CONDENSED
CL 58
Thursday, July 1, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Latitude 13o 31.3' S.; Longitude 163o 04.0' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Latitude 13o 53.8' S.; Longitude 163o 26.7' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Latitude 13o 56.3' S.; Longitude 162o 22.7' E.
00 - 04
Steaming on base course 173o T. & PGC, at 22 knots (224 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), in Cruising Formation Two, with boilers 2 and 3 in use. Ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.5, Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has forward radar guard and this ship the after sector. This force is comprised of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) and (OTC), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER. The destroyers WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, SAUFLEY and PRINGLE form the anti-submarine screen. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 220.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 173o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM). 0443 Sighted green flare bearing 090o T., distance about 9,000. 0520 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0522 Sounded flight quarters. 0601 Commence zig-zagging with plan No. 10. 0621 Sighted tanker broad on starboard bow, hull down. 0630 Ceased zig-zagging, and resumed base course. 0630 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, watch "Cast". 0634 Commenced maneuvering to take position No. 5 in "Jig" Formation II. 0700 Launched Plane No. 7 for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0701 Took station on tanker fueling course, 130o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging independently, maintaining approximate position on tanker. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.8.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 130o T. & PGC at 10 knots (103 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). 0800 Cruising on various courses, patrolling on station. 0801 U.S.S. RENSHAW completed fueling. 0820 U.S.S. SAUFLEY commenced fueling. 0900 U.S.S. MONTPELIER completed fueling. 0907 U.S.S. SAUFLEY completed fueling. 0935 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced fueling. 0940 U.S.S. commenced fueling. 1030 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1036 U.S.S. PRINGLE completed fueling. 1045 U.S.S. PHILIP commenced fueling. 1045 As plane No. 7 was making its approach to land the depth charge became disengaged and detonated, the explosion following is thought to have damaged one of the plane's floats which upon landing, capsized. 1050 Made daily inspection of all smokeless powder and all magazines. Conditions normal. 1105 U.S.S. CONWAY recovered pilot and passenger of plane, neither of whom were injured. The plane was then destroyed completely by sinking by gun fire. 1132 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling. 1138 U.S.S. PHILIP completed fueling. 1142 First line was made fast to tanker for fueling this ship. 1150 First fuel hose across and secured on board. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 104.3.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on course 131o T. & P.G.C., speed 9 knots (88 RPM). Fueling from tanker SABINE, starboard side to. 1252 The WALLER underway from alongside of tanker. 1325 Completed fueling. 1333 Cast off all lines and underway from alongside of tanker. 1355 CONWAY came alongside to starboard and transferred Lt. D. K. English, USNR and HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN by breeches buoy to the DENVER. 1403 The CONWAY cast off lines and underway from alongside. 1410 Sounded flight quarters. 1437 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR., observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1439 Resumed patrolling station, 1500 yds., bearing 150o from tanker. 1534 Changed course to 271o T. & PGC. Speed 15 knots, steaming in company with the CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW. 1542 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 103.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on course 271o T. & PGC and zig-zagging on Plan No. 10 at 20 knots (203 RPM). 1755 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 271o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 1814 Commenced battle problem. 1838 Conning control shifted to Batt II; steering control shifted to steering aft. 1848 Completed battle problem exercise; shifted steering and engine control back to the pilot house. 1855 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1857 Secured from General Quarters and set 3.6 Condition of Readiness. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 271o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
In accordance with directive of the Commander Third Fleet and ComTaskGroup 36.2 at 1534 the DENVER, CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW departed from ComTaskGroup 36.2 and proceeded toward a rendezvous in order to join the U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA Unit, and then to operate after rendezvous in the northern half of Area "G".
Friday, July 2, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 14o 10.0' S.; Longitude 158o 12.5' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 14o 01.8' S.; Longitude 156o 48.5' E.
Positionat 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 14o 12.4' S.; Longitude 156o 15.7' E.
00 - 04
Steaming on course 271o T. & PGC, 262 PSC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Nos. 2 & 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Ships present: CLEVLAND, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY. This ship OTC with radar guard forward and CLEVELAND has radar guard aft. Steaming in column, CLEVELAND 1000 yds. Astern of DENVER and destroyers out on anti-submarine screen. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 271o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0541 Secured plane on catapult in preparation for launching. 0652 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 0655 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0618 Cut in boiler No. 1 on line and let fires die out under No. 2 boiler. 0650 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 203.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 271o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 0820 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0822 Changed fleet course and axis to 275o T. & PGC. 0825 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 0852 U.S.S. CLEVELAND directed to take station 1000 yds. on port beam of this ship. 1000 U.S.S. CLEVELAND resumed regular station 1000 yds. astern. 1030 Commenced 5" gunnery practice involving surprise periscope action simulated. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. 1130 Completed 5" gunnery exercise. 1135 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, preparing to receive destroyer on starboard side. 1136 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1145 Transferred sea mail to the U.S.S. SAUFLEY. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 197.8.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 275o T. & PGC, speed 15 knots (151 RPM) standard speed. 1200 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1224 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 275o T. & PGC. 1231 Changed course to 181o T. & PGC, having radar contact on some target, bearing 202o T. distant 46,000 yds. 1233 Changed speed to 18 knots (181 RPM). 1241 Sighted two ships hull down bearing 203o T. & PGC. 1244 Went to General Quarters. 1245 Cut in boiler No. 4, now have boilers Nos. 1, 3, 4 on line. 1248 Changed course to 240o T. & PGC. 1253 Changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 1257 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1259 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition 3.6, Watch "Cast". 1300 Task Unit 36.3.9 consisting of U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY, DYSON, CLAXTON joined forces with DENVER Detachment. DENVER is OTC and SOPA. 1300 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 1342 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course to 270o T. & PGC. 1422 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1425 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1433 Commenced scheduled Exercise No. 13. 1434 Commenced firing 5" battery. 1500 Ceased present exercise. Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. 1525 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course to 270o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 -18
Steaming as before on course 270o T. & PGC. Speed 18 knots (183 RPM), zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 1701 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1704 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1728 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1732 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. The following ammunition was expended during the night engagement, June 30, 1943: 6"/47 Cal. H. C. Projectiles Mk 34-1 L & F Exp. "D" 710. Point detonating fuzes Mk 18-2 40 Powder 230; Powder, smokeless SPDN 3135 Non-Flashless 422. Total projectiles expended 710. Total powder expended 718. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 -20
Steaming as before on base course 090o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), on zig-zag Plan No. 12. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1925 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B". 1930 Ceased zig-zagging on Plan 12, resumed course 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173...
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 090o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 2000 Changed fleet course and axis to 135o T. & PGC. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 2200 Lit fire under No. 2 boiler for a test. 2346 Completed test and secured No. 2 boiler; boiler No. 2 is now back in commission. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.8.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
OTC, Captain Robert B. Carney in DENVER. OTC Op-Plan Despatch 020500 of July, 1943 effective.
Saturday, July 3, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 15o 12.8' S.; Longitude 159o 00.0' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 14o 40.1' S.; Longitude 158o 10.1' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 14o 41.9' S.; Longitude 156o 27.8' E.
00 - 04
Steaming as on base course 090o T. & PGC at 17 knots (173 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM) in Cruising Formation Two. Ships in this detachment are: U.S.S. DENVER, OTC (SOPA), CLEVELAND, NORTH CAROLINA, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, CLAXTON, DYSON and STANLY. Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 are on line for cruising purposes. The U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA has radar guard on sector 90o on both sides of the bow, CLEVELAND radar guard on sector 90o on both sides of stern. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.6. Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.0.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 090o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots. 0400 Changed speed to 22 knots and changed course to 135o T. & PGC. 04048 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0550 No. 2 boiler back in commission. 0600 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 0656 Secured from General Quarters. 0657 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 135o T. 0700 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 0721 Changed course to 270o T. 0752 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 174.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & PGC on zig-zag Plan No. 12, at 17 knots (173 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on stations, no absentees. 0823 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 270o T. & PGC. 0825 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Five, at speed 22 knots (224 RPM). 0835 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0843 On signal, changed course and axis to 315o T. & PGC. 0855 On signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0900 On signal, commenced Exercise No. 13, five-inch burst firing. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0920 U.S.S. RENSHAW reported possible periscope bearing 135o T., lookout report, no sound contact. 0922 Executed Turn Nine at 22 knots (224 RPM). 0925 Changed speed to 19 knots (193 RPM). 0927 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0930 Executed Turn Nine, resumed course 315o T. & PGC. 0934 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0947 On signal, ceased present exercise. 0950 Executed Turn Eighteen on signal to course 135o T. & PGC. 0956 On signal, executed eighteen turn to 315o T. & PGC. 1000 On signal formed Cruising Formation Five-A. 1024 Executed Thirty-Six Turn at 22 knots (224 RPM). 1048 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1050 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 1109 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, course 315o T. & PGC. 1125 Assumed radar guard forward of beam. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.2.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before, zig-zagging with Plan No. 10, base course 315o T. & PGC speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 1214 SG radar went out of commission due to blown fuse. 1233 SG radar back in commission. 1237 plane No. 8 back in commission. 1245 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1245 Commenced exercise No. 20. 1345 Exercise No. 20 completed. 1443 Formed "Cast" Formation One. 1500 Commenced Exercise No. 11. 1500 The following test and inspection have been made this date: Weekly inspection test of magazines, smokeless powder, magazine sprinkler, shell stowage sprinklers, hangar space sprinklers. Conditions normal. 1540 Completed Exercise No. 11. 1543 Commenced zig-zagging with plan No. 10. 1550 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1553 Changed fleet course and axis to 225o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 225o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1606 Commenced scheduled exercise of follow-the-leader tactics. 1607 Changed course to 000o T. 1612 Changed course to 315o T. 1615 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1616 Changed course to 225o T. 1618 Changed course to 200o T. 1622 Changed course to 225o T. 1634 Changed speed to 17 knots; ceased present exercise. 1652 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12 on base course 225o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 225o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), zig-zag Plan No. 12. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1907 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225o T. 1914 Secured from General Quarters. 1930 Commenced scheduled exercise (10SL). 1953 Commenced firing automatic weapons at smoke pots. 1956 Ceased firing automatic weapons. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 225o T. & PGC at 17 knots (173 RPM). 2016 Ceased present exercises (10SL). 2017 Formed Cruising Formation Five. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & PGC. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 181.2.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Sunday, July 4, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude 14o 06.1' S.; Longitude 157o 03.2' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude 14o 19.' S. ; Longitude 157o 13' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude 14o 33.3' S.; Longitude 158o 13.9' E.
