The U.S.S. DENVER is part of Cruiser Division 12 consisting of CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, and DENVER. Rear Admiral R. W. Hayler, USN, commanding in DENVER. DENVER is assigned to the SEVENTH Fleet. Zone description is –9.

Friday, 1 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2 Rear Admiral T. D. RUDDOCK is O.T.C. in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA with MARYLAND, COLORADO, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, PHOENIX, COLUMBIA, DENVER, and MONTPELIER plus the destroyers NICHOLAS, LANG, MOALE, O’BRIEN, LAFFEY, BARTON, EATON, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, CONWAY, CONNER, CONY, SIGOURNEY, WALLER, and BENNION. This task group is patrolling the waters of Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands. The cruising disposition is "5-R". Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2. OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA. This task group consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, guide, MARYLAND, COLORADO, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, PHOENIX, COLUMBIA, DENVER, MONTPELIER; and the following destroyers in the screen, NICHOLAS, LANG MOALE, O’BRIEN, LAFFEY, BARTON, EATON, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, CONWAY, CONNER, CONY, SIGOURNEY, WALLER, and BENNION. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" set, and Readiness Condition III. Cruising disposition "5-R". DENVER station 2.020, course 330^oT(PGC); axis 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). Boilers No. 2 and 3 on the line for steaming purposes. 0125 Changed course right to 080^oT(PGC). 0242 Changed course right to 165^oT(PGC). 0310 Meteorological indications predict typhoon weather.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 99

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 165^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0410 Changed course on signal to 270^oT(PGC). 0518 Changed course right on signal to 000^oT(PGC). 0653 On signal changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 0656 On signal came left to new course 220^oT(PGC). 0569 On signal slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0710 Changed course right on signal to 250^oT(PGC). 0717 On signal changed course right to 270^oT(PGC). 0736 On signal changed course to 090^oT(PGC). 0747 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 0747 On signal all engines stopped.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 84

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Lying to as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0829 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to form anti-aircraft circular formation. 0830 On station and commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to maintain position in formation, large ships maneuvering clockwise, small ships counter-clockwise. 1035 Secured No. 3 engine for emergency repairs. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Condition, normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 67

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds conforming with fueling exercises. 1213 Set Readiness Condition II in anti-aircraft battery. 1316 Set Readiness Condition III in anti-aircraft battery. 1325 Having completed emergency repairs, put No. 3 engine back in commission. 1350 Left assigned station to receive boat from U.S.S. HOPEWELL. 1400 Stopped all engines. At 1415 Captain Ralph S. RIGGS came aboard U.S.S. DENVER preparatory to relieving Rear Admiral R. W. HAYLER as Commander Cruiser Division 12. 1415 Captain Ralph Smith Riggs, USN, 17461 came aboard. 1417 All engines ahead, commenced maneuvering to retake assigned station. 1435 On station in circular fueling formation. 1438 Ceased present exercises because of possible air attack. 1448 Manned the anti-aircraft battery, commenced maneuvering to form cruising formation "5-R". 1500 On station in formation "5-R", axis 180^oT(PGC), course 090^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). U.S.S. WEST VIRIGINIA is guide, bearing 020^oT(PGC), distance 2000 yards. 1509 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1515 Lit off and cut in boiler No. 4 on the main steam line; secured boiler No. 3. 1522 Set Readiness Condition II in anti-aircraft battery. 1529 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC); set Readiness Condition III in anti-aircraft battery. 1556 Slowed to 7 knots (070 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 89

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 090^oT(PGC), speed 7 knots (070 RPM). 1613 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC), went to 15 knots (150 RPM). U.S.S. EATON in screening station reported sound contact. 1615 Changed course to 000^oT(PGC). 1621 Changed course to 320^oT(PGC). 1642 Went to General Quarters, set Material Condition "A". 1651 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained at General Quarters. 1655 Changed course to 250^oT(PGC). 1658 Changed course to 270^oT(PGC). 1724 Changed course to 210^oT(PGC). 1732 Changed course to 120^oT(PGC). At 1732 began to receive TBS reports indicating numerous sound contacts and subsequently course was adjusted to leave Leyte Gulf which the task group did at 2130. 1732 Received TBS signals indicating sound contacts; screening force attacking with depth charges. No results reported. 1754 Changed course to 140^oT(PGC). 1800 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 139

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 140^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1807 Secured from General Quarters. Set Material Condition "B" above the first platform deck. Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 1830 Changed course on signal left to 100^oT(PGC). 1838 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1840 Entered heavy overcast with passing rain squalls, visibility greatly reduced. 1855 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24 on base course 100^oT(PGC). 1945 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1946 on signal came left to 085^oT(PGC). 1953 On signal changed course left to 355^oT(PGC)

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, course 355^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 2003 Changed course right to 040^oT(PGC). 2015 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 2122 Changed course left to 115^oT(PGC). 2130 Departed Leyte Gulf. 2146 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 115^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 151

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

Positions: 0800 10^o 54.0’ N

125^o 18.3’ E

1200 10^o 54.0’ N

125^o 17.2’ E

2000 10^o 35.5’ N

125^o 35.8’ E

Saturday, 2 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, OTC. This task group consists of the U.S.S. MARYLAND, NEW MEXICO, WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, DENVER, PHOENIX, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, WALLER, NICHOLAS, AULICK, HOPEWELL, LANG, MOALE, and BENNION. In cruising formation "5-R"; U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is guide bearing 020^oT(PGC), distance 2000 yards, axis is 180^oT(PGC). Ship is darkened in Readiness Condition III, Material Condition "B" above the first platform and Material Condition "A" below. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use. On course 115^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0022 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 115^oT(PGC). 0030 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0040 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0130 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 0135 U.S.S. BOISE, NASHVILLE, and five destroyers are standing in toward formation; bearing 144^oT(PGC), distance 18 miles. Changed course left to 277^oT(PGC). 0150 Resumed zagging in accordance with plan No. 7 0302 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course.0316 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). At 0329 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, BOISE, BRYANT, BUSH, ROBINSON, NEWCOMB, and HALFORD joined the formation. 0329 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, BOISE, BRYANT, BUSH, ROBINSON, NEWCOMB, and HALFORD joined the formation; commenced maneuvering to take new station in cruising formation "5-R". 0337 On station in "5-R". U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, formation guide, now bears 033^oT(PGC), distance 2500 yards.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 277^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0412 Changed course right to 285^oT(PGC). 0530 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0535 Changed course right to 295^oT(PGC). 0544 Increased speed to 12 knots (120 RPM). Entered Leyte Gulf at 0553. 0553 Entered Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, with Desolation point abeam to port, distance 6½ miles and Homonhon Island abeam to starboard, distance 8 miles. 0620 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II (AA) and Material Condition "B". 0718 Slowed to 9 knots (090 RPM). 0749 Changed course to 115^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 115^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots (090 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0828 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0834 All engines stopped, changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0838 Went ahead to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0840 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0842 Maneuvered on various courses and at various speeds to close the U.S.S. MARYLAND and transfer passenger. 0855 All engines stopped. At 0900 Rear Admiral R. W. HAYLER, having been relieved by Captain Ralph S. RIGGS as Commander Cruiser Division 12, was transferred to U.S.S. MARYLAND for further transportation to the United States. Upon completion of transfer U.S.S. MARYLAND, escorted by two destroyers, left the formation. 0900 Pursuant to the order of Commander of Task Force 77, Rear Admiral R. W. Hayler, USN, relieved and detached ComCruDiv 12 by Captain Ralph S. Riggs 17461 USN, this date, to board the U.S.S. MARYLAND for further available transportation to the nearest U.S. Naval District for further assignment by Bureau of Personnel, reference: BuPers 281925. 0908 Maneuvered at various courses and speeds to regain station in formation "5-R". 0915 Parsons, R. O. Coxswain, 632 11 71 USNR, was placed on the binnacle list. Diagnosis, Cellulitis of the right foot. 0936 On station in formation "5-R", course 295^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots (090 RPM). At 1073 U.S.S. PRINGLE joined the formation. 1013 U.S.S. PRINGLE joined the formation. 1059 On signal changed course right to 315^oT(PGC). 1105 U.S.S. BRYANT made submarine contact and is investigating same. 1106. On signal changed course left to 225^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1117 Changed course left, on signal, to 135^oT(PGC) 1141 U.S.S. BRYANT reported contact negative and refoined position in formation. 1115 On signal changed course left to 090^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1200 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder stowage, bomb and pyrotechnic locker, shell stowage and hangar space sprinkling systems. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 97

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, course 090^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1240 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). 1318 Changed course right to 080^oT(PGC) 1319 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1323 Changed course right to 140^oT(PGC). 1337 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1338 U.S.S. BUSH left the formation. 1343 Maneuvered at various courses and speeds to take new station, 1.8036, in formation 1347 On station, resumed base course 140^oT(PGC)., speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1353 Changed course to 280^oT(PGC). 1405 Received U.S.S. LANG along port quarter 1410 U.S.S. LANG cast off. 1449 Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC)

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 102

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 085^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM).. 1613 1449 Changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 1625 U.S.S. PORTLAND and MINNEAPOLIS exchanged stations. 1705 U.S.S. PRINGLE came alongside port quarter to transfer mail. 1710 Transfer having been completed, PRINGLE proceeded on assigned duty. At 1732 ships of Task Group 77.2 began maneuvering to leave the formation of Task Group 77.2, consisting of U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, with Rear Admiral RUDDOCK as O.T.C., NEW MEXICO, COLORADO, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, and Destroyer Squadron 22. 1732 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 1749 Changed course left to 115^oT(PGC). Ships of Task Group 77.2, maneuvering to break from units of Task Group 77.1. 1752 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). Newly formed formation will consist of the U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA OTC, NEW MEXICO, COLORADO, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, MONTPELIER, and COLUMBIA, and Destroyer Squadron 22. 1756 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 040^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1801 Changed course to 115^oT(PGC). 1802 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speed forming cruising formation "5-R". 1820 On station in cruising formation "5-R", axis 180^oT(PGC), course 115^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). DENVER station 1.533. OTC and guide in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA at fleet center, guide bearing 330^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. 1833 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1844 Changed course on emergency turn signal to 205^oT(PGC). 1848 Changed course to 140^oT(PGC). 1850 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds forming cruising formation "5-V". 1855 U.S.S. EATON left screening station to investigate sound contact. 1902 Changed course to 120^oT(PGC). 1903 On station in cruising formation "5-V", with U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA guide bearing 330^oT(PGC), distance 2500 yards. At 1915 took departure from Leyte Gulf to proceed to Kossol Passage, Palau, Islands in accordance with dispatch instructions received from Commander SEVENTH Fleet. 1915 Took departure from Leyte Gulf on course 120^oT(PGC), with Desolation point abeam to starboard, distance 7¼ miles and Hononhon Island abeam to port, distance 7¼ miles. 1922 Secured from General Quarters set Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition of Readiness I. 1945 Set special Material Condition "B", Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery. 1950 Changed course to 115^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 166

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 115^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 2005 Maneuvered at various courses and speeds to take station in formation"5-R". 2019 On station 1.5330. 2123 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 115^oT(PGC). 2137 Ceased zig-zagging. 2145 On signal changed course right to 118^oT(PGC). 2152 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6 on base course 118^oT(PGC). 2350 The U.S.S. EATON rejoined the formation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 159

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 10^o 41.0’ N

125^o 26.0’ E

1200 10^o 33.0’ N

125^o 23.4’ E

2000 10^o 29.7’ N

125^o 48.0’ E

Sunday 3 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA. This Task Group consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, MINNEAPOLIS, BENNION, CONNER, INGRAHAM, ROBINSON, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, SIGOURNEY, RENSHAW, and WALLER. In cruising formation "5-R"; U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is guide, bearing 330^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards, axis is 180^oT(PGC). Base course 118^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are on the line for steaming purposes. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B", and Readiness Condition III is set.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 118^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0530 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0545 Lit off boiler No. 3. 0616 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main steam line; cut out boiler No. 4. 0645 Sighted large floating object to starboard, distance approximately 2 miles; object identified as large wooden pontoon and reported to OTC as hazard to navigation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 159

