column aster ENTERPRISE and destroyers took station ahead for Exercise 12-B. 1503 Commenced scheduled exercise. Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1522 Commenced firing 40 mm. and 20 mm. at sleeve to port, towed by carrier plane. 1554 Commenced firing at sleeve to starboard. 1554 1/2; Ceased firing, firing completed. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & P.G.C., speed 14 knots (141 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1623 Changed fleet course and axis to 200o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1625 Task Force 19 detached from combined operation with Task Force No. 15, and formed Cruising Disposition No. 2, sections reversed. 1632 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1730 Set Clocks to Zone -12 Time. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.7.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 200o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1848 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1855 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1904 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 200o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging on Plan No. 16, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), turns to maintain station. 2005 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Watch 2, Material Condition "B". 2321 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, resumed base course 200o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Sunday, April 11, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 59.0' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 23.1' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 34.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 19 (Comcrudiv 12 in MONTPELIER O.T.C.), on fleet course and axis 200o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Ship darkened, Condition "B" set, Condition of Readiness III. Formation in Cruising Disposition No. 2, MONTPELIER fleet center and guide; the CLEVELAND has radar guard from 270o through 0o to 270o T relative. 0000 Changed fleet course and axis to 150o T. & P.G.C. 0016 Shifted from steering unit No. 2 to unit No. 1. 0100 Changed fleet course and axis to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0130 Changed fleet course and axis to 068o T. & P.G.C. 0240 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0254 Shifted steering control to central station. 0339 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 0350 U.S.S. WALLER reported radar contact of unidentified surface target, bearing 094o T. & P.G.C., distant 10 miles. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 186.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 068o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.)., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0401 Changed course to 008o T. & P.G.C. 0403 Reported target proven false. 0405 Changed course to 068o T. & P.G.C. 0600 Sounded General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0633 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0655 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0658 Changed course to new base course 090o T. & P.G.C. 0706 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0711 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Watch 4, and Material Condition "B". 0725 Radar contact bearing 120o T. & P.G.C., distance 15 miles, identified as Tanker U.S.S. SABINE and escort vessel U.S.S. RUSSELL. 0730 Catapulted Plane No. 7 to port, Ens. Allison, pilot, B. A. DuCote, ARM1/c passenger. 0741 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 0743 Fleet course and axis changed to 140o T. & P.G.C. 0755 Chanted course to 200o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 200o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0804 Commenced steaming various courses to take position in fueling formation. 0825 Steaming on course 010o T. & P.G.C., speed 10 knots, 1,500 yds. distant on starboard beam of tanker SABINE. 0827 Commenced zig-zagging independently on station. Cruisers and destroyers commencing to receive fuel from the SABINE. 0830 Mustered crew at Quarters. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. Made weekly tests of magazine sprinkling system. Conditions satisfactory. 1123 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1136 Recovered Plane No. 7. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 116.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 010o T. & P.G.C., 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1200 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1203 Changed course to 040o T. & P.G.C. 1203 Commenced zig-zagging on independent plan. 1210 Changed speed to 12 knots (120 R.P.M.) 1210 Changed course to300o T. & P.G.C., astern of SABINE. U.S.S. MONPELIER commenced fueling. 1215 Changed course to 280o T. & P.G.C. 1218 Changed course to 340o T. & P.G.C. 1220 Changed course to 040o T. & P.G.C. 1225 Changed course to 010o T. speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1228 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1229 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), course to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1231 Launched Plane No. 8 to port, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger W. G. Laeling, AQRM3/c, U.S.N. 1231 Changed course to 010o T. & P.G.C. 1237 Speed 11 knots (116 R.P.M.), began independent zig-zag plan in No. 4 position from tanker. 1249 U.S.S. WALLER cast off from tanker. 1258 U.S.S. RENSHAW alongside tanker. 1315 U.S.S. MONTPELIER signalled "P", various courses and speeds to position astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1333 U.S.S. MONTPELIER cast off from tanker. 1342 Secured tanker's bow line. 1345 Put over after fuel hose. 1346 Put over forward fuel hose. 1350 U.S.S. RENSHAW cast off from tanker. 1352 Commenced pumping fuel aft. 1354 Commenced pumping fuel forward. 1405 U.S.S. SAUFLEY came alongside starboard side of tanker. 1441 Completed taking aviation gasoline. 1510 Stopped pumping on after hose. 1511 Stopped pumping on forward hose. 1520 Let go forward fueling hose. 1525 Let go after fueling hose. 1526 U.S.S. SAUFLEY cast off from tanker. 1528 Cast off from tanker. Various courses and speeds to Cruising Formation No. 2. 1535 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), course 010o T. 1537 Speed changed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) 1538 Speed changed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1548 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1553 Signalled changed base course to 320o T. & P.G.C., executed. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 117.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1601 Changed formation course and axis to 270o T. Sounded Flight Quarters to recover plane. 1635 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 296o T. Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1637 Recovered plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger W. J. Haeling, ARM3/c. 1642 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), and resumed zig-zag plan on base course 270o T. 1745 U.S.S. WALLER and U.S.S. SAUFLEY left the formation and proceeded to take station ahead of formation for exercise No. 2, to commence at 1930. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1937 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course 270o T. & P.G.C. 1940 Maneuvering at various courses at various speeds carrying out Exercise No. 2, low visibility attack. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.4.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 220o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2010 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition "B" and Condition III, Watch 1. 2040 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 2355 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on base course 220o T. & P.G.C. 2400 Changed course to 170o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Monday, April 12, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 44.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 53.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 06' S.