00 - 04
Steaming on base course 045o T. & PGC, speed at 17 knots (173 RPM) in company with U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA and CLEVELAND and screened by U.S.S. SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, DYSON, CLAXON and STENLY. This special detachment is the DENVER detachment with Captain Robt. B. Carney, OTC in U.S.S. DENVER, (SOPA). Cruising Formation Five. U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA is detachment guide; ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.6; Condition "B" is set throughout the ship; boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. NORTH CAROLINA has the radar guard forward and the U.S.S. DENVER has the radar guard aft. 177.8, Av. RPM; 600 lbs., Av. Steam.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 045o T. & PGC, speed at 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0400 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & PGC. Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0408 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0545 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0640 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000o T. & PGC. 0653 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & PGC, changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0703 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0706 Secured from General Quarters. 0716 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 180o T. & PGC. 0731 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180o T. & PGC. 0737 Changed fleet course and axis to 135o T. & PGC. 0745 Changed fleet course and axis to 110o T. & PGC. 0753 Changed speed to 9 knots (092 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.0.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 110o T. & PGC, fleet speed 9 knots (092 RPM). Assumed station 2, 045o from NORTH CAROLINA and commenced patrolling station. NORTH CAROLINA fueling destroyers. 0815 Mustered crew on station: No absentees. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 113.3.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & PGC, fleet speed 9 knots (092 RPM). U.S.S. DYSON underway from alongside U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA. 1224 U.S.S. CLAXTON went alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND for fueling. This ship using 30o independent zig-zag plan. 1236 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced fueling U.S.S. CLAXTON. 1245 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples: Conditions normal. 1440 U.S.S. CLAXTON completed fueling, underway to resume station on screen. 1504 U.S.S. SAUFLEY went alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND to fuel. 1520 U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA commenced independent A.A. gunnery exercises. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 106.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & PGC, speed 11 knots (115 RPM), zig-zagging independently, maintaining station on fueling unit. 1634 Resumed base course preparatory to receiving destroyer along port side. 1636 Changed speed to 9 knots (92 RPM). 1640 Two-blocked "Affirm: for U.S.S. RENSHAW to come alongside. 1643 U.S.S. SAUFLEY completed fueling and away from alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND. 1650 Shot first line to U.S.S. RENSHAW. 1654 Tow line secured to destroyer. 1654 Started Unit No. 1 but did not switch units, using it in standby condition. 1702 Forward and after fueling hoses over. 1708 Commenced pumping fuel aft. 1709 Commenced pumping forward. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 94.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming on base course 110o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). The U.S.S. RENSHAW is fueling alongside to port. 1809 Completed fueling destroyer. 1826 Cast off all lines to destroyer. 1831 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1831 Secured No. 1 steering unit which was in standby condition while refueling the U.S.S. RENSHAW. 1840 Changed fleet course and axis to 290o T. & PGC. 1846 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1930 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 290o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 157.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 290o T. & PGC. Speed 17 knots (172 RPM). 2000 Changed course to 245o T. & PGC, maintaining position 2, 045o on guide. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.3.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Monday, July 5, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 15o 29.4' S.; Longitude 158o 42.8' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 15o 24.3' S.; Longitude 158o 01.0' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 13o 20.0' S.; Longitude 157o 31.0' E.
00 - 04
Steaming as before on course 200o T. & PGC at speed 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), in Cruising Formation Five, in a special task unit with Captain Robert B. Carney as OTC. Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use, boilers 1 & 4 standby. The ship is darkened and in condition of readiness 3.6, Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. The U.S.S. DENVER has forward radar guard and the U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the after sector. Course and axis is 200o T. & PGC. This task unit is comprised of the following ships: U.S.S. DENVER (SOPA & OTC), CLEVELAND, NORTH CAROLINA (guide) with the U.S.S. STANLY, DYSON, RENSHAW, CLAXTON, SAUFLEY forming the anti-submarine screen. 0030 Changed course and axis to 155o T. & PGC. 0100 Changed course and axis to 110o T. & PGC. 0300 Changed course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 182.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 090o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 0445 Blew tubes on steaming boilers. 0447 Shifted steering control to steering aft for drill. 0530 Shifted control to pilot house. 0530 Apple gadget reported bearing 118o T. distance 50,000 yds. 0545 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 12, base course 090o T. & PGC. 0652 Secured from General Quarters, set condition 3.6. 0656 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0700 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 270o T. & PGC. 0735 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 280o T. & PGC. 0755 Sounded and went to General Quarters for offset firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.8.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 280o T. & PGC. Speed 17 knots (172 RPM). The various ships in this detachment are firing in carrying out exercise No. 16. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0915 Lost power in after gyro. 0920 Power regained in after gyro. 1036 Completed Exercise No. 16. 1040 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). Changed course to 225o T. & PGC. 1042 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). Changed course to 290o T. & PGC. 1047 Changed course to 277o T. & PGC. 1057 Formation counter-marched to 090o T. & PGC, changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1100 Changed speed to 17 knots. 1115 Changed speed to 12 knots (122 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 142.3.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 090o T. & PGC, speed 12 knots (122 RPM). 1202 The SAUFLEY came alongside, mail was transferred and the SAUFLEY cast off. 1213 Changed fleet course and axis to 270o T. & PGC. Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1230 Commenced zig-zagging, plan No. 12. 1245 Went to General Quarters for scheduled exercise. 1300 Commenced scheduled exercise. 1318 Commenced firing 5" and 6" batteries. 1325 Ceased firing. 1327 Secured from General Quarters. 1425 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1435 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 1453 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging, Plan 12. 1509 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 1510 Changed course to 215o T. & PGC. 1515 Changed course to 120o T. & PGC. 1517 Sighted three ships, bearing 140o T., distance 10 miles. 1522 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1525 Lighted fires under boilers 2 7 4. 15265 Changed speed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1530 Ships identified as the U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, WALLER, PRINGLE, PHILIP. 1533 Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 cut in on the main steam line. 1535 Changed course to 125o T. & PGC. 1538 Maneuvering to take position with Task Unit at various speeds. 1548 The NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY, DYSON and CLAXTON proceeding independently. Ammunition expended for training purposes this date:
6" Projectile AP, Mk. 35-2 38
6" Powder, Semi-fixed SPD 3135 16
2 Fixed SPD 3604 (flashless) 12
5" Projectiles AA Com. Mk. 18 (time fuze) 16
5" Powder Semi-fixed SPDN 3133 (smokeless) 16.
Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 180.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 355o T. & PGC, in Cruising Formation Two, speed 28 knots (295 RPM). 1659 Changed speed, on signal, to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1710 Shifted steering units from one to two, starboard cable is in use. 1740 On signal, formed Cruising Formation One, U.S.S. MONTPELIER as guide, destroyer screen deploying three forward, 6000 yards and two astern 2000 yards. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 303.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 355o T. & PGC, speed 29 knots (307 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1830 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6. 1912 Ran into very heavy rain storm coming from northeast. 1916 Passed out of rain storm. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 304.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 355o T. & PGC, speed 29 knots (303 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 2132 Changed speed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 2203 Changed fleet course and axis to 056o T. & PGC. 2215 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 2223 Ran into heavy rain squall. 2225 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4; boilers 1 and 3 are now on the line for cruising purpose. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 259.0.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
In accordance with Commander Third Fleet's instructions, at 1528 DENVER with CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW left the NORTH CAROLINA Unit in order to join with Task Group 36.2. At 1540, joined ComTaskGroup 36.2 (Cruiser Division TWELVE, Destroyer Division 43 and U.S.S. PRINGLE) and took departure for an area 30 miles to the west of Rendova with expectations of intercepting a Japanese Task Unit. Commander Task Group 36.2 informed Commander Third Fleet that it was impossible to arrive at Rendova area until early in the morning of 6 July 1943. At 2200 Task Group 36.2 changed its destination to proceed toward Guadalcanal in order to refuel at Koki Point.
Tuesday, July 6, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 10o 37.3' S.; Longitude 160o 12.7' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 21.2' S.; Longitude 160o 43.5' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08o 55.9' S.; Longitude 159o 30.1' E.
00 - 04
Steaming on course 056o T. & PGC, 047.5o PSC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Steaming with Task Force 36.2 in Cruising Formation No. 1. Ships present U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, PHILP, WALLER, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE. Destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA have radar guard. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 220.1.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 056o T. & PGC at speed 22 knots (224 RPM) in Cruising Formation One. 0525 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0545 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan 12. 0638 Secured from General Quarters. 0638 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0640 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 0657 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12, on signal. 0701 Sighted Guadalcanal Island, bearing 010o T., distance 30,000 yards. 0742 On Signal, increased speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0746 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0749 Executed signal to put all boilers on line. 0751 Changed speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 0756 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 224.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 056o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0801 Cut in boiler No. 4 on main steam line. 0806 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 0910 Changed speed to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1004 Changed fleet course and axis to 049o T. & PGC. 1015 Sighted Malita Island bearing 037o T., distance 28 miles. 1027 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & PGC. 1040 Changed fleet course and axis to 315o T. & PGC. 1103 Sighted Nura Island bearing 296o T. distance 15 miles. 1125 Sounded flight quarters. 1130 Nura Island passed abeam distance 4.8 miles. 1146 Changed fleet course and axis to 271o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 299.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 273o T. & PGC at 31 knots (320 RPM). Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1223 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1226 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1 for entering Sea Lark Channel. 1230 Changed speed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1242 Changed course to 250o T. & PGC. 1257 Changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 1321 Changed course to 225o T. & PGC. 1324 Changed course to 180o T. & PGC. 1330 Launched Plane No. 8, Lt. D. K. English, USNR, pilot, Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenger. 1332 Changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 1341 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. 1345 Changed course to 135o T. & PGC. 1346 Maneuvering at various speeds on various courses, coming alongside U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION to fuel. 1403 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in berth no. 86, north coast of Guadalcanal Island, in 14 fathoms of water. 1416 Commenced taking on fuel. 1530 No. 3 engine put out of commission for repairs. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Moored as before. 1725 The CLEVELAND underway. 1727 Underway from alongside the U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, Berth No. 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island, from Tagoma Point to Berande Point in 14 fathoms of water, draft forward 24' 0", Aft 24' 3". Steaming on boilers Nos. 1 & 3, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds to clear anchorage. 1749 Steadied on course 290o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots. 1759 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 132.2.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 290o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1807 Went to 27 knots (279 RPM). At 1815 went to General Quarters for dusk alert and set Material Condition "A". Cut Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in on the main steam line. 1840 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition 3.6, watch "C". At 1855 Changed course to 302o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 278.3.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 302o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 2056 Went to General Quarters because of unidentified aircraft on radar screen. 2057 Secured from General Quarters because aircraft was identified as friendly. 2240 Ran into heavy rain squall from ahead; visibility reduced to about to 200 yards. 2300 Sounded General Quarters. 2315 Changed course to 272o T. & PGC. 2321 Returned to base course 302o T. & PGC. 2330 U.S.S. WALLER left the formation to attack a target broad on the starboard bow. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 280.6.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This task group is headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia, with Commander Third Fleet's directive, "Sink Japs".
Wednesday, July 7, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 10.0' S.; Longitude 159o 45.5' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Moored alongside U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in Berth 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08o 40.2' S.; Longitude 159o 09.5' E.
00 - 04
Underway with Task Group 36.2, base course 302o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM0. Boilers 1, 2, 3 & 4 in use. ComTaskGroup 36.2 in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group 36.2 consists of CruDiv TWELVE, DesDiv FORTY-THREE and CDS TWENTY-TWO in PRINGLE. This task group is headed up the "slot" to Kula Gulf area from Koli Point, Guadalcanal in order to intercept and destroy a Japanese Task Force (Tokyo Express). This task group is carrying out the despatch orders of the Commander of the Third Fleet. This ship at General Quarters and Condition "A" is set. 0030 Changed course to 332o T. & PGC. 0045 Changed course to 282o T. & PGC. 0110 Changed course to 302o T. & PGC. 0119 Changed course to 122o T. & PGC. 0128 Changed course to 102o T. & PGC. 0139 Changed course to 122o T. & PGC. 0324 U.S.S. WALLER Rejoined formation. 0340 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition "3.6" Watch "B". Intermittent rain squalls throughout the watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 281.8.