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 118^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. At 0821 Captain R. S. RIGGS was designated O.T.C. 0821 Captain R. S. Riggs, USN, in U.S.S. DENVER designated as OTC. 0945 On signal changed fleet course to left to 116^oT(PGC). 1040 Made radar contact on unidentified plane bearing 065^oT(PGC), distance 40 miles. 1050 Manned the antiaircraft battery. 1055 Unidentified plane identified as friendly. At 1112 received U.S. mail from the destroyer CONNER. 1112 Commenced maneuvering independently on various courses at various speeds while receiving United States mail from U.S.S. CONNER. 1115 Set Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery. 1115 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1135 U.S.S. CONNER cast off having delivered fifty-seven bags of mail. 1140 Having resumed station in formation, resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 116^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1305 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed fleet guide. 1420 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed fleet guide.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 116^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1625 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1755 Set Material Condition "A" throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 116^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1800 Manned all Damage Control Repair Stations for Dusk Alert. 1912 Set Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1933 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 116^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 116^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 2015 On signal changed fleet course to left to 111^oT(PGC). 2058 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 09^o 07.1’ N

128^o 16.1’ E

1200 08^o 39.5’ N

129^o 05.2’ E

2000 07^o 44.8’ N

130^o 50.9’ E

Monday, 4 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, which consists of: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, NEW MEXICO, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, BENNION, CONNER, INGRAHAM, CONY, CONWAY, ROBINSON, EATON, SIGOURNEY, RENSHAW, and WALLER. Captain R.S. Riggs, (ComCruDiv 12) in DENVER is OTC. Steaming in cruising formation "5-R" with WEST VIRGINIA guide; fleet axis is 180^oT(PGC); DENVER station 1.5330; zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 111^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). The ship is darkened, in special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set throughout the ship. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use for steaming. 0105 Cut in boiler No. 4 on main steam line and secured No. 3. 0246 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY left formation to investigate unidentified vessel. Bearing 075^oT(PGC), distance 5 miles. 0247 Changed course to 171^oT(PGC) and ceased zig-zagging. 0302 Changed course to 111^oT(PGC). At 0317 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY reported unidentified tug dead in water showing no signs of life. After firing several shots across the bow, a party boarded the tug, acting under orders from O.T.C., and found nothing. 0317 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY reports unidentified vessel is tug dead in the water with no signs of life aboard. SIGOURNEY ordered to fire across bow. 0330 Changed course left to 091^oT(PGC) and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0336 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY under orders from OTC boarded tug and found no lie aboard.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 111^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM) zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0545 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY rejoined formation. 0600 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". 0603 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 111^oT(PGC). 0609 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 0614 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 090^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 090^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM) zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0805 Sighted Anguar Island, Palau Group, bearing 060^oT(PGC) distance about 20 miles. 0810 Prepared to receive U.S.S. BENNION on starboard quarter for mail transfer. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0825 Received U.S.S. BENNION on starboard quarter. 0830 U.S.S. BENNION stood clear and returned to station. 0847 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course 090^oT(PGC). 0856 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0915 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0919 Changed course left to 066^oT(PGC). 0924 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 066^oT(PGC). 1050 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 1056 Changed base course left to 037^oT(PGC). 1104 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1140 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 1145 Changed base course right to 075^oT(PGC). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 075^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1201 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1242 On signal went to 18 know (180 RPM). 1244 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 1246 On signal, changed fleet course left to 012^oT(PGC). 1300 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1359 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 1403 On signal, changed course left to 317^oT(PGC). 1412 On signal, resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1501 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 1503 On signal, changed fleet course left to 287^oT(PGC). 1510 On signal, changed fleet course left to 329^oT(PGC). At 1517 commenced entering Kossol Passage, Palau Islands and moored alongside the tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS at 1610 in Berth 81. 1517 Captain took the Conn. Having made all preparations for entering port, commenced maneuvering independently on various courses at various speeds while entering Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group. Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 177

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on various courses and speeds conforming with the channel to Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group. 1600 Passed No. 4 can buoy to port and No. 3 to starboard. 1610 Moored port side to tanker, ESSO ANNAPOLIS in Berth 81. Ship’s draft before fueling 24’ 0" forward, 25’ 1" aft. 1629 Commenced fueling. 1630 Ensign C. R. Schaible, 312716, D-V(G), USNR, was added to the binnacle list as the result of an accident, which occurred while he was attempting to open the hangar hatch. Diagnosis: small lacerations and contusion of the right foot. He accidentally caught his foot between the hatch wheels and the track which guides them. Completed fueling at 1721 and proceeded to anchorage in Berth 43. 1721 Completed receiving fuel, having received 127,543 gallons at tank temperature. Ship’s draft after fueling 23’ 7" forward, 25’ 6" aft. 1730 Cast off all lines and proceeded to anchorage at 15 knots (150 RPM), on various courses. 1757 Anchored in Berth No. 43, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings: Beacon "D" 300.5^oT, Beach "B" 110^oT, Beacon No. 6 203^oT.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 - 20 Watch

Anchored as before, on one half hours notice.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before. 2205 Air situation prescribed "Flash Red, Control Yellow" on intercept circuit. 2320 "Flash White, Control Yellow" on intercept circuit. 2315 Completed repairs on No. 3 main engine. 2315 Disabled No. 2 main engine for repairs.

J. R. Hatcher, Ensign, USN.

Positions: 0800 06^o 41.9’ N

133^o 41.7’ E

1200 07^o 06.7’ N

134^o 43.0’ E

2000 Kossol Passage

130^o 50.9’ E

Tuesday, 5 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 43, Kossol Passage. Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ships present include various units of the Pacific Fleet; SOPA and Port Director in U.S.S. PR0METHEUS; various supply and auxiliaries along with various ships of the Merchant Marine. Ship is darkened in Material Condition "B", Readiness Condition III modified. Boiler No. 2 is on the line for auxiliary purposes. Boiler No. 3 is in standby. Ship is on one half hours notice. No. 2 engine is temporarily out of commission for repairs by ship’s force. 0140 Completed repairs on No. 2 engine and put No. 4 engine out of commission for repairs.

P. F. Simmons, Ensign, USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship. 0610 Lighted fires under boiler No. 3 to boost steam pressure. 0710 Let fires die out under boiler No. 3. 0725 Main engine No. 4 back in commission.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees; none. 1040 Lewis, P. H. BM1c, 380 83 40 USN, using shallow water gear dove to investigate paravane gear. 1105 Diver clear of water. 1135 Lewis, P. H. BM1c, 380 83 40 USN, dove. 1155 Diver clear of water. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1325 U.S.S. SEBEC underway to shift berth.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. Changed to –10 zone time 1800 on the fifth. 1800 Set clocks ahead one hour to zone –10 time. 1950 Set modified Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship.

J. P. Wiley, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

H. H. Mc Cammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ships present are units of Task Group 77.12; administrative SOPA and Port Director in U.S.S. PROMETHEUS and various other units of the Pacific Fleet, yard auxiliary, patrol craft and merchantmen. The ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Boiler No. 1 is in standby condition.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship. 0759 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N) 351 108, USNR; observer Collins, G., Jr., S2c, 753 19 05, USNR.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. U.S.S. DENVER assumed complete radar guard. Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine flight. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N) 346932, USNR; observer Utter, E., S1c, 312 05 81, USN. 0815 Held quarters for muster, no absentees. 0900 Fire no load shot on catapult. Found catapult satisfactory. 1055 Hoisted planes No. 7 and 8 aboard and secured them to the catapult. 1155 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1300 Disabled No. 3 main engine.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1800 No. 3 main engine back in commission. 1800 U.S.S. MC DERMUT and CHINCOTEAGUE underway and stood out. 1830 U.S.S. CONWAY underway to shift berth. 1945 Set modified Condition of Readiness III.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before. 2245 Sound contact reported bearing 122^oT(PGC), distance 9 miles. Results of runs reported negative.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

Thursday, 7 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ships present are units of Task Group 77.12, various merchant ships and harbor craft; Administrative SOPA and Port Director in U.S.S. PROMETHEUS. The ship is darkened with Readiness Condition III modified and Material Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes with boiler No. 1 in standby condition. This ship has air and surface radar guard. 0252 U.S.S. INGRAHAM underway and stood out.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0545 Set readiness Condition III. 0730 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out. 0745 Hoisted out plane No. 7, Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer, Knaub, J. R. AOM2c, 651 25 06, V-6 USNR, and plane No. 8, Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer Talley, J. W., S2c, 878 26 89, V-6 USNR, for routine flights. 0750 U.S.S. TWIGGS underway to shift berths.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0800 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed radar guard. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1015 Fire no-load shot on port catapult. Results: satisfactory. 1020 Received radio report of unidentified plane bearing 170^oT(PGC), distance 10 miles. Set Condition of Readiness I in anti-aircraft battery. 1040 Plane identified as friendly. Set Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery. 1100 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7 and plane No. 8. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1300 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine local flight. . Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N) 351108, USNR; observer, Wood, J. J., AMM1c, 106 84 13, USNR. 1305 Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine local flight. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer, Mendez, A., S2c, 357 37 71, USNR. Hoisted both planes aboard.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Anchored as before. 1655 IRON VICTORY underway from U.S.S. COLUMBIA and anchored in assigned berth.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. S. Sewall, Jr., Lt., USNR.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ships present are units of Task Group 77.12; U.S.S. PROMETHEUS is Administrative SOPA and Port Director, and various other units of Pacific Fleet, also yard, auxiliary, patrol craft and merchant ships. Ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and Modified Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Boiler No. 1 is in standby condition. 0021 Cut in boiler No. 4 on main steam line for auxiliary purposes. 0027 Secured boiler No. 2.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0545 Set Condition of Readiness III. 0710 IRON VICTORY went alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0800 Hoisted out plane No. 7, Pilot Lt.(jg), E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; Observer Rogers, A. B., AM3c, 382 44 83, USN., and plane No. 8, Pilot Ensign P. B. Anderson, A-V(N) 351108, USNR; Observer Carter, J. L., S1c, 607 75 80, USNR, for routine flights. 0810 U.S.S. MC DERMUT and PATTERSON underway and moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0815 U.S.S. LANG underway. 0825 U.S.S LANG and REMEY moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA. 0910 U.S.S. MERTZ underway and moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA. 0940 U.S.S. MERTZ underway to shift berth. 0950 U.S.S. HARADEN and BENNION underway. 0957 U.S.S. BRINE underway and moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA. 1010 IRON VICTORY underway from alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER and anchored in berth assigned. 1010 U.S.S. TWIGGS underway and moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA. 1015 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1050 U.S.S. MC DERMUT underway from alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA, anchored in berth assigned. 1100 Recovered plane No.7 and 8. 1103 Held Catholic divine service. 1141 U.S.S. TWIGGS underway from alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA and anchored in berth assigned. 1142 U.S.S. STEMBLE underway and moored alongside U.S.S. NIABRARA.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1300 Hoisted out both planes for routine flight. Plane No.7, Pilot Lt.,(jg), E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; Observer Rigsby, G. T. AMM3c, 245 46 14, USNR. Plane No. 8, Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; Observer Ducote, C. P., S1c, 645 95 80, USNR. 1500 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1517 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Anchored as before. 1625 S.S. WILLIAM G. DAUNE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1940 Set modified Condition of Readiness III.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

P. F. Simmons, Ensign, USNR.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to port anchor. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" is set, and modified Condition III of Readiness. Boiler No. 4 is in use for auxiliary purposes with boiler No. 2 in a standby condition. Ships present are units of Task Group 77.12, various units of Pacific Fleet, auxiliary, merchant, patrol vessels and small craft. Port Director and Administrative SOPA in U.S.S. PROMETHEUS.