00 - 04

Steaming as before on course 170o T. & P.G.C., 160o P.S.C., course changed at 0000, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), turns to maintain station, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), using boilers Nos. 2 & 3. Ship in darkened condition, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. In Cruising Formation No. 2, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, guide and SOPA, MONPELIER (SOPA-OTC), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, EATON, PHILLIPS and SAUFLEY, destroyers at anti-submarine screen patrol stations. 0010 Shifted steering from No. 1 to No. 2 unit on port cable. 0030 Changed formation course and axis to 130o T. & P.G.C. 0100 Changed formation course and axis to 095o T. & P.G.C. Heavy rain squalls throughout watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.9.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on fleet course and axis 095o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0545 U.S.S. EATON left the formation to carry out Exercise "1-S", Radar Tracking Exercise. 0600 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0637 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 0709 Secured from General Quarters, and set Condition III, and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (179 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 0815 Manned all automatic weapons and control stations for Exercise 5. 0822 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 095o T. & P.G.C. 0824 On signal formed Cruising Disposition No. 1. 0830 Mustered crew on stations. 0835 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0859 Fired port machine gun battery. 0912 Fired starboard machine gun battery. 0923 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 095o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Fired starboard machine gun battery. 0932 Fleet course and axis changed to 275o T. & P.G.C. 0940 Ceased present exercise. 0943 Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. 0959 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 275o T. & P.G.C. 1051 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on present course 297.5o T. & P.G.C. 1055 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1100 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) recovered aircraft "D" method. 1103 Changed speed to 18 knots (179 R.P.M.). 1107 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16, on base course 275o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.9.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 265o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zag Plan No. 16. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1351 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1402 Commenced scheduled exercises, battle tactics. Sounded General Quarters. Unidentified plane sighted, bearing 212o T. 1408 Task Force counter-marched course 095o T. 1435 Task Force counter-marched course 275o T. Commenced steaming on various courses at various speeds conducting Exercise No. 14. 1513 Secured from General Quarters. 1557 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 on course 260o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 260o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1613 Changed course on signal to 275o T. & P.G.C. Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 275o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1809 U.S.S. WALLER and U.S.S. PHILLIPS left the formation to act as target vessels for Exercise 2. 1828 Ceased zig-zagging. 1829 Changed speed to 12 knots, U.S.S. MONTPELIER and U.S.S. COLUMBIA recovering planes. 1835 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 1942 Changed course and axis on signal to 150o T. & P.G.C. 1955 Changed course and axis on signal to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1956 Secured from General Quarters and dusk alert, set Condition III and Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, standard speed 15 knots. 2012 Changed fleet course and axis to 010o T. & P.G.C. 2025 Changed fleet course and axis to 060o T. & P.G.C. 2042 Changed fleet course and axis to 118o T. & P.G.C. 2045 Fleet speed increased to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 2102 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 118o T. & P.G.C. 2121 Changed fleet course to 095o T. & P.G.C., upon possible underwater contact reported by U.S.S. EATON. This contact later proved false. 2135 Changed fleet course to 118o T. & P.G.C. 2141 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2355 Shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 201.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Tuesday, April 13, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16o 29.9' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16o 51.8' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 5

00 - 04

Steaming on course 118o T. & P.G.C., 108o P.S.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship in darkened and in Readiness Condition III. The ship in Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, PHILLIPS, EATON. Task Force in Cruising Formation No. 2, DENVER in section 2, 1000 yds. astern of the CLEVELAND. Destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. 0100 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on base course 118o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 118o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0553 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0554 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0615 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0650 Sighted Espiritu Santo Island, distant 58 miles. 0700 U.S.S. CLEVELAND launched one plane. 0700 Catapulted one plane to port, plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Fritz, ARM3/c. 0703 Secured from General Quarters, except for radar tracking exercise, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 0715 Signal, ceased present exercises. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 118o T. & P.G.C., at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0815 Prepared to conduct exercise No. 6, smoke bomb (periscope sighted) practice, using 5" A.A. Battery and automatic weapons. 0819 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0822 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 0827 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0830 Mustered crew on stations. 0837 Commenced Exercise No. 6. 0914 Ceased present exercise, having fired twice to starboard and twice to port. 0916 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0917 U.S.S. EATON left the formation and proceeded to act as target for Exercise No. 14 (Day Attack). 0937 Commenced formation counter-march to right to course 298o T. & P.G.C. 1004 Commenced formation counter-march to right to course 118o T. & P.G.C. 1014 Sounded General Quarters for Exercise No. 14. 1015 Sounded Flight Quarters for launching and recovery of planes. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, to launch planes and exercise at tactical Exercise No. 14. 1045 Launched Plane No. 8 to starboard, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger Rasmussen, ARM3/c. 1054 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition 3 and Condition "B". 1058 Changed formation course and axis to 120o T. & P.G.C. 1110 Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1118 Changed formation course and axis to 112o T. & P.G.C. 1121 Recovered plane No. 7 to starboard, "D" method, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger, Fritz, F., ARM3/c. 1122 Changed speed to 25 knots. 1124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 112o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 112o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1247 Manned 5" Battery and control stations for Exercise No. 6-High Level Bombing Attacks. 1305 Changed course to 202o T. & P.G.C. forming Cruising Disposition No. 1. 1307 Changed course to 112o T. & P.G.C. 1316 Commenced firing port 5" Battery. 1319 Changed course to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1330 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1340 Commenced firing starboard 5" battery. 1430 Catapulted Plane No. 7 to starboard, pilot Ens. Allison, passenger B. A. DuCote ARM2/c. 1444 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 080o T. & P.G.C. 1449 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1501 Changed course to 200o T. & P.G.C., preparatory to recovery of aircraft. 1502 Changed speed to 12 knots. 1509 Recovered Plane No. 8., pilot Ens. Haseltine, Passenger Rasumussen, ARM1/c. 1510 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1511 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1512 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (254 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1630 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Changed speed to 20 knots, (202 R.P.M.) 1638 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1651 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Proceeding to Havannah Harbor, Efate, on various courses at various speeds. 1743 All engines stopped. Moored alongside the U.S.S. LACKAWANNA, starboard side to, four fueling. 1753 Commenced receiving fuel from tanker. 1754 U.S.S. KANKAKEE underway and stood out. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 153.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20

