DECK LOG BOOK & WAR DIARY

CONDENSED






USS DENVER

CL 58




DECEMBER 1, 1942

TO

DECEMBER 31, 1942

Tuesday, December 1, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude 38-46-03 N.

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude 37-32 N.

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 00 - 04 Steaming as before, various courses and speeds standing down Delaware River. 0026, Fire Alarm sounded from A-402-A. Investigated, no fire found. 0220 Standard speed 15 knots, (144 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 615 lbs., Av. R.P.M. 121.25.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R

 

04 - 08 Steaming as before on various courses and speeds to conform with channel. 0448 anchored in Delaware Bay in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor with the following bearings: Overfall 154.6o T., south break-water light 196o T., Flashing Green light 205.5o T. with boilers #1 and #3 lit, and spinning engines every five (5) minutes. 0700 went to General Quarters for dawn alert and sortie from Delaware Bay. 0717 Underway course 210o P.G.G. and true. Standard speed 15 knots 144 R.P.M. Various courses and speeds to conform with channel. 0744 Pilot left the ship. 0752 made preparations to stream paravanes. 0750 increased to full speed, 20 knots (192 R.P.M.). 0757 lighted fires under #4 boiler.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

08 - 12 Steaming as before, various courses and speeds, standard speed 15 knots (115 R.P.M.). Steaming at full speed, 20 knots (192 R.P.M.). 0823 lighted fires under boiler No. 2. Standing out swept channel. 0835 U. S. S. BUCK (DD420) escorting, took station 1000 yards 000o relative as submarine screen. Commenced zig-zag upon clearing swept channel. 0900 made preparations for structural test firing. 0908 salvo one form 40 mm. Forward starboard quad mount. 0935 flank speed 25 knots (243 R.P.M.). 0946 cut out No. 2 engine tripped second time. 0950 cut in No. 4 boiler on main steam line. Using plan No. 8 zig-zag courses. 1013 fired first 5" salvo from No. 1 mount. 1013 speed 28 knots (275 R.P.M.)

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R

 

 12 to 16 Steaming as before. 1219 completed firing salvos 5" mounts. 1242 reduced to full speed 20 knots (192 R.P.M.). 1330 fired first 6" salvo, Turret No. 3. 1410 speed, 22 knots (212 R.P.M.). 1518 completed structural firing test. 1525 secured No. 3 boiler. 1534 Bridge lost steering control due to loss of power on after distribution board, and shifted control to steering engine room. Shifted steering control to bridge, power supply having been shifted to forward distribution board. 1553 flank speed. Various courses, entering and proceeding in swept channel toward Hampton Roads, Va.

Av. Steam 605 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 216

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R

 

16 -18 Steaming on various courses and speeds to conform with channel. 1630 Pilot Edwards came aboard. 1744 passed through net gate.

Av. Steam 620 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 101

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

18 - 20 Steaming as before. At 1805 anchored in Berth 24 in Hampton Roads. At 1821 underway to shift berths. At 1832 anchored in berth 24, Hampton Roads, Va. in 11 fathoms of water with 30 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. At 1930, held quarters for muster.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 110

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. Making preparations for shifting berth. 2035 darkened ship and set Condition 3. 2055 underway. Boilers #1 and #4 in use for steaming purposes. S/S 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). 2059 all engines stopped, anchored in Hampton Roads, Va. in 11 fathoms of water with 55 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor. On the following bearings: Flashing white buoy 154o T., Flashing Red Buoy #4 - 181o T., Green Beacon - Willoughby Spit - 113 1/2;. 2115 Secured Main Engines.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

  1. At 0001, upon completion of outfitting period, reported by despatch to Cominch and Cinclant for duty (info Opnav, Comserforlant and Comcrudiv 8), while proceeding from Philadelphia Navy Yard to Chesapeake Bay area for shakedown and indoctrinal training.
  2. U. S. S. BUCK, having been assigned by Cinclant as escort to Chesapeake Bay area, had reported for duty by despatch at 1440 (Plus 4), 30 November, and had been directed to rendezvous at 0745, December 1 at Delaware Bay Lower Station Ship. Rendezvous was effected in accordance with orders.
  3. While in swept channel, BUCK was directed to maintain station 1000 yards ahead. On the open sea, BUCK was directed to maintain appropriate anti-submarine patrol.
  4. At 1720, having passed inside Cape Henry, BUCK was released form escort duty by despatch and Cinclant and Comserforlant informed.
  5. Paravane tests were discontinued without streaming because of inability to lower the sliding shoe at speed of 15 knots or greater. Inasmuch as ship was operating under a close schedule, on her first trip in the open sea, with a single destroyer escort, it was not considered advisable to reduce speed below 15 knots.
  6. Structural firing tests were conducted without serious damage. Complete report will be submitted in separate correspondence.

 

Wednesday, December 2, 1942

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 00 - 04 Anchored as before in Hampton Roads, Va., in 11 fathoms of water with 55 fathoms of chain on the port anchor. Bearing as follows: White Buoy #1 151o T; Willoughby Spit Green Beam, 112o T; Red Buoy #4, 181 1/2o T. Boiler No. 4 as auxiliary, drift lead over starboard chains. 0225 commenced swinging stern to port on tide. Av. Steam 600 lbs.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0545 Following bearings observed: . Flashing White Bell Buoy #1 162.5o T. and Old Point Comfort Light 045 3/4o T.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before, At 0810 U.S.S. KEARNEY underway. At 0815 held quarters for muster. At 1035 U. S. S. SWANSON, U. S. S. BOYLE, U. S. S. LUDLOW, AND U. S. S. MACON underway. At 1105 U. S. S. GEORGE, U. S. S. ELLIOT, U. S. S. WALLER, U. S. S. EDISON, U. S. S. WILKES, BRISTON, AND SUSAN B. ANTHONY underway. At 1135 U. S. S. ANCON, LAKEHURST, AND ANNE ARUNDEL underway.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1251 U. S. S. AUGUSTA stood out N.O.B. and anchored. 1330 U. S. S. WALLER stood out of N.O.B. and enroute for Navy Yard. 1600 Commenced veering anchor chain.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before. 1602 commenced veering port anchor chain, secured in 90 fathoms on deck. 1705 tanker E. H. BLUM (U.S.S.) stood in. 1710 commenced swinging stern to starboard on ebb tide. Av. Steam (Auxiliary).

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1830 Darkened ship. 1840 U.S.S. ARCTURUS underway to shift berths. 1905 U.S.S. SANTEE underway to shift berths. 1911 Lighted fires under #2 boiler.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Beginning at 0930 the Commanding Officer and Heads of Departments concerned conferred with the staff of the Senior Officer Present Afloat, Hampton Roads (Comserforlant) relative to operations, communications, target and other services during the shakedown period.

Due to heavy weather, delivery of target practice ammunition was expected to be delayed. In view of this fact, and the desirability of having the ship's gunnery officer attend the weekly employment conference of the SOPA at 0930, Saturday, December 5, decision was reached to defer departure from Hampton Roads until about 1100 of that date.