J. R. Hatcher, Lt.(jg)., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0415 Secured boiler No. 2. 0545 Set Condition of Readiness III. 0730 Placed boiler No. 1 in standby condition.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 0840 U.S.S. CONY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0815 Hoisted out plane No.7, Pilot Lt.(jg), E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; Observer Ensign E. E. Smith, D-V(G), 268810, USNR, and plane No. 8, Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N), 351108, USNR; observer Jones, E. V., ARM3c, 609 09 11, USNR. 1100 Hoisted both planes aboard. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1158 U.S.S. STANLY stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1230 S.S. ELMIRA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1315 Hoisted out plane No.7, Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer Husley, W. R., GM3c, V-6, USNR, 208 73 09, and plane No. 8 Pilot Ensign P. B. Anderson, A-V(N), 351108, USNR; observer Ensign B. Perkowski, Jr., C-V(G), 313070, USNR, for routine flights. 1335 U.S.S. STEMBEL underway. 1440 S.S. JOHN BOZMAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1540 Hoisted in both planes.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Anchored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt.(jg), USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 43, Kossol Passage. Anchored in berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group, in 19 fathoms of water with 40 fathoms of chain to port anchor. Ships present include units of Task Group 77.12; U.S.S. PROMETHEUS Administrative SOPA and Port Director; various other units of Pacific Fleet, yard and patrol craft. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes; boiler No. 2 as standby. Ship is in Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III is set. 0020 Let fires die out under No. 2 boiler.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0545 Set Condition of Readiness III.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters; no absentees. 0830 Held Protestant Divine Services. 1000 Held Catholic Divine Services. 1030 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1. 1145 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of bomb, pyrotechnic lockers and magazine, shell stowage and hangar space sprinkler systems. Conditions normal. 1200 Cut boiler No. 1 in on main steam line.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. At 1205, acting in accordance with directions contained in CANF SWPA Operation Plan No. 15-44 and Commander Task Group 77.12’s Operation Plan No. 2-44, got underway for the Philippines where its mission is to act as a heavy covering group in support of the landing on Mindoro Island. The task group consists of U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, MINNEAPOLIS, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, CONNER, SIGOURNEY, BENNION, REMEY, MERTZ, MC DERMUT, HARADEN, PATTERSON, TWIGGS, STEMBEL, RALPH TALBOT, BRAINE, ROBINSON, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, KADASHN BAY, and OMMANEY BAY. Rear Admiral RUDDOCK, in WEST VIRGINIA is O.T.C. however Rear Admiral STUMP in NATOMA BAY is to be O.T.C. whenever flight operations are being conducted. 1230 Set clocks back one (1) hour to Zone –9 time. 1205 Having made all preparations, underway with Task Group 77.12; maneuvering on various courses and speeds conforming to channel. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Changed to –9 zone time at 1230. 1235 Went to General Quarters for sortie. 1326 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1343 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to join formation. 1400 Formed "5-RB" on U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA as guide and OTC; fleet course 045^oT(PGC); fleet axis 270^oT(PGC); fleet speed 14 knots, standard speed 15 knots (150 RPM). This ship’s position 3.5000. 1443 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump, USN, assumed OTC. 1454 Commenced maneuvering for flight operations. 1503 Completed flight operations and come to course 045^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 1514 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 138

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 045^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1600 Ceased zig-zagging, changed course right to 085^oT(PGC); went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1604 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC), slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1607 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1725 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1727 Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 1729 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1729 U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY designated fleet guide, bearing 077^oT(PGC), distance 5700 yards. 1734 Changed course right to 095^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 095^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1800 On signal, changed fleet course left to 340^oT(PGC) and slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1805 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated as fleet guide. 1808 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in WEST VIRGINIA resumed duties as OTC. 1830 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition of Readiness III and Modified Material Condition "B". 1957 On signal, changed fleet course right to 010^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 010^oT(PGC) at 14 knots (140 RPM). 2010 Changed course left to 295^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 141

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 Kossol Passage

1200 Kossol Passage

2000 08^o 43.7’ N

135^o 22.5’ E

Monday, 11 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12. This group consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, MINNEAPOLIS, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, CONNER, SIGOURNEY, BENNION, REMEY, MERTZ, MC DERMUT, HARADEN, PATTERSON, TWIGGS, STEMBEL, RALPH TALBOT, BRAINE, ROBINSON, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, KADASHAN BAY, and OMMANEY BAY. SOPA and OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA. Cruising formation "5-RB", DENVER’S Station 3.5000, course 295^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), axis 270^oT(PGC), U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is guide bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards. Boilers No. 1 and 4 are on the line for steaming purposes. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" set, and Readiness Condition III. 0300 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 295^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0520 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0535 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 0540 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC) conforming with carrier aircraft operations. 0551 Operation completed, changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 0600 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III and Modified Material Condition "B". 0605 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6 on base course 280^oT(PGC). 0705 Ceased zig-zagging. 0708 Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC) in accordance with aircraft operations on U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND. 0716 Changed course left to 275^oT(PGC). 0737 Changed course right to 290^oT(PGC). 0755 Changed course right to 310^oT(PGC), commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 290^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees none. 0846 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, and resumed base course 290^oT(PGC). 0855 On signal changed fleet course to right to 085^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0904 On signal changed fleet course to left to 265^oT(PGC) having completed flight operations. 0917 On signal, changed fleet course to right to 085^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0926 U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND designated as fleet guide, bearing 102^oT(PGC), distance 5700 yards. 0941 On signal, changed fleet course to left to 290^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 0950 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated as fleet guide, bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards, 0955 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1034 On signal ceased zig-zagging and changed fleet course to right to 085^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 1041 On signal changed fleet course to left to 290^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1114 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 138

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 290^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Condition of Readiness II set in the anti-aircraft battery for simulated air attack. 1210 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 085^oT(PGC). 1221 Changed course left on signal to 290^oT(PGC). 1228 On signal changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 1236 On slowed to 11 knots (110 RPM). 1238 Changed course right to 115^oT(PGC). 1252 On signal changed course right to 285^oT(PGC). 1316 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1517 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied o course 315^oT(PGC). 1524 On signal changed course to 075^oT(PGC) and went to 12 knots (120 RPM). Maneuvered with 5^o course changes during flight operations. 1556 Changed course left to 285^oT(PGC) and went to 14 knots (140 RPM.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 132

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, course 285^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 1630 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1743 U.S.S. NATOMA BAY became formation guide. 1746 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1747 Changed course to the right to 075^oT(PGC) for flight operations.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 134

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 075^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1808 Changed course left to 287^oT(PGC). 1810 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated formation guide. 1820 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock designated OTC. 1836 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B". 1916 Changed course left to 283^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 139

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, course 283^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 09^o 51.0’ N

133^o 05.9’ E

1200 10^o 06.8’ N

132^o 23.2’ E

2000 10^o 35.3’ N

131^o 08.5’ E

Tuesday, 12 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12 Steaming on course 283^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), in company with Task Group 77.12 which consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, MINNEAPOLIS, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, CONNER, SIGOURNEY, BENNION, REMEY, MERTZ, MC DERMUT, HARADEN, PATTERSON, TWIGGS, STEMBEL, RALPH TALBOT, BRAINE, ROBINSON, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY. Fleet axis 270^oT(PGC). Cruising formation "5-RB" with the U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA guide and Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock OTC. DENVER Station 3.5000. Boilers No. 1 and 4 are on the line for steaming. The ship is darkened in modified Material Condition "B", Condition of Readiness III set throughout.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 141

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before. Base course 283^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0552 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump, USN, in the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed duties of OTC. 0550

Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 0606 Changed course left to 283^oT(PGC). 0621 Secured from General Quarters set Readiness Condition III and modified Condition "B". 0630 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assume duties of OTC. 0639 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0710 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 0723 Changed course left to 260^oT(PGC). 0745 Changed course left to 250^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 126

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 250^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM)., fueling exercise in progress within formation.. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters, no absentees. 0845 Ceased fueling exercise. 0856 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated OTC for aircraft operations. 0909 Went to 14 knots (140 RPM) 0915 Changed course left to 080^oT(PGC). 0924 Changed course right to 250^oT(PGC). 0950 Changed course left to 085^oT(PGC). 1011 Changed course right to 250^oT(PGC). 1037 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated OTC; aircraft operations completed. 1040 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1043 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM); resumed fueling exercise. 1159 Ceased fueling exercise.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 115

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 250^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1205 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated OTC. 1215 On signal went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1227 On signal changed fleet course to left to 075^oT(PGC), for carrier flight operations. 1237 On signal changed fleet course to left to 260^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1248 On signal went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1249 On signal changed fleet course right to 075^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 1258 On signal changed fleet course to right to 080^oT(PGC). 1306 On signal changed fleet course to right to 245^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1310 On signal slowed to 16 knots (160 RPM). At 1313 temporarily lost steering control when a shunt coil burned out. 1313 Lost steering control while shifting steering unit and cables from No. 1 unit starboard cable to No. 2 unit port cable. Cause: Shunt coil of panel No. 2 of port cable burned out. Steering aft took steering control. Steering aft took control until 1328 when normal conditions prevailed again. 1328 Pilot House regained steering control with No. 1 unit starboard cable. 1237 On signal went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1556 On signal changed fleet course right to 255^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 161

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 255^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (175 RPM). 1614 On signal changed course left to 090^oT(PGC) and slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1623 On signal changed course right to 110^oT(PGC) and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 090^oT(PGC). 1657 Ceased zig-zagging and came to base course. 1700 On signal changed course left to 300^oT(PGC). 1755 Changed course right to 275^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 275^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 1804 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1815 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1824 Changed course right to 295^oT(PGC). 1829 Changed course left to 265^oT(PGC). 1831 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in WEST VIRGINIA assumed duties as OTC. 1852 Commenced forming cruising formation "2-C-1", U.S.S. DENVER designated as guide. 1900 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. 1930 Changed course left to 255^oT(PGC). 1940 Went to 16 knots (160 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 156

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 255^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 2158 Changed course right to 265^oT(PGC(. 2218 Changed course and axis right to 295^oT(PGC) by column movement. 2242 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 2334 Changed course and axis left to 265^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 11^o 07.1’ N

