Monday, February 1, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 02^o 36' S.

(Longitude 108^o 22.5' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 03^o 10' S.

(Longitude 109^o 44' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 04^o 10.5' S.

(Longitude 112^o 50' W.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. in column with the U.S.S. AULICK, distance 800 yards. Speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.) Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Material Condition "B". Ship darkened. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 227.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 08

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. with U.S.S. AULICK as guide in column, speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.). 0516 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0617 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 228.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 -12

Steaming as before. 0800 Muster crew on stations. 1000 Commenced steering various courses for tactical instruction for Deck Watch Officers. 1055 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1130 Completed tactical drill and returned to base course 230.5^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.5.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.). Column formation in company with U.S.S. AULICK who is guide. 1314 U.S.S. AULICK taking station on our port quarter during machine gun firing. 1330 Opened fire starboard battery machine guns. 1337 Ceased firing. Resumed base course 250^o T. & P.G.C. 1340 U.S.S. AULICK opened fire for drill. 1351 U.S.S. AULICK ceased firing. 1410 U.S.S. AULICK resumed station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 23 knots, 224 R.P.M. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.6.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C., on boilers Nos. 1 & 3 at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.) in column with U.S.S. AULICK as guide. 1800 Steering aft shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. 1840 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1948 Set Condition II, Watch II, securing from General Quarters. Av. Steam 590 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 228.7

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before. 2100 Set clocks back 30 minutes to Zone Plus 7 1/2; time. 2235 Changed base course to 251^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 226.9.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

Tuesday, February 2, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 05^o 47.5' S.

(Longitude 117^o 18.5' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 06^o 24.5' S.

(Longitude 118^o 52' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 07^o 16' S.

(Longitude 121^o 01' W.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. 240^o P.S.C. at 23 knots (245 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.) under boilers Nos. 1 & 3. Ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Ship is in Readiness Condition III. In company with U.S.S. AULICK which is on station 800 yds. ahead of this ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.2.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 251^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.), keeping station on the AULICK, distance 800 yds. 0520 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0622 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 251^o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.), keeping station in column on the U.S.S AULICK, distance 800 yards. 0815 Held quarters for muster and physical drills. 0900 Set all clocks back thirty minutes to conform to Plus 8 Zone Time. 0917 Shifted to No. 2 Steering Unit, port cable. 0923 Shifted steering to Steering Control Aft. 0953 Shifted steering control to Bridge. 1020 Commenced ship maneuvers, on various courses and speed of 23 knots (224 R.P.M.), in company with U.S.S. AULICK, latter as guide for officer instruction purposes. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1130 Completed ship maneuver exercises, resumed base course 251^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 590 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.9.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before. 1319 Changed course to 130^o T. & P.G.C. in preparation for fueling AULICK. 1321 Changed speed to 7 knots (67 R.P.M.). 1338 U.S.S. AULICK came alongside starboard side for fueling. 1350 Commenced fueling AULICK. 1514 Completed fueling AULICK. Fuel delivered 53, 776 gals. at 80^o. 1526 Changed speed to 23 knots (224 R.P.M.). Changed course to 252^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 146.0.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. 1615 shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 1625 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 1635 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. 1701 Fired 5" Mount No. 4 for spotting burst. 1703 Ceased firing. 1711 Fired one shell from 5" Mount No. 3. 1713 Fired one shell from 5" Mount No. 3. 1723 Fired one round from 5" Mount No. 3. 1725 Ceased firing. 223.2.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 250^o T. & P.G.C. 1817 Sounded General Quarters. 1925 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 223.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 252^o T. & P.G.C. in company with U.S.S. AULICK. 2235 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 2246 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. 2250 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 2310 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Wednesday, February 3, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 08^o 38.5' S.

(Longitude 125^o 15' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 09^o 09' S.

(Longitude 126^o 44' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 09^o 58' S.

(Longitude 129^o 38' W.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with U.S.S. AULICK on course 252^o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.), steaming at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 and 3 on the main steam line. Ship darkened in Condition III and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 580 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 225.1.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0510 General Quarters, Dawn Alert. 0642 Opened fire, 6" off set practice held with U.S.S. AULICK. Commenced firing to port according to plan of off set practice. 0706 Off set firing completed. 0710 Secured from General Quarters. Resumed base course 252^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 252^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 23 knots, 224 R.P.M. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 1134 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 1148 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 1200 Tested Chemical Attack Alarm. Made daily inspection of magazines and S. P. samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 223.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 252^o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.) 1221 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 1255 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1317 Exercised crew at fire quarters. 1323 Changed course to 253^o T. & P.G.C. In company with U.S.S. AULICK. 1328 secured from fire quarters. 1341 Mustered crew at collision quarters. 1353 Secured from collision quarters. 1405 Mustered crew at abandon ship stations. 1419 Secured from abandon ship drill and all general drills. Av. Steam 585 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before. 1600 Manned General Quarters Stations. 1623 Fired 20 mm. to port at 5" burst. 1648 Fired after 20 mm. to port at 5" burst. 1705 Fired 40 mm. to port at 5" burst. 1717 Fired sector 4 machine guns at 5" burst to port. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.1.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

18 - 20

Steaming as before. Ship at General Quarters for the purpose of determining and developing methods of overcoming problems such as messing when conditions require protracted periods of Condition I. 1906 Darkened ship. 1930 Sounded and at 1945 Secured from Gas Alarm Exercise. 1955 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III and Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.0.

W. I. Leahy,

Cmdr. U.S.N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 253^o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.) 2100 Set clocks back one half hour to 8 1/2; Zone Time, changed course to 254^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.

P. K. Wells,

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

Thursday, February 4, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 16' S.

(Longitude 134^o 14.3' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 52.8' S.

(Longitude 125^o 53.3' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12^o 38' S.

(Longitude 138^o 56' W.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with U.S.S. AULICK on course 254^o T. & P.G.C. at standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.), and speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M.), using boilers Nos. 1 & 3, darkened ship, Condition III and Material Condition "B". 0125 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 0153 Shifted steering to Pilot House. 0155 Central Station took steering control. 0230 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 224.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0518 manned general quarters stations for dawn alert and battle problem. 0617 Secured from general quarters, set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 0620 Lightened ship. Av. Steam 595 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 226.1.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 254^o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (224 R.P.M.). 0815 Mustered crew at Quarters. 0900 Set all clocks back one-half hour to zone Plus 9. 1030 Commenced tactical exercises. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines. Max temp. 94^o. Min temp. 79^o. Conditions normal. 1130 Ceased tactical exercises. 1140 This ship assumed formation guide.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 231.8.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 254^o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots, 224 R.P.M. 1300 U.S.S. AULICK assumed formation guide. 1400 Changed course to 257^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 227.2.

P. K. Wells,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 257^o T. & P.G.C. in company with U.S.S. AULICK as formation guide, speed 23 knots (224 R.P.M). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 228.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. 1835 Manned General Quarters stations. 1842 Darkened ship. 1947 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 231.8.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 257^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 24 knots (230 R.P.M.). 2040 Shifted steering control to steering Aft. 2100 Pilot House took steering control. Commenced shifting fuel oil. 2118 Central Station took steering control. 2135 Completed shifting fuel oil. 2150 Pilot House took steering control. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 220.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Friday, February 5, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 31.5' S.

(Longitude 143^o 07.5' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 45.5' S.

(Longitude 144^o 29.5' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14^o 06.9' S.

(Longitude 147^o 15.9' W.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 257^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 23 knots (214 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and Material Condition "B" set. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 257^o T. & P.G.C., speed 22 knots (214 R.P.M.) in company with U.S.S. AULICK. 0520 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0530 Commenced zig-zagging using Plan No. 8. 0535 Sounded Flight Quarters, placed planes on catapults. 0631 Secured from General Quarters. Flight Quarters in condition III. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 212.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 -12

Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations 0815 Changed base course to 262^o T. & P.G.C. 0830 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0830 Made weekly inspection of magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions normal. 0835 5" battery fired practice bursts. 0911 Manned General Quarters stations. 0930 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III on all but 5" battery. Set Condition II on 5" battery. 1000 5" battery fired practice bursts to port and starboard. 1023 5" battery fired practice bursts to port. 1029 5" battery fired practice bursts to starboard. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.0.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 262^o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-Zag Plan No. 8. 1400 Set all clocks back 1/2; hour to Plus 9 1/2; Time Zone. 1400 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 1435 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 1451 Commenced firing 5" practice bursts. 1454 Fired 5" practice bursts. 1506 Fired 5" practice bursts. 1511 Fired practice bursts. 1516 Shifted steering control to Bridge. 1518 Fired 5" practice bursts. 1524 Fired 5" practice bursts. 1525 Test fired anti-air craft machine guns. 1530 Fired 5" practice bursts. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 213.7.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 262^o T. & P.G.C. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 -20

Steaming as before on course 262^o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (214 R.P.M.) on Zig-Zag Plan No. 8. 1845 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1947 Ceased zig-zagging, secured from General Quarters, set Condition III and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before. 2100 Set all clocks back 30 minutes to Zone Plus 10 Time. 2318 Changed base course 233^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.0.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

Saturday, February 6, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16^o 04' S.