T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,
Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 123o T. & PGC. Speed 29 knots (280 RPM0. 0530 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0610 Changed course to 119o T. & PGC. 0614 Commenced steaming in special anti-aircraft formation, MONTPELIER is guide. 0620 Changed course to 089o T. & PGC. 0624 Changed course to 119o T. & PGC. 0637 Secured from General Quarters. 0643 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0650 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 0733 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0737 Formed Cruising Formation One on base course 119o T. & PGC. 0746 Changed course to 140o T. & PGC. Changed speed to speed to 20 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 236.1.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before in Cruising Formation One, on base course 140o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM0. 0805 On signal, changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 0815 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4 from line and they are in standby condition. 0826 Commenced zig-zagging on signal, on Plan No. 10. 0835 Cut in No. 2 boiler on main line and secured No. 1 boiler. 0852 Ceased zig-zagging. 0858 Made all preparations for going alongside a ship to fuel. On signal, proceeded independently. Various courses and speeds. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0951 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in berth No. 86 North Coast of Guadalcanal Island from Tagoma Point to Berande Point in 14 fathoms of water. 1000 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored starboard side to U.S.S. HUNTER LIGGETT. 1008 Commenced receiving fuel oil, secured special details, set regular sea watch. 1027 Shifted from No. 2 to No. 1 steering unit. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 146.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Moored as before. 1502 Boiler No. 1 back in Commission. 1525 Station special sea details preparatory to getting underway. 1530 Completed taking on fuel; received 140,600 gals. 1534 Underway from alongside the U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, berth No. 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island from Koli Point Anchorage in fourteen (14) fathoms of water. Captain at the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge; standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), underway with U.S.S. CLEVELAND, RENSHAW and PHILIP, enroute to Tulagi to rendezvous with the rest of Task Group 36.2. 1540 Steadied on base course 330o T. & PGC, speed 10 knots (102 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 116.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & PGC at standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1631 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1633 Changed course to 240o T. & PGC. 1644 Changed course to 060o T. & PGC. 1648 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1703 Changed course to 330o T. & PGC. 1709 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1709 Changed course to 340o T. & PGC. 1714 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1715 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM) Joined formation with U.S.S. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA. Formed Cruising Disposition No. 2. U.S.S. MONTPELIER and DENVER comprising first section, section in normal order. 1722 Changed fleet course to 299o T. & PGC. 1730 Changed speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 299o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1832 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1839 Secured from General Quarters. 1934 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on the main line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 254.3.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 299o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM) in Cruising Formation One with three destroyers deployed ahead and two astern. 2117 On TBS signal, went to General Quarters upon report of enemy planes. 2118 On signal, made 60o turn to right to course 359o T. & PGC. 2120 On signal, changed to course 269o T. & PGC. 2122 On signal, resumed base course. 2130 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2135 On signal, reduced speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 2137 On signal, executed 60o turn to right. 2145 Increased speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2157 Increased speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 245.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER
Underway in company with TaskGroup 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This task group is headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia, with Commander Third Fleet's directive, "Sink Japs".
Thursday, July 8, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 02.3' S.; Longitude 159o 48.3' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.
00 - 04
Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral Merrill in MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of CruDiv TWELVE, DesDiv FORTY-THREE, and PRINGLE. This task group headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia with Commander Third Fleet's directive to "Sink Japs". Course 299o T. & PGC, 25 knots. Standard speed 15 knots. Boilers 1, 2, 3, and 4 in use. The ship is darkened, at General Quarters and Condition "A" set. At 0015 Changed course to 289o T. At 0100 Changed course to 119o T. at 0123 Slowed to 15 knots in order to reduce wake so that suspected Japanese planes could not locate this unit. At 0130 Changed course to 299o T. At 0135 Went to 25 knots. At 0137 Changed course to 119o T. At 0143 Went to 27 knots. At this time, the fact that an unidentified plane had been circling the formation was established. We were off Kula Gulf, now Japanese territory and the plane was assumed to be Japanese. At 0145 Changed course to 099o T. Four (4) flares were dropped by this unidentified plane; two (2) red and two (2) green. They appeared to be about 1000 yards distant and at 1000 ft. altitude on the DENVER'S port quarter. The U.S.S. COLUMBIA fired on the plane. Result unobserved. Plane not destroyed. At 0158 Changed course to 119o T. At 0215 Went to 28 knots. At 0224 Made 30 knots. At 0230 Slowed to 28 knots. At 0330 Slowed to 25 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 260.5.
T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,
Lt. Comdr., U. S. Navy.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 119o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), returning from Kula Gulf. 0514 U.S.S. SAUFLEY sent by CTG 36.2 to investigate surface target contact bearing 036o T. & PGC distant 9 miles. 0535 Surface alarm to port. Observed firing of SAUFLEY off port beam. 0545 U.S.S. SAUFLEY reported surfaced enemy submarine was object of attack. 0610 Sighted land off starboard beam bearing 180o T.-Russel Islands. 0620 Changed course to 209o T., formed special cruising formation. 0622 Changed fleet course and axis to 119o T. & PGC. 0628 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0640 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0701 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, Watch "A". 0702 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course to 119o T. & PGC. 0707 Condition "B" set throughout the ship above 3rd deck. 0715 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 255.3.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 111o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). Zig-Zagging on Plan No. 10. 0806 Passed Savo Island abeam to starboard, bearing 201o T., distant 2 miles. 0816 Ceased zig-zagging. 0818 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1 on course 111o T. & PGC. 0859 Changed course to 0606o T. & PGC, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 0903 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 0908 Changed speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 0914 Changed speed to 5 knots (54 RPM). Commenced steaming on various courses conforming with channel. 0930 Manned all A.A. weapons and control stations. 0948 COLUMBIA anchored. 0950 MONTPELIER anchored. 0959 Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: "L" 079o T.; "I" 325.5o T.; "N" 063o T.; "J" 067o T.; "M" 042.9o T.; "H" 191.6o T.; "F" 197.2o T. 1039 Secured Nos. 1 & 4 boilers. 1151 Ammunition barge moored alongside aft, commenced receiving ammunition. Ship standing on a 15 minutes' notice for getting underway. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 160.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1300 - Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples, Conditions normal. 1430 Received aboard 300 6"/47 cal. HC projectiles and 300 bombardment point detonating fuzes Mk. 29. 1540 U.S.S. CLEVELAND stood into anchorage berth. 1542 LST 393 underway, stood out of harbor. 1555 Ammunition lighter cast off, moored alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), USNR.
16 - 18
Anchored as before. 1629 Shifted from No. 1 to No. 2 steering unit.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
18 - 20
Anchored as before. 1800 U.S.S. BUCHANAN, RALPH TALBOT, MC CALLA and FARENHOLT underway and standing out.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
Friday, July 9, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Moored to Y0 in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Port Purvis, Florida Is.
00 - 04
Anchored as before in Berth No. 9 with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor in 21 fathoms of water in Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomons Group, on the following bearings: "L" 079o T.; "I" 325.5o T.; "N" 063o T.; "J" 106.7o T.; "M" 042.9o T.; "H" 191.6o T.; "F" 197.2o T. This ship is darkened and in Material Condition "B" and in Readiness Condition 3.6. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use with ship on one hour's notice for getting underway. Ships present: U.S.S. CLEVELAND, RALPH TALBOT, FARENHOLT, TAYLOR, WALLER, RENSHAW, HOPKINS, TREVOR, CLELENO, ZANE, ERSKINE M. PHELPS, HOWARD, and other small craft. U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) anchored in Tulagi Harbor.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0612 U.S.S. HOWARD underway and standing out of harbor. 0618 LST 307 underway and standing out of harbor. 0709 This ship is now on fifteen (15) minutes' notice for getting underway.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 -12
Anchored as before. 0815 Making all preparations for getting underway. 0840 Draft of ship on getting underway, Forward 23', Aft 23' 10". 0845 Underway from Berth No. 9, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group, Captain has the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer are on the bridge. Steaming with boilers Nos. 1 & 4 at various courses and speeds clearing the anchorage. Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Proceeding to Tulagi Harbor to refuel on various courses and speeds in order to conform with entrance to channel. 0900 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1000 Anchored in Berth No. 9, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast, Solomon Islands Group, in 21 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. 1309 Underway from berth No. 9, maneuvering on various courses and speeds, to go alongside Y.O. for fueling. 1100 Moored starboard side to, to Y.O. in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast, Solomon Islands Group. 1129 Commenced taking on fuel forward. 1144 Commenced fueling aft.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Moored as before. 1300 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer FRANLIN, ARM3C, USN. 1325 The BUCHANAN, RALPH TALBOT, FARENHOLT, MC CALLA stood in and anchored. 1445 Competed fueling, received 233,887 gallons. 1500 Underway from alongside Y.O. in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast Solomon Islands Group. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Steaming on various courses at various speeds conforming with channel, enroute to Port Purvis. 1557 All engines stopped. 1558 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Ship's Head 048.5o T.; "L" 074.5o T.; "I" 017o T.; "K" 044.5o T.; "J" 088.6o T.; "H" 174.5o T.; "M" 056.2o T.; "F" 191o T.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Anchored as before. Ship is on one hour's notice for getting underway, with regular sea watch set. Draft Forward 24' 6"; Aft 24' 3".
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Anchored as before. 1912 Secured steering engines.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before. 2024 LST 398 Underway and standing out.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Saturday, July 10, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay,
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Florida Island, Solomon Islands.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08o 46.3' S.; Longitude 159o 24.6' E.
00 - 04
Anchored in Berth No 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Ship's Head 048.5o T.; "J" 088.6o T.; "H" 174.5o T.; "L" 074.5o T.; "I" 017o T.; "K" 044.5o T.; "M" 056.2o T.; "F" 191o T. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in a standby condition for getting underway on one hour's notice. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PRINGLE, WALLER, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, TAYLOR, GWINN, REVOR, HOPKINS, CELELNO, JAMESTOWN, LST 395, WOODWORTH, PAWNEE, ZANE, ERSKINE PHELPS, LIBRA, MAURY, LACKAWANNA.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored a before. 0817 Commenced taking on ammunition. 0840 U.S.S. LCI 69 underway and standing out of harbor. 1023 U.S.S. McCALLA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1033 U.S.S. FARENHOLT stood in and moored alongside McCALLA. 1055 H.M.S. LEANDER stood in and anchored in assigned berth. Ammunition received as follows: 450 6"/47 cal. HC Projectiles; 750 semi-fixed cartridges.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1330 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway shifting berths. 1338 U.S.S. FARENHOLT underway shifting berths. 1345 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway shifting berths. Received 125 Mk. 29 Nose Detonating Fuzes. 1345 Received 125 Mk 29 Nose detonating fuses from U.S.S. COLUMBIA. 1350 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway and standing out. 1357 U.S.S. TAYLOR underway and standing out. 1400 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and standing out. 1403 U.S.S. GWINN underway and standing out. 1425 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1500 Lit off boiler No. 2. 1521 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and standing out. 1522 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 1528 U.S.S. WALLER underway and standing out. 1528 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out. 1530 Stationed all sea details and making preparations for getting underway.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Anchored as before. 1650 Set special sea details. 1708 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Steaming on various courses at various speeds standing out of the bay. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Underway with Task Force 36.2. 1746 Steadied on course 250o T. & PGC. Speed 15 knots. 1749 Changed speed to 20 knots, (202 RPM). 1756 Changed speed to 25 knots, (252 RPM).
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1802 By signal changed fleet course and axis to 300o T. & PGC. In Cruising Formation One, screened by five destroyers. 1007 On signal, changed speed to 26 knots (265 RPM). 1810 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1820 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1830 On signal, changed speed to 24 knots (243 RPM). 1835 On signal, charged speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 1843 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6. 1930 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on main line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 256.9.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 300o T. & PGC, speed 26 knots (270 RPM). 2045 Executed a turn to the left to 240o T. & PGC. 2050 Resumed base course. 2058 Began making various changes of course on TBS signal from flagship after getting several radar contacts. 2107 Radar contacts previously reported are identified. 2134 Sighted two red flares dropped by plane dead ahead. 2144 Steadied on base course 300o T. & PGC. Went to General Quarters. 2357 Shifted steering and engine control to the conning tower. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 268.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONPELIER in order to go to a point 20 miles north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia Island, in order to intercept and destroy Japanese surface units.
Sunday, July 11, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 02.2' S.; Longitude 159o 45.2' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Is., Solomon Islands.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 30.9' S.; Longitude 158o 56.5' E.