128^o 29.8’ E

1200 10^o 53.7’ N

128^o 03.2’ E

2000 10^o 35.3’ N

126^o 36.0’ E

Wednesday, 13 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands, in company with Task Group 77.12 which consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, MINNEAPOLIS, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, DENVER, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, CONNER, SIGOURNEY, BENNION, REMEY, MC DERMUT, MERTZ, HARADEN, TWIGGS, PATTERSON, STEMBEL, RALPH TALBOT, BRAINE, ROBINSON, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY. OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA. Steaming in cruising disposition "2-C-1". U.S.S. DENVER formation guide. Fleet course and axis are 265^oT(PGC), fleet speed 17 knots (170 RPM). Ship is darkened. Condition of Readiness III and modified material Condition "B" are set. Boilers No. 1 and 4 are in use for steaming. U.S.S. MINNEAPOLIS left formation at 0005. 0005 U.S.S. MINNEAPOLIS left formation to proceed on duty assigned. 0030 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to left to 235^oT(PGC). 0050 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to left to 205^oT(PGC). 0114 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to left to 180^oT(PGC). 0203 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to right to 190^oT(PGC). 0228 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to left to 180^oT(PGC). 0245 Made radar contact on unidentified surface target bearing 190^oT(PGC), distance 13 miles. 0255 U.S.S. RENSHAW and SIGOURNEY left formation to investigate radar contact. 0302 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 0312 On signal, increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0312 Upon investigation, radar contact found to be friendly. 0320 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to right to 200^oT(PGC). 0325 U.S.S. RENSHAW and SIGOURNEY rejoined formation. 0331 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to right to 225^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before in formation "2-C-1", on course 225^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0421 On signal slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0438 Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to attain station in "5-R-C". 0510 On station in "5-R-C", making 18 knots. 0512 Changed fleet course and axis to 208^oT(PGC). 0519 Slowed to 15 knots and changed course to 100^oT(PGC). 0530 On signal, changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0545 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0550 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 0553 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0610 On signal, changed course right to 070^oT(PGC) and went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0622 On signal, changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). 0629 U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated guide. 0645 Secured from General Quarters and set modified Condition "B", Condition of Readiness III, with Condition of Readiness II (AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0656 On signal, went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 0759 On signal, changed course left to 220^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before in formation "5-R-1", on course 225^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 0812 Changed course left to 210^oT(PGC). 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 0836 Changed course right to 225^oT(PGC). 0930 Changed course right to 055^oT(PGC). 0931 Slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 0938 Changed course left to 240^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 0956 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1006 Changed course left to 240^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1020 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1034 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 105 Slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1107 Slowed to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1119 Changed course right to 265^oT(PGC), and slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1135 Went to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1139 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1142 Changed course left to 240^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 240^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1212 Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC). 1215 Changed course right to 290^oT(PGC). 1217 Changed course right to 300^oT(PGC). 1235 Changed course right to 120^oT(PGC), for aircraft operations. 1240 Operations completed, changed course left to 300^oT(PGC). 1242 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1246 Ships commenced maneuvering to form formation "5-V-C". 1246 Manned the anti-aircraft battery for air raid alert. 1251 Changed course right to 320^oT(PGC). 1254 Changed course right to 340^oT(PGC). 1255 Ships commenced maneuvering to form formation "5-R-C". 1258 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 1300 In formation "5-R-C". 1311 Set Readiness Condition II (AA) in anti-aircraft battery. 1440 Changed course left to 240^oT(PGC). 1445 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1447 Changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). 1459 Changed course right to 025^oT(PGC). 1505 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 1507 Changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). 1508 Went to General Quarters for air raid alert, formed cruising disposition "5-V-C". 1530 Secured from General Quarters except in the anti-aircraft battery, set Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B"; formed cruising disposition "5-R-C". 1543 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 1556 Changed course left to 230^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 230^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1630 Changed course right to 260^oT(PGC). 1651 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1700 commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1705 Changed course right to 300^oT(PGC). 1708 Executed emergency turn left to 210^oT(PGC) because of possible submarine contact. 1715 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). Commenced forming formation "5-V-C". 1717 Went to General Quarters for air attack. Set Condition "A" throughout ship. 1725 On station in formation "5-V-C". 1735 Changed course left to 240^oT(PGC). 1738 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1745 Increased speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1755 Changed course left to 150^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 150^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). The ship is at General Quarters for air alert. 1800 On signal, changed course right to 240^oT(PGC). 1807 On signal, changed course right to 280^oT(PGC). 1809 On signal, changed course left to 240^oT(PGC). 1828 Changed course left on signal, to 060^oT(PGC). 1832 On signal went to full speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1833 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1843 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). 1846 On signal came left to 340^oT(PGC). 1901 Changed course left to 320^oT(PGC). 1904 On signal changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 1907 On signal changed course left to 240^oT(PGC) and slowed to 14 knots. 1910 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to form "5-R-C". 1913 Secured from General Quarters, set Modified Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III, with Condition of Readiness II (AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 1932 Assumed station in formation "5-%-C". 1946 Changed course to 130^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 158

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, course 130^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), in formation "5-R-C". 2005 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 2028 Set Condition III in anti-aircraft battery. 2110 Changed course right to 120^oT(PGC). 2135 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 2147 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 09^o 24.3’ N

124^o 34.1’ E

1200 08^o 52.0’ N

123^o 44.3’ E

2000 08^o 41.1’ N

122^o 11.5’ E

Thursday, 14 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in Sulu Sea, Philippine Islands, in company with Task Group 77.12. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, NEW MEXICO, COLORADO, NATOMA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY, DENVER, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, RENSHAW, WALLER, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, CONNER, SIGOURNEY, BENNION, REMEY, MC DERMUT, MERTZ, PATTERSON, TWIGGS, STEMBEL, RALPH TALBOT, BRAINE, and ROBINSON, Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is OTC. WEST VIRGINIA is formation guide bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards, in cruising formation "5-R-C". Ship is darkened in Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B" Boilers No. 1 and 4 are in use. On course 270^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 0134 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 0157 Changed course left to 017^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 017^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 0425 Changed course to the right to 040^oT(PGC). 0528 Changed course to the left to 320^oT(PGC). 0520 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump, USN, in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed Tactical Command. 0542 Changed course to the right to 040^oT(PGC). 0545 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0619 Went to course 045^oT(PGC) for flight operations. 0626 Executed emergency turn to right to course 135^oT(PGC), because of reported sound contact which later proved false. 0628 Went to 16 knots (160 RPM). 0629 Changed course to the left to 045^oT(PGC). 0631 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 0640 Changed course to the left to 305^oT(PGC). 0642 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0645 Secured from Dawn Alert and set modified Material Condition "B", Condition of Readiness III and Readiness Condition II (AA) in anti-aircraft battery. 0741 Formed formation "5-V-C". 0756 Changed course to the right to course 060^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 060^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0806 On signal changed course left to 295^oT(PGC). 0807 Formed cruising formation "5-RC". 0815 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0828 On signal changed course right to 310^oT(PGC). 0840 On signal changed course right to 065^oT(PGC). 0845 On signal changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 0916 On signal changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 0921 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC). 0925 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 0942 On signal changed course left to 290^oT(PGC) and went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0955 Slowed to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1000 Made daily Inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1009 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 1017 Changed course left to 055^oT(PGC). 1026 Changed course left to 290^oT(PGC). At 1028 went to general quarters to repel an enemy air attack which was intercepted by our own planes, however, before reaching us. 1028 Sounded A.A. call to repel air attack. 1024 Formed formation "5-V-C". 1040 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC). 1047 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 1100 On signal changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1110 On signal changed course left to 290^oT(PGC). 1112 Formed "5-R-C". 1112 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1114 Set Condition of Readiness II (AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 1146 On signal changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1147 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM)

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 159

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 000^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1203 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC), and slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1216 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1230 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC), and went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1238 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). At 1257 a carrier fighter plane crashed off this ship’s starboard quarter, pilot being later rescued by U.S.S. CONWAY. 1257 Carrier fighter plane crashed in sea off this ship’s starboard quarter, survivor rescued by U.S.S. CONWAY. 1310 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC), and slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1314 Formed cruising formation "5-V-C". 1319 Set Readiness Condition I in anti-aircraft battery. 1333 Formed cruising formation "5-R-C". 1335 Set Readiness Condition II in anti-aircraft battery. 1338 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 080^oT(PGC). 1344 Formed cruising formation "5-V-C". 1350 Went to General Quarters. 1351 Ceased zig-zagging. 1352 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 1353 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1356 Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 1400 Slowed to 16 knots (160 RPM). U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated fleet guide. 1402 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1404 Changed course right to 110^oT(PGC), and went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1407 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1416 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). 1420 U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND designated formation guide. 1430 Formed cruising formation "5-R-C". 1436 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1445 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). 1452 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B", and Readiness Condition III except in anti-aircraft battery, which is in condition II (AA). 1458 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1500 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1542 Changed course right to 225^oT(PGC). 1559 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC), and went to 17 knots (170 RPM); formed formation "5-V-C".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 010^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1602 Changed course left to 295^oT(PGC). 1608 Changed course right to 025^oT(PGC). 1630 On "emergency turn 9" changed course right to 115^oT(PGC). 1633 Changed course left to 025^oT(PGC). 1636 Set Readiness Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1657 Changed course left to 225^oT(PGC); slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1703 Formed Cruising Disposition "5-R-C". 1718 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated fleet guide. 1720 Formed Cruising Disposition "5-V-C". 1726 Changed course right to 030^oT(PGC). 1727 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1734 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC). At 1736 went to general quarters to repel another air attack which never reached the formation. 1736 Went to General Quarters to repel air attack. 1744 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1752 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 190^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). Ship is at General Quarters for air attack. 1820 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1825 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC); went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1837 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC). 1845 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1857 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC); slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 1910 Formed Cruising Disposition "5-R-C". 1912 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery, modified Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III throughout the rest of the ship. 1926 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1928 Changed course right to 215^oT(PGC). 1940 Set Condition of Readiness II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 2003 Changed course right to 220^oT(PGC). 2005 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 2147 Changed course right to 240^oT(PGC). 2248 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 2344 Changed course left to 105^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 09^o 55.2’ N

121^o 47.7’ E

1200 10^o 27.5’ N

121^o 27.8’ E

2000 10^o 21.1’ N

121^o 17.5’ E

Friday, 15 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in Sulu Sea with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in Sulu Sea, Philippine Islands, in company with Task Group 77.12, which consists of the following: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, MANILA BAY, OMMANEY BAY, Destroyer Squadrons 22 and 54. OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in WEST VIRGINIA. In cruising formation "5-R-C", DENVER station 3.500; U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is guide bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards. Fleet axis 270^oT(PGC), base course 105^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). Boilers No. 1 and 4 are in use. The ship is darkened, modified Material Condition "B", and Condition of Readiness III set. 0108 Changed course left to 025^oT(PGC). 0354 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 340^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0409 Manned A.A. battery to repel air attack. 0414 Formed cruising disposition "5-V-C". 0415 Went to General Quarters. 0425 Changed course left to 300^oT(PGC). 0452 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III except the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition I. 0458 Formed cruising disposition "5-R-C". 0513 ComCarDiv 24 (Rear Admiral F. B. Stump) in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated OTC. 0513 Changed course left to 120^oT(PGC). At 0535 observed planes and AA fire on port beam and went to general quarters. 0535 Observed flares and anti-aircraft fire on port beam. 0535 Went to General Quarters to repel air attack. 0545 Changed course right to 210^oT(PGC). 0538 Changed course right to 300^oT(PGC). 0557 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 0558 Formed cruising disposition "5-V-C". 0613 Went to 18 knots, (180 RPM). 0616 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0639 Slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0642 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 0647 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" (modified), Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery, and set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0656 Changed course right to 080^oT(PGC). 0659 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0715 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). Opened fire on enemy aircraft to port at 0724. 0724 Opened fire with anti-aircraft battery on enemy air-craft to port. 0728 Ceased firing. 0744 Formed cruising disposition "5-R-C". 0747 Changed course left to 235^oT(PGC). For the next three hours the formation maneuvered radically to avoid suicide crashes of enemy planes which came from time to time.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 235T(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0805 Changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 0812 Went to 18 knots and formed "5-V-C", and changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 0815 Mustered crew on station. Absentees: none 0816 Set Condition I in anti-aircraft battery to repel air attacks, and commenced maneuvering on various courses to avoid suicide attacks. 0821 Went to General Quarters. 0843 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0907 Changed course right to 220^oT(PGC) and commenced maneuvering on various courses, (emergency turns), to avoid air attack. 0907 Went to General Quarters to repel air attack. 0944 Commenced firing anti-aircraft battery. Observed several attempted such dives at 0947, none of which were successful. This ship fired with AA battery from 0944 to 0948 when last of attacking planes was seen to go down. 0947 Observed several enemy planes crash into the water after unsuccessful attempt to make suicide dives on ships. 0948 Ceased firing all guns. 0953 Changed course left to 025^oT(PGC). 1002 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1015 Changed course to the right to 160^oT(PGC). 1015 Slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1018 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III with the exception of the anti-aircraft battery in which Condition II was set. 1047 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). Formed Cruising disposition "5-R-C".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 160^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots. 1201 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1227 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1234 Changed course right to 160^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1318 On signal changed course left to 030^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1332 Changed course right to 160^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1402 Changed course left to 150^oT(PGC). 1456 Changed course to 030^oT(PGC), and slowed to 12 knots. 1503 Changed course right to 150^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1508 In conformity with U.S.S. COLUMBIA half-masted colors for burial services. 1535 Changed course left to 025^oT(PGC), and slowed to 15 knots. 1550 Changed course right to 135^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). Task group began to depart from the area in late afternoon upon orders from Commander SEVENTH Fleet, but returned to Sulu Sea during the night to give continued support for land forces on Mindoro.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 135^oT(PGC) speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1613 . Changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 1636 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC), and slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1639 Changed course right to 045^oT(PGC). 1642 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA and NEW MEXICO exchanged stations in formation. 1645 U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assume formation guide. 1649 Slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1727 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1732 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1738 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1748 Changed course right to 160^oT(PGC). 1750 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 160^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1819 Changed course left to 080^oT(PGC) for carrier aircraft operations. 1832 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1837 Changed course left to 072^oT(PGC); went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1838 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated formation guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 7,000 yards. 1839 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in WEST VIRGINIA designated OTC. 1910 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery and Readiness Condition III through out the rest of the ship, set modified Material Condition "B". 1927 Changed course left to 062^oT(PGC). 1958 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 173