(Longitude 151^o 16' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored at Bora Bora

(Longitude

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored at Bora Bora

(Longitude

00 - 04

Steaming on course 233^o T. & P.G.C. at 22 knots (214 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.). In company with U.S.S. AULICK. Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on the line, ship in darkened and in Readiness Condition III; Material Condition "B" is set. 0035 Shifted control to Steering Aft. 0105 Pilot House resumed steering control. 0115 Shifted steering control to Central. 0127 Pilot House resumed steering control. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 214.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 233^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 22 knots. 214 R.P.M. 0445 Sounded General Quarters. 0449 commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8. 0555 Secured from General Quarters. 0738 Sighted Bora Bora Island bearing 224^o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 212.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 233^o T. & P.G.C. 0805 Changed course to 240^o T. & P.G.C. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 0825 Ceased zig-zagging on Plan No. 8, resumed base course 240^o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). 0844 Sighted Tubai Island bearing 270^o T. & P.G.C. 0924 Changed course to 220^o T. & P.G.C. Made preparations to enter port. 0927 Changed speed to 20 knots (194 R.P.M.). 0944 Pilot Boat PB-2 came alongside. Pilot Lieut. Comdr. Carter came aboard. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds into harbor and to position at mooring buoys and oil floats. 1035 Moored fore and aft with wires to buoys, using wire bow line and wire stern line. 1039 Pilot left ship. 1036 Secured main engines and steering engine. 1120 U.S.S. AULICK came alongside and moored on our starboard side. Made preparations to take fuel oil from harbor floats. Draft on mooring, Forward 19' 3", Aft 24' 00". Av. Steam 590 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 111.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1230 Commenced receiving fuel oil. Draft Forward 19' 3", Draft aft 24'. 1435 The following named men, Ensign M. F. Yerger, U.S.N., in charge left the ship on duty as shore patrol: Ehringer, D. F., BM2/c, Martin, H.F., Cox, Allison, N., MoMM2.c, Williams, J. W. MM2/c, and Jameson, H. r. MM1/c. 1450 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 1530 Hoisted out plane No 4833 for routine flight, Ens. Allison, Pilot. 1540 Secured No. 4 boiler. 1540 Hoisted out second plane, No. 4866, Ens. Christison, Pilot.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S.N.

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1750 Hoisted in plane and stowed it in hangar. 1800 Hoisted in second plane and stowed it in hangar.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1840 Sounded General Quarters. 1926 U.S.S. AULICK completed taking fuel oil. 1928 Secured from General Quarters.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2010 Secured fuel oil hoses on deck from U.S.S. AULICK and from oil barge. Barge left ship's side. Draft after fueling, Forward 24' 6", Aft 24' 9". 2130 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 2220 Secured No. 4 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER. 

Upon arrival at Bora Bora reported by despatch to Commander, South Pacific Force for duty, received that officer's despatch orders (050112 February) and by DENVER despatch (062311 February), transmitted by shore radio, reported estimated time of arrival at Noumea in company with AULICK as Love February 12, 1943.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Sunday, February 7, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16^o 30' S.

(Longitude 151^o 49.4' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17^o 14' S.

(Longitude 153^o 22.5' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18^o 00' S.

(Longitude 156^o 55.5' W.

0 - 4

Moored to bow and stern buoys with wire bow and stern lines in Bora Bora, Society Islands. U.S.S. AULICK moored to the starboard side. Boiler No. 2 steaming for auxiliary purposes. 0315 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S. Navy

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0500 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0555 Secured from General Quarters. 0620 Stationed Special Sea Details. 0620 Commenced unrigging mooring wires. 0640 Tested main engines. 0645 Held quarters for muster. 0649 U.S.S. AULICK cast off, got underway and stood out. 0703 Underway. 0724 Anchored due to loss of vacuum on No. 1 and No. 4 engines. 0729 Underway, vacuum having been regained, and stood out of harbor on various courses and speeds, conforming to the channel, Captain at Conn, Navigator and pilot on the bridge. 0745 Pilot, Lieut. Comdr. Carter left ship. 0804 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 17, base course 248^o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 15 knots, making 26 knots (257 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 76.6.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR

08 -12

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17, base course 248^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 26 knots (257 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 258.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 248^o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 17, in company with U.S.S. AULICK. 1300 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples and found conditions normal. 1307 Changed base course to 261^o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 265.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR

16 - 18

Steaming as before. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 273.0.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U.S. Navy

18 - 20

Steaming as before. Base course 261^o T. & P.G.C. at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 17. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 271.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR

20 - 24

Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on base course 261^o T. & P.G.C. Secured from General Quarters. 2100 Set clocks back one half hour to Zone Plus 10 1/2; time. Changed course to 264^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 271.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR

Monday, February 8, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19^o 08' S.

(Longitude 162^o 30' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19^o 43' S.

(Longitude 164^o 21' W.  

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 20^o 47.5' S.

(Longitude 167^o 51.0' W.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 264^o T. & P.G.C., 254^o P.S.C. at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.) in company with U.S.S. AULICK stationed 2000 yards ahead. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 on main steam line. Ship darkened and in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III except for main battery in Condition II. At 0238 Changed course to 253^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 270.4.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt.(jg), U.S. Navy

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0455 Manned General Quarters Stations for dawn alert and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17. 0605 Lightened ship. 0607 Commenced firing automatic weapons at 5" bursts. 0620 Completed practice firing. 0625 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition II in A. A. Battery. Set Condition III in other departments. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 270.7.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., U.S. Navy

08 - 12

Steaming as before in accordance with Zig-Zag Plan No. 17. Base course 253^o T. & P.G.C. at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). 0815 Held quarters for muster. 0840 Used full left rudder, come to course to 215^o, periscope having been reported seen bearing 145^o T. 0845 Sent U.S.S. AULICK to investigate periscope. 0849 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8 on base course, 253^o T. & P.G.C. 0853 U.S.S. AULICK ordered to rejoin formation, sighting of periscope being evaluated as doubtful. 0900 Set all clocks back 1/2; hour to Plus 11 Zone Time. 0900 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17. 0940 No. 1 boiler out of commission. 1000- Made daily inspection of all magazines and powder samples. Conditions normal. 1129 No. 1 boiler back in commission. 1150 U.S.S. AULICK reported steering casualty. 1153 U.S.S. AULICK reported steering in control. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 263.8.

J. G. Lightburn, K. P. Houlihan, Lieut., U.S.N.R.

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 17, base course 253^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 273.3.

K. P. Houlihan, J. G. Lightburn, U.S.N.R.

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 253^o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-Zag Plan No. 17. 1600 Sounded General Quarters. Exercised at messing ship's company at battle stations. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 271.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. 1849 Darkened ship. 1950 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 253^o T. & P.G.C. 1952 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition II in Main Battery. All other stations set condition III. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 272.4.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., U.S. Navy.

20 - 24

Steaming as before. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 263.7.

G. C. Wilson,

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

Tuesday, February 9, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 21^o 36.5' S.

(Longitude 172^o 22.5' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 21^o 35.0' S.

(Longitude 173^o 24.5' W.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 22^o 07.5' S.

(Longitude 177^o 04' W.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 253^o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.), steaming at full speed 27 knots (272 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use, in company with U.S.S. AULICK. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B", Main Battery in Condition II, Secondary Battery Condition III. At 0100 sounded General Quarters in readiness for suspicious radar contact. 0113 Changed course to 010^o T. & P.G.C. 0125 Changed course to 261^o T. & P.G.C. 0137 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition II in main battery, Condition III Secondary battery, the suspicious nature of radar contact having failed to develop. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 270.4.

P. K. Wells,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 263^o T. & P.G.C. 0503 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17 on base course 263^o T. & P.G.C. 0611 Secured from General Quarters, set Modified Condition II of Readiness. 0654 Changed speed to 20 knots (194 R.P.M.). 0655 Reduced to standard speed, 15 knots (146 R.P.M.). 0707 Changed speed to 7 knots (068 R.P.M.) and altered course to 010^o T. & P.G.C. 0708 U.S.S. AULICK for fueling at sea. 0753 Started pumping fuel fore and aft to U.S.S. AULICK. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 215.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR. 

08 - 12

Steaming as before. 0815- Mustered crew on stations. 0858 Sighted unidentified plane on port beam. Manned General Quarters stations. 0957 Completed fueling AULICK, 91,528 gal. of fuel oil delivered. 1004 Cast off AULICK. 1006 Changed course to 245^o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 26 knots (257 R.P.M.). 1010 Changed course to 255^o T. & P.G.C. 1011 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III with exception of A.A. Battery which set Condition II. 1020 Entered heavy rain squall. 1047 Passed out of squall. 1100 Tested smoke generators. 1104 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.4.