00 - 04
Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, which is comprise of Cruiser Division TWELVE and Destroyer Division FORTY-THREE and U.S.S. PRINGLE, CTG 36.2 Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC, in MONTPELIER. Enroute to a point 20 miles north of Visu Visu Point under directive from Commander Third Fleet to intercept and destroy Japanese Forces. Steaming with all four boilers in use, in Cruising Formation One, MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA. Ship is at General Quarters, is darkened, and in Condition "A". Steaming on base course 300o T. & PGC at 26 knots (270 RPM). 0040 Changed course to 290o T. & PGC. 0056 Changed course to 280o T. & PGC. 0117 Changed course to 300o T. & PGC. 0129 Changed course to 120o T. & PGC, retiring from mission, having contacted no enemy forces. 0234 Pilot house resumed steering and engine control. 0254 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, Watch "C". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 267.3.
T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,
Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 120o T. & PGC, speed 26 knots (268 RPM). 0610 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0616 Changed speed to 27 knots (273 RPM). 0616 Changed course to 140o T. & PGC. 0620 Changed speed to 24 knots (224 RPM. 0621 Changed speed to 21 knots (213 RPM). 0633 Let fires die out under No. 2 & No. 3 boilers. 0640 Secured from General Quarters. 0646 Changed speed to 25 knots (254 RPM). 0651 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. 0746 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0749 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 256.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 090o T. & PGC, base course 120o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0812 On signal, executed turn to 120o T. & PGC. 0831 On signal, Formed Cruising Formation One. 0845 Made all preparations for entering port. 0854 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 0859 Changed course to 062o T. & PGC. 0914 On signal changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Various courses and speeds entering harbor. 0938 U.S.S. MONTPELIER anchored. 0943.5 Anchored in berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomons Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Ship's Head 045.5o T.; "J" 087.7o T.; "G" 252.9o T.; "L" 073.7o T.; "I" 017.3o T.; "H" 173.2o T.; "K" 044.8o T.; "N" 061o T. "M" 056.2o T. Draft Forward 24' 2", Aft 24' 4". Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0952 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored. 1045 U.S.S. WALLER stood into anchorage berth. 1048 U.S.S. PAWNEE shifted anchorage berths. 1140 Hoisted aboard plane No.8, pilot D. K. English, Lt., USNR, observer Ens. Haseltine, USNR. 1157 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood into anchorage. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1315 U.S.S. GWINN underway and standing out. 1352 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. English, USNR, passenger Ens. A. Haseltine, USNR. 1353 U.S.S. WALLER standing out. 1354 PRINGLE standing out. 1357 TAYLOR, WOODWORTH, SAUFLEY standing out. 1407 Stationed all special sea details. 1422 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island with Cruiser Division TWELVE, Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge; underway with Task Group 36.9 in accordance with Operation Plan 7-43, Cruiser Division TWELVE, Destroyer Division FORTY -THREE and U.S.S. PRINGLE, FARENHOLT, BUCHANAN, GWINN, RALPH TALBOT, MAURY. Steaming at various courses and speeds in conforming to channel. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes, standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM. 1450 Secured ship for sea. 1500 Steadied on base 250o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1507 Set regular sea detail. 1513 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 1522 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1523 Formed Special Formation No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 139.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & PGC., speed 17 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1600 Changed course to 160o T. & PGC. 1605 Changed speed to 23 knots (235 RPM). Executed 360o turn. 1618 Changed course to 225o T. & PGC. 1621 Changed course to 290o T. & PGC. 1629 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1631 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 1635 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 290o T. & PGC. 1636 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 1650 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed radar guard forward sector; U.S.S. DENVER assumed radar guard after sector. 1702 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1703 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1721 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 290o T. & PGC. 1737 Changed fleet course and axis to 240o T. & PGC. 1800 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 240o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1813 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 240o T. & PGC. 1816 Changed formation to Cruising Formation One. 1817 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1825 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1935 Secured from General Quarters. 1955 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 240o T. & PGC. 2000 Changed course to 295o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 295o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2015 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 2200 Cut in boilers Nos. 2 & 3 on main line. 2400 Went to General Quarters as per plan. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 199.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
Underway with Task Group 36.9, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER, in order to bombard enemy positions in the Munda Area in order to further its capture and destruction; operating in accordance with ComTaskGroup 36.9 Operation Plan 7-43 of July 10, 1943.
July 12, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 17.9' S.; Longitude 158o 32.8' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 13.8' S.; Longitude 160o 06.7' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 10o 02.8' S.; Longitude 162o 09.4' E.
00 - 04
Steaming in company with Task Group 36.9 (Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, U.S. Navy, OTC) making approach for bombardment of Munda Point, New Georgia, in accordance with OTC Operation Plan 7-43, dated July 10, 1043 Task Group deployed with cruisers in column, order MONTPELIER (OTC), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, distance 1000 yds., three (3) destroyers of screening unit in column 5,000 yds. ahead and two (2), 2000 yds. astern. Base course 295o PGC and True. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Base speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Ship's company at battle stations, Condition "A" set. At 1205 ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 295o PGC and True. 1224 Reduced to 18 knots (183 RPM) and changed to course 349o PGC and True. 1231 Increased to 20 knots (210 RPM). At 0114 Changed to course 322o PGC and True. At 0230 Changed to course 280o PGC and True. At 0250, on TBS signal, reduced speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). At 0255 Changed course to bombardment course 247o PGC and True. 0257 MONTPELIER opened fire to starboard. 0300 Commenced firing ranging salvos with main battery to starboard, according to plan, followed by ranging salvos for 5" battery, and bombardment firing by both batteries on designated objectives. 0306 Observed explosions on target area believed to be an ammunition dump. 0315 Observed a white airplane or illuminating projectile parachute flare on port bow. 0327 Observed fires on Munda Point area. 0334 Observed two more flares on starboard bow. 0330 Ceased firing, having expended 743 rounds of 6" High Capacity ammunition and 1007 rounds 5", A.A. ammunition. All guns were unloaded except center gun of Turret No. 4 which was cooled by water inside and outside the barrel, to unloaded by daylight when clear of bombardment area. 0340 Following movements of MONTPELIER, changed to retirement course 220o PGC and True. At 0347 increased speed to 20 knots (257 RPM). No material or personnel casualties received from enemy fire. No positive evidence of enemy fire was observed other than apparent whistling of a few projectiles overhead. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 185.5
W. I. Leahy,
Commander, U.S.N.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 220o T. & PGC. 0415 Changed course to 180o T. & PGC. 0423 Went to 27 knots (280 RPM). 0445 Changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 0620 Changed course to 130o T. & PGC and went to Cruising Formation Four. 0625 Changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 0645 MONTPELIER unloaded one gun through gun muzzle. 0650 Unloaded one gun in No. 4 Turret through muzzle. 0654 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 110o T. & PGC. 0735 Slowed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0742 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 0742 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 110o T. & PGC. 0745 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 0747 Let fires die out under boiler No. 3. 0747 Changed course to 095o T. & PGC; changed speed to 25 knots (252 RPM). 0748 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 0757 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course to 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 276.8.
W. I. Leahy,
Commander, U.S.N.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 090o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0846 Went to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0933 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 0934 Changed course to 060o T. & PGC. 1000 Cut in Nos. 2 & 3 boilers on the main line. 1003 Changed course to 020o T. & PGC. 1007 Changed course to 060o T. & PGC. 1013 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1024 Slowed to 22 knots. 1032 Let fires die under Nos. 2 & 3 boilers. 1034 Changed course to 120o T. & PGC. 1057 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1103 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1136 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1150 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Ceased zig-zagging. 1552 Changed course to 120o T. & PGC. 1157 Changed speed to 12 knots (122 RPM). 1159 Recovered Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, observer FRANKLIN, ARM3c, USN. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 246.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 120o T. & PGC in Cruising Formation One at 12 knots (122 RPM). 1206 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (153 RPM) and course to 180o T. & PGC. 1211 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1238 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1243 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC, entering Lengo Channel. 1244 Signal, reduced speed to 10 knots (098 RPM). 1253 Signal, all engines stopped. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1303 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1312 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1342 Destroyers deployed ahead for anti-submarine screen. 1358 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 1413 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 1438 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090o T. & PGC. 1441 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 121o T. & PGC. 1447 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.7.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 121o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1610 Ran into heavy rain squall. 1613 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1619 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1730 Ceased zig-zagging. 1734 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 101o T. & PGC. 1740 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 199.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 101o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1806 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1907 Secured from General Quarters. 1930 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1931 Changed fleet course and axis to 135o T. & PGC. 1945 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 135o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2225 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2248 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on course 135o T. & PGC. 2255 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 150o T. & PGC. 2318 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 2320 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
July 13, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 10o 48.9' S.; Longitude 162o 49.7' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 59.7' S.; Longitude 161o 27.1' E.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 13.3' S.; Longitude 158o 28.5' E.
00 - 04
Steaming on base course 150o T. & PGC, 141o PSC, on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, at 22 knots (224 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). This unit is part of Task Group 36.2, composed of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and the destroyers WALLER, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, PHILIP, and PRINGLE, forming anti-submarine screen. Formation is in Cruising Formation Two. COLUMBIA has radar guard forward and CLEVELAND has radar guard aft. Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6, and Material Condition "B" is set. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 are in use. 0145 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 150o T. & PGC, decreased speed to 17 knots (172 RPM), subsequent to moonset. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 192.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 150o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (172 RPM). 0432 U.S.S. MONTPELIER fell out of formation and reported a steering casualty. 0423 Changed course to 330o T. & PGC in execution of TBS signal to counter-march to the right. 0424 Changed speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 0435 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed guide of formation. 0445 Changed speed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 0450 Formed Cruising Formation One with U.S.S. MONTPELIER as guide. 0451 Increased speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0500 Increased speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0515 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert and set Material Condition of Readiness "A". 0535 Put boiler No. 3 on the line. 0541 Sounded flight quarters. 0627 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 247.2.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0809 Sighted Santa Ana Island bearing 280o T., distance 23 miles. 0815 Mustered crew on station. Absentees none. 0831 Changed fleet course and axis to 315o T. & PGC. 0944 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0945 Fleet disposition is now Cruising Formation Two. 0958 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 1030 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1041 Changed speed to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1042 Changed fleet course and axis to 276o T. & PGC. 1100 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 1146 Changed fleet course and axis to 315o T. & PGC, and slowed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1154 Changed fleet course and axis to 310o T. & PGC. 1159 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 278.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on course 310o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 1326 Changed course to 340o T. & PGC. 1332 Changed course to 310o T. & PGC. 1342 Changed fleet course and axis to 292o T. & PGC. 1410 Cut in No. 3 boiler on the main steam line, all boilers now in use. 1434 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1442 Changed speed to 25 knots (254 RPM). 1446 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1452 Changed course to 249o T. & PGC. Following movements of guide conforming to channel. 1506 Changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 1521 Changed course to 292o T. & PGC. 1528 Changed course to 202o T. & PGC. 1530 Catapulted Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 1532 Changed course to 292o T. & PGC. 1540 The PRINGLE left the formation for assigned duty. 1548 Changed speed to 25 knots. 1558 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 258.3.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 290o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1605 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed radar guard forward, U.S.S. COLUMBIA aft. 1640 Cut in boilers 2 & 3 on main line. 1652 Sighted two (2) small ships hull down bearing 265o T. 1654 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 290o T. 1700 By signal, changed course to 250o T. & PGC. 1705 On signal, changed speed to 24 knots (246 RPM). 1709 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1746 Ceased zig-zagging. 1753 On signal, changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 1758 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 252.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & PGC, speed 24 knots (246 RPM). 1814 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1900 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1901 Changed course and axis to 285o T. & PGC. 1907 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1910 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 243.5.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 285o T. & PGC, speed 24 knots (246 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2228 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2232 Formed Cruising Formation No. One. 2251 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 285o T. & PGC. 2300 Went to General Quarters. 2324 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 285o T. & PGC. 2335 Changed fleet course and axis to 320o T. & PGC. 2345 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2351 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 320o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 2408.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER
Underway with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER, to proceed to a point southwest of the island of Rendova in order to intercept Japanese forces and destroy them.