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 280^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). This Task Force is returning to the Sulu Sea to continue support of Mindoro landing. 2003 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM), 2005 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 2159 Changed course right to 307^oT(PGC). 2220 Changed course left to 288^oT(PGC). 2317 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 139

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended this date: 21 rounds 5"/38 AA Common projectiles, 115 5"/38 AA Special projectiles, 135 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges, 1 round 5"/38 Flashless cartridge; 249 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers; 196 rounds 20mm H.E. Incendiaries, and 97 rounds 20mm H.E. Tracers.
 
 

Positions: 0800 10^o 21.0’ N

121^o 17.0’ E

1200 09^o 48.5’ N

121^o 41.8’ E

2000 08^o 50.8’ N

122^o 58.2’ E

Saturday, 16 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in formation "5-R-C", on course 288^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), in company with Task Group 77.12, which consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, MANILA BAY, OMMANEY BAY, DesRon 22 and DesRon 54. The OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in the WEST VIRGINIA, which is guide bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 7,000 yards. Boilers No. 1 and 4 are in use for steaming purposes. The ship is darkened, in modified Material Condition "B", and Condition of Readiness III set throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 288^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0414 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0430 Changed course right to 305^oT(PGC). 0459 Changed course right to 340^oT(PGC). 0509 Changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 0512 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed duties of OTC. 0525 Changed course right to 015^oT(PGC). 0536 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC), and slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM). 0557 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 0600 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0609 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). Set Material Condition "A" throughout the ship. 0624 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 0643 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0646 U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated formation guide. 0649 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA and NEW MEXICO exchanged station in formation. 0652 Changed course left to 330^oT(PGC). 0652 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery where Condition II is set. 0700 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0717 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 0727 Slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 0747 Changed course right to 030^oT(PGC). 0755 Set Readiness Condition I in the anti-aircraft battery. 0757 Formed Cruising Formation "5-V-C"; went to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 149

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 030^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0800 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM); formed Cruising Formation "5-R-C". 0805 Observed combat air patrol destroy Japanese float plane. 0810 Set Readiness Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0831 Formed Cruising Disposition "5-V-C". 0843 U.S.S. BENNION came alongside starboard side to receive fuel, using one 8" tow line forward. 0857 Commenced pumping fuel oil to BENNION. 0914 Ceased pumping fuel to BENNION having transferred 8,988 gallons fuel oil. 0917 U.S.S. BENNION cast off from alongside and stood clear. 0921 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC); went to 12 knots (120 RPM). 0932 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0941 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC); slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0948 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 1002 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC); went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1018 Manned the anti-aircraft battery to repel possible enemy air attack. 1026 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1027 Went to General Quarters. 1031 Changed course right to 015^oT(PGC). 1034 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). 1037 Changed course right to 195^oT(PGC). 1046 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" modified, Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery, and Readiness Condition I in the anti-aircraft battery. Formed Cruising Formation "5-R-C". 1055 Changed course left to 025^oT(PGC). 1057 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1058 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1108 Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 1111 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC); went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1128 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). 1132 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1139 Changed course left to 190^oT(PGC); went to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1140 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder, bombs, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinkling systems, shell stowage sprinkling systems and hangar sprinkling system. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 123

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 190^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). This Task Force conducting flight operations during afternoon necessitated turning into the wind frequently, the wind being at our stern. Course made good 190^oT(PGC) 1341 Increased fleet speed to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1536 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1559 Changed course left to 015^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 015^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots, (180 RPM). 1601 On signal slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). On signal changed course right to 155^oT(PGC), and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1700 Half masted the colors, following movements of U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND. 1720 Colors two-blocked. 1757 Changed course left to 105^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 105^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM) At 1800 commenced maneuvering to leave the Sulu Sea and proceeded toward Kossol Passage, Palau Islands in accordance with dispatch instructions received from Commander SEVENTH Fleet. 1811 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA designated formation guide. 1815 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1823 Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 1824 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM), and hanged course left to 015^oT(PGC). 1838 Changed course left to 005^oT(PGC). 1850 Changed course right to 105^oT(PGC), and went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1856 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed duties as OTC. 1859 Changed course left to 100^oT(PGC). 1910 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 100^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 2025 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2. 2045 Cut-in boiler No. 2 on main steam line; cut out boiler No. 1, let fires die out under boiler No. 1.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 182

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 10^o 10.4’ N

120^o 48.4’ E

1200 10^o 16.0’ N

120^o 55.9’ E

2000 09^o 03.0’ N

121^o 26.5’ E

Sunday, 17 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in Company with Task Group 77.12. This Group is steaming in the Sulu Sea, Philippine Islands proceeding to Leyte Gulf, and consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, NEW MEXICO, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, DENVER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY, MANILA BAY, DesRon 22 and DesRon 54. OTC is Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN in the WEST VIRGINIA. Steaming in formation "5-R-C". DENVER position 3.5000, guide bears 030^oT(PGC), 3,500 yards. Course is 100^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM), axis 270^oT(PGC). The ship is darkened in modified Material Condition "B", and Readiness Condition III set throughout the ship. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use for steaming purposes. 0030 On signal changed fleet course left to 090^oT(PGC). 0120 On signal changed course left to 077^oT(PGC). 0130 Contact made with Task Force 78.3 which we will pass to the north. 0146 On signal changed fleet course left to 068^oT(PGC). 0209 On signal changed fleet course left to 055^oT(PGC). 0220 Passed from Sulu Sea into Mindanao Sea, Philippine Islands. 0243 On signal changed course right to 065^oT(PGC). 0249 On signal changed fleet course right to 065^oT(PGC). 0255 On signal changed fleet course right to 075^oT(PGC). 0302 On signal changed fleet course right to 085^oT(PGC). 0306 On signal changed fleet course right to 090^oT(PGC). 0311 On signal changed fleet course right to 095^oT(PGC). 0328 On signal changed fleet course right to 100^oT(PGC). 0343 On signal changed fleet course left to 090^oT(PGC). 0358 On signal changed fleet course left to 075^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 181

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 075^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 0431 U.S.S. MERTZ left the formation to investigate unidentified small craft. 0436 U.S.S. MERTZ returned to formation. 0527 Changed course left to 061^oT(PGC). 0600 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". Rear Admiral F. B. Stump CTU 77.12.7 in the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed Tactical Command of this Task Group. 0625 Formed formation "5-V-C". 0700 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0720 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 181

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 061^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on station. Absentees: none. 0906 Changed course left to 050^oT(PGC) 0908 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 0930 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC). 0945 Changed course left to 060^oT(PGC). 0948 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed duties of OTC. 0952 Formed cruising formation "5-R-D" 0953 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0958 Went to General Quarters during passage through Surigao Strait. 1010 Changed course left to 055^oT(PGC). 1018 Changed course left to 045^oT(PGC). 1029 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 1036 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1044 Changed course left to 005^oT(PGC). 1101 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC), and slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1132 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery in which Condition II was set.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 180

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 000^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1228 Formed cruising disposition "5-V-C" for air raid alert. 1230 Went to General Quarters. 1243 Secured from General Quarters; set Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 1258 Set Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery and modified Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1303 Changed course right to 030^oT(PGC). 1312 Slowed to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1320 Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 1332 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated OTC. 1340 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 1345 Changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 1434 Changed course right to 105^oT(PGC). 1450 Changed course right to 120^oT(PGC). 1452 Changed course right to 140^oT(PGC). 1500 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 1516 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 1529 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1530 Changed course left to 290^oT(PGC), for possible submarine contact results of which proved negative. 1534 Changed course right to 015^oT(PGC). 1547 Changed course right to 130^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 130^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots. This Task Group is now proceeding out of Leyte Gulf, Philippines Islands. 1602 On signal changed fleet course left to 095^oT(PGC). Left Leyte Gulf for the open sea at 1617. 1617 Took departure from Leyte Gulf, Desolation Point of Dinagat Island bearing 264^oT(PGC). 1713 On signal changed fleet course left to 010^oT(PGC). 1720 On signal changed fleet course right to 095^oT(PGC) having completed flight operations.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 095^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 1811 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). 1815 Changed course to 015^oT(PGC). 1816 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1820 Changed course right to 095^oT(PGC). 1824 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in WEST VIRGINIA assumed tactical command of this group. 1900 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 159

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 095^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 2157 Sighted United States Naval Hospital Ship bearing 130^oT, distance 18 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 10^o 21.6’ N

129^o 26.3’ E

1200 10^o 11.1’ N

130^o 06.7’ E

2000 10^o 51.8’ N

131^o 58.0’ E

Monday, 18 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12, Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, DesRon 22 and DesRon 54. In cruising formation "5-R-C"; WEST VIRGINIA is formation guide bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards; fleet axis 270^oT(PGC). Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B". Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use. On course 095^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 0350 Lit fires under boilers No. 1 and 3 to boost steam.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 160

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 095^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 0445 Let fires die out under boiler No. 1. 0450 Let fires die out under boiler No. 3. 0536 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated as OTC. 0556 On signal, changed fleet course right to 245^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0606 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 12 knots (120 RPM), and changed fleet course left to 095^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 0611 On signal, changed fleet course left to 030^oT(PGC) for fueling operations. 0634 Received U.S.S. EATON along port side for fueling. 060 Commenced pumping fuel oil through forward and after connections. 0740 Secured from pumping, cast off lines of U.S.S. EATON having delivered 55,991 gallons fuel oil.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 139

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 030^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM) in cruising formation "5-R-C", axis 270^oT(PGC). At 0815 received U.S.S. STEMBEL alongside for fuel and completed at 0855. 0815 Having made all preparations for fueling, received U.S.S. STEMBEL alongside to port. 0815 Mustered crew on stations Absentees: none. 0835 Commenced pumping fuel oil through forward and after connections. 0845 Ceased all pumping, having delivered 6.149 gallons of fuel oil, and made preparations to cast off U.S.S. STEMBEL for flight operations. 0855 U.S.S. STEMBEL cast off and underway to regain station. 0902 On signal, changed course left to 220^oT(PGC) and increased speed to 15 knots (150 RPM) for flight operations. 0910 On signal slowed to 13 knots (130 RPM). 0924 Having completed launching and recovery of aircraft, changed course on signal left to 115^oT(PGC) and increased speed to 16 knots (160 RPM). 1020 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1043 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 115^oT(PGC). 1050 On signal, went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1146 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1158 On signal, changed course right to 225^oT(PGC) for launching and recovery of aircraft.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 225^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1203 Changed course left to 235^oT(PGC). 1218 Changed course left to 105^oT(PGC). 1233 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 105^oT(PGC). 1450 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1459 Changed course left to 185^oT(PGC). 1511 Changed course left to 105^oT(PGC). 1535 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 105^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 105^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25. 1750 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course105^oT(PGC). 1753 On signal changed course right to 115^oT(PGC). 1755 On signal changed course right to 120^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