J. H. Caldwell,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course to 255^o T. & P.G.C. at 26 knots (257 R.P.M.). Zig-Zagging in accordance with plan No. 17. 1300- Made daily inspection and tests of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1400 Set all clocks back 1/2; hour to 11 1/2; Zone Time. 1500 Changed course to 265^o T. & P.G.C. 1510 Radar Contact 276^o T., range 26,700 yds. 1512 Sounded General Quarters. 1517 Target on port bow 1000 yds. 1520 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 245^o T. & P.G.C. 1525 Changed course to 255^o T. & P.G.C. 1528 Sighted ship previously contacted by radar 2 points forward of starboard beam, merchantman flying U. S. Colors. Sent AULICK to investigate and rejoin if identity satisfactory. 1528 Changed speed to 20 knots. 1533 Changed course to 265^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 250.4.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 265^o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots (257 R.P.M.). 1604 Fired 1 round per gun from Main Battery for purpose of unloading through the muzzle. 1608 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B", Condition II in A. A. Battery. 1615 Changed speed to 27 knots, (268 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 219.8.

P. K. Wells,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 1800 Sighted Ata Island, bearing 194^o T., distant 18 1/2; miles. 1805 Passed through squalls and rain, resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 17. 1815 Ata Island bore 180^o T. & P.G.C. 1830 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 17, resumed base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 1850 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1945 Secured from General Quarters, set Modified Readiness Condition II and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 267.2.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

Thursday, February 11, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 22^o 41' S.

(Longitude 177^o 11' W.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 22^o 40' S.

(Longitude 175^o 21' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 23^o 01' S.

(Longitude 171^o 14' W.

00 - 04

At 0000, by order of the Commanding Officer, the date became February 11, 1943, and description of time zone was changed from Plus 12 to Minus 12, inasmuch as the 180^th Meridian was to be crossed at 0130; February 10^th was dropped from the calendar of this vessel.

Steaming on course 265^o T. & P.G.C. at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.) in company with U.S.S. AULICK whose station is 2000 yards ahead. U.S.S. DENVER is guide. In condition of Readiness II in Main Battery and Condition III in rest of ship. Material Condition "B". Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.). Boilers 2 & 4 on main steam line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.

G. C. Wilson

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). 0443 sounded General Quarters for dawn alert and commenced zig-zagging according to Plan. 0537 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness II in A.A. Battery. 0730 Changed course to 235^o T. & P.G.C. opening range on U.S.S. AULICK in preparation for offset battle practice. 0749 Change course to 265^o T. & P.G.C.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.0.

P. K. Wells,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 17, in company with U.S.S. AULICK, maneuvering for offset battle practice. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal 0803 Sounded General Quarters. 0819 Shifted steering control to Conn. 0822 Commenced firing offset battle practice. 0826 Completed firing Main Battery, all ammunition expended, no casualties. 0828 Changed course to 265^o T. & P.G.C., shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 0835 Commenced firing 5" Mounts in offset battle practice. 0837 Ceased firing, ammunition expended. 0850 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition 2.5 and Material Condition "B". 0853 Shifted steering control to Conn. 0857 Shifted steering and instrument control to Bridge. 0900- Exercised crew at Fire and Collision Drills. 0918 General Drills. 1018 Secured from General Drills. 1018- Secured from general drills. Av. Steam 535 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 267.8.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

16 -1 8

Steaming as before. 1600 Shifted to Port Steering Unit. 1758 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. 1851 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. 1900 Sounded General Quarters, dusk alert. 1930 Set Clocks back 1/2; hour. 1940 Ceased zig-zag plan, set base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 1945 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition II Main Battery, Condition III Secondary Battery, Material Condition "B". Av. Steam, 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268 R.P.M.

P. K. Wells,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 267.4.

H. M. Brinser

Lt.(jg), U. S. Navy.

Friday, February 12, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 22^o 22.8' S.

(Longitude 166^o 19' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to U.S.S. PASIG

(Longitude OIL TANKER, in Berth 52

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude at Ile Nou,

(Longitude Port Noumea.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with U.S.S. AULICK on course 265^o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.), steaming at 27 knots (268 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 on the main steam line. Ship is darkened and condition 2.5 set. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 268.0.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U. S. N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0457 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17, base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 0545 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8, base course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 0600 Changed base course to 004, Zig-Zag Plan No. 8. 0600 Set clocks back one-half hour to Zone -11 Time. 0652 Radar contacts land bearing 020^o T. distance 56.7 miles. 0748 Changed base course to 050^o T. & P.G.C., approaching entrance to Noumea, New Caledonia. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 261.4.

G. C. Wilson

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 050^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots. 0827 Changed speed to 15 knots (146 R.P.M.). 0852 All engines stopped. Lieut. Holler, U.S.N.R., pilot, was received on board. 0857 All engines ahead 2/3, 10 knots, pilot at the Conn. Captain and Navigator on the bridge, and began steering various courses and speeds conforming with channel. 0858 Raised pit sword reading 160806. 0918 Passed Amedee Lighthouse abeam to port, distance 1,000 yds. 1054 All engines stopped. 1055 Moored port side to the U.S.S. PASIG in Berth 52 at Ile Nou, Noumea. 1147 Commenced fueling. Made daily inspection of magazines and S.P. samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 118.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before, port side alongside starboard side of U.S.S. PASIG. Made daily visual inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1205 U.S.S. AULICK moored port side to our starboard side. 1350 U.S.S. JENKINS moored on port side of U.S.S. PASIG. 1410 U.S.S. DUNLAP moored to port side of U.S.S. JENKINS. 1420 U.S.S. WASHINGTON, U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA and U.S.S. INDIANA stood in and anchored. 1505 Hoisted off Plane No. 4833, Ens. L. G. Christison, pilot and ACMM J. E. Neal, passenger. 1515 Hoisted off plane No. 4866, Ens. A. B. Hazeltine, pilot and aviation radioman B. A. Ducoto as passenger. Planes transferring to base. 1535 U.S.S. GANSEROORT and U.S.S. WILSON stood out.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1615 Completed fueling AULICK. 1631 AULICK cast off. 1640 Completed fueling. Received 423,620 gallons. Draft Forward 24' 0", Aft 24' 5".

J. H. Caldwell, Lieut., U.S.N.

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1836 Executed sunset. 1930 Hoisted in tow planes.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

On this date the U.S.S. DENVER reported to Commander, South Pacific Force for duty in accordance with his despatch 050112, February and made preparations for departure for Havannah Harbor, Efate, to further report to Commander, Cruiser Division Twelve, in accordance with Comsopac despatch 111151, February.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Saturday, February 13, 1943

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

(Longitude Noumea,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Caledonia

(Longitude

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 23^o 16' S.

(Longitude 167^o 47.2' E.

00 - 04

Moored port side to U.S.S. PASIG, oiler in berth No. 52, port of Noumea, New Caledonia. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. WASHINGTON, U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA, U.S.S. INDIANA (SOPA), U.S.S. DENVER, U.S.S. AULICK, U.S.S. DUNLOP, U.S.S. JENKINS, U.S.S. PASIG, U.S.S. GEORGE H. THOMAS and various other ships and smaller craft. 0320 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0450 Made preparations for getting underway. 0538 Underway on boilers Nos. 2 & 4, Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the Bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (146 R.P.M.). 0542 Lighted ship. 0551 Anchored in berth No. 30, Ile Nou, Port Noumea, New Caledonia in 10 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: Marker "O" 115.5^o, Marker "C" 357^o, Marker "D" 006^o. 0600 Secured main engines. 0635 U.S.S. BUCHANAN got underway and stood out.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U. S. N.

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 1115 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1327 Underway. Lieut. Holler, Pilot, on the Bridge. Captain at Conn and Navigator on the Bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purpose. 1440 Passed Amedee Island Light abeam to starboard, bearing 200^o T., distance 270 yds. 1449 Lowered pit log, reading 160846. 1456 Lieut. Holler, pilot, left the ship. 1503 All engines ahead, speed 27 knots, 275 R.P.M. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 5, base course 138^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 138^o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-zag Plan No. 5, speed 27 knots (275 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 275.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. 1800 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8. Changed base course 115^o T. & P.G.C. 1825 Manned General Quarters stations. 1835 Darkened ship. 1854 Changed base course 040^o T. & P.G.C. 1909 Commenced firing of four practice salvos from Turrets Nos. 1 & 2. 1935 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2000 Completed firing of Main Battery, no casualties. Av. Steam 270 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 274.6.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt. U. S. N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 040^o T. & P.G.C. at 27 knots (275 R.P.M.). 2002 Secured from General Quarters. 2220 Radar contact bearing 103^o T. distant 59,000 yds. 2236 Changed base course to 045^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 275.0.

G. C. Wilson

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Enroute Noumea, New Caledonia to Havannah Harbor, Efate to report to Comcrudiv 12 in accordance with orders of Comsopac.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Sunday, February 14, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10^o 39.5' S.