 

Thursday, December 3, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 00 - 04 Anchored in Hampton Roads, Virginia in 11 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following bearings: Flashing White Buoy #7, 151o T.; Willoughby Spit Flashing Green beacon, 112o T.; Flashing red buoy #4, 181 1/2o T.; fires lighted under Boilers #1, 2 &4 and cut in on main steam line #4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Engineering Department in a standby condition for getting underway. Ship darkened and Condition III watch set. Ships present: U.S.S. ALCOR (SOPA), and various units of U. S. Fleet and Yard and District craft.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored in Hampton Roads, Virginia as before with 90 fathoms of chain on deck in 11 fathoms of water. Boilers #1, 2 & 4 with fires lighted and Engineering Department in standby condition, steering stations partially manned and an anchor watch set. 0755 lighted ship.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0815, Held quarters for muster. 0835 exercised crew at general quarters. 0845, let fires die out under #4 boiler. 0900 secured from general quarters.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. At 1210 DD325 underway. At 1343 DD385 underway. At 1407 U. S. S. WICHITA stood in and anchored at 1520. U. S. S. BRADFORD underway. At 1545 U. S. S. WARREN underway.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U.S.N.

 

16 - 20 . Anchored as before. U. S. S. JENKINS, DD-447 stood in and anchored. U. S. S. SANTEE underway, shifting berths.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1815 Darkened ship. 1955 lighted fires under No. 4 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin, Lieut., U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2045 sounded general quarters. 2057 secured from general quarters. 2400 ammunition lighter C. & O.-6 from St. Juliens' Creek moored along port side.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

Friday, December 4, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 00 - 04 Anchored in Hampton Roads, Va., in 11 fathoms of water, with 90 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor on the following bearing: Flashing White Bell Buoy #7 150o T.; Willoughby Spit Green Flashing Beacon, 112o T.; Flashing Red Buoy #4, 181.5o T. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in condition III and darkened. Ships present: U.S.S.ALCOR (SOPA) and various units of the U. S. FLEET and various yard and district craft. Ammunition Lighter C. & O. 6 moored alongside to port.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0815, Held quarters for muster. 0915 commenced taking on ammunition. 0940, Griffith, J. D., General Electric Representative, came aboard. 1000 Aviation gasoline fuel barge YOG-7 moored to starboard quarter. 1020, Lighted fires under #3 boiler. The following named men left the ship: Parlee, G. N., Western Electric Representative, and Graul, T. A., Western Electric Representative.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. Lifted safeties on #3 boiler. 1248 Commenced taking on aviation fuel from Barge Y.O.G.-7. 1540 completed fueling from Y.O.G.-7, barge left ship, received 7,770 gallons aviation gasoline. 1600 completed unloading ammunition barge.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Anchored as before. Fuel barge YO-40 moored on the starboard quarter.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. At 1832, Commenced fueling ship. At 1828 lit off boiler #3. At 1938 secured boiler #3. At 1940, completed receiving the following ammunition:

90 5"/38 Cal. Illum. Proj. Mk.30 Lot 189

90 5"/38 Cal. ctgs. SPD 2796

90 5"/38 Cal. cases & 90 5"/38 Cal. tanks

206 6"/47 Cal. target proj., BI&T

206 6"/47 Cal. target proj., BI&T

24 - 6"/47 Cal. common proj.

412 6"/47 Cal. ctgs., SPDE 3004

412 6"/47 Cal. cases 412 6"/47 Cal. tanks

24 - 6"/47 Cal. ctgs. SPD1787

24 - 6"/47 Cal. cases 24 6"/47 Cal. tanks

448 5"/38 Cal. target Proj., BI&T

660 5"/38 Cal. A.A. Common proj.

448 5"/38 Cal. ctgs. SPD 2796

448 5"/38 Cal. cases 448 5"/38 Cal. tanks

660 5"/38 Cal. ctgs. SPDN 2845

660 5"/38 Cal. Cases 660 5"/38 Cal. tanks

3250 40mm target ctgs. SPDN 3097

220 - boxes 40mm

1lb. sample powder SPD-2796, 5"/38; SPDN-2845

5"/38; SPDE-3004, 6"/47, and SPD-1787 6"/47

8 - 8 oz. Bottles

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2120, Completed fueling. Received 107930 gals. (2.569.32 bbls.) of fuel oil at 60 F. 2335, Tugs came alongside to remove oil barge and ammunition lighter, 2348, Oil barge and ammunition lighter cast off all lines and left from alongside.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

 

Saturday, December 5, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor

 00 - 04 Anchored as before in Berth 24, Hampton Roads, Virginia, in eleven (11) fathoms of water, with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Willoughby Spit Light, 113.5o T. and Flashing White Buoy #1 161.5o T. Boiler #2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in condition III and darkened. Ships present: U.S.S.ALCOR (SOPA) and various units of the U. S. Fleet and various yard and district craft.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0720 U. S. S. PRINGLE stood out. 0740 U. S. S. SAGAMONTE stood out.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant, (jg), U.S.N.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0835, Lighted fires under #3 Boiler. 0920, Let fires die under #3 Boiler. Held Quarters for muster and Captain's inspection. Secured from Captain's inspection. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0920 U. S. S. CLEVELAND underway and stood out. 1103 U. S. S. JENKINS underway and stood out. 1115 U. S. S. WICHITA and WALLER underway and standing out.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 1220 U. S. S. SUWANEE got under way and stood out. 1230 made preparations for getting under way. 1255 U. S. S. SANGAMON got underway. 1347 underway from Berth 24, Hampton Roads, Virginia, Captain at conn, Executive Officer and Assistant Navigator on bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.) Draft Forward 24' 2"; Aft 24' 7". Various courses and speeds out channel and up Chesapeake Bay Channel.

Av. Steam 577.5 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 146.8

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Maneuvering on various course and speeds to conform with channel. 1718 anchored in Area C, Chesapeake Bay, in six (6) fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms to the starboard anchor, on the following bearings: Rappahannock Spit-Windmill Point Light 302.8o T.; Stingray Point Light 285.9o T.; Wolftrap 213.8o T. Draft on anchoring, Forward 24' 3"; Aft 24' 7". 1729 secured steering engines. 1732, Secured main engines. 1753, Let fires die under #2 Boiler.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. At 1815 darkened ship. At 1915 sounded General Quarters. At 1930, Sims, H., S1c, USN, fell from boat deck to main deck, a distance of eight feet with no apparent injury. He was admitted to sick bay for observation. At 2000 secured from General Quarters.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Sunday, December 6, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored as before in Chesapeake Bay, forty-five (45) fathoms of chain, in forty-six (46) feet of water, to starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Rappahanock Spit 302.8o T.; Stingray Point Light 285.9o T.; Wolf Trap 213.8o T. U.S.S. ALABAMA (SOPA), H.M.S. NEWCASTLE present.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0546, Lighted fires under #1 Boiler.

G. C. Wilson,

Lieut. (jg) D-V(G), USNR

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0815 held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples; conditions normal. At 0824 underway, steaming various courses and speeds holing tactical drill. At 1411 ceased tactical drill and commenced exercises with H.M.S. NEWCASTLE.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieut. (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Steaming as before enroute to anchorage. 1258 all engines stopped. Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in seven (7) fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Wolf Trap Light 213.5o T.; Degaussing Range 175.5o T. 1305 secured main engines. 1455, Conducted man overboard drill. 1500, Recovered man. 1504, Secured from drill.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 1630 lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1745 tested main engines and made preparations for getting underway. Draft of ship, forward 23' 6"; aft, 24' 8".

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

  18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1820 underway at various speeds with boilers #1 and #3. Steering course 000o T. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots 144 R.P.M. 1831 changed speed to standard. 1855 changed course to 180o T. 1923 illuminated H.M.S. NEWCASTLE with 36" searchlights. 1925 H.M.S. NEWCASTLE illuminated DENVER with searchlight and starshell. 1926 changed course to 000o T. 1938 changed course to 180o T. 1953 H.M.S. NEWCASTLE illuminated DENVER with star shell. 1955 illuminated H.M.S. NEWCASTLE with 36" searchlights.