July 14, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 18.1' S.; Longitude 159o 17.7' E.
Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Shifting Berths in Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group.
00 - 04
Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC, in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group 36.2 is composed of CruDiv TWELVE and DesDiv FORTY-THREE. Steaming in Cruising Formation One, all four (4) boilers in use. The ship is darkened, in Condition "A" and at General Quarters. Steaming on base course 320o T. & PGC, (313 PSC), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 at 20 knots (202 RPM). 0056 Changed course and axis to 140o T. & PGC. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0115 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0120 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 140o T. & PGC. 0124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0200 I relieved Lt. K. P. Houlihan, USNR, as Officer of the Deck. 0216 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed 140o T. & PGC. 0225 On signal, executed ships left 180o to course 320o T. & PGC. 0232 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0246 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 0256 On signal, changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0314 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 105o T. & PGC. 0320 On signal, changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0342 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6, Material Condition "B" with third deck closures. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.2.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 105o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0455 U.S.S. COLUMBIA reported target bearing 056o T., 9000 yards. U.S.S. RENSHAW investigated and found LCI, Div. 25, friendly. 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0555 Changed speed, on signal, to 25 knots (235 RPM). 0614 Formed, on signal, Cruising Formation Four. 0624 On signal, changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0630 On signal, changed course to 090o T. & PGC and speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0635 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0636 Sighted small craft bearing 020o T., identified as friendly APC. 0640 Secured from dawn alert, set Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B" with all third deck closures. 0752 Ceased zig-zagging. 0759 On signal, changed course and axis to 060o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.2.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 060o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0811 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0832 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0840 Changed fleet course and axis to 105o T. & PGC. 0852 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0858 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0913 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0920 Changed fleet course and axis to 085o T. & PGC. 0928 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0937 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 3 from main steam line and put them in stand-by condition-boilers Nos. 1 & 4 are in use. 0957 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0958 Changed fleet speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1000 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1001 Stationed special sea details. 1018 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1028 Commenced steaming on various courses at various speeds, conforming with channel and making the approach to the anchorage. 1053 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. 1100 Secured special sea details and set regular sea detail. 1104 Stationed special sea details. 1115 Underway to shift position of ship in berth No. 8, Captain at the Conn. 1123 Anchored in Berth No. 8; ship's head 077o T; bearings: "J" 091o T.; "K" 042o T.; "L" 074o T.; "I" 010o T. 1130 U.S.S. CLEVELAND anchored. 1136 U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored. 1140 Underway from Berth No. 8, Captain at the Conn; steaming at various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on various courses and speeds, maneuvering to go alongside tanker. 1210 Moored port side to, to tanker ERSKINE PHELPS in Berth No. 5, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group. The ship is on one hour's notice for getting underway. 1225 Commenced taking on fuel. 1500 U.S.S. CACHE stood in and anchored. 1520 The ship is now on 15 minutes notice for getting underway. 1527 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway from alongside tanker to shift berths. 1548 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA underway to go alongside tanker to fuel. 1551 Cut in Boiler No. 1 on line.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Moored as before. 1622 Completed fueling, having received 265,662 gals. of fuel oil. 1638 Underway from alongside of tanker ERSKINE PHELPS to assigned berth. 1649 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following bearings: Ship's head 058.5o T.; "N" 059.2o T.; "J" 078.2o T.; "K" 045.7o T.; "L" 070o T.; "M" 055o T.; "F" 182o T.; "H" 140o T.; "I" 029o T. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on the line. Ship on one hour's notice for getting underway.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Anchored as before. 1902 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway from fueling to anchorage berth. 1924 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway from fueling to anchorage berth.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
Under way with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER. Operating in an area southwest of the island of Rendova in order to intercept Japanese forces and to destroy them.
At 0250 Reversed course and commenced retirement to Purvis Bay. No enemy forces were contacted.
Thursday, July 15, 1943
Position at 0800 L.C.T.) Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida
Position at 1200 L.C.T.( Island, Solomon Islands Group.
Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 34.1' S.; Longitude 161o 05.2' E.
00 - 04
Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened and Condition "B" is set. Condition of Readiness 3.5, Watch "A" is set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), SOPA, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CLEVELAND, MAURY, HOPKINS, TALBOT, ELLET, GRIDLEY, ZANE, VIREO, LST 343 and 398.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0710 A.T. 144 (VIREO) standing in.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0808 U.S.S. ZANE underway in tow by U.S.S. VIREO. 0815 U.S.S. PAWNEE stood in to anchorage. 0900 This ship assumed radar guard. 1005 U.S.S. TAYLOR underway, standing out of harbor. 1007 U.S.S. WALLER, PRINGLE, and PHILIP stood into harbor to fueling berths, the WALLER and PRINGLE alongside U.S.S. CACHE and PHILIP alongside U.S.S. ERSKINE PHELPS. 1024 U.S.S. ELLET stood out of harbor. 1030 U.S.S. GRIDLEY stood out of harbor. 1112 U.S.S. MARY stood out of harbor. 1134 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in to fuel, moored alongside U.S.S. ERSKINE PHELPS. 1142 U.S.S. PHILIP shifted to anchorage berth. 1145 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in to anchorage, U.S.S. WALLER shifted to anchorage berth. 1145 U.S.S. PAWNEE underway, shifting berths.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1212 U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside tanker U.S.S. CACHE. 1217 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway to berth from alongside tanker. 1231 U.S.S. PHILIP stood in and anchored. 1237 U.S.S. PRINGLE anchored. 1309 U.S.S. PAWNEE underway and stood out of harbor. 1320 U.S.S. McKEEN moored alongside tanker ERSKINE PHELPS. 1402 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway from alongside tanker to berth and anchored. 1438 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) W. Andrews, USNR, passenger HAELING, ARM3c, USN. 1530 Set Condition "A" on third deck and below; Condition "B" throughout the rest of the ship. Making all preparations for getting underway. 1530 U.S.S. PHILIP and RENSHAW underway and standing out. 1546 Having made all preparations for getting underway, commenced having short. 1552 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway. 1555 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group for Espiritu Santos in accordance with Commander Third Fleet's directive for logistics. Task Unit 36.2.2, Captain Robt. B. Carney in DENVER, OTC, was formed by order of CTG 36.2. Task Unit 36.2.2 consists of DENVER, CLEVELAND, PHILIP and RENSHAW. Captain has the Conn, the Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before standing out of Purvis By on various courses and speeds. 1624 Steadied on course 240o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (202 RPM). 1628 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1631 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & PGC. 1654 Changed fleet course and axis to 104o T. & PGC. 1715 Changed course to 071o T. & PGC. 1719 Changed course to 074o T. & PGC. 1723 Passed Para Pile abeam to starboard, bearing 164o T., distance 2500 yds. 1745 Changed course to 112o T. & PGC. 1751 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 187.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 112o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 1810 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1824 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1826 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 1830 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1851 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090o T. & PGC. 1853 Changed fleet course and axis to 122o T. & PGC. 1915 Sighted ship bearing 120o T. & PGC which was determined to be friendly. 1916 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1921 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 122o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2006 Ceased zig-zagging. 2008 Went to fleet speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 2030 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM), commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2116 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 2119 Changed fleet course and axis to 097o T. & PGC. 2124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 2227 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 097o T. & PGC. 2256 Changed fleet course and axis to 118o T. & PGC. 2300 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 208.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
11o 32.6' S. |
12o 25.2' S. |
14o 54.8' S. |
| Long. |
164o 27.2' E. |
164o 55.5' E. |
165o 59.2' E. |
00 - 04
Steaming on course 118o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10; steaming with Task Unit 36.2.2 which includes U.S.S. CLEVELAND, PHILIP and RENSHAW. Robt. B. Carney, Captain, U.S.S. Navy, in U.S.S. DENVER, OTC. In Cruising Formation One with destroyers forming anti-submarine screen for Task Unit. Ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" is set, with Condition "A" set third deck and below; boilers Nos. 1 and 4 in use. Guide in DENVER. 0255 Blew tubes on all four boilers. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 118o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0510 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0623 Secured fro m General Quarters. 0633 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0642 Changed fleet course and axis to 155o T. & PGC. 0645 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0658 Sighted three (3) ships hull down bearing 245 o T., distant 16 miles. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 155o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0800 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 0800 Held quarters for muster of crew. No absentees. 090 0 Commenced burst firing exercise. 0917 Commenced firing 5"/38 & 40 mm. at bursts. 1000 Ceased exercise. 1030 Commenced burst firing exercise (burst representing a periscope). 1056 Ceased exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM. 183.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 155o T. & PGC at speed 18 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Entered rain squall. 1308 Emerged from rain squall. 1309 Incre ased speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). In accordance with Commander Third Fleet directive, changed destination of Task Unit 36.2.2. to Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, for logistics. 1440 Fired five-inch and 40 mm. at burst to port. 1542 S hifted steering control from pilot house to conning tower. 1543 Shifted engine order telegraph control to conning tower with remainder of pilot house watch. Ammunition expended: 52 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common; 52 5"/38 semi-fixed cartridges; 295 40 mm. A.A. Cartridges Lot No. 132. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on course 155o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1605 Lit fires under boiler No. 3. 1610 Lit fires under boiler No. 2. 1645 Cut in boiler No. 2. 1650 Se cured boiler No. 1. 1655 Cut in boiler No. 3. 1700 Secured boiler No. 4. 1710 Changed fleet speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1748 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 155o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1848 Secured from General Quarters (Dusk Alert). Av. Steam 600 l bs. Av. RPM 203.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 155o T. &
PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No.
12. 2025 PHILIP left the formation to investigate reported ship (radar
contact), bearing 239o T., distance 7 miles. 2050 PHILIP ordered
to rejoin formation, no contact made. 2253 PHILIP reported sound contact.
2254 Changed course to 035o T. & PGC. Went to 25 knots (257
RPM) on emergency turn signal. 2300 Changed course to 125oT.
& PGC, and resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, on base
course to 155
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Saturday, July 17, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Moored to Tanker, ESSO |
Moored to buoy in Berth |
No. 5, Havannah Harbor, |
| Long. |
ANNAPOLIS, Berth No. 2, |
Efate Island, New |
Hebrides Group. |
|
Havannah Harbor, Efate, |
|||
|
New Hebrides Group. |
00 - 04
Steaming as before on base course 155o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use. Steaming in company with Task Unit 36.2.2 composed of U.S.S. DENVER, CLEVELAND, RESHAW, PHILIP. OTC is Captain Robt. B. Carney in DENVER. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the radar guard. This ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition Three and with Material Condition "B" set. 0205 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0210 Changed fleet course and axis to 131o T. & PGC. 0225 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 131o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0430 Sighted six (6) ships on port bow; identified as friendly. 0431 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0442 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10. 0451 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0452 Radar contact on ship bearing 123o T. & PGC, distance 17,000 yds. 0510 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0513 Comm enced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0550 Sighted Metasa Island bearing 055o T. 0555 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0600 Launched plane No. 8, pilot A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenger, DUCOTE, B. A. ARM2c, USN. 0608 Sec ured from General Quarters. 0610 Commenced steaming on various courses and speeds preparing to enter channel. 0633 Stationed special sea details. 0718 Moored port side to tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS in berth No. 2, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. 0725 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored starboard side to tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0745 Hoisted in plane No. 8. 0746 Secured special sea details. 0752 Commenced fueling ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 155.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Moored as before and refueling from tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0837 Completed fueling; received 92,706 gals. 0902 Underway from alongside tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS in Berth No. 2, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. Executive Officer has the Conn. Navigator is on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds, shifting berths. 0926 Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0935 Secured main engines and steering engine. 0938 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway to go alongside ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0942 U.S.S. PHILIP underway to go alongside ESSO ANNAPOL IS. 1133 U.S.S. PHILIP underway from tanker and went alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Moored as before. 1205 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway from alongside tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS and moored port side to U.S.S. MEDUSA. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1400 Ammunition ligh ter YF-259 moored alongside starboard side of forecastle. Continued taking stores throughout watch.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 20
Moored as before. 1719 Following ships underway, and standing out of harbor: U.S.S. FOOTE, STERETT. 1725 Following ships underway, and standing out of harbor: U.S.S. MARYLAND, U.S.S. COLORADO. 1730 Received aboard following ammunitio n: 490 6"/47 cal. H. C. projectiles; 81 6"/47 cal. semi-fixed cartridges i.v. 2500 f.s.; 3008 40 mm. A.A. cartridges. 1835 Ammunition Lighter 0-28 moored alongside port quarter. 1907 U.S.S. CHESTNUT towed ammunition lighter YF-259 away from st arboard bow.