(Longitude 168^o 28.5' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth No. 10

(Longitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Harbor

(Longitude Efate Island, New Hebrides

00 - 04

Steaming on base course to 045^o T. & P.G.C. Standard Speed 15 knots, steaming at 27 knots (257 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Material Condition "B". Ship darkened and the Gunnery Dept. in Condition II, other departments in Condition III. 0035 Changed course to 347^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 275.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course to 347^o T. & P.G.C. 0424 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0425 Commenced zig-zagging in Plan No. 8. 0535 Changed to 340^o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-Zag Plan No. 8, 27.5 knots (275 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 0525 Sighted Tanna Island, bearing 068^o T. & P.G.C. Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition 2.5 and Material Condition "B". 0625 Heavy rain squall. 0705 Clear weather. Alternate rain squalls and clear. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 275.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

08 - 12

Steaming as before. 0946 Sighted 4 unidentified aircraft bearing 290^o relative. 0947 Went to General Quarters. 0948 Cut in boilers Nos. 2 & 3 on main steam line. 0952 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0959 Identified aircraft as friendly. 1000- Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1005 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition 2.5. 1021 Sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 2 destroyers bearing 320^o T on the horizon. 1025 Change course to 000^o T. & P.G.C. 1028 Identified cruisers as U.S.S. LOUISVILLE AND WICHITA. 1029 Commenced steering various courses and speeds entering Havannah Harbor, Efate, via Hilliard Channel, Captain at the conn, Navigator on the Bridge. 1030- Held quarters for entering port. 1124 Received Lieut. (jg) Cramer, pilot, on board. 1149 Anchored in Berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island in 34 fathoms of water with 95 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor on the following true bearings: "F" Beacon 083.9^o, "K" Beacon 010^o T. and "E" Beacon 205^o. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 216.6.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1255 Underway to go alongside U.S.S. PLATTE to refuel. 1317 Moored port side to U.S.S. PLATTE, Berth No. 3, Efate Island, Havannah Harbor with the following lines out: 1 crossed spring forward and 1 crossed spring aft and a bow and stern wire. 1335 Captain left the ship to call on the SOPA, Rear Admiral Giffen in U.S.S. WICHITA. 1335 Commenced fueling ship. 1426 Completed ;fueling ship, having received on board 91,519 gal. fuel oil 60^oF. 1517 Underway to shift berths. 1538 Anchored in Berth No. 10 in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. 1550 Captain returned on board.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. At 1609 the Captain left the ship and at 1715 returned on board, having called on Commander, Cruiser Division Twelve.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1822 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood in to anchorage berths. 1824 U.S.S. MONTPELIER stood in and anchored.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt., DEV(G), USNR.

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

On this date, U.S.S. DENVER reported to Commander, Cruiser Division Twelve for duty.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Monday, February 15, 1943 

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

(Longitude at

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

(Longitude Efate

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

(Longitude

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Bearings of anchorage: Beacon "F" 085^oT., "E" 204.5^o T., "K" Beacon 010^o T. Ships present: U.S.S. WITHITA (SOPA), U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. COLUMBIA, U.S.S. DENVER, U.S.S. SUWANEE, U.S.S. SANGAMON, U.S.S. CONWAY, U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. EDWARDS, U.S.S. MEADES, U.S.S. ANDERSON, U.S.S. FRAZIER, U.S.S. O'BANNON, U.S.S. FLETCHER, U.S.S. NICHOLAS, U.S.S. RADFORE, U.S.S. RIEGEL, U.S.S. BOREAS, U.S.S. NECHES, U.S.S. PLATTE.

L. V. Forde,

Lt., U.S. Navy

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0425 Lighted fires under boiler No. 4 to boost steam pressure to 600 lbs. 0605 Hoisted out plane No. 1095, Ensign Allison , pilot. 0610 Secured No. 4 boiler. 0615 Hoisted out plane No. 9903, Ensign Andrew, pilot. 0702 U.S.S. NICHOLS got underway and stood out. 0710 Hoisted in plane No. 9903.

J. H. Caldwell,

Lt., U.S. Navy

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0802 Ensign Allison, U.S.N.R., pilot, Molerio, J., S2/c passenger, took off in Plane No. 1095. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Held daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0940 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0940 Hoisted in Plane No. 1095. 1011 Rear Admiral Merrill, U.S.N., Comcrudiv Twelve came aboard. 1030 Cut in No. 2 boiler on main steam line, let fires die out under No. 1 boiler. 1103 Rear Admiral Merrill, U.S.N., left the ship.

G. C. Wilson,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

12 - 16

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1822 Captain of U.S.S. LOUISVILLE called on the Commanding Officer. 1905 Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. CHENANGO anchored close to aboard on port quarter. 1915 U.S.S. O'BANNON stood in and anchored.

J. T. Flis, R. E. Magoffin, Lieut. Comdr., U.S.N.

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Tuesday, February 16, 1943

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

(Longitude at

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

(Longitude New

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

(Longitude

00 - 04

Anchored in berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor, Efate in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain on port anchor on following anchorage bearings: Beacon "F" 085^oT., "E" 204.5^o T., "K" Beacon 010^o T., with ship's head 096^o T. Boiler No. 1 on the line for auxiliary purposes. Following ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), LOUISVILLE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANEE, SAGAMON, CHENANGO, CONWAY, WALLER, EDWARDS, MEADE, ANDERSON, FRAZIER, O'BANNON, FLETCHER, NICHOLOS, RADFORD, REGAL, BOREAS, NECHES, PLATTE, anchored in Havannah Harbor, Efate, New Hebrides.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0638 U.S.S. NECHES got underway to shift berths. 0725 U.S.S. EDWARDS got underway and stood out.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr, U.S.N.

08 - 12

Anchored as before in Berth No. 10 in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. 0907 Sounded General Quarters, tracking our own planes. 0926 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition "B". 1000 Made daily and weekly tests for week ending February 15, 1943, of hangar space sprinklers with conditions normal.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1345 Transferred the following ammunition to the U.S.S. MONTPELIER: 172 point detonating fuzes, Bombardment, Mk 29. 1357 U.S.S. SUWANNEE got underway and stood out. 1545 U.S.S. SANGAMON got underway and stood out. 1550 U.S.S. SUWANNEE standing in.

G. C. Wilson,

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

16 - 20

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

Wednesday, February 17, 1943 

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

(Longitude at

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

(Longitude New

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

(Longitude

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Anchored in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor; bearings in use, Beacon "F" 085^oT., "E" 204.5^o T., "K" Beacon 110^o T. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, Modified Condition III, and Condition "B" set. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), LOUISVILLE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANEE, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, CONWAY, WALLER, EDWARDS, MEADE, ANDERSON, FRAZIER, O'BANNON, FLETCHER, NICHOLAS, BRADFORD, RIGEL, BOREAS, NECHES, and the PLATTE.

G. C. Wilson,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0703 U.S.S. NICHOLAS underway and standing out.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0800 Tested General Alarm. Test satisfactory. 0805 Hoisted out Planes Nos. 1095 and 9903, Pilots Ens. Hazeltine and Ens. Allison. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. 0840 U.S.S. EDWARDS got underway and went alongside the NECHES. 0927 Rear Admiral R. C. Giffin, Commander, Task Force Eighteen (18) came aboard. 0957 U.S.S. WALLER got underway and stood out. 1000 Hoisted planes aboard for fueling. 1009 Rear Admiral R. C. Giffin left the ship. 1020 Hoisted out both planes.

R. M. Ash,

Capt., U.S.M.C.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1237 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 1095. 1258 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 9903.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G) USNR

16 - 20

Anchored as before.

J. H. Parker

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

Thursday, February 18, 1943 

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

(Longitude at

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

(Longitude New

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

(Longitude

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor; on the following bearings: Beacon "F" 085^oT., Beacon "E" 204.5^o T., Beacon "K" 010^o T. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes, boiler No. 1 secured at 0000 hour. Ship in darkened condition, in Modified Readiness Condition III and in Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), LOUISVILLE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANEE, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, CONWAY, WALLER, EDWARDS, MEADE, ANDERSON, FRAZIER, O'BANNON, FLETCHER, NICHOLS, RADFORD, RIGEL, BOREAS, NECHES, PLATTE.

E. F. BALDWIN,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

J. H. PARKER

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

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0815, Held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0837 U.S.S. FLETCHER underway. 0933 U.S.S. NICHOLS underway. 0934 U.S.S. O'BANNON shifted berth. 1003 U.S.S. O'BANNON tied up alongside U.S.S. NECHES. 1017 Hoisted in Plane No. 9903. 1025 Hoisted in Plane No. 1095. 1112 U.S.S. RADFORD underway.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1325 U.S.S. O'BANNON got underway and shifted berth. 1348 U.S.S. RADFORD got underway and shifted berth. 1400 Planes No. 9903 with Ens. Allison as pilot and Reynolds, as passenger and No. 1095 with Ens. Haseltine as pilot, and Ens. Yerger as passenger took off. 1532 Hoisted planes aboard.

R. M. ASH,

Captain, U. S. Marine Corps.

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1637 U.S.S. CONY standing in.