Average steam 580 lbs. Average R.P.M. 147.1

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Steaming as before on course 180o T. at standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.) Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. At 2007 commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds approaching anchorage. At 2020 anchored in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, in area "C", Chesapeake Bay. Anchorage bearings as follows: Stingray Point Light 280o T.; Wolf Trap Light 212o T.; Buoy 298.2o T. At 2030 secured main engines.

P. K. Wells,

Lieut. Comdr., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Monday, December 7, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating in

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude "C"

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay, in six (6) fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Stingray Point Light 280o T.; 1 quick flashing white, 298.2o T.; Wolf Trap 212o T. Number 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in darkened condition and Condition III watch set. Ships present: U.S.S. ALABAMA, H.M.S. NEWCASTLE.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, U.S. Naval Reserve

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, U.S. Naval Reserve

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0815 muster crew at quarters. 0940 lighted fires under #3 boiler. 1000 set all special sea details in preparation for getting underway. 1000 tested steering engines. 1020 tested main engines. 1029 all departments reported ready for getting underway. 1030 underway, Captain at Conn, the Executive Officer and Assistant Navigator on bridge. Boilers #1 and #3 in use. Standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). 1049 commenced scheduled exercises, steering at various courses and speeds conducting S.R.P. runs on target towed by tug U.S.S. TUSCARORA.

 

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds, standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.), making Short Range Practice runs on target. 1318 completed Short Range Practice runs. 1321 all engines ahead standard speed, 15 knots; steadied on course 180o T.; made preparations for anchoring. 1340 stopped all engines, approaching anchorage. 1344 anchored in area "C", Chesapeake Bay, in 6 1/2 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true anchorage bearings: Buoy "10E", 094o; Wolf Trap 222o T. 1400 let fires die out under boiler number 3; boiler number 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. At 1410 Denver plane SOC-3 landed close aboard, and was hoisted on board.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, U.S. Naval Reserve

 

18 - 20 1945 lighted fires under #3 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, U.S. Naval Reserve

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2005 made all preparations for getting underway. 2035 underway on boilers #1 and #3, Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge, steering course 000o T. Standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). 2039 changed speed to full. 2055 commenced steaming at various courses and speeds proceeding to vicinity of U.S.S. ALABAMA anchorage in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay. 2110 anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay, in six (6) fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Rappahannock Spit Buoy 232o; Nun "6" 335.5o; Tangier South Light 027.8o and Nun "4" 066.6o. 2130 secured special sea details. Main engines remaining in stand-by condition. 2136 Commander W. F. Karbach, M.C., U.S.N., Lieutenant Commander C. Bachman, M.C., U.S.N., and Pharmacist R. R. Bordas, M.C., U.S.N. from the U.S.S. ALABAMA came aboard to confer in surgical case. 2225 secured main engines and shifted watch to quarterdeck. 2254 secured boiler number 3.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

Tuesday, December 8, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

00 - 04 Anchored in Operating Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Rappahannock Spit Buoy 232o T., Nun Buoy No. 6, 335.5o T., Tangier Sound Light 027.8o T., and Nun Buoy 4 066.6o T. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ALABAMA (SOPA) and H.M.S. NEWCASTLE. This ship in condition of Readiness III and in Material Condition "B".

P. K. Wells,

Lieut. Comdr., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0630 lighted fires under #3 boiler. 0759 hoisted out plane S03-C Bu. No. 4866, Pilot Lieut. F. N. Menke; Ducotte, ARM 2/c.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. Making preparations to get underway. 0800, Quarters for muster. Made daily inspection and test of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0812 underway. Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Assistant Navigator on the bridge. Using boilers Nos. 1 and 3. Standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). Draft of ship Forward, 24' 2"; Aft, 24' 6". Various courses and speeds conducting S.R.P. Exercises. 0850 exercised crew at General Quarters. 1111 Secured from General Quarters, exercises completed. 1124 anchored in 6 1/2; fathoms of water, with forty-five (45) fathoms of cable to the port anchor, with the following bearings: Degaussing Range, 173o T.; Nun "10E", 118.5o T.; Wolf Trap Light, 215o T.; Bell Buoy 309o T.

Average Steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 176.9

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. 1455 U.S.S. HARRY LEE stood by on the port beam, distance 8,000 yard. 1531 commenced 20 cal. firing runs on towed sleeve. 1537 U.S.S. CHARGER stood in and anchored. 1541 completed 20 cal. firing. 1545 hoisted out #1 motor whale boat to retrieve sleeve.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before. 1605 hoisted in #1 motor whale boat, two sleeves having been retrieved. 1615, Held fire drill. 1617.5, Played first stream of water. 1618, Played second stream of water. 1627, Secured from fire drill. 1632, Held Fire and Rescue Drill. Called away fire and rescue party, first section. 1638, Retreated from all drills.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieut. Comdr., U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1808 U.S.S. HANNIBAL stood in and anchored. 1830 lighted fires under #4 boiler. 1915, Held searchlight drill.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2103 secured #4 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Wednesday, December 9, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with forty-five (45) fathoms of chain out to the port anchor on the following true bearings: Degaussing Range Light, 173o; Nun buoy "10E" 118.5o; Wolf Trap Light, 215o, and Bell Buoy, 309o. Ships present, U.S.S. ALABAMA (SOPA), WYOMING, HANNIBAL and CHARGER.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0630 commenced preparations for getting underway.

P. K. Wells,

Lieut. Comdr., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Making preparations for getting underway. 0815, Head quarters for muster of crew. 0827 underway, Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boilers number 1 and 4 in use for steaming purposes. Standard Speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). 0849 went to General Quarters. 0900 commenced Battle Problem. 0922 secured from General Quarters and Battle Problem. Commenced making runs on anchored target for S.R.P. 1127 secured for S.R.P. runs. 1135 all engines stopped. 1138 anchored in Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the Port Anchor with anchored target bearing 233o T., distance 2000 yards. 1144 main engines in a stand by condition.

Average steam, 595. Average R.P.M. 118.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 1300 made preparations for getting underway. 1328 underway. Standard Speed, 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds. 1336 exercised crew at General Quarters. 1343 commenced S.R.P. runs on anchored target raft. 1434 completed S.R.P. exercise runs. 1437 secured from General Quarters. Tested lowering and hoisting of paravane shoe at speed of 10 and 15 knots. 1440 Engineering Department exercised personnel at casualty drills at General Quarters stations. 1514 Engineering Department secured from drills. Draft of ship getting underway: Forward, 24' 0"; Aft, 24' 3".