M. F. Healy, Jr.,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Moored as before.
J. H. Parker,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Moored to buoy in |
Berth No. 5, Havannah | Harbor, Efate Island, |
| Long. |
New Hebrides Group. |
00 - 04
Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water with the starboard chain. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, except for lights necessary for the loading of stores and provisions aboard, and in Condition III modified. Condition "B" is set. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE (SOPA and Ready Duty), SANGAMON, CHENANGO, RENSHAW, PHILIP, WILSON, MEDUSA, BOREAS, KANKAKEE, RELIEF, S.S. ESSO ANNAPOLIS, CHARLES AUSBURNE, U.S.S.C. 654, U.S.S. PLUCK (AMC 94) and U.S.S. POWER (AMC 96).
J. T. Flis,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Moored as before.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Moored as before. 0815 The YM 6 (U.S.S. CHESTNUT) came alongside to port and took in tow barge moored alongside. 1105 Ammunition lighter No. 26 was moored alongside forward on the starboard side. Continued taking stores and ammunitio n during watch. Ammunition received: 609 6"/47 semi-fixed cartridges i.v. 2500 f.s.; 200 6" A.P. projectiles.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Moored as before. 1500 Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 20
Moored as before.
J. T. Flis,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Moored as before.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Monday, July 19, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
17o 12.5' S. |
15o 54.3' S. |
Anchored in Berth No. 3 |
| Long. |
167o 50.3' E. |
107o 01.8' E. |
Pekoa Channel, Espiritu |
| Santo, New Hebrides Group |
00 - 04
Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 35 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition &quo t;B". Ships present: ComCarDiv TWENTY-TWO in U.S.S. SUWANNEE (SOPA), CHENANGO, SANGAMON, DENVER, CLEVELAND, RENSHAW, PHILIP, WILSON, CHARLES AUSBOURNE, MEDUSA, RELIEF, BOREAS, KANKAKEE, S.S. ESSO ANNAPOLIS and various district craft. 0315 Lighted f ires under No. 3 boiler.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Moored as before. 0535 U.S.S. PHILIP and RENSHAW underway and standing out of harbor 0555 Having made preparations for getting underway, underway from berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, Captain at Conn, Ex ecutive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Draft of ship; Forward 24' 7", Aft 24' 7". Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use. 0556 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway. Task Unit 36.2.2, OTC Captain Robt. B. Carney in DENVER, underway for Espiritu Santo in ac cordance with the directive of the Commander Third Fleet in order to complete logistic services and to rejoin Task Group 36.2. Various courses and speeds proceeding out channel. Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0605 Condition "B" set. 0617 Speed 15 knots (152 RPM), course 195o T. PGC. 0630 Changed course to 270o T. PGC, increased fleet speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0642 On signal, changed course to 323o T. PGC. 0645 On signal, went to 25 knots (257 RPM), executed forming of Cruising Formation One. 0656 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38, on base course 323o T. PGC. U.S.S. DENVER has radar guard. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 140.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before. 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0812 Sighted Melekula Island bearing 357o T., distance 36 miles. 1108 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1110 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 000o T. & PGC. 1115 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1144 Sighted tanker and destroyer bearing 310o T. 1157 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1205 Made daily inspection of magazines a nd smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 257.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12- 16
Steaming as before on course 000o T. & PGC at 25 knots (254 RPM). 1204 Changed course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 1209 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1211 Changed course to 095o T. & PGC. 1232 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. 1244 Sighted six (6) ships bearing 020o T., distance 12 miles. 1301 Changed course to 000o T. & PGC. 1342 Changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 1348 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1357 Changed course to 345o T. & PGC. 1415 Changed speed to 10 knots (101 RPM). 1418 Changed course to 290o T. & PGC. Proceeding on various courses at various speeds entering channel to Espiritu San to. 1441 Sighted YP-515 crossing bow, from port to starboard. Captain sounded danger signal on whistle; YP-515 sounded three (3) short blasts and did not alter course but proceeded to cross bow. 1442 All engines back full to keep from colliding with YP -515, which crossed our bow with clearance of 25 yards. 1445 Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor in 27 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purpose s. 1503 Secured main engines and steering engine. 1506 Received oil barge No. 20 alongside port side. 1512 U.S.S. EATON stood in and anchored. U.S.S. BOREAS stood in and anchored. 1515 Commenced taking on fuel. 1555 U.S.S. PRINGLE stood in and ancho red. 1555 Completed taking on fuel. Received 29,274 gals. 1559 Oil barge No. 20 cast off from alongside our port side. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 167.3.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 20
Anchored as before. 1725 Commenced receiving ammunition. 1812 The WALLER underway shifting berth to go alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. 1855 Received new plane, Type, SON-1 No. 1186, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR, observer DUCOTE, B.A., ARM2c, U SN.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before. Receiving 5" and 6" ammunition aboard.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Tuesday, July 20, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in Berth No. 13, |
Pekoa Channel, |
14o 58.6' S. |
| Long. |
Espiritu Santo Island, New |
Hebrides Group |
167o 36.3' E. |
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor in 27 fathoms of water on the following anchorage bearings: "C" 033o T., "B" 166o T., "D" 137o T., and "E" 320o T.; boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes; ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" set and in Readiness Condition III; ComAirSoPac is SOP and ready duty ship U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. HONOLULU, ST. LOUIS, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, CHEVALIER, FARENHOLT, PHILIP, RENSHAW , LACKAWANNA, DIXIE, CHANDELEM, VIREO, EATON, TAPPAHANNOCK, MAURY, HOWARD, ZANE, TAURUS and va rious yard and district craft. 0120 Ammunition lighter was brought alongside and moored to our port quarter.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0415 Completed taking ammunition: received the following:
100 - 6"/47 cal. H.C. Projectiles.
600 - 5"/38 cal. Semi-fixed cartridges, flashless powder.
600 - 5"/38 cal. Semi-fixed cartridges, smokeless powder.
1130 - 5"/38 cal. A.A. Common Projectiles with Mk. 18-3 mechanical time fuzes.
3008 - 20 mm. H.E. Tracer Cartridges.
0645 SC 64 Underway and stood out of harbor. 0648 U.S.S. TARUS underway and shifted berth. 0700 U.S.S. SOUTHARD underway and shifted berth.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0850 H.M.S. ENGADINE stood in and anchored. 0854 U.S.S. McCALLA came out of float ing drydock. 0924 The ZANE underway and moored alongside the DIXIE. 0933 McCALLA moored alongside of the WALLER alongside of the DIXIE. 1018 The ZANE underway and moored alongside of A.R.D.(5). 1120 A Liberator crashed on the beach.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1215 Cast off ammunition lighter No. 366 in tow of yard tug. 1315 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1320 U.S.S. EATON underway standing out of harbor. 1337 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in and anchored. 1354 U.S.S. SAUFL EY stood in and anchored. 1354 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA underway and stood out. 1420 Ammunition lighter N.A.B. No. P.P. 2 moored alongside. 1421 U.S.S. CACHE stood in to anchorage. 1450 Ammunition lighter N.A.B. No. P.P. 2 cast off. 1500 Received aboard the following ammunition:
100 - 6"/47 cal. Flashless powder S.P.D. 3780, i.v. 2500 f.s.
400 - Mk. 29 Point Detonating Fuzes.
400 Flexible Fuze Covers.
1515 Hoisted out Plane No.1, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1530 Began making preparations for getting underway. Completed receiving of stores and ammunition. 1555 U.S.S. WALLER and PHILIP underway, stood out.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Moored as before. 1600 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 1. 1620 Held quarters for getting underway. Held sight muster. No absentees. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1630 underway from berth No.13, Pekoa Channel, Espir itu Santo, New Hebrides Group, Captain at the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge. Steaming on various courses at various speeds clearing anchorage; boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use. This Task Group enroute to Tulagi, Florida Island, Solomo n Islands Group in accordance with the directive of Commander Third Fleet. 1640 Frank FILLON, Associated Press Photographer, attached to another vessel, came aboard as ship was getting underway. 1702 Secured special sea details, set Condition III, Watch IV. 1718 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1730 Steadied on base course 045o T. & PGC. 1732 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 1745 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1747 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1740 Changed course to 355o T. & PGC. 1759 Slowed to 19 knots (193 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 135.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 355o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). 1803 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1833 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 3 55o T. & PGC. 1838 Changed course to 055o T. & PGC. 1842 Secured from General Quarters. 1847 Set Condition "B". 1907 Changed course to 355o T. & PGC. 1930 Unidentified surface target contacted by radar bearing 355o T. & PGC, distance 18 miles. 1933 U.S.S. RENSHAW ordered to investigate. 1935 Radar plot reported target disappeared from screen. 1937 U.S.S. RENSHAW reported sound contact. 1950 Changed fleet course and axis to 355< o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 188.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 355o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM). 2009 U.S.S. RENSHAW has a sound contact and released depth charges. 2010 Changed fleet course and axis to 310o T. & PGC. Went to 24 k nots. 2023 Slowed to 19 knots (193 RPM). 2026 RENSHAW released depth charges. 2037 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12 on base course 310o T. & PGC. 2048 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on course 280o T. & ; PGC. 2106 Changed course to 310o T. & PGC. 2112 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, on base course 310o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
12o 42.8' S. |
11o 43.5' S. |
12o 35.1' S. |
| Long. |
164o 50.8' E. |
164o 07.0' E. |
162o 45.2' E. |
00 - 04
Underway with Task Group 36.2 on base course 310o T. & PGC, at speed 19 knots (193 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), 301o PSC; zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Ship is darkened, Material Cond ition "B" set, and in Readiness Condition III. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use. Ships present: CTG 36.2 in OTC U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND (Radar Guard forward), DENVER (Radar Guard aft), and destroyers U.S.S. RENSHAW, WALLER, PHILIP and PRINGLE on station as anti-submarine screen. 0253 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. PRINGLE left formation for exercise. 0254 On signal, U.S.S. COLUMBIA formed column astern of this ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 187.7.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & PGC, at speed 19 knots (193 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0510 Went to general quarters for dawn alert. 0525 Ceased zig-zagging and executed ships right 90 o to course 070o T. & PGC. 0530 Changed course back to 310o T. & PGC. 0534 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0616 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0618 Executed signal ships left 30o. 0622 Secured from General Quarters. 0628 Resumed base course 310o T. & PGC. 0645 Formed Cruising Formation Two, interval 1300 yds. 0706 Changed course and axis to the right to 331o T. & PGC. 0711 Commence d zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0740 Manned all stations for radar calibration. 0745 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 331o T. & PGC. 0753 Changed course to 200o T. & PGC. 0759 Catapulted plane No. 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, passenger DuCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 188.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 200o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM). 0802 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0815 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0830 Completed radar calibration ex ercise. 0904 Formed Cruising formation No. One. 0910 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and PRINGLE left formation to take station for off-set firing practice. 0912 Changed course to 241o T. & PGC. 0920 Changed course to 331o T. & PGC. 092 5 Changed course to 001o T. & PGC. 0930 Changed course to 331o T. & PGC. 0933 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM) 0934 Sounded general quarters to carry out exercise of off-set firing. 0941 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1041 U.S.S. DENVER commenced firing. 1100 DENVER completed firing. Ammunition expended:
6"/47 cal.: A.P. Projectiles 16
H.C. Projectiles 4
Semi-fixed cartridges, smokeless powder i.v.2500,f.s.12
Semi-fixed cartridges, flashless powder i.v.2500,f.s. 8
5"/38 cal.: A.A. Common Projectiles 16
Semi-fixed cartridges, flashless 8
Semi-fixed cartridges, smokeless 8
1106 Secured from General Quarters. 1131 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1139 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 308.5o T. & PGC. 1140 Changed course to 210o T. & PGC. 1144 Ca tapulted plane No. 8 to port, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR, passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, 646-40-29, USNR (V-6). 1152 Slowed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1157 Changed course to 120o T. & PGC. 1158 Slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). Av. St eam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 223.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 331o T. & PGC, speed 10 knots (103 RPM). On course 120o T. & PGC for aircraft recovery. 1201 Recovered plane No. 1 to port "C" method. 1203 Changed course to 3 31o T. & PGC. 1207 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1208 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1212 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1255 Forming Cruising Formation One. 1259 Slowed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 1300 Ch anged course to 001o T. & PGC. 1304 Changed course to 331o T. & PGC. 1312 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1313 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1321 Ceased zig-zagging. 1324 Changed fleet course and axis to 151o T. & PGC. Changed destination to Point "A" via Point "Q" in accordance with directive of the Commander Third Fleet. 1340 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1346 Ceased zig-zagging. 1401 Co mmenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1417 Commenced machine gun firing at towed sleeve. 1418 Ceased firing exercise. Ammunition expended:
40 mm.: A.A. Projectiles, SPDN 3635 42
20 mm.: H.E. Projectiles Tracer 162
H.E.I. Projectiles 6
1430 Ceased zig-zagging. 1433 Formed Cruising Formation Two, interval 1300 yards. 1448 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, on base course 220o T. & PGC. 1527 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course . 1530 Second Section took interval 2,000 yds. 1555 Slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before, course 115o T. & PGC, speed 10 knots (103 RPM) for "C" method plane recovery. 1602 On signal, went to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1605 On signal, changed course to 205o T. & PGC. 16 07 On signal, slowed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 1613 On signal went to 19 knots (193 RPM). 1614 On signal, changed course to 220o T. & PGC. 1619 On signal went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1623 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1700 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and MONTPELIER formed radar guard. 1700 Ceased zig-zagging. 1710 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1758 On signal ceased zig-zagging. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.