G. C. WILSON,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2145 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler to boost pressure. 2245 Secured No. 1 boiler. 2230 Riding to an ebb tide, completed swing stern to starboard.

K. P. HOULIHAN,

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

Friday, February 19, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth No. 10 Havanah Harbor, Efate,

(Longitude New Hebrides

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17^o 36.6' S.

(Longitude 168^o 11.1' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16^o 53.8' S.

(Longitude 166^o 35.5' E.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Anchored in 34 fathoms of water with 90 fathoms of chain to the port anchor; with the following bearings: Beacon "F" 085^oT., Beacon "E" 204.5^o T., Beacon "K" 010^o T. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened. Condition of readiness, Modified Condition III. Material Condition "B" set. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), LOUISVILLE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANEE, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, CONWAY, WALLER, EDWARDS, MEADE, ANDERSON, FRAZIER, O'BANNON, FLETCHER, NICHOLS, RADFORD, RIGEL, BOREAS, NECHES, and PLATTE.

R. M. Ash,

Capt., U.S.M.C.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0700 U.S.S. CONY underway to shift berths. 0725 U.S.S. EDWARDS underway.

G. C. Wilson,

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

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. 0830 Commenced General Drills. 0830 Held fire drill. First stream of water at 0832. 0839 secured from fire drill. 0840 Lighted fires under Nos. 1 & 3 boilers. 0851 Exercised at collision drill. 0905 Secured from all General Drills. 1030 Set Condition III in A. A. Battery. Tested main engines. 1045 Sounded quarters for getting underway. 1104 Underway, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Forming up with Crudiv Twelve and Destroyers of Task Fore 68. Order of ships: U.S.S. MONPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER. 1159 Formed Cruising Formation I, base course 300^o T. & P.G.C. Standard Speed 15 knots, steaming at standard speed. Made daily inspection of magazines and S.P. samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 85.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, Cruising Formation I, base course 300^o T. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1212 Standard speed 15 knots, (151 R.P.M.), using 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1246 Fired 20 mm. and 40 mm. to starboard. 1248 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1253 Fired 20 mm. and 40 mm. to port. 1322 Catapulted plane no. 9903, Ens. Allison, pilot, R. M. Rasmussen as passenger. 1326 Streamed sea sleds for "D" Plane Recovery. 1337 Recovered Plane No. 14. 1345 increased speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1400 Increased to flank speed, 27 knots (282 R.P.M.). 1405 Sounded General Quarters for offset firing and radar calibration at 5000, 10,000, 15,000, and 20,000 yards. 1430 Commenced firing main battery, course 300^o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds during firing maneuvers. 1540 completed firing, phase No. 4. Various courses. 1557 Changed course to 340^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 340^o T. & P.G.C. at standard speed, 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1600 Formed Cruising Disposition D-1. 1602 Sounded Flight Quarters for recovery operations. 1610 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1612 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 300^o T. 1623 Ceased zig-zagging. 1633 Changed speed to 10 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1642 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Plane No. 9903, with Pilot Ensign D. Allison, not in sight. Recovery operation postponed. 1652 Commenced Exercise 18-D. commenced steering various courses at various speeds, following in wake of Cleveland. 1807 Changed course to 290^o T. & P.G.C., and slowed to 10 knots to recover plane on port side, "D" Method. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 167.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr. U.S.N.

18 - 20

Steaming as before in accordance with Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 270^o T. (P.G.C.). 1807 Recovered Plane No. 9903 on port side, "D" Method. 1822 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1824 Sounded General Quarters. 1947 Turned on fighting lights for test and at 1948 turned them out. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 270^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2010 Made an emergency turn, 40^o to the right. 2020 Resumed base course 270^o T. & P.G.C. 2200 Fleet course changed to 345^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Enroute with Task Force 68, Sopacfor for Cleanslate Operation. Composition of force: Crudiv Twelve plus U.S.S. FLETCHER (DD 445), U.S.S. O'BANNON (DD 450), U.S.S. RADFORD (DD446), and U.S.S. NICHOLS (DD 449).

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Saturday, February 20, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14^o 25' S.

(Longitude 164^o 56.5' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 08.5' S.

(Longitude 164^o 36' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 14' S.

(Longitude 163^o 18.5' E.

00 - 04

Steaming as before on base course 345^o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, in company with Task Force No. 68, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, SOPA, in Formation "D-I". Ship in darkened condition, Readiness Condition 2.5 and Material Condition "B". Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 345^o T. & P.G.C., at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zigzagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0450 All hands to General Quarters, Dawn Alert. 0600 Catapulted one plane, Plane No. 9903, to starboard, Pilot Ens. A. Hazeltine, passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM2/c. 0615 Commenced zigzagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Changed base course 328^o T. & P.G.C. 0625 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition 2.5, Condition II in anti-aircraft battery, Condition III in rest of the ship. 0730 Ceased zigzagging and resumed base course, 328^o T. & P.G.C. 0734 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 11. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 11 on base course 328^o T. & P.G.C. 0800 This ship assumed Radar Guard Duty. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. 0916 Launched Plane No. 1095 from starboard catapult. 0942 Recovered Plane No. 9903 to port, "D" Method. 1000 Steaming o various courses to avoid simulated torpedo and bombing attacks. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1143 Recovered Plane No. 1095 to starboard, "D" Method. 1145 Resumed base course 328^o T. & P.G.C., steaming at 20 knots (199 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 328^o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 11. 1249 Changed course to 045^o T. & P.G.C. 1302 Changed course to 328^o T. & P.G.C. 1334 Ceased zig-zagging. 1340 Changed course to 148^o T. & P.G.C. 1406 Changed course to 328^o T. & P.G.C. 1418 Steaming on various courses astern of the Cleveland. 1420 Crew was paid semi-monthly money. 1437 Changed course to 328^o T. & P.G.C. 1449 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 11. 1504 Changed course to 321^o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 206.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 11 on base course 321^o T. & P.G.C. U.S.S. CLEVELAND, Section 2 guide. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 222.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 321^o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 11, at 22 knots (223 R.P.M.) 1810 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1814 Formed Special A.A. disposition J-1. 1818 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 11, on base course 321^o T. & P.G.C. 1822 All hands to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1830 Changed speed to 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). 1838 Cut in boiler No. 4. 1848 Shifted steering unit to No. 1, starboard cable. 1837 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition II in the A.A. Battery and Condition III in the Main Battery, Condition II in Radar. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 250.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr. U.S.N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 11, base course 321^o T. & P.G.C. 2010 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 11, resumed base course 321^o T. & P.G.C.). 2012 Changed Fleet Course to 315^o T. & P.G.C. Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. Base course 315^o T. & P.G.C. 2125 Sighted land bearing 260^o T. range 23 miles. 2325 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 315^o T. & P.G.C. 2330 Changed course to 290^o T. & P.G.C.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Sunday, February 21, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 9^o 02.2' S.

(Longitude 159^o 50.2' E.

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

(Longitude in Berth No. 10,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Port Purvis

(Longitude Florida Island

00 - 04

Steaming on Fleet Course 290^o T. & P.G.C., 286^o P.S.C. at Fleet Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). Steaming in Formation "J-1", in company with Task Force No. 68, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, SOPA. Ship darkened and in Condition III, A.A. Battery in Condition II. Nos. 1, 3, and 4 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0143 Changed course to 315^o. 0144 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. 0310 Ceased Zig-zagging and changed course to 315^o T. 0315 Changed course to 285^o. 0327 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 267.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 285^o T. & P.G.C. at 26 knots (269 R.P.M.), on Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. 0403 Changed Fleet Speed to 15 knots (147 R.P.M.). 0404 Sighted red light bearing 265.5^o T. 0412 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 285^o T. & P.G.C. 0426 Changed course to 321^o T. & P.G.C., 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0454 Changed course to 243^o T. & P.G.C. and proceeded through Sea Lark Channel. 0515 Sounded General Quarters, dawn alert, course changed to 160^o T. & P.G.C., speed to form column with U.S.S. CLEVELAN. 0552 Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0555 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. 0602 Cease Zig-zagging, following U.S.S. CLEVELAND as guide. 0630 catapulted Plane No. 1095 to port, Ens. A. B. Hazeltine, pilot, T.J. Meehan, AMM2/c as passenger. 0634 Catapulted Plane No. 9903 to starboard, Ens. W. R. Andrew, pilot, Ens. Allison, passenger. 0646 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition 2.5, Material Condition "B". 0655 Secured Boiler No. 4. 0656 Changed course to 045^o T. & P.G.C. 0710 Changed course to 000^o T. & P.G.C. 0721 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0729 eased zig-zagging, resumed course 000^o T. & P.G.C. 0734 Changed course to 315^o T. & P.G.C. 0742 Changed course to 270^o T. & P.G.C. 0753 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No 10. 0757 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 270^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 269.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 270^o T. & P.G.C., at standard speed, 15 knots, (151 R.P.M.). 0800 mustered crew on stations. Made daily visual inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0811 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 130^o T. & P.G.C. 0837 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0925 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course of 130^o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Changed course to 310^o T. & P.G.C. 0952 Changed course to 044^o T. & P.G.C. 0959 Changed course to 085^o T. & P.G.C. Formed Cruising Disposition No. 1. 1007 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 085^o T. & P.G.C. 1023 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Commenced steering various courses at various speed proceeding to anchorage, in column formation. 1050 Proceeded independently. 1159 Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis, Florida Island, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Beacon "I", 288^o T., Beacon "K" 048^o T., Beacon "J" 141^o T. Ship to remain on 10 minutes notice, ready to slip anchor chain, and with Condition II watch set in the anti-aircraft battery, and Condition III in the Main Battery, assumed Ready Cruiser Duty. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 156.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1550 U.S.S. O'BANNON standing in.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1820 Sounding of 19 1/2; fathoms when stern opposite Point "I" in swing to tide.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2010 Received orders to get underway at 2030. Stationed all special sea details and made preparations for getting underway. 2030 Lighted fires under boilers Nos. 2 & 4. 2031 All hands to General Quarters in obediance to signal. Underway on various courses at various speeds, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), proceeding out of harbor in company with Task Force 68, to clear harbor during "Red" air raid alert at Guadalcanal. The Captain conning, the Navigator and Executive Officer on the Bridge. 2107 All engines ahead standard speed, 15 knots. 2111 Steadied on course 247^o T. & P.G.C. 2114 All engines ahead full speed, 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 2116 All engines ahead standard speed, 15 knots, in position astern of U.S.S. CLEVELAND. 2148 Changed course to 320^o T. & P.G.C., and formed Special Formation "J-1". 2150 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 2155 Changed speed and formation speed to 18 knots. 2159 Commenced Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2200 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition II in anti-aircraft battery and Radar, and Condition III in the rest of the ship. 2318 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 320^o T. & P.G.C. 2325 Formed Cruising Formation "D-1". 2334 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 128.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Monday, February 22, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 8^o 55.1' S.