Moored alongside port side and fueling from Tanker LACKAWANNA as before. 1816 Stationed special details, prepared to get underway. 1835 Completed fueling from tanker. 1844 Underway, Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. Various courses and speeds to anchorage berth No. 5, preparing to moor to buoy. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 59.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), maneuvering to approach buoy. 2020 Moored to buoy No. 5 in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, with port anchor chain, 34 fathoms of water. Condition "Yellow" on island. 2025 Secured main engines, and all special sea details, maintained Condition III throughout the ship except for surface lookouts and underway navigation details.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Wednesday, April 14, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 3 is on the line for auxiliary purposes. A condition of "Yellow" alert prevails in the harbor; this ship is therefore in a Condition of Readiness III with Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, SOPA, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, EATON, PHILLIPS, CONWAY, RENSHAW, WALLER, WILSON, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, RIGEL.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0650 U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside to port.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed ready duty. 0815 Mustered crew at Quarters. Daily inspection of magazines and powder samples made. Conditions normal. 1000 SOPA hauled down condition II flag setting condition III (Green). Same condition set on island. 1039 to 1124 U.S.S. COLORADO and MARYLAND firing at target sleeve.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, DELESKY, F. E., GM1c USN left the ship in charge of the temporary shore patrol.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S.N.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before in Havannah Harbor in 35 fathoms of water, to buoy in Berth No. 5.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2155 U.S.S. WILSON underway. 2212 U.S.S. WILSON moored alongside U.S.S. RIGEL.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 Thursday, April 15, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in anchorage berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. COLORADO is ready duty ship. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, EATON, PHILLIPS, CONWAY, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, WALLER, WILSON, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, and RIGEL. U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside on port side.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S. Navy.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. U.S.S. SAUFLEY tie up alongside on port side. Mustered crew on station. 0800 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, Ens. Haseltine, pilot-Rasmussen, J. M., ARM1/c, passenger; and plane No. 8, Ens. D. Allison, pilot-Haeling, W. S., ARM3/c, passenger. 0930 Sounded General Quarters for scheduled exercises, battle problem, followed by abandon ship. 0945 Hoisted in Planes Nos. 7 & *. 1010 Exercised at abandon ship drill. 1020 Secured from General Drills.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol with STARR, R. B., GM1c, #381 21 36 USN in charge left the ship.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1715 Temporary shore patrol with STARR, R. B., GM1c USN, 381 21 36 in charge returned aboard ship. 1910 Exercised at fire quarters. 1910.45 First stream at scene of fire. 1915 Secured from fire quarters.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Friday, April 16, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate,