Plane SOC-3 No. 8, Bureau No. 9903, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrew, A-V(N), USNR, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, 646-40-29, V-6, USNR, which was launched at 1144 this date did not return to ship for scheduled recovery. Last indication of plane was at 1345. The best estimate is that plane landed or strayed at this time. No reason for disappearance is know. U.S.S. MONTPELIER and U.S.S. COLUMBIA each launched one plane at 1700 for search before sunset. Visual dispatch was sent to OTC.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 220o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 1800 Commenced maneuvering to recover divisional aircraft. 1828 Resumed base course 220o T. & PGC. 1831 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 248o T. & PGC. 1840 U.S.S. RENSHAW rejoined the formation. 1856 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 180.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 248o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2012 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 2150 Second section took standard interval. 2200 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. Av. St eam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 219.8.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Thursday, July 22, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
13o 04.2' S. |
13o 34.4' S. |
13o 20.2' S. |
| Long. |
159o 01.9' E. |
159o 13.2' E. |
159o 48.2' E. |
00 - 04
Steaming on base course 248o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use. Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2 with Admiral A. S. Merrill OTC in U.S.S . MONTPELIER. DENVER second ship in first section. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA have the radar guard. Ship darkened, in readiness condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Ships present: MONTPELIER (OTC), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and the fol lowing destroyers on anti-submarine screen: U.S.S. PRINGLE, WALLER, PHILIP, RENSHAW. 0220 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0225 Changed fleet course and axis to 290o T. & PGC. 0240 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with pla n No. 12. 0330 COLUMBIA and PRINGLE left the formation to take position for tracking exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 220.8
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 290o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (223 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0645 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0647 Sec ured from General Quarters. 0702 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 160o T. & PGC. 0706 Launched plane No. 8 to port by catapulting, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, and observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 0709 On signal, U.S.S. CL EVELAND designated guide, took station interval 1500 yds., fueling speed 9 knots (92 RPM). 0726 On signal, commenced scheduled exercise. 0734 U.S.S. PRINGLE came alongside to port, for fueling. U.S.S. RENSHAW went alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND to fuel. 0 750 Commenced fueling forward and aft. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 221.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 160o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM) with U.S.S. PRINGLE along our port side refueling. 0800 U.S.S. SAUFLEY joined this formation and was directed to screen ahead of this force. 0900 Ceased pumping forward. 0905 Ceased pumping aft. 0920 U.S.S. PRINGLE cast off from port side. 0922 Began to zig-zag independently, maintaining approximate position on port bow of formation guide. 1034 Recovered plane No. 8 to starboard, "C" method . 1115 U.S.S. PHILIP came along our port side and commenced to refuel through after hose, fueling course 160o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM). 1117 Commenced fueling through a forward hose. 1135 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Lt. D . K. English, USNR, observer, DuCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 100.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 160o T. & PGC, at 9 knots (92 RPM), fueling the U.S.S. PHILIP alongside our port side. 1205 Completed fueling U.S.S. PHILIP. 1212 PHILIP cast off all lines. 1214 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1221 Changed course to 350o T. & PGC. 1231 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1232 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1428 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1434 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1444 Cut boiler No. 1 in on th e line. 1454 Cut boiler No. 4 in on the line. 1459 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 350o T. & PGC. 1502 Changed fleet course and axis to 145o T. & PGC; slowed to 19 knots (193 RPM). 1515 Changed speed to 17 knots ( 173 RPM). 1519 Changed course to 160o T. & PGC. 1521 Changed course to 070o T. & PGC. 1522 Slowed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 1524 Recovered plane No. 7 to port "C" method, pilot D. K. English, Lt., USNR, passenger D uCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1525 Went to 19 knots (193 RPM). 1527 Changed fleet course and axis to 145o T. & PGC. 1537 Changed fleet course and axis to 325o T. & PGC. 1539 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 1 0. 1553 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 325o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 222.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 325o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM). 1603 Changed fleet course and axis to 145o T. & PGC. 1621 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1738 Slowed to 1 7 knots (173 RPM). 1739 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 145o T. & PGC. 1744 Changed course to 155o T. & PGC. 1746 Changed course to 065o T. & PGC. 1747 Slowed to 12 knots (122 RPM). 1748 MONTPELIER , COLUMBIA, and CLEVELAND recovered aircraft. 1750 Went to 19 knots (193 RPM). 1752 Changed course to 145o T. & PGC. 1755 Commenced zig-zagging, in accordance with plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 145o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1800 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1847 Ceased zig-zagging. 1852 On signal, changed fleet cou rse and axis to 100o T. & PGC. 1858 Secured from General Quarters. 1931 Shifted from No. 1 steering unit to No. 2. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 191.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 100o T. & PGC, speed 19 knots (192 RPM). 2300 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 2310 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2313 This vessel now detached from Task Group 36.2 and is proceeding in company with the U.S.S. COLUMBIA, RENSHAW and SAUFLEY to Espiritu Santo in accordance with Commander Third Fleet orders. 2325 Took station astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA, distance 1000 yds. 2337 Changed speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 2340 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 on base course 112o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
14o 51.1' S. |
15o 30.7' S. |
Anchored in Berth No. 13, |
| Long. |
164o 12.9' E. |
165o 57.0' E. |
Pekoa Channel, Espiritu |
|
Santo, New Hebrides. |
00 - 04
Steaming on base course 112o T. & PGC at speed 26 knots (270 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 on line. Steaming in Cruising Formation One in co mpany with U.S.S. COLUMBIA, OTC, formation guide and U.S.S. SAUFLEY and RENSHAW. U.S.S. COLUMBIA has radar guard 90o on both sides of base course forward of beam. U.S.S. DENVER has radar guard 90o on both sides from astern abaft th e beam. The ship is darkened, in Condition of Readiness 3.6 with Condition "B" set. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 270.8.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on course 112o T. & PGC, speed 26 knots (270 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 0525 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0628 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av . RPM 270.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on course 112o T. & PGC at speed 26 knots (270 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 0815 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on main line. 0816 Went to 29 knots (307 RPM). 0900 Exercised at bu rst firing with 5" battery. 0932 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0940 On signal, changed course to 137o T. & PGC. 0945 Exercised at float light with automatic weapons. 1002 On signal, changed course, ships left to 112 o. 1037 On signal, ceased present exercises. 1039 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 303.7.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 112o T. & PGC, speed 30 knots (307 RPM). 1200 Launched plane No. 7; pilot Lt. (jg) Haseltine, USNR, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1238 Exercised at automatic weapon firing. Ammu nition expended this date:
5"/38 A.A. Com. Projectiles 31
5"/38 Semi-fixed cartridges SPDN 3113 31
40 mm. SPDN 3630 A.A. Projectiles Lot #126 102
40 mm. SPDN 3635 A.A. Projectiles Lot #132 234
20 mm. H.E. Non-Tracer SPDN 3019 479
20 mm. H.E. Tracer N.F. 1473 257
1324 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1326 Changed course and axis to 090o T. & PGC. 1338 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1402 Slowed to25 knots (257 RPM) 1418 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & amp; 4. 1445 Changed course and axis to 000o T. & PGC. 1451 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10, base course 000o T. & PGC. 1512 Ceased zig-zagging and resume base course. 1522 Changed course and axis to 270o T. & PGC. 1527 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1533 On signal followed movements of column leader entering channel. 1539 Slowed to 15 knots. (152 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 3038.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before, various courses and speeds proceeding into harbor anchorage berth. 1630.5 Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 28 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Ship's head 277o PGC, Beacons "A" 049o T, "C" 346.3o T, "B" 129o T, "G" 247.7o T, and White Rock 088.5oT. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is on two hour's notice. 1650 Received oil barge, U.S.N. Y.O. 20 alongside to port. 1700 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Haseltine, USNR, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1705 Comme nced receiving fuel, draft Forward 23' 1", Aft 24' 0". 1745 PC 476 stood into harbor to berth. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 92.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Anchored as before. 1850 Completed taking fuel oil from oil barge; received 269,010 gals. 1854 Y.O. 20 cast off from port side.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before. 2257 U.S.N. YO 20 moored alongside to port. 2307 Commenced taking on fuel from U.S.N. YO 20.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in |
Berth No. 13, Pekoa | Channel, Espiritu |
| Long. |
Santo, New |
Hebrides Group. |
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 28 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacons "A" 049o T, "C" 34 6.3o T, "B" 129o T, "G" 247.7o T. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened, in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), TANG IER, TALAMANCA, TAPPAHANNOCK, LANG, RADFORD, NICHOLAS, STACK, FARENHOLT, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, HONOLULU, ST. LOUIS, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CACHE, PYRO, VIREO, H.M.S. HOBART, S.S. MORINDA and various yard and district craft. 0830 Completed f ueling from Y.O. No. 20. Received 6405 barrels.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0555 Y.T. 75 (SIOUX) underway towing U.S.S. STACK. 0606 PC 476 underway, stood out of harbor. 0620 U.S.S. STACK moored alongside U.S.S. SAUFLEY. 0640 S.S. TAURUS underway, stood out of harbor. 0645 S.S. ROMER st ood out of harbor. 0650 U.S.S. ZANE shifted berth. 0700 U.S.S. JENKINS stood in to anchorage berth. 0705 U.S.S. MEDUSA stood in to anchorage berth. 0715 U.S.N. Y.O. 20 cast off proceeded to fueling dock.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0933 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler for auxiliary use. 1009 U.S.S. LANG underway and standing out. 1045 Secured fires under No. 1 boiler. 1045 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 1140 S.S. MORINDA underw ay and standing out.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1215 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1300 Made weekly test of magazine sprinkling valves. Conditions satisfactory. 1444 S.S. TRYON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1505 U.S.S. STACK underway and standing out. 1515 Pursuant to the orders of Commander South Pacific Force, Captain R. P. Briscoe, U. S. Navy, reported aboard for duty as Commanding Officer. (Ref. BuPers Despatch 191033 of July 1943.). 1545 Held general muster of crew for ceremony of transfer of Command of this vessel.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Anchored as before. 1610 On this date Captain Robt. B. Carney, U. S. Navy, was relieved of command of the U.S.S. DENVER and Captain R. P. Briscoe assumed command pursuant to the orders of Commander South Pacific Force. 1706 The MILLIC OMA, JOSEPH McKENNA, STEROPE, PACIFIC SUN, AND OCTANS stood in and anchored.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Anchored as before.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
L. A. Bird,
Lt. (jg), U.S.N.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in |
Berth No. 13, Pekoa | Channel, |
| Long. |
Espiritu Santo |
Island, New Hebrides | Group. |
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 28 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Following are anchorage bearings: Beacons "A" 049o T, "B& quot; 129o T, "C" 346.3o T, "G" 247.7o T. The ship is darkened. Material Condition "B" set. Ship is in Readiness Condition III. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), DENVER, COLUMBIA, HONOLULU, ST. LOUIS, CHANDELEUR, J. McKENNA, STEROPE, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, RADFORD, JENKINS, NICHOLAS, SAUFLEY, FARENHOLT, WESTERN STAR, PACIFIC SUN, SWALLOW, TAPPAHANNOCK, CACHE, RENSHAW, PYRO, TANGIER, MEDUSA, PO KOMOKE, VESTAL, OCTANE, TRYON, H.M.S. HOBART, LEANDER, and various yard and district craft.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0512 Fire in the wiring of No. 1 motor whaleboat. Fire extinguished immediately, damage confined to battery cable. Caused by an electrical short circuit. 0525 Observed plane crash on Espiritu Santo Island. 0615 TRYON underway, shifted berth. 0634 The STEROPE and OCTANE underway. 0737 JENKINS underway and moored alongside DIXIE. 0750 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 0756 PACIFIC SUN underway and stood out.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0821 YP 343 stood out of harbor. 0827 S.S. WILLICOMA shifted berth. 0832 U.S.S. PUEBLO stood in and anchored. 0920 U.S.S. ALHENA stood in and anchored. 0932 U.S.S. TIKANA stood in and anchored. 0943 U.S.S. HAMI LTON and U.S.S. PERRY stood in and anchored. 1017 YT SONONA stood out of harbor. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1410 Ammunition Boat moored to starboard quarter. Received the following ammunition:
200 5"/38 cal. A.A. Common Projectiles with Mk. 18-2 fuze.