H. H. Mc Cammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 120^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1805 On signal, Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA resumed duties of OTC. 1805 On signal, changed fleet course left to 105^oT(PGC). 1950 Lit fires under boilers No. 1 and 3.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 105^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 2057 Let fires die out under boiler No. 1. 2115 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main steam line. 2130 Let fires die out under boiler No. 4.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 10^o 21.6’ N

129^o 26.3’ E

1200 10^o 11.1’ N

130^o 06.7’ E

2000 09^o 51.8’ N

131^o 58.0’ E

Tuesday, 19 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12. This group consists of the following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, DENVER, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, OMMANEY BAY, and MANILA BAY, DesRon 22 and DesRon 54. Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock, USN, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is OTC. In formation "5-R-C". This ship’s station 3.5000. U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is guide, bearing 030^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards; axis 270^oT(PGC). On course 105^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use for steaming purposes. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III are set throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 105^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0530 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed tactical command of Task Group. 0535 On signal changed course left to 045^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0545 On signal changed course right to 125^oT(PGC). 0604 On signal changed course left to 105^oT(PGC). 0610 On signal changed course right to 125^oT(PGC). 0614 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with zig-zag plan 25 base course 125^oT(PGC), fleet axis 270^oT(PGC). 0755 On signal ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 125^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

H. H. Mc Cammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

0923 08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 125^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0810 On signal changed fleet course right to 180^oT(PGC). Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0818 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 180^oT(PGC). 0830 Sounded flight quarters for launching of two planes. 0846 Ceased zig-zagging. Commenced maneuvering independently for flight operations. 0900 Made landfall on Kayangel Island, Palau Group, bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 19 miles. 0900 Catapulted plane No. 7 to port. Pilot: Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer: Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 0906 Catapulted plane No. 8 to port. Pilot: Ensign D.G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), USNR, 346932; observer: Tucker, A.D., Jr., 357 41 75, ARM2c, USNR. 0908 Secured from flight quarters. 0908 Ceased maneuvering independently and regained station in formation. Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0910 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0919 On signal, changed fleet course left to 060^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0922 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 0923 On signal, changed fleet course left to 050^oT(PGC). 0926 On signal, changed fleet course right to 180^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 0927 On signal, increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0931 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0931 Rear Admiral T.D. Ruddock, in WEST VIRGINIA resumed duties of OTC. 0942 U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated as formation guide, bearing 055^oT(PGC), distance 4200 yards. 1000 On signal, all heavy ships ordered to change station circle to circle 4. 1006 On station on circle 4. Guide bears 053^oT(PGC), distance 4950 yards. 1015 Made landfall on Babelthuap Island, Palau Group, bearing 205^oT(PGC), distance 27 miles. 1036 On signal ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^oT(PGC). 1042 On signal, changed fleet course right to 220^oT(PGC). 1103 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1125 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1128 On signal, changed fleet course right to 270^oT(PGC). 1135 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. At 1135 commenced entering Kossol Passage, Palau Islands and anchored in Berth 43 at 1257. 1135 On signal, commenced execution of entrance plan for entering Kossol Passage, Babelthuap Island, Palau Group. 1138 Captain took the Conn. Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Commenced maneuvering independently on various courses at various speeds to gain station for entrance plan.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on various courses and at various speeds conforming to entrance of Kossol Passage, Babelthuap Island, Palau Group. Captain has the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator in the Pilot House. 1229 Passed Buoy No. 2 abeam to starboard, distance 200 yards. 1230 Passed Buoy No. 1 to port. 1257 Anchored in Berth No. 43, Kossol Passage, Babelthuap Island, Palau Islands Group in 19 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings: Beacon 6 207^oT(PGC); Beacon "B" 108^oT(PGC); Beacon "D" 301.5^oT(PGC); Beacon "C" 301.5^oT(PGC). Ship’s draft forward assigned flight, hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1330 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1358 Veered to 40 fathoms of chain to port anchor. Underway at 1436 to go alongside S.S. CHANCELLORSVILLE in Berth 95 for fuel. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1436 underway, maneuvering on various courses at various speeds proceeding to tanker. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 1515 Moored starboard side to S.S. CHANCELLARSVILLE in Berth 95, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group, with the following lines in use: bow line, forward and after bow springs, forward and after quarter springs and stern line. All lines single. 1545 Commenced receiving fuel.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 138

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Moored as before.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Moored as before starboard side to tanker in Berth 95, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group. Completed fueling at 1803 and returned to Berth 43. 1803 Completed receiving fuel, having received 437,811 gallons of fuel oil. Ship’s draft forward 23’ 2", aft 25’ 4". 1810 Let go all lines. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1813 underway from alongside tanker; maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to assigned berth. 1842 Anchored in Berth 43, Kossol Passage, Babelthuap Island, Palau Islands Group in 19 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "B" 110^oT(PGC); Beacon "C" 034^oT(PGC); Beacon "D" 300.5^oT(PGC); Beacon "E" 277.5^oT(PGC). 1855 Secured all steaming units. Secured special sea and anchor detail. 1900 Set modified Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 1910 Cut out boiler No. 3 from the main steam line, remained in stand-by condition. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes.

H. H. Mc Cammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before. 2122 Assumed Radar Guard "A", set Condition III in C.I.C.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 08^o 37.6’ N

134^o 51.0’ E

1200 07^o 50.7’ N

134^o 47.2’ E

2000 Kossol Passage

Wednesday, 20 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 43, Kossol Passage. Anchored in Berth 43, Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group, in 19 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ships present: U.S.S. PROMETHEUS (SOPA), CALIFORNIA, IDAHO, PENNSYLVANIA, Task Group 77.12, various other units of Pacific Fleet, patrol craft, base craft and merchant ships. Ship is darkened, modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" are set. Ship has short range air radar guard. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0805 U.S.S. MERTZ underway from alongside tanker and anchored in assigned berth. 0810 U.S.S. R.P. LEARY underway and shifted berth. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0847 Observed explosion on U.S.S. AK 227 off port bow, distance 500 yards. 0850 U.S.S. AK 227 underway and shifted berth. Received report by TBS, AK 227 No. 3 hold is flooded, otherwise conditions normal. 0900 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY underway from alongside tanker and anchored in berth assigned. 0925 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and moored alongside tanker. 0930 Lighted fires under boiler No. 3. 1100 Cut in boiler No. 3 in on main steam line. Commenced making all preparations for getting underway. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. Heaving short on anchor. Underway at 1207 with Task Group 77.12 for Manus Island, Admiralty Islands under dispatch orders from Commander SEVENTH Fleet. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1207 underway from Kossol Passage, Palau Islands Group. Captain has Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds conforming to channel. Ship’s draft forward 23’ 2", aft 25’ 5". Underway with Task Group 77.12 which consists of following ships: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, COLUMBIA, DENVER, MONTPELIER, SAVO ISLAND, OMMANEY BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, WALLER, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, BENNION, SIGOURNEY, PATTERSON, STEMBEL, RENSHAW, TWIGGS, CONNER, ROBINSON and RALPH TALBOT. Rear Admiral T.D. Ruddock, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is OTC. 1240 Went to General Quarters for departure form Kossol Passage. 1326 On signal, commenced forming Cruising Disposition "5-R-C". 1329 On signal, slowed to fleet speed 12 knots (120 RPM). 1333 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1345 On station in Cruising Disposition "5-R-C". U.S.S. DENVER station 3.5000. Formation guide U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards. Fleet course and axis 090^oT(PGC). Fleet speed 12 knots (120 RPM). Officer –of-the Deck relieved the Conn. 1400 Rear Admiral F.B. Stump in NATOMA BAY designated as OTC. 1413 On signal, increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1420 On signal, changed fleet course right to 130^oT(PGC). 1427 On signal, changed fleet course left to 070^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 1429 On signal, changed fleet course right to 080^oT(PGC). 1449 On signal, changed fleet course right to 130^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1457 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1525 On signal, U.S.S. NATOMA BAY designated formation guide, bearing 270^oT(PGC), distance 3500 yards. 1545 On signal, increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1547 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 130^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1600 On signal, changed station to 3,000 yard circle on same bearing. 1773 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and came to course 130^oT(PGC). 1736 On signal, changed course left to 070^oT(PGC) for launching and recovery of aircraft. 1740 On signal, changed course right to 080^oT(PGC). 1743 Flight operations having been completed, changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 1747 On signal, Admiral T.D. Ruddock in WEST VIRGINIA assumed tactical command. 1752 On signal, resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 130^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 174

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 130^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1954 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 130^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 130^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 2003 Changed course to 160^oT(PGC). 2022 Changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 2100 U.S.S. STEMBEL departed from the formation and proceeded on assigned duty.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 Kossol Passage

1200 Kossol Passage

2000 07^o 00.9’ N

136^o 06.3’ E

Thursday, 21 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12 which consists of following: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, SAVO ISLAND, OMMANEY BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, WALLER, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, BENNION, SIGOURNEY, PATTERSON, RENSHAW, TWIGGS, CONNER, ROBINSON and RALPH TALBOT. Rear Admiral T.D. Ruddock is OTC in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA. Guide is in NATOMA BAY bearing 270^oT(PGC), distance 3,000. Heavy ships and destroyers are in formation "5-R-C" modified and carriers are in special cruising disposition "5-X", formed inside of heavy ships. Fleet course is 130^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), axis 090^oT(PGC). Ship is darkened with modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III set throughout the ship. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use for steaming purposes.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 174

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 130^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, (170 RPM). 0400 On signal, changed course left to127^oT(PGC). 0505 Rear Admiral R. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed tactical command of this task group. 0528 On signal, changed course right to 265^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0538 On signal, changed course left to 127^oT(PGC). 0557 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 127^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, on base course 127^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0815 Held quarters for muster. absentees: None. 0819 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed course 127^oT(PGC). 0830 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 0833 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC). 0849 Changed course right to 125^oT(PGC). 0902 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 125^oT(PGC). 1048 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1132 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 125^oT(PGC). 1146 Changed course left to 065^oT(PGC). 1151 Changed course left to 050^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 050^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), fleet axis 090^oT(PGC). 1201 On signal, changed course right to 125^oT(PGC). 1204 On signal, changed course right to 138^oT(PGC). 1217 On signal, changed course right to 148^oT(PGC), and resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1302 Sighted two ships, hull down bearing 275^oT. 1317 The U.S.S. REMEY and the U.S.S. BAINE joined the formation. 1455 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 138^oT(PGC). 1503 On signal, changed course left to 015^oT(PGC). 1508 On signal, changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 1511 On signal, changed course right to 025^oT(PGC). 1515 On signal, changed base course right to 132^oT(PGC). 1526 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 132^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

16 – 18- Watch

Steaming as before on base course 132^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1711 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, and resumed base course 132^oT(PGC). 1723 On signal, changed fleet course left to 040^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 1747 . On signal, changed fleet course right to 128^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1752 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 128^oT(PGC). 1744 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA resumed duties of OTC.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 174

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 128^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1902 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 128^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 176

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 128^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 2035 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 128^oT(PGC). 2010 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1. 2102 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 128^oT(PGC). 2108 Unidentified surface craft reported bearing 170^oT(PGC), distance 12 miles. 2110 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 2115 U.S.S. CONNER ordered to investigate unidentified surface craft. 2133 Changed course left to 129^oT(PGC). 2134 U.S.S. CONNER identified surface craft as U.S.S. BEBAS. 2147 Cut in No. 1 boiler on main steam line. 2152 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 05^o 01.3’ N