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in anchorage berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III, Material Condition "B". No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. COLORADO is ready duty ship. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, EATON, RENSHAW, PHILIP, CONWAY, WALLER, RIGEL. U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside on port side.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0737 U.S.S. LANG standing in. 0751 U.S.S. MARYLAND underway and stood out of harbor. 0751 U.S.S. COLORADO underway and stood out of harbor. 0752 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. Mustered crew on stations. 0807 U.S.S. CONWAY and WILSON underway and standing out. 0935 U.S.S. LANG got underway from alongside tanker and stood toward anchorage.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. U.S.S. SAUFLEY tied up alongside on port side. 1215 Range party of 26 men and two chief petty officers left the ship for the 20 mm. range with Capt. R. M. Ash, USMC in charge. 1230 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Mandeville, K., S2/c. 1320 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1335 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Mandeville, K., S2/c. 1345 - Captain, assisted by Heads of Department held inspection of all holds, store-rooms & machinery spaces. 1500 Completed below decks inspections. 1500 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1530 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Saturday, April 17, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in anchorage berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in Condition III (Modified), Material Condition "B". No. 3 boiler is in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. MONTPELIER is SOPA and has ready duty, with various other ships of the U. S. FLEET present. The U.S.S. SAUFLEY is moored along our port side.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. U.S.S. SAUFLEY tied up alongside our port side.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Stevens, AMM2/c; hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Rasmussen, ARM1/c. U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed ready cruiser duty. 0820 U.S.S. MARYLAND, U.S.S. COLORADO stood in to anchorage berths. 0930 U.S.S. EATON moored alongside U.S.S. RIGEL. 0930 Held quarters for muster and Captain's inspection. 1015 Inspection of upper decks and living spaces. 1120 Hoisted planes Nos. 7 & 8 on board.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Sunday, April 18, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5 in 35 fathoms of water at Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III, and Material Condition "B". The SAUFLEY moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv 12), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, EATON, RENSHAW, PHILIP, CONWAY, WALLER, WILSON, SAUFLEY, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, RIGEL.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. The U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed the cruiser "ready duty". The U.S.S. DENVER assumed status of relief "ready duty" ship. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1125 By permission of the Captain, No. 7 plane was put out of commission for five hours for routine engine check.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of Commanding Officer the following named men left the ship on duty as temporary shore patrol: ROWE, W. F. Jr.; BACA, O. E., FC1c; BENSON, H. R., BM2c; FAGAN, D. F., GM2c; PETTIT, T. M., FC2c; McLEOD, B. W., BM2c; NURKALA, C. A., MM2c; EMBRY, F. J., SC2c; WRIGHT, W. H., GM2c; WARNKEN, H. J., MM2c; JONES, T. L., WT2c; HACKETT, R. W., B2c; BOUGEOIS, T. J., MM2c; THALKE, C. A., MM2c. Lt. M. F. Healy, Jr. D-V(S) USNR in charge. 1230 P.C. 476 underway. 1330 U.S.S. DAY STAR standing in. 1335 U.S.S. DUNLOP standing in. 1500 All clocks were set back one hour to -11 Zone Time.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. U.S.S. SAUFLEY tied up alongside our port side.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Monday, April 19, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5 in 35 fathoms of water in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III, and Material Condition "B". The SAUFLEY moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, EATON, RENSHAW, PHILIP, CONWAY, WALLER, WILSON, SAUFLEY, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, RIGEL, CASTER.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0750 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway from alongside to port.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. Mustered crew on station. 0800 This ship assumed the "ready duty". Set Condition 2.5, Watch I. 0800 The WALLER underway and standing out. 0807 The BARNEGAT stood in and anchored. 0830 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of the magazine sprinkling system, hangar space sprinkling system. Conditions satisfactory. 1035 The COLORADO commenced firing at a target sleeve.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1305 U.S.S. BARNEGAT stood out. 1430 U.S.S. TALAMANCA stood in to anchorage.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 -20

Moored as before. 1622 U.S.S. PHILIP, U.S.S. SAUFLEY, U.S.S. WALLER, and U.S.S. stood in. 1903 U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to port side.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Commander, U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW tied up alongside our port side.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Tuesday, April 20, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate,

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5 in 35 fathoms of water at Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 2.5 and Material Condition "B". This ship has the cruiser "Ready Duty". The RENSHAW moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv TWELVE), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, SAUFLEY, EATON, WALLER, CONWAY, RIGEL, TALAMACA, KANKAKEE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, CASTOR.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0755 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., observer Rasmussen, ARM1/c, U.S.N. 0757 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer Fritz, ARM3/c, U.S.N.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed the ready duty. This ship set condition of readiness III (modified) throughout the ship. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. 0843 U.S.S. MEDUSA stood into the harbor and anchored. 0844 Hoisted in Plane No. 7 which returned because of an oil leak. 0855 U.S.S. STACK (DD406) stood in. 0904 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, observer Fritz, ARM3/c and plane took off for scheduled operations. 0945 Captain left ship for conference on U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 0950 U.S.S. DUNLAP underway shifting berth. 1006 Sounded anti-aircraft call. Manned all automatic weapons, sky directors, and sky plot for tracking drill. 1009 U.S.S. TALAMANCA underway and stood out of harbor. 1100 Planes of various ships present simulated dive bombing attacks on ships at anchor. 1109 Hoisted in Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., observer Rasmussen, ARM1/c, U.S.N. Hoisted in Plane No.7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer Fritz, ARM3/c, U.S.N. 1100 Fired no load shot on both catapults. 1132 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. 1138 Captain returned from conference on board U.S.S. MONTPELIER.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1232 Plane No. 8 hoisted overboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Haeling, ARM3/c, U.S.N.R. 1235 Plane No. 7 hoisted overboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Rasmussen, ARM3/c, U.S.N.R. 1245 Pursuant to the orders of the commanding officer, SNELL, C. E., WT1c, V-1 USNR left the ship with the temporary shore patrol. 1309 Haynes, R. M., 274-24-55, PhM1/c, U.S.N. returned aboard having completed temporary duty concerning transfer of patient. 1335 Hoisted Plane No. 7 aboard. 1340 Hoisted Plane No. 8 aboard. 1405 Plane No. 8 hoisted overboard, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Haeling, ARM3/c, U.S.N. 1409 Plane No. 7 hoisted overboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R. passenger Rasmussen, ARM1/c, U.S.N. 1502 U.S.S. DUNLAP got underway and stood out. 1553 Plane No. 8 hoisted aboard. 1555 Plane No.7 hoisted aboard.