(Longitude 159^o 45.8' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth No. 21,

(Longitude Port Purvis, Florida Island.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 9^o 18' S.

(Longitude 160^o 25.8' E.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 68, (SOPA Comtaskfor 68 in MONTPELIER), with ship darkened on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, on base course 320^o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the line. Ship in Condition of Readiness 2.5; (Condition II in A.A.Battery, rest of ship in Condition III.) Material Condition "B". 0013 Changed base course to 140^o T. & P.G.C. 0034 secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4. 0100 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 140^o T. 0108 Changed base course 160^o T. & P.G.C. 0220 Force in Formation "J-1", U.S.S. MONTPELIER guide. 0225 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 320^o T. & P.G.C. 0237 Observed gun flashes on Guadalcanal Island. 0357 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 320^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.4.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 230^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0406 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0434 Ceased zig-zagging. 0437 Changed Fleet Course 140^o T. & P.G.C. 0441 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0506 Ceased zig-zagging. 0510 Changed Fleet Course to 090^o T. & P.G.C. 0515 Sounded General Quarters. 0517 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0545 Ceased zig-zagging. 0559 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15 on base course 290^o T. & P.G.C. 0600 Changed course to 320^o T. & P.G.C. 0615 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15. 0620 Secured from General Quarters. 0700 Changed Fleet Course to 140^o T. & P.G.C. Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 140^o T. & P.G.C., using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), using 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) in Formation "D-I". 0800 Held quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0925 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), formed Cruising Formation I, guide in U.S.S. MONTPELIER, various courses and speeds to anchor in Purvis Bay, Florida Island. 1037.5 Anchored in Berth No. 21, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 17 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "N" 061^o T., Beacon "M" 052.5^o T., Beacon "J" 174.5^o T., ship's head 045^o T. Draft when anchoring Forward 23' 4", Aft 24' 10". 1125 Sounding from stern of ship when stern abreast Beacon "K" 18 fathoms. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 145.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1246 Sounded flight quarters to recover planes. 1310 Hoisted in Plane No. 13. 1320 Hoisted in Plane No. 14. 1335 U.S.S. COLUMBIA got underway and proceeded to U.S.S. TALLULAH for fueling. 1355 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and proceeded to U.S.S. TALLULAH for fueling. 1525 Stationed all special sea details and made all preparations for getting underway. 1545 Got underway from Berth No. 21 to shift to starboard side of tanker, U.S.S. TALLULAH. Steering various courses at various speeds, standard speed 15 knots, (151 R.P.M.), the Captain Conning, the Navigator and the Executive Officer on the Bridge.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before. 1610 Moored port side to starboard side of U.S.S. TALLULAH (Tanker) in Berth No. 6. 1627 Started fueling. 1712 Shifted to No. 1 Steering Unit. 1730 Stationed special sea details, making preparations for getting underway. 1731 Completed fueling. 1750 Underway, maneuvering to position for sortie when U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 78.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Lying to, waiting to take position in column to stand out of harbor. 1820 Standing out with Task Force 68 on various courses at various speeds, Captain at the Conn and Navigator on the Bridge. 1846 No. 3 boiler cut in on main steam line. 1850 Changed speed to 25 knots. 1852 Cut in No. 4 boiler. 1919 Secured No. 4 boiler. 1926 Steaming on course 070^o T. & P.G.C. 1950 Changed course to 105^o T. & P.G.C. 1952 All four boilers now on line. Condition "A" set. 2000 Steaming in formation "D-I". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 164.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 105^o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), at speed of 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) in Formation "D-1", using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 2114 Ceased zig-zagging. 2116 Changed base course to 130^o T. & P.G.C. 2120 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 2335 Ceased zig-zagging, changed base course to 108^o T. & P.G.C. 2345 Commenced zig-zag courses on Plan No. 10, U.S.S. MONTPELIER Division Guide, U.S.S. CLEVELAND, Section II Guide. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 198.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

This movement constituted a shift of Task Force 68 from the immediate vicinity of Guadalcanal - Florida area to an area southeast of the Solomon Islands, but did not change the mission of the Force in the Cleanslate Operations.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Tuesday, February 23, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10^o 52' S.

(Longitude 163^o 56' 05"E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 54' S.

(Longitude 164^o 03.2' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12^o 19.3' S.

(Longitude 163^o 23.3' E.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 68 on base course to 108^o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, at speed of 20 knots, 202 R.P.M., standard speed 15 knots, 151 R.P.M. Ship darkened, Condition "B" set, Condition of Readiness 2.5 (Condition II in A.A. Battery and Radar, Condition III in rest of ship). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. In formation "D-I". 0100 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 108^o T. & P.G.C. 0114 Passed Aliiti Island abeam to starboard, distant 4 miles. 0127 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0250 Received report from "Cactus" control that condition "Red" air raid alert was effective. 0341 Received report from Guadalcanal control that Condition "Green" air raid alert was effective. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 196.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0440 Lost power on after distribution system, Gyros cut out, lost steering control. Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0445 Regained instrument control on the Bridge. Shifted Steering Control to Pilot House. 0500 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0604 Cease zig-zagging, resumed base course. Changed base course to 140^o T. & P.G.C. 0616 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition II in A.A. Battery and Condition III in the rest of the ship. 0738 Changed Fleet Course to 110^o T. & P.G.C. 0748 Changed Fleet Course to 140^o T. & P.G.C. 0750 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 140^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 197.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 140^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0815 Held quarters for muster of the crew. Made daily inspection of magazines and S. P. samples. Conditions normal. 1010 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 140^o T. & P.G.C. 1014 Fleet Course and axis changed to 180^o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1022 Changed Fleet course and axis to 220^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots. 1037 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1100 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1130 Catapulted Plane No. 13, Pilot Ens. C. Allison, U.S.N.R., Passenger Fritz, F., A.R.M.3/c U.S.N.R. 1145 Changed speed to 12 knots. Ceased zig-zagging. 1153 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1155 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 220^o T. & P.G.C. in accordance with Plan No. 10 at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) in Formation "D-I". 1300 Set all ship's clocks ahead one hour. 1534 Sounded Flight Quarters to recover aircraft "D" method. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on various courses at various speeds, recovering plane, base course 220^o T. & P.G.C. 1609 Hoisted in Plane No. 13, Ens. D. Allison, Passenger Fritz, ARM 3/c 1609 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) and steadied on base course 220^o T. & P.G.C. 1613 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1703 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1706 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 220^o T. & P.G.C. 1718 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1728 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 270^o T. & P.G.C. 1728 1/2; Changed Fleet Course and axis to 310^o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 23 knots, full speed. 1740 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 310^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

18 - 20

1800 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 310^o T. & P.G.C. 1813 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 000^o T. & P.G.C. 1828 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^o T. & P.G.C. 1830 Changed base course to 050^o T. & P.G.C. 1846 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 050^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.9. 1930 Sounded General Quarters.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 050^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2017 Secured from General Quarters. 2357 Ceased Zig-Zagging and resumed base course 050^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Wednesday, February 24, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 54.8' S.

(Longitude 165^o 52' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 45' S.