138^o 32.7’ E

1200 04^o 36.8’ N

134^o 30.2’ E

2000 03^o 24.2’ N

141^o 02.4’ E

Friday, 22 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12 enroute Manus Island, Admiralty Islands. Steaming on course 129^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM), standard speed 15 knots; fleet axis 090^oT(PGC), this ship position 3.000 in formation "5-R-C" (modified). Ship is darkened in Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". Boilers No. 1 and 3 cut in on main steam line. OTC is Rear Admiral T.D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA; guide is U.S.S. NATOMA BAY. This task group consists of following: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, DENVER, COLUMBIA, SAVO ISLAND, MARCUS ISLAND, OMMANEY BAY, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, KADASHAN BAY, WALLER, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, BENNION, SIGOURNEY, PATTERSON, RENSHAW, TWIGGS, RALPH TALBOT, CONNER, ROBINSON, RENEY, BRAINE.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 129^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0427 Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in NATOMA BAY assumed tactical command. 0456 Commenced flight operations, on signal changed course right to 185^oT(PGC). 0502 On signal changed course left to 129^oT(PGC), flight operations completed. 0512 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 129^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 175

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 129^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0759 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 129^oT(PGC). 0811 On signal, changed course right to 215^oT(PGC) for launching and recovery of aircraft. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0816 On signal, changed course right to 245^oT(PGC). 0818 On signal, changed course right to 255^oT(PGC). 0821 On signal, changed course right to 260^oT(PGC). 0832 Having completed flight operations, changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 0834 On signal, Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed tactical command. 0842 On signal, slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0850 On signal, formed special disposition "2-C-1" with this ship formation guide for scheduled exercise: Monthly test of Mk 32 Special 5"/38 cal. Projectiles. 0909 On signal, changed course and axis to 125^oT(PGC) in succession from the van. At 0916 commenced scheduled firing of 5" battery in monthly test of Mk32 projectiles. 0916 On signal, commenced scheduled test firing. 0922 On signal, U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed formation guide. Completed firing at 0945. Expended 24 rounds 5"/38 AA Special projectiles with Smokeless powder. 0945 Completed test firing. 1007 On signal, formed cruising disposition "5-R-B" with this ship as formation guide. 1029 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery for scheduled exercise: Simulated air attacks. 1043 On signal, U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed formation guide. 1120 On signal, Rear Admiral F. B. Stump in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed tactical command. 1127 On signal, changed course right to 225^oT(PGC) and increased speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1135 Scheduled exercises having been completed, set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1147 On signal changed course left to 125^oT(PGC). 1157 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 125^oT(PGC). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 157

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, on base course 125^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 1430 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1436 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed on base course 125^oT(PGC). 1440 Changed course right to 255^oT(PGC). 1453 Changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). 1456 Changed course right to 255^oT(PGC). 1529 Changed course left to 125^oT(PGC). 1547 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 125^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 125^oT(PGC), fleet speed 15 knots, OTC and guide in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY. 1604 Changed course left to 100oT(PGC). 1615 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and came to base course 125^oT(PGC). 1622 On signal, changed course right to 130^oT(PGC). 1642 On signal, changed course right to 260^oT(PGC) for flight operations. 1648 On signal, changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). 1658 On signal, changed course left to 245^oT(PGC). 1705 On signal, changed course to 135^oT(PGC); completed flight operations. 1707 Rear Admiral T. D. Ruddock in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA assumed tactical command. 1710 Crossed the equator from north latitude to south latitude at 144^o50.5’ E. longitude. 1714 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 135^oT(PGC), fleet axis 125^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 135^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 155

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 135^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 2235 Contacted unknown surface vessels which were identified at 2315 as two LMS’s. 2358 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 135^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 01^o 17.3’ N

143^o 34.8’ E

1200 00^o 42.0’ N

144^o 04.4’ E

2000 00^o 20.9’ N

145^o 19.0’ E

Saturday, 23 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.12. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.12, which consists of the following: U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA, COLORADO, DENVER, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAVO ISLAND, MANILA BAY, OMMANEY BAY, KADASHAN BAY, NATOMA BAY, WALLER, CONY, CONWAY, EATON, BENNION, SIGOURNEY, PATTERSON, RENSHAW, TWIGGS, CONNER, ROBINSON, RALPH TALBOT, REMEY and BRAINE. Rear Admiral T.D. Ruddock, USN, in U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA is OTC. In Cruising Formation "5-R-C" (modified). U.S.S. NATOMA BAY is guide, bearing 305^oT(PGC), distance 3,000 yards axis 125^oT(PGC). DENVER’S station 3.000; course 135^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). Ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set throughout the ship. Boilers No. 1 and 3 are in use for steaming purposes. 0210 Made radar contact on Manus Island, Admiralty Group, bearing 160^oT, distance 49 miles. 0327 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 270^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0410 On signal, changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 0426 Rear Admiral F.B. Stump, USN, in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY assumed OTC. 0440 On signal, changed course right to 280^oT(PGC) and increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0445 On signal, changed course left to 260^oT(PGC). 0450 On signal, changed course left to 120^oT(PGC) and fleet speed slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0510 On signal, increased fleet speed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0521 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, base course 120^oT(PGC). 0629 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 120^oT(PGC). 0630 On signal, changed course left to 100^oT(PGC). 0646 On signal, changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 0648 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0658 On signal, changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 0701 On signal, executed signal to enter port. 0702 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC); commenced maneuvering independently to form column for entering Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands. 0720 In column maneuvering on various courses and speeds conforming with leading ship in column, entering Seeadler Harbor.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 155

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds in column formation while entering Seeadler Harbor. At 0805 entered Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands and anchored in Berth 107 at 0830. 0805 Passed through Hulon Nets, entrance to Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds, conforming with channel. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on Bridge. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0830 Anchored in Berth 107 Seeadler Harbor, in 15 fathoms of water, with 30 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Beacon No. 4: 196^oT(PGC); Beacon "C": 215^oT(PGC); Beacon "A": 307^oT(PGC). Draft forward: 22’9"; aft: 24’10". Underway at 0941 to go alongside U.S.S. ABARENDA in Berth 9 for fuel. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0941, underway from berth #107, proceeding to U.S.S. ABARENDA. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on Bridge. 1002 Moored port side to tanker U.S.S. ABARENDA in berth No. 9, Seeadler Harbor, in 19 fathoms of water. Following lines are in use: bow line, crossed springs forward, crossed springs aft, and stern line. All lines are manila. 1019 Commenced receiving fuel oil at forward and after connections. Draft of ship before fueling: forward: 22’9"; aft: 24’10". 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1126 Secured from receiving fuel oil at forward connection. Completed fueling at 1129 and proceeded to Berth 19. 1129 Secured from receiving fuel oil at after connection, having received 138,958 gallons fuel oil. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1138, underway from alongside U.S.S. ABARENDA, proceeding to berth No. 19, Seeadler Harbor. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on Bridge. Ship’s draft after fueling : forward 23’3"; aft: 25’3".

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before maneuvering on various courses at various speeds, proceeding to anchorage. 1212 Anchored in berth No.19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands; in 14 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Ships draft; forward 23’3"; aft: 25’3". Anchorage bearings; Beacon No. "N" 310^oT, Beacon "L" 269^oT, Beacon"2" 174^oT, Beacon "M" 297.5^oT, Beacon "5" 300^oT. 1218 Secured steering and main engines. 1305 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight Pilot: Ensign P. R. Anderson, 351108, USNR; Observer: Ivey, T. R., ARM2c, USNR, 617 93 30. 1308 Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine flight. Pilot: Lt.(jg), E. G. Yesko , 251058, USNR; Observer: Fitzpatrick, C. I., ACMM, 268 44 23, USN, 1330 Hoisted in plane No. 7, pilot and observer as above. 1334 U.S.S. LUCE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1338 U.S.S. CHARLES J. BADGER stood in and anchored U.S.S. ISHERWOOD stood in and anchored. Changed zone time to –10 at 1400. 1400 Set all clocks ahead one hour to –10 zone time.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 Plane No. 8 hoisted aboard. 1603 U.S.S. GREAT VICTORY underway and stood out of harbor.

J. S. Sewall, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt(jg)., USN.

Positions: 0800 01^o 56.8’ S

147^o 18.6’ E

1200 01^o 59.5’ N

147^o 17.6’ E

2000 Seeadler Harbor

Sunday, 24 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 19, Seeadler Harbor. Anchored in Berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands; in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Boiler No. 3 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, and in Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". Anchorage bearings: Beacon No. "N" 310^oT(PGC), Beacon "L" 269^oT(PGC), Beacon 2 174^oT(PGC), Beacon "M" 297.5^oT(PGC), Beacon "5" 300^oT(PGC), HECP 060^oT(PGC). Ships present include U.S.S. MOUNT OLYMPUS SOPA, U.S.S. SIERRA Administrative SOPA, various units of the Pacific Fleet, auxiliary, yard, district and patrol craft and merchant ships.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0645 U.S.S. MONROVIA underway to shift berth. 0650 U.S.S. CACAPON underway and moored alongside U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY. 0725 U.S.S. BRAZIER underway and stood out. 0725 U.S.S. CALVERT, ROBINSON, MOREY and LST 72 underway and shifted berths.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0850 Received YO 77 alongside starboard side. 0900 Commenced receiving aviation gas from YO 77. 0945 Completed taking aviation gas, having received 1800 gallons. 0950 YO 77 cast off from starboard side. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1715 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1900 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group, in 14 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Boiler No. 3 is in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, and modified Condition of Readiness III and modified Condition "B" are set throughout the ship. Ships present: SOPA Administration in U.S.S. SIERRA, Task Force 79, Task Group 77.12, various auxiliaries, merchant vessels, harbbr and district craft. At 0025 secured power on forward distribution board for repairs; work completed and power restored at 0105.

J. R. Hatcher, Lt.(jg), USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0500 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: None. 0910 U.S.S. ROBERT STUART underway and shifted berths. 0940 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight. Pilot: Lt.(jg) E. G. Yesko, 251058, USNR. Observer: Lt. J. S. Sewall, Jr., 271259, O-V(RS), USNR. 1145 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1415 U.S.S. KWAJALEIN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1420 Having completed routine flight plane No. 7 returned and was hoisted aboard. 1425 S.S. STEPHEN JOHNSON FIELD stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1512 Cut boiler No. 2 in on main steam line. 1515 Let fire die out under boiler No. 3.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1715 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1915 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group, in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Ships present include U.S.S. SIERRA (Administrative SOPA) various units of the Pacific Fleet, yard, auxiliary and patrol craft and merchant ships. The ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt.(jg), USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0417 H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, AUSTRALIA, ARUNTA, WARRAMUNGA underway and stood out. 0500 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0720 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight. Pilot: Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N), 315108, USNR; observer: Kilpatrick, C. I., CAMM(AA), USN, 268 44 23. 0735 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, unable to make flight due to insufficient wind for take-off.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0820 U.S.S. STEELE, FRENCH, FOREMAN and TITANIA underway and stood out. 0840 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1115 U.S.S. W.E. THOMAS stood into assigned berth. 1145 U.S.S. JESSE RUTHERFORD stood into assigned berth.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1220 U.S.S. HOWARD and O’BRIEN stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 1303 Hoisted plane No. 8 in water for routine flight; pilot: Lt.(jg), E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), USNR, 251058; observer: Vanderbrook, E.J., Jr., 646 04 65, CMM, USNR. 1310 Hoisted plane No. 7 into water for routine flight; pilot: Ensign P.R. Anderson, A-V(N), USNR, 351108; observer: Kilpatrick, C. I., 260 44 23, ACMM, USN. 1313 U.S.S. HARMON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1336 Fired no-load shot on starboard catapult. Results: satisfactory. 1343 U.S.S. FOREMAN and ALTAMAHA stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1343 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1345 U.S.S. RIDDLE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 U.S.S. MONSOON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 U.S.S. CREE and HOWARD underway and stood out. 1422 U.S.S. WAKE ISLAND stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1530 Following ships underway and stood: U.S.S. O’BRIEN, O’FLAHERTY, TWIGGS, BURNS, BENNION, WEST VIRGINIA, COLUMBIA, COLORADO, O’LEARY and BELL.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1715 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1915 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before. 2230 Secured general announcing system for repairs.