E. E. BALL, Jr.

Lt. U.S.Navy.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. The temporary shore patrol returned aboard ship, duty being completed.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 Wednesday, April 21, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18o 12.3' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 54.9' S.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5 at Havannah Harbor, Island of Efate, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship had Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Condition of Readiness is a modified Condition 3 and the ship is darkened. The RENSHAW moored alongside port side. U.S.S. COLORADO has ready duty. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), U.S.S. COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, EATON, RENSHAW, PHILIP, CONWAY, WALLER, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, STACK, WILSON, PC 476, MEDUSA, RIGEL, CASTOR.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0530 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0600 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 0700 U.S.S. RENSHAW cast off from port side. 0700 Draft of ship forward 23' 7", aft 24' 5". 0725 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 0727 U.S.S. WALLER got underway and stood out. 0730 Completed test of main engines, anchor and steering engines. 0750 Held quarters for muster prior to getting underway. Absentees, none.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S.Navy.

 

08 - 12

Underway with Taskforce 19 from Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 1, 2, and 3 in use for steaming purposes. Steaming on various courses at various speeds leaving the harbor. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0853 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots, (202 R.P.M.). In Cruising Formation No. 1. 0900 Sounded A. A. Call. 0904 Changed speed to 25 knots. 0924 Commenced firing high altitude A.A. exercise. 0930 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0932 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. 0950 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & P.G.C. 0957 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1148 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1156 Changed fleet course and axis to 130o T. & P.G.C. Task Force NINETEEN continued firing high altitude A.A. Exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on 130o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1203 DENVER and CLEVELAND commenced firing on sleeve target. 1205 Ceased present exercise. 1215 on signal, changed fleet course and axis to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1220 Formed Cruising Formation "Jig-1". 1231 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1242 On signal ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 080o T. & P.G.C. 1243 Commenced scheduled exercises. 1245 On signal made emergency turn 360o to right. 1247 Commenced firing to port at sleeve target, cut down same, speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1253 Reduced speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1256 On signal, made emergency turn 360o to left to 080o T., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1304 Signal, made emergency turn 360o to left, speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1307 Commenced firing to starboard on sleeve target. 1312 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), course 080o T. & P.G.C. 1315 On signal made emergency turn 360o to right to 080o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1322 Commenced firing at sleeve to port. 1322 1/2; Decreased speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1323 Ceased present exercises. 1325 Signal, formed Cruising Formation Two, 1337 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on course 080o T. & P.G.C. 1337 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1337 Commenced exercising crew at general drills. 1339 Exercised crew at general drills. 1340 Simulated fire in boat repair shop. 1341 First stream at scene of fire. 1342 Second stream. 1343 Third stream. 1344 Fourth stream. 1345 Fifth and sixth streams at scene of fire. 1346 Changed course to 067o T. & P.G.C. and proceeded to station with U.S.S. RENSHAW for tracking exercise, speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1348 Secured from fire quarters. 1350 Changed course to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1358 Retreated from fire quarters. 1402 Exercised crew at collision drill, frame 40 port side. Set Condition "A" between frames 23 and 57 second deck and below. 1412 Secured from Collision Quarters. 1416 Retreated from Collision Quarters. 1420 Secured from all general drills. 1427 Changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C. 1432 Changed speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 1441 1/2; Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 1502 Sounded General Quarters for exercises. 1516 Changed course to 210o T. & P.G.C. 1520 Changed course to 190o T. & P.G.C. 1530 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 1534 Ceased present exercises. 1536 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 1537 1/2; Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 1541 Changed course to 239o T. & P.G.C., forming cruising formation No. 2, various courses and speeds. 1550 Changed course to 095o T. & P.G.C. 1551 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, base course to 095o T. & P.G.C. 1557 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 211.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1605 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1610 Changed Formation Course and axis to 055o T. & P.G.C. 1617 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1734 Darkened ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.0.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 055o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1815 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert and for firing exercises 9-SL and 10-SL. 1826 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 055o T. & P.G.C. 1830 Formed Cruising Formation 1. 1840 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1845 Commenced scheduled exercise S-1. 1911 DENVER commenced firing 6" and 5" battery. 1914 Ceased firing. 1938 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 1943 Shifted steering control to conning tower. 1955 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 2006 Commenced firing automatic weapons. 2008 Ceased firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 164.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 055o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots. Firing exercise continuing. 2026 Secured from General Quarters, ceased present exercises. 2028 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. 2045 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 2103 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2230 Changed fleet course and axis to 050o T. & P.G.C. 2245 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 100o T. & P.G.C. 2315 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

Wednesday, April 22, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 20.2' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 20.7' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