(Longitude 165^o 24' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12^o 39.5' S.

(Longitude 166^o 29' E.

00 -04

Steaming in Formation "D-I", U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), Guide and U.S.S. CLEVELAND as Section Guide, Task Force 68, on base course 092^o T. & P.G.C. (changed at 0000), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) steaming at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0008 Using speed 20 knots (225 R.P.M.) for position keeping. 0010 Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), ON Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, using boilers Nos. 1 & 3, ship in darkened condition and Readiness Condition 2.5, and Material Condition "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 092^o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots speed (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0550 Sounded flight quarters. 0600 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0620 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0632 Launched Plane No. 1095 to port, pilot Ensign A. Haseltine, passenger Ducote, B.A. ARM2/c; plane to act as anti-submarine patrol. 0632 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0652 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0654 All engines ahead at 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0658 Changed course to 146^o T. & P.G.C. 0659 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III throughout the ship. 0716 Changed course to 270^o T. & P.G.C., Fleet course and axis. 0724 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0726 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0730 Commenced Exercise "I-P", Radar Tracking Exercise, acting as target vessel, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17 on course 220^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 196.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 28 on base course 220^o T. & P.G.C. 0815 Crew mustered on station. 0817 Changed base course to 316^o T. & P.G.C. 1005 Ceased zig-zagging, steadied on base course 270^o T. & P.G.C. 1012 Catapulted plane No. 9903 from port catapult. 1032 Recovered Plane No. 1095. Refueled Plane No. 1095. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 216.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 054^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1207 Changed course to 083^o T. & P.G.C. Changed course to 080^o T. & P.G.C. 1212 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 090^o T. & P.G.C. 1220 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1300 Commenced general drills. 1303 exercised at fire drill. 1304 First stream of water. 1312 Secured from fire drill. 1324 Exercised at collision drill. 1330 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1336 Secured from collision drill. 1344 Fleet Course and axis changed to 135^o T. & P.G.C. 1345 Secured from all drills. 1345 Sighted Utupua Island bearing 055^o T. & P.G.C. 1401 Catapulted Plane No. 314 from starboard catapult, Pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., Passenger Healing, ARM 3/c, U.S.N. 1411 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). Changed course to 290^o T. & P.G.C. 1417 Recovered Plane No. 13. 1418 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1421 Changed course to 135^o T. & P.G.C. 1423 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1430 Commenced Exercises Nos. 10 & 11. 1431 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1440 Commenced firing 5" Mounts, to starboard. 1441 Ceased firing. 1512 Sighted Vanikoro Is. bearing 073^o T. & P.G.C. 1530 Ceased exercises Nos. 10 & 11. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 192.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 135^o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), at speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, boilers Nos. 1 & 3. 1621 Reduced speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1625 On base course 135^o T. & P.G.C., ceased zig-zagging, reduced speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1632 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). Destroyer No. 449 (U.S.S. NICHOLAS) came alongside and float lights were transferred by line to her, over her starboard side. 1648 Destroyer left port side of ship. 1650 Increased speed to 21 knots (212 R.P.M.). 1653 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1655 Changed course to 162^o T. & P.G.C. 1704 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 135^o T. & P.G.C. 1719 Increased speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1735 Sounded Flight Quarters to recover plane by "D" Method at 1800. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 135^o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, at speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) 1806 Sighted Torres Island bearing 196^o T. distant about 40 miles. Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1806 Changed course and axis to 165^o T. & P.G.C. 1812 Hoisted in Plane No. 14. 1814 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1833 Changed course and formation axis to 225^o T. 1902 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15 on base course 255^o T. 1910 All hands to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1922 Darkened ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before. 2008 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 2025 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 255^o T. & P.G.C. 2032 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15 on base course 305^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Thursday, February 25, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 28.5' S.

(Longitude 165^o 09.1' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 41' S.

(Longitude 164^o 34' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12^o 29.1' S.

(Longitude 163^o 06.2' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 305^o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan 15, speed 17 knots (171 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. In company with Task Force 68, Montpelier SOPA & O.T.C. 0355 Ceased Zig-zagging and resumed base course 305^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 169.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

0400 Changed base course to 350^o T. & P.G.C. 0410 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 15, speed as before, 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0425 Heavy rain squall, poor visibility. 0425 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course of 350^o T. & P.G.C. 0430 Changed course to 050^o T. & P.G.C. 0440 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 15. 0455 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 050^o T. & P.G.C. 0500 Changed base course to 092^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 167.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course to 270^o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15, exercising at Radar Tracking Exercise, destroyer target. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Note: made daily visual inspection of magazine temperature and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0806 Ceased zig-zagging. 0811 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 28, changed speed to 19 knots (192 R.P.M.). 0923 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0935 Changed to Formation and axis 180^o T. & P.G.C. 0946 commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15. 1034 Ceased zig-zagging. 1035 commenced Formation Maneuvers, taking station for Exercise 18-D, Day Attack. U.S.S. RADFORD acting as target. 1113 General Quarters for Exercise 18-D. 1139 Secured from General Quarters, exercise completed. 1154 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), formation speed. 1159 Changed course to 180^o T. & P.G.C. on station in Formation D-1, astern of U.S.S. CLEVELAND. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 195.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 180^o T. & P.G.C. Made daily visual inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1204 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15, base course 180^o T. & P.G.C. 1253 Ceased zig-zagging, course 150^o T. & P.G.C. 1301 Catapulted Plane No. 1095 from port catapult. 1415 Changed base course to 260^o T. & P.G.C. 1445 Received U.S.S. FLETCHER alongside to transfer mail. 1453 Ceased zig-zagging, remained on course 230^o T. & P.G.C. 1510 Changed course to 260^o T. & P.G.C. 1520 Sounded General Quarters in readiness for possible attack by flight of unidentified planes. 1527 Sighted six planes on starboard bow and took avoiding action. 1530 Planes identified as friendly. 1545 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 290^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1617 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15, base course 260^o T. & P.G.C. 1629 Ceased Zig-zagging and resumed base course 260^o T. & P.G.C. 1655 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1713 Recovered plane No. 1095, Pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., Passenger Fritz, ARM3/c. 1714 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 15. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. 1920 Sounded General Quarters, dusk alert. 1945 Changed speed to 21 knots (212 R.P.M.), and Fleet Course to 300^o T. & P.G.C. 1949 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1945 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and NICHOLAS left the formation and proceeded in accordance with orders of Comsopac. 1945 Formed Cruising Formation I. 1950 Changed course to 230^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 160.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on base course 085^o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15. 2230 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2340 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15. 2355 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, preparatory to changing formation course and axis. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Friday, February 26, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 42.2' S.

(Longitude 165^o 43.1' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 54.4' S.

(Longitude 166^o 19.9' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17^o 54' 4" S.

(Longitude 166^o 19' 9"E.

00 - 04

Steaming with ship darkened on base course 085^o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.) present speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on line. Ships in Task Force 68 present are U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. O'BANNON, U.S.S. FLETCHER, U.S.S. RADFORD. Cruisers in column formation with U.S.S. MONTPELIER formation guide, bearing 085^o T. & P.G.C. 1000 yds. distance. Ship in Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0010 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15, base course 035^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, course 035^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, 182 R.P.M. 0400 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 090^o T. & P.G.C. 0410 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15. 0554 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0650 Secured from General Quarters. 0658 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 15. 0701 Changed Fleet Course to 125^o T. & P.G.C. 0710 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 15. 0730 Launched Plane No. 13, Pilot Ens. Andrews, U.S.N.R. Passenger Rasmussen, ARM3/c. 0740 Manned all automatic weapons for firing practice. 0747 Fired run to starboard. 0748 Fired run to port, knocked down sleeve. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 -12