Average steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 64.1

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before. 1600 commenced steaming at various courses and speeds proceeding to anchorage 1800 yards west of target raft in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay. 1624 anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following true bearings: Nun Buoy #2, 047.5o; Bell Buoy, 277.5o and Windmill Point, 284.9o. 1651 secured main engines. Secured number 1 boiler.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1800 darkened ship except for anchor lights.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieut. Comdr., U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Thursday, December 10, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area "Dog"

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, with the following true bearings: Nun Buoy #2, 047.5o, and Windmill Point, 284.9o. U.S.S. ALABAMA (SOPA), U.S.S. WYOMING, U.S.S. CHARGER.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0545 Fog set in. Commenced sounding fog signals, posted fog lookouts and radar watch. 0645 Lighted fires under number 1 boiler.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0805 Secured fog lookouts and radar watch; visibility increased to 8,000 yards. 0815, Mustered crew at quarters. 0900 made preparations for getting underway. 0933 Underway on various courses at various speeds, standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.), boilers numbers 1 and 4 in use. Captain, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standing by to fire machine gun training runs "H". 0944 changed course left to 150o T. 1058 Changed course to 180o T. 1112 Changed course to 270o T. 1140 Changed course to 180o T. making steerage way speed, awaiting planes from base.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieut. Comdr., U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Steaming as before. 1322 Commenced A.A.M.G. Training Practice "Hypo". 1410 Ceased firing, A.A.M.G. Training Practice "Hypo", not having been completed due to necessity for towing plane to return to base. Expended 580 rounds of B. L. & P. SPDN .3019 and 289 rounds Tracer N. F. 1473. 1431 Commenced SRP rehearsal runs. Average Steam, 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 61.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

16 - 18 Steaming as before. 1615 Completed SRP rehearsal runs. 1635 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 7 ¼ fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, with the following bearings: Buoy #2, 025o, distant approximately 2.5 miles.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1800, Darkened ship.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Friday, December 11, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area "C"

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00 - 04 Anchored in Chesapeake Bay, Area "C" in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearing: Flashing Red Buoy #2, 025oT., distant 2.5 miles. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships in area: U.S.S. WYOMING (SOPA), ALABAMA, TUSCARORA, CHARGER. Ship in Condition "B" and Condition Watch III. Darkened ship.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0625 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0745 Made preparations for getting underway. 0800 Mustered crew at quarters. 0819 Underway on boilers Nos. 1 and 4. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.) 0826 Manned all general quarters stations. 0839 Commenced steering various courses and speeds for S.R.P., base course for firing runs 320oT., speed 15 knots. 0900, Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0914 Turret I commenced firing to starboard. 0917 Ceased firing. Four rounds expended, no casualties. 0945 Turret I commenced firing to starboard. 0949 Ceased firing, 24 rounds expended, no casualties. 1012 Turret II commenced firing to starboard. 1015 Ceased firing, 24 rounds expended, no casualties. 1053 Turret III commenced firing to starboard. 1058 Ceased firing, right gun still loaded. 1059 Trained clear and unloaded gun through the muzzle. Firing circuit right gun failed throughout run. Average steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 98.75.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

12 - 16 Steaming as before on various courses at various speed, conducting S.R.P. firing runs. 1225 Commenced run for Turret IV. 1238 Commenced firing. 1241 Ceased firing. 1338 Commenced firing 5"/38 cal. anti-aircraft batter, officers run. 1446 All short range firings completed. Expended following ammunitions for S.R.P. this date: 99 5"/38 cal. projectiles BLT Mk 31-10; 96 rounds 6"/47 cal. projectiles BLP Mk 29-3; 97 rounds 6"/47 cal. cartridges, SPDB 3004; and 99 rounds 5"/38 cal. cartridges, SPD 2796. 1540 Hoisted out motor whale boat to transfer Gunnery Officer to plane. 1548 Hoisted in motor whale boat. 1552 Steadied on course159o T, proceeding to anchorage, speed 20 knots (192 R.P.M.).

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before on course 159o T. Speed 20 knots, (192 R.P.M.) enroute to anchorage. 1622 Changed course to 180o T. Changed speed to 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). 1629 All engines stopped. 1633 Anchored in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following bearing: Occ. Red Buoy #10E bearing 128o T. distant 4350 yards. 1640 Secured main engines. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 1840 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

Saturday, December 12, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area "C"

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00 - 04 Anchored in Chesapeake Bay in Area "C" in 7 1/2; fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, with Occ. Red Buoy No. 10 E bearing 128o T., distant 4350 yards. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes and No. 2 for standby. Ships present, U. S. S. CHARGER. Ship in condition III, Material Condition Baker, and darkened.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0645 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Tested main engines, made preparations for getting underway. 0815, Held quarters for muster. Made daily visual inspection of magazines and powder samples, conditions normal. 0827 Underway, Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. Steaming with boilers Nos. 2 and 4, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds, conducting boresighting and director check exercises.

Average Steam 595.5 lbs. Average R.P.M. 25.0

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Underway as before. 1240 Stopped all engines and lowered No. 1 motor whale boat to pick up Lieutenant Commander Whipple from DENVER plane. 1257 Lost bridge steering control. Shifted control to steering aft. 1322 Regained bridge steering control. 1340 Commenced steering various courses and speeds for A.A. machine gun training practice. 1352 Commenced firing A.A. machine gun training practice. 1418 Ceased firing practice. Expended the following ammunition: 148 rounds 40 M.M.- B.L. & P. SPDN 3097; 325 rounds 20 M.M.-A.A.H.E. Non-Tracer SPDN 3019; 171 rounds 20 M.M.-A.A.H.E. Tracer N.F. Lot 1477; and 18 rounds M.M.-B.L.&P. SPDN 3019. Plane lost all sleeves at the end of the second run. 1428 Recovered all sleeves by motor whale boat. 1439 Hoisted in motor whale boat and commenced steering various courses and speed proceeding to area 8000 yards from the U.S.S. CHARGER for bore sighting. 1509 Lay to for bore sighting and director check. 1535 CHARGER got underway for flight operations. Shifted ship's position so as to boresight on target raft at approximately 8000 yards. 1543 H.M.S. BATTLER passed abeam to port. Average steam 595 lbs. Average R.P.M. 77.4.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before, on various courses at various speeds, maneuvering to boresight batteries. 1740 Made preparations for bringing ship to anchor. Average steam 600 lbs., Average R.P.M. 36.65.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lieutenant commander, U.S.N.

 

18 - 20 Steaming as before. 1802 All engines stopped. 1804 Anchored in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following bearing: Occ. Red Buoy "10E" 128.3o T., distant 4300 yards. 1808 Secured main engines. No. 2 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. 1819 U.S.S. CHARGER anchored. 1820 Secured No. 4 boiler. 1915 Sounded General Quarters for drill purposes. 1915, Held Night General Quarters for drill purposes.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2020 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Watch II and Material Condition Baker.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

 

Sunday, December 13, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area "C"

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearing: Buoy "10E" 128o, distance 4350 yards. Boiler No. 2 steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER (SOPA), CHARGER, NAGATUCK, and H.M.S. BATTLER.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. At 0645 lighted boiler No. 4.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 0815, Mustered crew at quarters. 0848 Veered chain to 75 fathoms on the starboard anchor. 0920 Secured No. 4 boiler. 0945, Held Divine services. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before. 1655 DENVER plane flew over and dropped message.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. AT 1925 the U.S.S. LIVERMORE, U.S.S. EBERLE, U.S.S. KEARNEY, and U.S.S. ERICSON stood in.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

 20 - 24 Anchored as before 2125 TUSCARORA stood in and reported for duty and anchored in the Rappahannock.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

 