00 - 04

Steaming as before on base course 100o T. & P.G.C., 091o P.S.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) Boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Steaming in Cruising Formation Two, U.S.S. CLEVELAND section guide of Section Two. Ship in darkened condition, Material Condition "B", Readiness Condition III. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC) (SOPA), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA. Destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, AND SAUFLEY as anti-submarine screen. 0055 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 100o T. & P.G.C. 0100 Changed fleet course and axis to 150o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0112 Changed speed to 18 knots (180 R.P.M.). 0115 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 0125 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0130 Changed fleet course and axis to 200o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0141 Reduced speed to 18 knots (180 R.P.M.). 0145 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 on course 200o T. & P.G.C. as base. 0156 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0158 Changed course to 280o T. & P.G.C., and in company with U.S.S. RENSHAW proceeded to take station as target group in Exercise 14. 0202 Increased speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 0214 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, increased speed to 26 knots (266 R.P.M.), DENVER SG Radar conducting 360o search. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 222.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 280o T. & P.G.C., at 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with special zig-zag plan, taking station to act as target for main body, Exercise No. 14. 0423 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0429 Changed course to 105o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 0440 Sighted ships of "main body" bearing 098o T. 0454 Sounded General Quarters for "dawn alert" and exercise. 0526 "Main body" illuminated target group. 0528 Commenced firing star shells to illuminate main body. 0531 Changed course to 195o T. & P.G.C. 0533 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0536 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 0538 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds, reforming formation. 0557 Secured from General Quarters. 0600 Resumed position and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 290o T. & P.G.C. 0638 Sighted Mataso Island bearing 300o T, distance 20 miles. 0744 Launched Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger DuCote, ARM1/c, U.S.N. 0745 Launched Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger, Mitchell, S1/c, photographer. 0745 Mustered crew on stations. 0748 Ceased zig-zagging. 0750 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 0759 Changed fleet course and axis to 270o T. & P.G.C. 0800 Sounded General Quarters for shore bombardment practice. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 248.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before. Fleet course and axis 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Carrying out bombardment practice. 0929 DENVER commenced firing 6" battery to starboard. 0936 DENVER ceased firing. 0944 Changed course to 170o T. & P.G.C. 0954 Changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C. 0958 Changed course to 305o T. & P.G.C. 1036 Changed course to 140o T. & P.G.C. 1043 Changed course to 130o T. & P.G.C. 1050 Changed course to 095o T. & P.G.C. 1101 Changed course to 125o T. & P.G.C. 1122 Changed course to 035o T. & P.G.C. 1138 Changed course to 290o T. & P.G.C. 1150 DENVER commenced firing 5" battery. 1158 DENVER completed firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 194.2.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1226 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C., formed cruising formation No. 2. 1237 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1251 Changed fleet course and axis to 215o T. & P.G.C. 1301 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1330 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 165o T. & P.G.C. 1342 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1 on course 125o T. & P.G.C. Commenced following movements of column leader conforming to Hilliard Channel entering Havannah Harbor, Efate. 1430 MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA MOORED alongside of tanker KASKASKIA in Havannah Harbor. 1431 Anchored in Berth No. 1 in 56 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, bearings: Beacon "E" 124.3o T., "Z" 052o T., White Rock 255o T. 1500 Plane No. 7 hoisted aboard. 1519 Got underway and proceeded to moor to port side of tanker, KASKASKIA in berth No. 8. 1550 COLUMBIA cast off from tanker and proceeded to anchorage. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 125.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

1601 Came alongside tanker, U.S.S. KASKASKIA, starboard side to. 1604 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway from tanker. 1611 U.S.S. CLEVELAND port side to tanker for fueling. 1614 Made fast and commenced fueling, draft forward 23' 2", aft 24' 5". 1623 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 8, secured on port catapult, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Mitchell, S1/c, photographer. 1703 Completed fueling. 1712 Underway to Berth No. 5, various courses and speeds. 1715 U.S.S. CLEVELAND got underway from tanker. 1743 Moored to Buoy No.5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water to the starboard chain, secured special sea details, set Modified Condition III. 1753 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway. Draft Forward 24' 3", aft 24' 5". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 62.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20

Moored as before in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Is., New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water, with starboard chain to buoy.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2030 U.S.S. RENSHAW came alongside and moored to our port side.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Friday, April 23, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 -04

Moored with starboard anchor chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. Ship darkened and in Modified Condition III. Condition "B" set throughout the ship. U.S.S. MONTPELIER has ready duty. Boiler No. 1 lit off for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, COLORADO, RIGEL, CASTOR, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, STACK, EATON, WALLER, PHILIP, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, SC5-14, SC6-50. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored along our port side.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside our port side. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 Temporary shore patrol with SUTTON, B. W. GM1c USN in charge left the ship. 1307 U.S.S. RIGEL underway, shifting berth to alongside tanker. 1315 Held Captain's inspection of lower decks, holds, and storerooms. 1347 U.S.S. MEDUSA underway shifting berths. 1415 Permission granted by Commanding Officer to put Plane No. 7 out of commission for three hours for routine overhaul. 1515 U.S.S. COLORADO standing in. 1515 U.S.S. SUWANNEE standing in.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1635 RIEGEL underway, shifting berths. 1639 WALLER underway, going alongside of the MEDUSA. 1648 SAUFLEY underway.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