Steaming as before on base course 125^o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) on zig-zag Plan No. 15. 0816 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0835 Changed course to 085^o T. & P.G.C., speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.) 0845 Changed course to 125^o T. & P.G.C., speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0847 Manned A. A. Battery and automatic weapons. 0905 Fired port run. 0915 Fired starboard run. 0922 Fired port run. 0924 Fired starboard run. 0945 Launched Plane No. 9903 to port, pilot Ens. B. Allison, passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM2/c. 0954 Fired starboard run 5" Battery. 0957 Fired port run 5" Battery. 1015 Changed course to 035^o T. & P.G.C. 1020 Changed course to 340^o T. & P.G.C. 1026 Changed course to 295^o T. & P.G.C. 1027 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1030 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), course to 005^o T. & P.G.C. 1032 Changed course to 065^o T. & P.G.C. 1040 Changed course to 180^o T. & P.G.C. 1045 Changed course to 155^o T. & P.G.C. 1050 Changed course to 095^o T. & P.G.C. 1051 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1114 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1125 Changed speed to 18 knots (178 R.P.M.), course to 125^o T. & P.G.C. 1135 Ceased zig-zagging. 1136 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1140 Hoisted Plane No. 9903 aboard. 1145 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 15, increased speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1155 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 125^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 125^o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), steaming at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1208 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 180^o T. & P.G.C. 1227 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1230 Sounded Flight Quarters for launching plane. 1238 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15. 1254 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 220^o T. 1256 Changed course to 270^o T., column movement. 1300 Attempted to catapult starboard plane. Catapult misfired. Carried out misfire procedure. Catapulting delayed. 1308 formed special Formation "J-I". 1319 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 15, on base course 270^o T. & P.G.C. 1331 Catapulted Plane No. 1095 from starboard catapult. Pilot Ensign A. B. Haseltine, Passenger W. J. Haeling, ARM3/c, U.S.N.R. 1400 Commenced exercising at tactical exercises, on various courses at various speeds. 1500 Commenced exercising at Exercise No. 6, Aircraft Attack, using Cruiser planes. 1556 Ceased present exercises and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 135^o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 193.3.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 135^o T. & P.G.C. 1644 Fired no load shot from starboard catapult. 1700 Changed base course to 097^o T. & P.G.C. 1730 Sighted two ships, hull down bearing 106^o T. & P.G.C., about 15 miles. 1755 This task force joined formation with U.S.S. WICHITA, U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, U.S.S. CONY, U.S.S. CONWAY, AND U.S.S. WALLER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 000^o T. & P.G.C., using various speeds to take position. 1816 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 000^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1830 Set clocks back one hour to conform with -11 Zone Time. 1817 Fleet Speed changed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1818 Fleet Course changed to course 310^o T. & P.G.C. 1918 Changed to Fleet Course 265^o T. & P.G.C. 1945 Fleet Course changed to 215^o T. & P.G.C. 1755 Changed speed to 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 162.6.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 215^o T. & P.G.C. at speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), intermittent rain squalls. 2003 changed course to 206^o T. & P.G.C. 2004 Changed course to 182^o T. & P.G.C. 2005 Increased speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 2007 Changed course to 218^o T. & P.G.C.) 2012 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2015 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2017 Course changed to 215^o T. & P.G.C. 2020 Speed changed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Weather fair to light rain with fair to good visibility latter part of watch.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 169.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Complying with orders of Comsopac, Commander Task Force 68 (Comcrudiv 12) in MONTPELIER, with DENVER, CLEVELAND, O'BANNON, FLETCHER and RADFORD reported for duty to Comtaskfor 18 in WICHITA upon rendezvous at 1800 with latter ship plus LOUISVILLE, CONWAY, CONY and WALLER. Upon juncture these forces became Task Force 68 (less NICHOLAS) under command of Rear Admiral R. C. Giffen in WICHITA. Mission of Task Force 68 in "Cleanslate" operation remained unchanged.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Saturday, February 27, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 53.2' S.

(Longitude 165^o 09.9' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 26.6' S.

(Longitude 165^o 26.2' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13^o 31.0' S.

(Longitude 165^o 29.3' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 215^o T. & P.G.C., 205 P.S.C., at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers No. 1 & No. 3 in use. In company with U.S.S. WICHITA (Comtaskfor 68), U.S.S. MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv 12), CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, FLETCHER, O'BANNON, CONWAY, RADFORD, WALLER, and CONY. In formation "D-I" with destroyers on anti-submarine screen; ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set. 0020 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 215^o T. & P.G.C. 0450 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0605 Secured from General Quarters. 0633 Tanker and destroyer (U.S.S. PLATTE and MAHAN) sighted dead ahead. 0700 Catapulted Plane No. 1095 to port. 0744 Took U.S.S. CONWAY in tow for fueling. 0750 Commenced pumping fuel to destroyer both fore and aft. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 154.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 030^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 8 knots (81 R.P.M.). CONWAY alongside to port for fueling. 0857 CONWAY completed fueling and left from alongside, having received 30,294 gals. of fuel oil. 0938 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1036 Catapulted Plane No. 9903, Pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., Passenger F. Fritz, ARM3/c, U.S.N. 1050 Recovered Plane No. 1095 , Pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, Passenger J. M. Rasmussen, RM1/c. 1104 Commenced steaming on various courses to go alongside the PLATTE. 1117 Received towing line from the PLATTE. 1142 Commenced pumping fuel oil from the PLATTE. Made daily inspection of magazines and S.P. Samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 81.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 -16

Steaming as before on base course 030^o T. & P.G.C. at 8 knots (80 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), alongside U.S.S. PLATTE on port side, taking fuel fore and aft. Made daily inspection magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1220 Received gasoline hose from U.S.S. PLATTE. 1245 Completed fueling form forward hose. 1247 Secured fueling from after hose. 1258 Commenced receiving aviation gasoline from U.S.S. PLATTE. 1259 Completed receiving gasoline. 1332 Cast off from U.S.S. PLATTE, increased speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), various courses and speeds to position in "J Form 3" (Fueling Formation). 1348 sounded Flight Quarters. 1400 Set all ship's clocks ahead one hour to -12 Zone Time. 1504 Catapulted Plane No. 14, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM3/c. 1510 All engines stopped, plane landed and engine cut out. 1515 All engines ahead two-thirds, 8 knots (78 R.P.M.). 1517 All engines ahead 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1520 Recovered Plane No. 9903, "D" Method, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Rasmussen, J. M., RM1/c. 1524 Changed course to 355^o T. & P.G.C., speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1546 Changed speed to 8 knots (80 R.P.M.), course 030^o T. & P.G.C., position 1800 yds. astern U.S.S. PLATTE. Light rain squalls. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 82.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 030^o T. & P.G.C., at 8 knots (81 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots. 1608 Sounded Flight Quarters for recovery of plane. 1622 Commenced maneuvering to recover plane by "C" method, on various courses at various speeds. 1630 Recover Plane No. 14, pilot Ensign Haseltine, Passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM 3/c. 1648 Commenced maneuvering to regain station in formation. 1655 On station astern of tanker, U.S.S. PLATTE. 1657 U.S.S. PLATTE and destroyer escort left the formation and proceeded on duty assigned. Commenced maneuvering to take station in Formation "D-2". 1713 On station astern U.S.S. MONTPELIER at 17 knots, formation speed on formation course 180^o T. & P.G.C. 1714 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1746 Sighted unidentified plane, fast bomber type, bearing 150^o T. distant 50,000 yds. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 153.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

18 - 20

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 060^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1920 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 2034 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 189.9.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on Fleet Course 285^o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Sunday, February 28, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12^o 32.3' S.

(Longitude 162^o 38.8' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 59.0' S.

(Longitude 163^o 17.0' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11^o 40.3' S.

(Longitude 164^o 00' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 285^o T. & P.G.C., 275^o P.S.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), at speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use, in company with U.S.S WICHITA (Comtaskfor 68), U.S.S. MONTPELIER ( Comcrudiv 12), U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. LOUISVILLE and seven destroyers disposed in outer screen, with cruisers in Formation "D-I". Ship in darkened condition, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. Heavy rain squall for part of watch. 0323 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, base course 285^o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 285^o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0535 Received report of sound contact from destroyer, on circle 6. Executed Emergency 5 Turn, to course 235^o T. & P.G.C. 0540 Received report that destroyer had lost sound contact. Formation changed course to 285^o T. & P.G.C. in obediance to signal. 0547 Resumed zig-zag Plan No. 10. 0558 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Sounded Flight Quarters, preparatory for catapult operations. 0710 Secured from General Quarters. Put Plane on 20 minutes' notice. 0717 Changed formation course and axis to 330^o T. & P.G.C. Commenced making various speeds. 0721 Changed formation course and axis to 015^o T. & P.G.C. 0730 Changed formation course and axis 060^o T. & P.G.C. 0734 All engines ahead at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), on station astern U.S.S. MONTPELIER on course 060^o T. & P.G.C. 0746 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 060^o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (175 R.P.M.). Made daily inspection of all magazines & smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.9.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Plan No. 10, speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1212 Sounded General Quarters. 1214 Lighted fires under boilers Nos. 2 & 4. 1225 Secured from General Quarters. 1232 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4. 1236 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 060^o T. & P.G.C. 1425 Ceased zig-zagging. Changed speed to 10 knots. 1500 Changed speed to 17 knots and resumed zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1500 Held divine services. 1547 Ceased zig-zagging. 1550 Changed speed to 22 knots. Fleet course changed to 090^o T. & P.G.C. 1555 Changed speed to 17 knots. 1556 Changed speed to 10 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 90^o T. & P.G.C., speed 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1625 Destroyer 446 came close aboard starboard side. 1630 Destroyer shoved off having delivered package. 1630 Increased speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1640 Increased speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1641 Changed course to 234^o T. & P.G.C. 1650 Changed course to 270^o T. & P.G.C. 1653 Changed speed to 17 knots (174 R.P.M.). 1700 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270^o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1903 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1908 Counter marched division columns to course 110^o T. & P.G.C., formation course and axis, at speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1916 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1920 General Quarters, dusk alert. 1930 Darkened ship. 2000 ceased zig-zagging. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 110^o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (174 R.P.M.). 2015 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.4.

J. G. Lightburn,

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