Monday, December 14, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 7 1/2; fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, with Occ. Red Buoy Number "10E" bearing 128o T., distant 4350 yards. Using boiler No. 2 for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. CHARGER, U.S.S. NAUGAUTUCK, H.M.S. BATTLER, U.S.S. TUSCARORA. Ship in condition III.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0900 Lighted fire under boiler No. 4.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0815, held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. At 0835 U.S.S. TUSCARORA came alongside starboard side amidships to transfer mail. At 0904 cast off lines to Tuscarora. At 0914 underway for practice firing runs steaming on various courses and speeds, standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.). Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. At 0915 commenced scheduled exercises. At 0930 sounded General Quarters. At 1007 secured from General Quarters. Making practice runs for Day Spotting Practice.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Steaming as before on various courses, making training runs on target for Day Spotting Practice, combined with A. A. M. G. training. 1358 Commenced firing A. A. M. G. training practice on towed sleeve. 1359 Ceased firing , sleeve shot down. 1418 Commenced firing machine guns. 1419 Ceased firing 1509 Stationed special details in preparation for anchoring. 1538 All engines stopped. Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Degaussing Range, 163.2o T.: Wolf Trap, 207.9o T.: Wind Mill Point Light, 307.5o T. 1545 Secured main engines. 1558 U.S.S. TUSCARORA anchored. Average Steam, 600 lbs. Average R.P.M., 43.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before. 1606 Secured fires under No. 2 boiler. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Draft upon anchoring F-23' 11"; A-24' 0". The following ammunition was expended this date: 160 rounds BLT, SPDN 3097; 18 rounds BLP 20 M.M., SPDN 3019; 143 rounds 20 M.M. A.A.H.E. Tracer, N.F. 1477; 269 rounds 20 M.M. A.A.H.E. Non-Tracer SPDN.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1915 Manned all General Quarters stations. 1958 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

 

Tuesday, December 15, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C" Chesapeake Bay in 7 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following bearings: Degaussing Range 163.20 T.; Wolf Trap 207.90 T.; Windmill Point Light 307.50 T. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ALABAMA (SOPA), WYOMING, CHARGER, PADUCAH, AULICK, EDWIN MARHAS, LIVERMORE, EBERLE, TUSCARORA.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0515 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 0730 Made preparations for getting underway. 0758 Underway, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.), Captain at Conn. Draft of ship 24' 0" Forward; 24' 0" Aft.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Underway as before. 0745, Mustered crew at quarters. 0815 Manned General Quarters stations for D.S.P. runs. 0830 Commenced first D.S.P. run. 0843 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition III on all except 5" and 6" batteries. 1000, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1009 Commenced second D.S.P. run. 1043 Secured all stations from General Quarters. Set Condition III. 1121 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 5 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Stingray Point 304.50, Windmill Point 3280, and Bell Buoy Windmill Point 3530. Average Steam 581.7 lbs. Average R.P.M. 161.6

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

12 - 16 Anchored as before. At 1245 underway steaming at various courses and speeds for A.A.T.P. firing runs, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. At 1300 sounded General Quarters for D.S.P. runs and A.A.T.P. firing. At 1350 commenced to fire starboard 5"/38 battery. At 1354 ceased fire, 51 rounds expended. At 1510 commenced firing port 5"/38 battery. At 1512 ceased firing, 44 rounds expended. Ammunition expended: 95 A.A. 5"/38 Mk 31-10 L & T projectiles; 95 5"/38 Cartridges SPON 2845.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before, enroute to anchorage. 1601 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 6 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearing: Stingray Point, 3020 T.; Wolf Trap, 1950 T.; Windmill Point, 3200 T. 1605 Secured main engines and unnecessary boilers. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1917. Exercised crew at fire quarters, fire in B-0107-E. 1920, First stream of water. 1928, Secured from quarters.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

 Wednesday, December 16, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C" in Chesapeake Bay in 6 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, on the following bearings: Stingray Point, 302o T.; Wolftrap, 195o T.; Windmill Point, 320o T. Ships present, U.S.S. WYOMING, U.S.S. CHARGER, U.S.S. TUSCARORA. Boiler No. 4 steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened in Condition of readiness III and Material Condition "B".

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 -12 0800, Held quarters for muster. 1150 Secured Main Engines. Veered to 75 fathoms chain on starboard anchor.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. 1300, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1340 Weather cleared up and wind died down. 1410 Made preparations for getting underway. 1447 Underway on boiler No. 3 and No. 4. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Steering various courses and speeds. Maneuvering to start D.S.P. Standard speed 12 knots (144 R.P.M.). 1449 Manned all General Quarters stations in preparation for D.S.P. 1520 main battery opened fire. 1536 main battery ceased firing. 1544 Secondary battery opened fire. 1550 Secondary battery ceased firing. Completed D.S.P. 47 rounds 6" ammunition and 64 rounds 5" ammunition expended, no casualties. Changed course to 180o T. and commenced making various speeds proceeding to anchorage. 1553 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition III.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

 16 - 18 Steaming as before. At 1627 anchored in Area "C" in Chesapeake Bay in 6 ¼ fathoms of water 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearing: Stingray Point, 295.7o T.; Windmill Point, 318.7o T.; Degaussing Range, 148o T.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 No remarks.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Thursday, December 17, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude From Operating Area "C",

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Enroute to

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Norfolk, Virginia.

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay, in 6 ¼ fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, on the following true bearings: Stingray Point 295.7o, Windmill Point 318.7o and Degaussing Range 148o. Boiler No. 4 steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ALABAM (SOPA), CHARGER and WYOMING. 0310 Lighted fires under boiler No. 3.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. At 0503 underway for Hampton Roads, Va. on various courses and speeds conforming to the channel. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge, standard speed 15 knots (144 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 3 and 4 cut in on main line.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Steaming as before enroute to Hampton Roads on course 288o T. Standard speed, 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Steering various courses to conform with the channel. 0909 Passed through anti-submarine net. 0934 Tug ONEKA came alongside and Pilot Edwards came aboard. 1001 Moored starboard side to Pier 5, N.O.B. Norfolk, Va. with the following lines out: 4 crossed springs forward and 4 crossed springs aft, head and stern wire. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. 1013 Secured main engines and unnecessary boilers. Average Steam, 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 102.5. 1100, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Moored as before. 1205 Ammunition lighter moored alongside to take empty cases and tanks. 1220, Commenced receiving fuel from dock. 1423 Ammunition lighter cast off. 1500, Completed fueling, received 2901 bbls. fuel oil, Navy Grade 1 at 84o and 121,842 gals. at 60o, inspected as to quantity by Ensign W. W. Hardin, USN. 1515 U.S.S. BOYLE moored astern.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Moored as before. At 1642, the Captain left the ship for temporary additional duty at the Navy Department, Washington, D. C. At 1642, the Executive Officer left the ship for temporary additional duty at the Fourth Naval District, Philadelphia, Pa. At 1725, received aboard for use in general mess the following provisions from a Naval Supply source: one box mace and 17 carton fruit cake.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Moored as before. Received the following provisions for use in the general mess, inspected as to quantity by Lt. Fadem (SC) USN, and as to quality by U. S. Navy Inspector from the Naval Supply Depot: 100 gal. tomato catsup; 2000 lbs. coffee beans; 1500 lbs. canned figs; 2000lbs. assorted jams; 1000 lbs. macaroni; 1500 lbs. powdered milk; 4000 lbs. milk (evaporated); 10,000 lbs. sugar; 1000 lbs. luncheon meat; 80 gals. salad oil; 1000 lbs. tinned peas; 1000 lbs. sour pickles; 250 lbs. canned raisins; 200 lbs. salt celery; 200 lbs. salt onions; 5000 lbs. frozen veal salads; 500 lbs. head cheese; 800 lbs. liverwurst; 2000 lbs. bologna sausage; 600 lbs. tongue, 3000 lbs. butter; 1098 lbs. cheese.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Moored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Friday, December 18, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Naval

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Base,

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Virginia.