Saturday, April 24, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

00 -04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water, with U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to port side. The ship is darkened and in Modified Condition of Readiness III. Condition "B" set throughout the ship. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND is the ready duty ship. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv TWELVE), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, RIGEL, MEDUSA, CASTOR, KASKASKIA, STACK, EATON, WALLER, PHILIP, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, and various small craft.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0525 The CASTOR got underway and stood out. 0727 The SAUFLEY underway from alongside the MEDUSA. 0758 The RIGEL got underway and stood out.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed the cruiser ready duty. 0849 U.S.S. EATON underway. 0930 Held quarters for muster and Captain's inspection; published articles for the government of the Navy. 1010 Pursuant to the order of the commanding officer BAKER, J. R., #633 18 54, FC3c V-6 USNR left the ship to report to flight surgeon in a vessel present for flight physical examination. 1037 U.S.S. CHENANGO underway.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1215 U.S.S. EATON stood in and moored port side of U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1245 Pursuant to the orders of the commanding officer the temporary shore patrols Lieut. L. J. Tobin, D-V(G) USNR and ROWE, W. F., GM1c USN in charge left the ship. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1501 U.S.S. EATON underway from tanker. 1520 U.S.S. EATON moored port side to U.S.S. STACK.

E. E. Ball, Jr.

Lt. U.S.Navy.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside our port side. 1600 BAKER, T. R., #633 18 54, FC3c(M) V-6 USNR returned aboard for duty, having completed the examination for flight training. 1630 JENNY APPLEGATE stood in.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2217 Captain returned aboard.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

 

Sunday, April 25, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island,

 

00 -04

Moored in Berth No. 5 to buoy with starboard chain, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water with U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to port side. Darkened ship in Readiness Condition III, Modified Condition "B" set throughout ship. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has cruiser ready duty. U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA) (OTC). Ships present: Various units of fleet as follows: U.S.S. COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND; destroyers U.S.S. RENSHAW, WALLER, STACK, EATON, SAUFLEY, PHILIP; carriers U.S.S. SANGAMON; and U.S.S. KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, APPLEGATE.

J. H. Parker,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW tied alongside our port side. 0800 This ship assumed cruiser ready duty. Set Condition 2.5 in the anti-air craft battery. 0801 U.S.S. CONWAY standing in. 0915 U.S.S. SANGAMON standing in. 0830 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0925 U.S.S. LAND standing in. 0935 U.S.S. WILSON standing in. 1108 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Captain Carney.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. The CONWAY moored alongside the MEDUSA. 1215 The LANG moored alongside the MARYLAND. 1255 Hoisted in Plane No. 7.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Monday, April 26, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 -04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Island of Efate, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water. The U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside our port side. This ship has the ready duty, ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness 2.5 is set in the A.A. Battery, Material Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 1 is on the line for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, RENSHAW, CONWAY, WALLER, STACK, EATON, SAUFLEY, PHILIP, LANG, WILSON, MEDUSA, KASKASKIA, and the JENNY APPLEGATE.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed the ready duty. U.S.S. PATPASCO and U.S.S. GWIN standing in. 0800- A rifle range party of sixty (60) men left the ship. Captain R. M. Ash, USMC, in charge. 0815- Mustered crew at quarters. 0900- Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, Lotspeich, Adam Jr, #611 56 10, MM2c, V-6, USNR left this ship to report to the flight surgeon in a vessel present for flight physical examination. 1100- Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1300- Made weekly and fortnightly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder samples, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, hangar spare sprinklers, operations normal.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1730- The shore patrol with HOLLAND, GM1c, USN, 375 95 81, in charge returned aboard upon completion of temporary duty.

J. H. Parker,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2125 Secured auxiliary steam aft. 2255 repair completed on auxiliary steam aft.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V(S), USNR.

 Tuesday, April 27, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate,

00 -04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water with U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to port side. Ship is darkened, in condition of readiness III, Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 1 steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), U.S.S. COLORADO (Ready Duty), MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv 12), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, RENSHAW, CONWAY, WALLER, STACK, EATON, SAUFLEY, PHILIP, LANG, WILSON, MEDUSA, KASKASKIA, GWIN, PATAPSCO, JENNY APPLEGATE.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lieut. U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0735 U.S.S. PATAPSCO underway, went alongside U.S.S. SANGAMON. 0758 U.S.S. KOPARA underway, standing out.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

08 - 12

0800 Moored as before. U.S.S. MARYLAND assumed ready duty. 0815 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Halsetine, passenger Rasmussen, J. M., ARM1/c. 0820 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Allison, passenger Fritz, F., ARM3/c. 0844 U.S.S. STERETT standing in. 0925 U.S.S. STERETT moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1050 Hoisted in Plane No. 7. 1055 Hoisted in plane No. 8. 1105 U.S.S. STERETT underway. 1115 U.S.S. STERETT moored alongside U.S.S. STACK. 1130- Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1200 U.S.S. PATASCO underway. 1504 U.S.S. WATERS standing in.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 20

Moored as before. Temporary shore patrol, HARDESTY, D. V., GM1c, USN in charge returned aboard. 1715 U.S.S. KASKASKIA underway from along side the U.S.S. SANGAMON shifting berth. 1729 U.S.S. KASKASKIA

J. P. Wiley,

Lt, DE-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

Wednesday, April 28, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

 