J. R. Hatcher, Lt.(jg), USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth No. 19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, and Condition of Readiness III modified and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: SOPA Administration is in U.S.S. SIERRA, Task Force 79, Task Group 77.12, various units of the Pacific Fleet, also various auxiliaries, merchant vessels, harbor and district craft. 0000 Commenced taking aboard ammunition from LCM. 0015 Completed taking aboard ammunition. 0120 General announcing system restored to service condition.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0500 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 U.S.S. CALLAWAY shifted berths. 0705 U.S.S. ENGLAND, BOUNTIFUL, CATSKEILL, underway and stood out. 0725 U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY underway and stood out.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0810 U.S.S. IOWA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: None. 0842 U.S.S. TINGEY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0848 U.S.S. THE SULLIVANS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0900 Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine flight. Pilot: Lt.(jg) E. G. Yesko, 251058, USNR, observer: Lt.(jg) R. W. Winder, 244144, E(V)S, USNR. 1012 Having completed routine flight plane No. 8 returned and was hoisted on board. 1038 U.S.S. TWIGGS got underway and stood out. 1100 Fired no load charge port catapult: Test satisfactory. 1102 U.S.S. PATTERSON, and BAGLEY underway and stood out 1115 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Condition: Normal. 1130 U.S.S. GRIDLEY, HELM, MAURY, and OMMANEY BAY underway and stood out. 1144 U.S.S. MANILA BAY and NATOMA BAY underway and stood out.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt.(jg), USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1204 U.S.S. MAKIN ISLAND and U.S.S. LUNGA POINT underway and stood out. 1210 U.S.S. BISMARCK SEA underway and stood out. 1228 U.S.S. FOREMAN underway and stood out. 1232 U.S.S. HOGGATT BAY and U.S.S. STEAMER BAY underway and standing out. 1255 U.S.S. BRYANT underway and stood out. 1320 U.S.S. WICKES underway and stood out. Hoisted out plane No. 8 for ships search-light exercises. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub,A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer: Grigas, A.T., Y2c, 607 44 41, USNR. 1415 Hoisted in plane No. 7; pilot: Ensign P.R. Anderson, A-V(N), 351108, USNR; observer: Kilpatrick, C. I., ACMM, 260 44 23, USN. 1430 Hoisted in plane No. 8, ships exercises completed.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1619 Received ammunition lighter alongside port quarter and took aboard ammunition. 1705 U.S.S. PATTERSON underway and stood out. 1710 U.S.S. MICHAEL C. KERR underway and stood out. 1712 U.S.S. IOWA entered drydock No. ABSD 2. 1715 U.S.S. STRICKLIN stood in. 1715 Set Condition of Readiness III in Anti-aircraft battery. 1720 U.S.S. WHITE PLAINS underway and stood out. 1726 U.S.S. CRAVEN, THE SULLIVANS, and D. J. BOWERS underway and stood out. 1735 Pursuant to the verbal orders of the Commander Seventh Fleet, A. Raymond reported aboard for temporary duty as war correspondent. 1803 U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY and CLAXTON stood in. 1820 U.S.S. FRENCH and FOREMAN stood in. 1915 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

27 December received the following ammunition from NAD, Manus:

24 6"/47 AP Projectiles

13 6"/47 HC Projectiles

51 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges

1440 20mm H.E.T. cartridges

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group, in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Various units of the Pacific Fleet, various merchant, patrol and amphibious landing craft are present; SOPA (Administrative) in U.S.S. SIERRA. Ship is in Material Condition "B" and modified Readiness Condition III. Boiler No. 2 is steaming for auxiliary purposes.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0500 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0625 U.S.S. SHARDEN underway and stood out. 0655 U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY underway and stood. 0700 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0705 U.S.S. MOUNT MC KINLEY and CONYNGHAM stood in and anchored in assigned berths.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt.(jg), USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0830 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out. 1015 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1500 This date, pursuant to BuPers dispatch orders, Commander E. B. Patterson, USN, (61207), relieved Commander W. L. Anderson, USN, (60192), of his duties as Executive Officer and Lieutenant Commander J. P. Wiley, USNR, (99317), relieved Commander E. B. Patterson, USN, (61207), of his duties as Navigator, Articles 849 and 1393 (10) of U.S. Navy Regulations having been complied with. 1530 U.S.S. MITCHELL underway and stood out of harbor. 1545 CONWAY stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 U.S.S. CONWAY underway and stood out. 1603 S.S. WOLFSKILL underway and shifted berth. 1603 S.S. DONALD MAC LEAY underway and stood out. 1605 S.S. ROBERT MAC BURNEY underway and stood out. 1610 U.S.S. CONWAY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1715 U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY and MITCHELL stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1715 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1730 U.S.S. JOHN C. BUTLER stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1915 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery.

J. R. Hatcher, Lt.(jg), USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

On 28 December received the following ammunition from NAD, Manus:

300 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges

184 5"/38 AA Special projectiles

34 5"/38 AA Common projectiles

3008 40mm H.E.T. cartridges.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands Group, in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Condition of Readiness III modified and Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Ship is darkened, except for necessary lights. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA (Administrative) in U.S.S. SIERRA. Various units of the Pacific Fleet, merchant ships, amphibious, harbor and patrol craft are present.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0500 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0605 U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, BRAINE underway and stood out. 0645 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0705 U.S.S. PHOBAS underway and stood out. 0750 U.S.S. ELKHORN underway and stood out. 0750 U.S.S. SMITH stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0845 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot: Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer: Tucker, A.D., Jr., 357 41 75, USNR, and plane No. 8. Pilot: Ensign D.G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer: Ivy, P.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 1000 U.S.S. OLMSTED stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1010 S.S. FLORIDIAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1025 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out. 1030 Hoisted in plane No. 8. 1040 U.S.S. ELKHORN stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1115 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1130 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY underway and stood out. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1230 U.S.S. CLAXTON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1320 U.S.S. KILLEN underway and stood out. 1330 U.S.S. CALDWELL underway and stood out. 1340 U.S.S. IOWA underway and stood out. 1350 U.S.S. FRENCH underway and stood out. 1550 U.S.S. APPALACHIAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1555 U.S.S. ZEILAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1559 U.S.S. OCTANS stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. M. Gallagher, Lt.(jg), USN.
 
 

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 U.S.S. LAURENS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. U.S.S. MONSSEN, ALTAMAHA underway and stood out. 1614 U.S.S. WARREN stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1620 U.S.S. APA 59 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1624 U.S.S. TRYON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1626 U.S.S. WARRICK stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1632 U.S.S. ALGOL stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1635 U.S.S. LA PORTE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1645 U.S.S. PRESIDENT MONROE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1650 U.S.S. PRESIDENT ADAMS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1651 U.S.S. PRESIDENT JACKSON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1700 U.S.S. RIDDLE, underway and stood out. 1700 U.S.S. GENERAL OMAR BUNDY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1710 U.S.S. OXFORD stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1720 U.S.S. READING stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1730 U.S.S. MENAIR stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1732 U.S.S. MELVIN stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1732 U.S.S. NORMAN SCOTT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1737 U.S.S. NAVAJO VICTORY stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands Group, in 14 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Various units of the Pacific Fleet, merchant ships, patrol and amphibious craft are present. Material Condition "B" is set and modified Condition of Readiness III set. The ship is darkened. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. SOPA (Administrative) is ComDesPac Representative in the U.S.S. SIERRA.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 0515 Lighted fires under boilers No. 1 and 3. 0600 Cut No. 4 boiler in on main steam line. 0630 Let fires die out under No. 1 boiler. Underway at 0640 from Berth 19 to proceed to Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, there to report to Commander Task Group 77.3 in accordance with dispatch orders from commander SEVENTH Fleet. Ships in company are U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLAXTON, and SMITH. O.T.C. is Rear Admiral RIGGS in DENVER. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0640 underway from Berth 19, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands. Proceeding in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, SMITH, and CLAXTON, Rear Admiral R. S. Riggs, USN, OTC in DENVER. Ship’s draft forward 23’9", aft 25’6". Maneuvering on various courses and speeds conforming with channel. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 0655 Let fires die out under No. 3 boiler. At 0700 commenced sortie from Seeadler Harbor. 0700 Went to General Quarters for sortie. 0704 Passed through harbor entrance nets. 0705 Passed spar buoy to starboard. Passed spar buoy to port. 0712 Went to 16 knots. Set course 000^oT(PGC). 0713 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 0716 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC) to avoid object in water. 0718 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 9722 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III. 0724 Changed course left to 285^oT(PGC). 0730 Went to 17 knots. 0730 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0730 Took departure from Seeadler Harbor with Hauwei Island bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 5 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 126

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 285^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0830 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 285^oT(PGC). 0834 Changed fleet course and axis to right to 314^oT(PGC). 0835 Set Material Condition "B" above first platform. 0843 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery for sleeve firing. 0856 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 314^oT(PGC). At 0902 commenced firing AA battery for practice sleeve runs. 0902 Commenced firing 5" battery intermittently on towed sleeve runs. 0955 Commenced firing automatic weapons intermittently on towed sleeve runs. Ceased firing at 1032. 1032 Ceased firing anti-aircraft batteries. Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1041 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 171

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 314^oT(PGC) at speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 314^oT(PGC) at speed 17 knots.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 174

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 314^oT(PGC) at speed 17 knots, axis 314^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1905 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 314^oT(PGC). 1915 Changed fleet course and axis to 296^oT(PGC). 1926 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 296^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 170

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

Expended the following ammunition in practice firing: 192 rounds 5"/38 AA Common projectiles with Smokeless powder; 2176 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers; 1032 rounds 20mm H.E. Incendiaries, and 516 rounds 20mm H.E. Tracers.

Positions: 0800 01^o 50.2’ S

147^o 11.1’ E

1200 01^o 07.8’ S

146^o 25.8’ E

2000 00^o 18.9’ N

145^o 01.9’ E

Sunday, 31 December, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLAXTON, and SMITH. Steaming in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, SMITH and CLAXTON, OTC and guide in the DENVER, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, on base course and axis 296^oT(PGC). Fleet speed is 17 knots, standard speed 15 knots. MONTPELIER, 1,000 yards astern. CLAXTON and SMITH are in anti-submarine screen 45^o on either bow. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 296^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, speed 17 knots.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 169

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 281^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. Base course and fleet axis 296^oT(PGC). 0815 Mustered crew at quarters, no absentees. 0816 Went to 18 knots. 0827 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 296^oT(PGC). 0835 Went to General Quarters for offset practice firing of 6" and 5" batteries. From 0850 to 1300 conducted offset firing practice with expenditure of following ammunition: 22 rounds 6"/47 A.P. projectiles with Smokeless powder; 24 rounds 6"/47 H.C. projectiles with Smokeless powder; 12 rounds 5"/38 AA Common projectiles with Smokeless powder. 0850 Set Condition of Readiness III in the Engineering, Communication and C & R Departments. Fired 6" battery offset practice firing. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg). USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 296^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1235 Commenced firing 6" and 5" batteries in resumption of offset practice at 12,000 yards range. 1300 Ceased firing both batteries. Secured Main Battery. Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1335 Changed course right to 116^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 1357 Changed course right to 296^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1443 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 174

M. F. Healy, Jr, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 296^oT(PGC) at speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 180

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, on base course 296^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 180

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 296^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 180

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 01^o 38.6’ N

142^o 22.5’ E

1200 02^o 03.1’ N

141^o 18.5’ E

2000 03^o 00.5’ N

139^o 29.3’ E