 00 - 04 Moored starboard side to Pier No. 5, berth 5-1, Naval Operating Base, Norfolk, Va. with the following lines: Four crossed springs forward and four crossed springs aft, 2 1/2;" stern wire. Receiving fresh water from dock, No. 3 boiler steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ALCOR (SOPA), EBERLE, ERICSSSON, LIVERMORE and various other naval and merchant craft. 0100, Received the following supplies for ships service store from a Naval Supply Depot, inspected as to quantity by Lt. L. J. Tobin: 144 pkgs Colgate shaving cream, 96 bottles Vitalis hair tonic, 10,000 pkgs. Camels, 10,000 pkgs. Chesterfields and 10,000 pkgs. Lucky Strike cigarettes.

L. J. Tobin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U. S. N. R.

 

04 - 08 Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Moored as before. At 0935, the board of which Lt. Comdr. T. R. Kurtz, Jr. is a senior member held surprise quarterly inspection of ship's post office.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Moored as before. 1330, Commanding Officer commenced inspection of lower decks and machinery spaces. 1500, completed inspection of lower decks and machinery spaces.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Moored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Moored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

 Saturday, December 19, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude From N.O.B.,

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Enroute to

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Portsmouth,

 00 - 04 Moored starboard side to Pier No. 5 berth 51, Naval Operating Base, Norfolk, Va. with the following lines in use: Four (4) crossed springs forward and four (4) crossed springs aft and 2 1/2;" stern wire. Receiving fresh water from dock. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ALCOR (SOPA), EBERLE, ERICSSON, LIVERMORE, and various other naval and merchant craft.

J. H. Parker,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Moored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Moored as before. 0849 U.S.S. CHICOPEE underway. 0900 Commercial tugs HELEN, EDNA V. CREW, RELIANCE, and YT120 came alongside. 0904 Mr. Treakle, pilot, came aboard. 0910 Underway for Navy Yard, Portsmouth, Va. on various courses to conform to the channel, pilot at Conn, Commanding Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). 1043 Moored starboard side to berth 11 and 12, Navy Yard, Portsmouth, Va. with bow line, forward and aft bow springs, crossed quarter springs, two quarter breast lines and stern wire. 1100 Pilot Treakle left the ship. 1115, Quarters for muster. 1130 The Captain returned aboard, temporary additional duty having been completed. 1130, Captain R. B. Carney, USN, returned on board and resumed regular duties, having completed additional temporary duty involved in reporting to the Secretary of the Navy to received the Distinguished Service Medal.

R. H. Goebel,

Lieut., U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Moored as before. At 1300 Commenced receiving telephone service from dock. At 1330 Commenced receiving electricity from dock.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

16 - 20 Moored as before. 1900 Fired two boilers on dock to furnish steam to ship.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Moored as before. 2035 secured boiler No. 3 and started receiving steam from dock.

L. J. Tobin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U. S. N. R.

 

Sunday, December 20, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Portsmouth,

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude

 00 - 04 Moored starboard side to berth No. 11 and No. 12 in the Navy Yard, Portsmouth, Va. in 5 ¼ fathoms of water with six manilla lines and one stern wire. Receiving flushing water, fresh water, electricity, steam, and telephone services from the dock. Ships present: U.S.S. RANGER (SOPA), U.S.S. SANTEE, and various other yard and district craft.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Moored as before. 1100, mustered crew at quarters.

L. J. Tobin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U. S. N. R.

 

12 - 16 Moored as before. 1300, The crew was paid semi-monthly pay by Lt. (jg) J. W. Cartee, Disbursing Officer. 1338, Lighted fires under #2 boiler. 1510, Secured #2 boiler. 1558, Lighted fires under #2 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Moored as before. 1558 Lighted fire under No. 2 boiler. 1645, Lt. E. F. Baldwin, USNR, returned aboard ship with 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and L division men from anti-submarine school.

John T. Flis,

Lieutenant (jg), D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 -24 Moored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

Monday, December 21, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude From Navy Yard,

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Enroute to

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Area "C",

 00 -04 Moored starboard side to berth No. 11 and 12, Navy Yard, Portsmouth, Virginia, with the following lines in use: Three (3) crossed spring lines forward and three (3) crossed spring lines aft and a stern wire. Receiving the following services from Yard sources: Fresh and salt water, electricity and telephone.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Moored as before.

R. H. Goebel,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Moored as before. 0815, Muster crew at quarters. 1135, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1140 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 1210 Ceased receiving electricity from dock. 1230 Disconnected shore telephone. 1255 Ceased receiving fresh and flushing water from dock. 1300 Made Preparations for getting underway, draft Forward 24' 2"; Aft 24' 8". 1320 Pilot, Captain Downing, came aboard. 1330 Underway, boilers Nos. 3 and 4 in use. Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on Bridge with Pilot Downing assisted by YT 213, YT 120, Tugs EDNA V. CREW AND HELEN. Standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Maneuvered with various courses and speeds standing down channel. 1353 All tugs cast off. 1505 Pilot, Captain Downing, left the ship on tug EDNA V. CREW. Average Steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 85.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

16 - 18 Steaming as before, on various courses and speeds proceeding down the channel. Made weekly inspection of magazine sprinkling systems. Conditions normal except for two frozen valves in topside 20 mm clipping room. 1606 Changed course left to 055o T. and commenced steering various courses proceeding up Chesapeake Bay to operating area. 1705 Passes ALABAMA abeam to port.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Steaming as before. At 1812 anchored in Area "C" in Chesapeake Bay in 5 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Stingray Point 293o T., Windmill Point 316.6o T., Wolf Trap 196.3o T.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieut., U.S.N.R.

 

Tuesday, December 22, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating in

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude "C",

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00 -04 Anchored in Area "C" in Chesapeake Bay with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor in 5 1/2 fathoms of water, with the following anchorage bearings: Stingray Point 293o T., Windmill Point 316.6o T., Wolf Trap 196.3o T. Ships present: U.S.S CHARGER and U.S.S. WYOMING. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0315 Commenced swinging to ebb tide, stern to port.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0645 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0815, held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples; conditions normal. At 0828 underway steaming on various courses and speeds for A.A.M.G. practice. Standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. At 1030 fire starboard 40 M.M. battery. At 1142 fired port 40 M.M. battery.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 -16 Steaming as before, lying to. 1251 Changed speed to 10 knots (96 R.P.M.). 1253 Sounded General Quarters, commenced Battle Problem. 1320 Completed Battle Problem and secured from General Quarters. 1430 Commenced N.S.P. runs, steaming on various courses at various speeds. 1514 Completed N.S.P. runs and commenced local control procedure runs, Batt. II having the Conn for this exercise. Average steam 595 lbs. Average R.P.M. 62.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before. Various courses and speeds. 1635 Completed L.C.P. runs and shifted Conn from Battle II to Pilot House. 1709 Anchored in Area "C" of Chesapeake Bay in 6 ¼ fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Stingray Point Light 294o T., Windmill Point Buoy 336.3o T., Windmill Point Light 317o T. Draft of ship on anchoring Forward 23' 11", Aft 24' 5". No. 2 boiler in use as auxiliary. Expended the following ammunition on A.A.M.G. Practice this date: 248 Cartridges 40 M.M. Target SPDN 3097 B.L.&T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 114.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1900 Exercised at General Quarters stations. 1930 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Wednesday, December 23, 1997

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating in

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude "C" and "B",

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Bay

 00- 04 Anchored in Area "C", of Chesapeake Bay in 6 ¼ fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following bearings: Stingray Point 294o T., Windmill Point Buoy 336.3o T., Windmill Point Light 317o T. No. 2 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in Condition III and Material Condition Baker. Ships present, U.S.S. WYOMING.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0545 Lighted fires under boilers Nos. 1 and 3.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0800 Secured No. 2 boiler. Made preparations for getting underway. 0815, mustered crew at quarters. 0834 Underway on boilers Nos. 1 and 3 on course 000o T., Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). 0910 Manned Flight Quarters stations for drill. 0925 Commenced steering various courses and speeds for Flight Quarters drill and for recording tactical data. 1000, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1055 Secured from Flight Quarters. 1055 Heavy fog set in. 1107 Anchored in Area "D", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Target 215o distance 8,460 yards, target 195o distance 3600 yards. Commenced sounding fog signals. 1135 Coast Guard Cutter Y.P.569 came along starboard side. Average steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 69.8.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

12 -16 Anchored as before. At 1319 sounded General Quarters for battle problem. At 1350 Y.P.569 cast off. At 1353 secured from General Quarters and set Condition III. At 1432 underway, Executive Officer at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Steaming various courses and speeds, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.).