00 -04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides in 35 fathoms of water, on starboard chain. U.S.S. RENSHAW is moored to the port side. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Modified Condition III, Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, EATON, WALLER, CONWAY, RENSHAW, WILSON, LANG, PHILIP, STACK, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, PATAPSCO, JENNIE APPLEGATE, STERETT.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0445 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 0626 U.S.S. LANG underway shifting berths. 0630-0640 U.S.S. EATON, WILSON, STERETT, and STACK underway and stood out of harbor. 0653 U.S.S. MARYLAND underway and stood out of harbor. 0656 U.S.S. COLORADO underway and stood out of harbor. 0728 Let fires die out under boiler No. 1. No. 3 boiler is now in use for auxiliary purposes.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt, DE-V(G), USNR.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. Plane #8 has been placed out of commission to repair fabric. 0800 The MONTPELIER assumed the "Ready Duty". 0807 Exercised at Fire Drill. 0810- First stream of water at the scene of fire. 0825 The SINCLAIRE RUBILINE (Tanker) standing in. 0829- Secured from Fire Drill. 0830- Mustered crew on stations. 0917 The CONWAY and LANG underway and standing out. 0942 The SANGAMON and SUWANNEE underway and standing out.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1235- Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1605 Fired no-load charge on starboard catapult. 1645 U.S.S. CONWAY, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE standing into anchorages. 1705 U.S.S. MARYLAND and U.S.S. COLORADO standing in to anchorages. 1735 U.S.S. EATON, U.S.S. STERETT, U.S.S. LAND, U.S.S. STACK standing in to achorages.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V(S), USNR.

 Thursday, April 29, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 -04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water. U.S.S. RENSHAW is moored on our port side. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III with Condition "B" set. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (with ready duty), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, SAGAMON, WALLER, RENSHAW, WILSON, STERETT, CONWAY, EATON, LANG, PHILIP, STACK, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, JENNIE APPLEGATE, and SINCLAIRE RUBILINE.

J. H. Parker,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

04 - 08

Moored a before. U.S.S. RENSHAW tie up alongside our port side. 0630 U.S.S. BOREAS stood in.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

08 - 12

Moored a before. 0800 U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed ready cruiser duty. 0805 S.S. JENNIE APPLEGATE underway to moor alongside tanker. 0815- Mustered crew at quarters. 0828 U.S.S. MEDUSA underway. 0830 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger F. L. Oberwise, ACM1/c. 0900 U.S.S. COLORADO hoisted jack at fore starboard yard arm. 0920 U.S.S. MEDUSA moored starboard side to U.S.S. COLORADO. 0933 U.S.S. WALLER underway, shifting berths. 0935 U.S.S. MONTPELIER exercising at General Quarters on damage control problem. 0954 U.S.S. STERETT underway, moored alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA, starboard side to. 1140 Hoisted Plane No. 7 aboard. 1157 U.S.S. BOREAS underway shifting berths.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

12 - 16

Moored a before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions Normal. 1214 The PHILIP standing out. 1255 The Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MONTPELIER was received on board, accompanied by observers for damage control problem. 1330 Sounded General Quarters-damage control problem and secured from General Quarters.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

16 - 20

Moored a before. 1636 S.S. W. K. VANDERBILT standing in.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

20 - 24

Moored a before.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt, DE-V(G), USNR.

 

Friday, April 30, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to buoy in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

 

Note:

Reference: (a) Cominch Letter FF1/A12-1/A16-3, Serial 299 of Jan. 23, 1943.

1. Reference (a) was received April 8, 1943. Retroactive to April 1, 1943, individual watches were required to be signed by watch officers. Use of DENVER special form for Operational Log and War Diary was continued, however, for remainder of month of April, due to shortage of Form N. Nav. 43.

 

00 - 04

Moored with starboard anchor chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". The RENSHAW is moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, RENSHAW, WALLER, WILSON, CONWAY, EATON, LANG, STACK, STERETT, MEDUSA, KASKASKIA, BOREAS,MORMACTUN, and S.S. W. K. VANDERBILT.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 07400 U.S.S. WILSON underway. 0750 U.S.S. WALLER underway. 0750 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway from along port side.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed cruiser ready duty. The DENVER became the relief ready duty ship. 0800- Mustered crew on stations. 0815 hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ensign Haseltine, observer Bender, Aer2/c, U.S.N. Plane No. 7 took off. 0930 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. L. K. English, U.S.N.R. Plane No. 8 took off. 0950 Hoisted in Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer Bender, Aer2/c U.S.N. 1135 Hoisted in Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. English, passenger First Lieut. R. B. Carney, Jr. U.S.M.C.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt, DE-V(G), USNR.

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1205 U.S.S. LANG underway. 1235 U.S.S. CHENANGO standing out. 1237 U.S.S. MARYLAND standing out. 1303 U.S.S. CHENANGO standing in. 1314 U.S.S. SANGAMON standing in. 1403 U.S.S. WALLER standing in. 1414 U.S.S. RENSHAW standing in. 1415 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1445 U.S.S. PHILIP standing in. 1505 U.S.S. MARYLAND standing in.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1612 U.S.S. PHILIP and WALLER left alongside the KASKASKIA and anchored. 1643 RENSHAW moored alongside of the WALLER.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.

 

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