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Lying to-conducting general drills, man overboard, fire and collision. Commenced emergency drills, man overboard. 1621, Secured from man overboard drill. 1622 Y.P.569 came alongside to starboard. Transferred camera party to Y.P.569. 1632 Y.P. 569 cast off all lines. All engines ahead 10 knots, commencing runs for tactical data. 1633, Fire quarters for simulated fire in sail locker. 1635, First stream of water. 1643, Secured from fire drill. 1656, Collision drill. 1708, Secured from collision drill. 1711 Completed and secured from drills. 1711, Retreat, completed drills.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Steaming as before on various courses and speeds. 1830 Exercised crew at General Quarters for 6" and 5" Night Spotting Practice, using star shell and searchlight illumination. 1931 Secured main battery. 1957 Secured from General Quarters. Average Steam 595 lbs. Average R.P.M. 72.9.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Steaming as before at various courses and speeds proceeding to anchorage. 2025 Anchored in Area "D", Chesapeake Bay in 6 ¼ fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Windmill Point 212o, Bell Buoy #12TL 350o, and San Marcos Wreck 079o. 2032 Secured main engines. 2050 Secured No. 3 boiler. Average steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 61.8.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

Thursday, December 24, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude At Anchor,

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake Bay

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude and at

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "B", Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, on the following true bearings: Windmill Point 212oT., Bell Buoy #12 (Fl. W.) 350oT., San Marcos Wreck 079oT. Ship darkened and in Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". Boiler No. 1 on the line for auxiliary purposes.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0525 Tested main engines. 0607 Underway, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Boilers 1 and 3 in use for steaming purposes. Standard speed 145 R.P.M., 15 knots. 0612 Changed speed to 15 knots, 145 R.P.M. course 345o T. 0630 changed course to 005o T. 0650 Changed course to 010o T. 0703 Changed course to 340o T. 0730 Changed speed to 10 knots, 96 R.P.M. Changed course to 335o T. Changed course to 011o T. Average Steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 132.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

8 - 12 Steaming as before, various courses and speeds, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.) standing up channel. 0815, Held quarters for muster. 0820 Prepared to steam paravanes. 0849 Streamed paravanes. 0900, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0905 Recovered paravanes, placed on deck. 1153 Anchored in Chesapeake Bay in Annapolis Roads in 7 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Radio Station south tower 317.5o T., Black Can Buoy #1 247oT., and flashing White Bell Buoy #33 223oT. Average Steam 600 lbs., Average R.P.M. 143.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. The Disbursing Officer was authorized and directed to advance cash to men on beach guard duty in the amount of $2.80 per man at the rate of 70 cents per meal. 1205 Secured No. 3 boiler.

J. H. Parker,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

R. M. Ash,

Captain, U. S. Marine Corps.

 

Friday, December 25, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude in

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Roads

 00 - 04 Anchored in Annapolis Roads in seven fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Radio Station south tower 317.5o T., Black Can Buoy No. 1 240oT., and Flashing White Bell Buoy No. 33 223oT., Ship's Head 343oT. No. 1 boiler steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ship in Condition III and Condition "B" and darkened except for Navigational lights. No. 1 and 2 motor launches in the water.

R. H. Goebel,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0830, Muster crew at quarters.

R. M. Ash,

Captain, U. S. Marine Corps.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before.

R. H. Goebel,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

R. M. Ash,

Captain, U. S. Marine Corps.

 

Saturday, December 26, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Anchor

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Annapolis

 00 - 04 Anchored in Annapolis Roads in 7 fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, on the following bearings: Radio Station, South Tower 317.5o T., Black Can Buoy No. 1 343oT., No. 1 boiler steaming for auxiliary purposes, ship in Condition of Readiness III and Condition "B", with darkened ship except for navigational lights. 0325 Started fog signals.

R. H. Goebel,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0730, Sounded General Quarters (dawn alert) for drill.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 1100, BuShips inspection party came aboard. 1100, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Maximum temperature 79o, minimum temperature 30o.

R. M. Ash,

Captain, U. S. Marine Corps.

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. 1445, Lighted fires under no. 3 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Anchored as before. 1605 Secured fires under No. 3 boiler. 1800, Darkened ship except for navigational lights.

L. V. Forde,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2338 Lost load on generator.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Sunday, December 27, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude in

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Roads

 00 - 04 Anchored as before in Annapolis Roads in 7 fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Radio Station, South Tower 317.5o T., Black Can Buoy No. 1 247oT., and Flashing White Bell Buoy No. 33 - 223oT. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Motor launches Nos. 1 and 2 in the water.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0440 Lighted fires under boiler No. 3. 0529 Secured fires under No. 3 boiler. 0730 General Quarters (Dawn Alert) for drill purpose.

L. V. Forde,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0817 secured from General Quarters, set Condition III and lighted ship. At 830, held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. 1300 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 3. 1340 Secured and let fires die out under No. 3 boiler. 1500 Bureau of ships visiting party, consisting of 52 officers and men, left ship.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 20 Anchored as before. 1800 Darkened ship except for navigational lights.

L. V. Forde,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. At 2030 lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. At 2115 died out fires under No. 3 boiler.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Monday, December 28, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude in

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Roads

 00 - 04 Anchored in Annapolis Roads, Chesapeake Bay, in 7 fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, with the following bearings: Radio Station, South Tower 317.5o T., Black Can Buoy No. 1-240oT., and Flashing White Bell Buoy No. 33 - 223oT. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Motor launches Nos. 1 and 2 in the water. Ship in darkened condition and Condition "Baker."

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0729 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 0730 General Quarters (dawn alert) for drill purposes.

L. V. Forde,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. At 0820 Secured from General Quarters, and set Condition III and "Baker". Lighted ship. At 0827 died out fires under No. 3 boiler. At 1100, held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples; conditions normal. At 1102 lighted fires under No. 3 boiler.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

12 - 16 Anchored as before. Ship on one (1) hour's sailing notice.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

 20 - 24 Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

Tuesday, December 29, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Annapolis Roads,

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude And at

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Annapolis Roads in 7 fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Boilers Nos. 1 and 3 lighted off and the ship in a condition of readiness for getting underway on an hour's notice. Ship in Material Condition "Baker". Low visibility during watch (fog). Making fog signals. 0310 Visibility increased to 5,000 yards. Ceased fog signals.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. 0530 Made preparations for getting underway. 0610 Underway, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.), draft Forward 24' 2", Aft 24' 5". Various courses and speeds. Due to thickening fog, at 0624 anchored in 7 ¾ fathoms of water with 30 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, approximately 1,000 yards on a bearing of 105o from original anchorage.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 - 12 Anchored as before. 0815, Mustered crew at quarters. 0820 Made preparations for getting underway. 0836 Underway on boilers Nos. 1 and 3 on course 221o T., Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Standard speed 15 knots, (145 R.P.M.). Sounding fog signals. 0847 Changed course to 195o T. Changed speed 2/3. 0902 Commenced steering various courses proceeding down the channel. 1000 Passed buoy #20-A abeam to port, distance 75 yards. 1045 Changed course 10o to left to avoid ship on opposite course. 1047 Resumed original course. 1135, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1143 Passed buoy #21-B to starboard.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

12 -16 Steaming as before. At 1353 all engines stopped. At 1353 all engines back 2/3. At 1355 all engines ahead 1/3. At 1407 all engines ahead 2/3.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

 16 - 18 Steaming as before. 1618 Changed course to 180o T. Speed 10 knots, (96 R.P.M.) 1700 Changed course to 135o T. 1721 All engines stopped. 1724 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay, in 7 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor. Heavy fog, no visibility for bearings. Position: Lat. 37o 38.5' N., Long. 76o 07' W. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Making fog signals. Average Steam 600 lbs. Average R.P.M. 96.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before. 2135 YP 569 came alongside starboard side.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

Wednesday, December 30, 1942

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "Cast" in Chesapeake Bay in 7 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor in Latitude 37o 38.5' N., Longitude 76o 07' W., sounding fog signals. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. CHARGER, U.S.S. TUSCARORA, U.S.S.PADUCKA. At 0310 ceased fog signals.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 0545 Visibility decreased, commenced fog signals.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

08 -12 Anchored as before. 0815, Held quarters for muster. 0830 Made preparations for getting underway on 30 minutes notice. 0925 YP 569 cast off, with camera party. 0950 Hove to short stay. 1001 Underway, Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds. 1020 Exercised crew at General Quarters. 1057 Shifted command and control to Batt. II, Executive Officer conning. Various courses and speeds conducting rehearsal L.C.P. runs with Tug Tuscarora towing target. 1127 Ceased rehearsal runs. 1139 Shifted command and control to bridge. 1143 Secured from General Quarters, Set Condition III, Watch II, Condition "Baker". Sounded flight quarters. Maneuvered to pick up ship's four planes. 1152 Plane No. 4857 crashed on landing in water, lost port wing pontoon. 1155 Plane No. 4857 capsized and pilot, Ensign D. Allison, U.S.N.R. abandoned plane. Ensign A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R. remained on plane pontoon. Maneuvered to pick up pilot with crash boat. 1158 Plane No. 4804, Lieut. Menke, pilot and Neal, CAMM, observer, landed.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

12 - 16 Underway as before. 1203 Picked up pilot. Commenced maneuvering to pick up capsized plane. 1224 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, Conditions Normal. 1235 DENVER plane No. 4804, Lieut. Menke, pilot and Neal, CAMM, observer, was hoisted in. Continued recovery operations on capsized plane. 1447 Hoisted in capsized plane No. 4857. No personnel casualties. 1513 Manned all General Quarters Stations. 1527 Commenced steering various courses and speeds maneuvering for Local Control Practice runs. 1546 Shifted Control to Batt. II and steering aft for L.C.P. 1558 Commenced firing 6" battery to starboard.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

16 - 18 Steaming as before. At 1605 ceased firing 6" battery. At 1608 commenced firing 6" battery. At 1625 ceased firing 6" battery. At 1740 secured from General Quarters and set Condition III and "Baker". At 1759 Anchored in Area "Cast" in Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Windmill Point 250.5o T., Degaussing Range 170o T., Wolf Trap 195.2o T.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Anchored as before. 1930 Made preparations for getting underway.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24 2000 Underway, standard speed 15 knots (145 R.P.M.), Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. 2015 Exercised crew at General Quarters, preparing for N.S.P. rehearsals. Various courses and speeds for rehearsal and firing runs 5" and 6" batteries. 2256 Completed N.S.P. runs. 2258 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Watch II and Condition "Baker". 2323 Anchored in 7 fathoms of water in Operating Area "Cast" in Chesapeake Bay with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: Windmill Point 251.5o T., Stingray Point 246.5o T., Windmill Point Bell Buoy 217o T. No. 3 boiler as auxiliary.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

Thursday, December 31, 1942

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude Operating

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude Area

 Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude Chesapeake

 00 - 04 Anchored in Area "C", Chesapeake Bay in 7 fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Windmill Point 251.5o, Stingray Point 240.5o, Windmill Point Buoy 217o. No. 3 boiler steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ship in Condition III and Material Condition "Baker".

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

04 - 08 Anchored as before. At 0545 lighted fires under No. 2 boiler.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

08 -12 Anchored as before. Made preparations for getting underway. 0825 Underway on course 055o T. Speed 10 knots (96 R.P.M.). 0815, Held quarters for muster. 0282 Changed speed to 15 knots (145 R.P.M.). 0850 Changed course to 240o T. 0900 Sounded General Quarters. Commenced runs for L.C.P. on various courses at various speeds. 0922 Shifted control to Batt. II. 0925 Commenced firing. 0929 Ceased firing. 0930 Shifted control to the bridge. 0939 Shifted control to Batt. II. 0953 Commenced firing. 0956 Ceased firing. 1002 commenced firing. 1004 Ceased firing. 1007 Shifted control to the bridge. 1014 Shifted control to Batt. II. 1015 Commenced firing. 1020 Ceased firing. 1021 Shifted control to bridge. 1045 Shifted control to Batt. II, and commenced firing. 1100 Ceased firing. 1101 Shifted control to the bridge. 1102 Secured from General Quarters. 1106 Sounded Flight Quarters. All engines stopped. 1120 Two planes landed in water off starboard quarter. 1121 Motor whale boat transferred Lieut. W. M. Foster from plane to the DENVER. Lieut. W. M. Foster returned aboard, having completed temporary duty in Washington, D. D. 1126 Hoisted one plane, Ensign Christiansen, pilot, aboard (#4866) and secured it to the starboard catapult 11304P569 secured alongside to port. Motor whale boat hoisted aboard after plane took off from the water.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

12 - 16 Underway, lying to. 1212 YP 569 cast off. Various courses and speeds maneuvering for tactical data. Catapulted aircraft (#4861, Lieut. Menke, pilot and Ensign Andrews as passenger) from port catapult. 1427 made preparations for plane recovery by Cast method, not successful due to mechanical difficulties in ship's crane. 1450 Plane #4866 made surface take-off and returned to base. 1507 Commenced A.A. firing to port with 5" battery. 1518 Ceased 5" A.A. firing, after starboard firing run. 1537 Lowered No. 1 Motor whale boat to recover sleeve. 1550 No. 1 Motor whale boat hoisted aboard, underway. Average Steam 582.5 lbs. Average R.P.M. 91.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18 Underway as before. 1600 Commenced steering various courses and speeds for obtaining tactical data. 1654 Lay to and sent No. 2 Motor whale boat to Charger to exchange movies. 1718 Continued maneuvering to obtain tactical data. Average Steam 580 lbs. Average R.P.M. 72.8.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lieutenant, U. S. Navy

 

18 - 20 Underway as before, obtaining tactical data. 1804 Completed maneuvers for tactical data and commenced steering various courses and speeds proceeding to anchorage. 1806 Anchored in Area "C" Chesapeake Bay in 6 1/2; fathoms of water, with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor, on the following true bearings: Wolf Trap Light 202o, Stingray Point Light 286o, and Windmill Point Light 307o.

H. M. Brinser,

Lieutenant (jg), U. S. Navy

 

20 - 24 Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.

 

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