200 5"/38 cal. Semi-fixed Cartridges i.v. 2600 f.s. Smokeless
Powder, various indexes.
1535 U.S.S. RADFORD underway and stood out of harbor.
L. A. Bird,
Lt. (jg), U.S.N.
16 - 18
Anchored as before. 1610 H.M.S. LEANDER underway and stood out of harbor. 1645 U.S.S. JENKINS underway and stood out of harbor. 1707 U.S.S. TRYON underway and stood out of harbor. 1757 YP 419 underway and stood out of harbor.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Anchored as before.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before. 2222 YMS 97 stood in to assigned berth.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Monday, July 26, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in |
Berth No. 13, Pekoa | Channel, |
| Long. |
Espiritu Santo |
Island, New Hebrides | Group. |
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 28 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings as follows: Beacons "A" 049o T, "B" ; 129o T, "C" 346.3o T, "G" 247.7o T. The ship is darkened. Material Condition "B" is set. The ship is in Readiness Condition III. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), HONOLULU, ST. LOUIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA, ALHENA, MONONGAHELIA, PYRO, TANGIER, MEDUSA, POKOMOKE, VESTAL, TAPPAHANNOCK, CHANDELEUR, MILLICOMA, HAMILTON, PERRY, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, NICHOLAS, SAUFLEY, FARENHOLT, WESTERN STAR, CACH E, DARING, TIKANA, JOSEPH McKENNA, OCTANE, STEROPE, SWALLOW, RENSHAW, H.M.S. HOBART, and various yard and district craft.
L. A. Bird,
Lt. (jg), U.S.N.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0552 U.S.S. AP 57 underway and stood out. 0626 U.S.S. OCTANE underway, shifted berth. 0634 U.S.S. NICHOLAS underway and stood out. 0640 U.S.S. HAMILTON underway and stood out. 0655 U.S.S. PERRY underway and stoo d out. 0706 U.S.S. TANGIER underway and stood out. 0720 U.S.S. ALHENA underway and stood out.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0807 U.S.S. HOVEY underway and shifted berth. 0827 U.S.S. MILLICOMA underway and stood out. 0924 Net Tender YN 14 stood in to assigned berth. 0928 U.S.S. 84 underway and shifted berth. 1030 CYRUS W. FIELD underw ay and stood out. 1058 Captain left the ship. 1128 U.S.S. SC 640 underway and stood out. 1156 Captain returned aboard.
J. H. Parker,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1306 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1330 Fired one no-load shot on port catapult. 1400 U.S.S. CHESTER SUN stood in and anchored. 1434 Let fires die under No. 2 boiler, No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purpose s.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 20
Anchored as before. 1635 U.S.S. SC 701 underway and shifted berth. 1930 Exercised at fire quarters; first stream at 1933.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
J. H. Parker,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Tuesday, July 27, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in |
Berth No. 13, Pekoa | Channel, |
| Long. |
Espiritu Santo |
Island, New Hebrides | Group. |
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu
Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 28 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms
of chain out to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings: Beacons "A"
049o T, "B" 129o T, "C"
346.2o T, "G" 247.7o T. Ship darkened and
in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". Boiler
No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA),
HONO LULU, ST. LOUIS, COLUMBIA, DENVER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, STACK, McCALLA,
FARENHOLT, SAUFLEY, RALPH TALBOT, TAPPAHANNOCK, VESTAL, POCOMOKE, PYRO,
MEDUSA, CACHE, PUEBLO, TITAINI, ALHENA, MONONGAHELIA, MILLICOMA, ZANE,
DARING, SWALLOW, H.M.A.S. HOBART, and variou s other yard and district
craft.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Anchored as before. 0647 U.S.S. PERRY underway and shifted berth. 0709 U.S.S. EATON stood in and anchored. 0721 U.S.S. VIRIO underway and shifted berth. 0735 S.S. AMOS G. THROOP stood in and anchored. 0755 YMS 65 Underway and stood out of harbor.
L. A. Bird,
Lt. (jg), U.S.N.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. 0847 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and anchored. 0815 Held quarters for muster. No absentees. 0920 U.S.S. VIRIO underway and shifted berth. 1020 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway and towed into drydock. 1129 U.S.S. EATON und erway and stood out of harbor. Received the following ammunition:
12 Aircraft Depth Bombs Mk. 17 - 325 lb.
12 " Bomb Fuzes, Mk. 24, Mod. 1 (Hydrostatic Type)
12 Tail Vanes.
1122 U.S.S. SC 722 Underway and stood out.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Anchored as before. 1200 U.S.S. DARING underway and stood out. 1207 U.S.S. PUEBLO underway and stood out of harbor. 1232 U.S.S. SAUGUTUCK underway and stood out of harbor. 1315 S.S. AMOS A. THROOP underway and stood out of harbor. 1344 SC 722 underway and shifted berth.
J. H. Parker,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 20
Anchored as before. 1610 P.T. Squadron EIGHTEEN stood in and anchored. 1825 Fuel oil barge moored alongside to starboard. 1838 Commenced fueling. 1900 Completed fueling, received 18816 gals. 1909 Fuel oil barge cast off.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
Wednesday, July 28, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
Anchored in Berth No. 13, |
15o 48.5' S. |
14o 48.1' S. |
| Long. |
Pekoa Channel, Espiritu |
160o 43' E. |
164o 22.9' E. |
| Santo Island, New Hebrides | |||
|
Group, |
|||
00 - 04
Anchored in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 28 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III modified, and in Material Cond ition "B". Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), HONOLULU, ST. LOUIS, COLUMBIA, DENVER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, STACK, SAUFLEY, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, FARENHOLT, TAPPAHANNOCK, VESTAL, POCOMOKE, CACHE, ME DUSA, TITAINI, ALHENA, MONONGAHELIA, MILLICOMA, ZANE, SWALLOW, EATON, VIRIO, CHANDALEUR, WESTERN STAR, YMS 97, YN 26, PC 479, LCT 65, SC 701, SC 471, DMS HOBEY, PYRO, S-38, MTB SQUADRON EIGHTEEN (8 boats), S.S. AMOS G. THROOP, H.M.A.S. HOBART, and various other naval, district, and yard craft.
J. H. Parker,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04- 08
Anchored as before. 0740 Cut boiler No. 4 in on the line. 0730 Began making preparations for getting underway. 0739 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and stood out of harbor. 0743 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out of harbor. 0747 U.S.S. RE NSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 0758 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway and stood out of harbor. Engine No. 3 reported out of commission due to failure of main circulating pump.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Anchored as before. Having made all preparations, got underway from berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Isle, New Hebrides group, in accordance with the directions of Commander Third Fleet. This unit is Task Unit 36.2.2 and is composed of the COLUMBIA (OTC), DENVER, EATON, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW; DENVER second ship in column. This unit is part of Task Group 36.2, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in MONTPELIER. Proceeding to rendezvous with Task Unit 36.2.1 at Point "A" in order to relieve that unit on station. Captain at the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. 0800 U.S.S. McCALLA underway and shifted berth. 0815 Set standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0817 Launched plane No. 7 to starboard, pilot Lieut. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, observer B. A. DUCOTE, ARM2c, USN. 0823 Went to full speed, 20 knots, (203 RPM) and steadied on course 165 o T. & PGC. 0835 Cut in No. 3 boiler. 0839 On signal changed course 090o T. & PGC. 0856 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & PGC. 0900 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. Went to General Quarters for scheduled drills. 0925 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0937 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 270o T. & PGC. 0940 Secured from General Quarters. 0954 On signal exercised at sle eve firing for automatic weapons. Ammunition expended:
40 mm. SPDN 3635 Lot No. 132 55 rounds
40 mm. SPDN 3630 Lot No. 126 40 rounds
20 mm. Non-Tracer SPDN 3019 153 rounds
20 mm. Tracer N.F. No. 1473 77 rounds
1025 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. Took departure at western end of Bougainville Strait Swept Channel. Set course 270o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 1035 On signal ceased present exercises . 1047 On signal ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Made preparations to recover aircraft. 1052 On signal executed ships left to 080o T. & PGC. 1054 On signal went to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1058 On signal executed ships right to 170o T. & PGC. 1059 On signal slowed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 1101 Hoisted in plane No. 7, pilot Lieut. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1102 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1103 On signal changed course and ax is to 270o T. & PGC. 1105 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 38. 1125 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 290o T. & PGC. 1133 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 184.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 290o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM) and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 1228 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1229 Took new station on port beam of guide, distanc e 1000 yds. 1241 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 1315 Began exercising crew at general drills. 1355 Secured from all general drills. 1400 Commenced semi-annual test of pyrotechnic ammunition. All lots tested satisfactorily. 140 0 Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 290o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM) and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1646 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 290o T. & PGC. 1700 Changed course and axis to 320o T. & PGC. Went to 25 knots (254 RPM). 1705 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM), and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38, on base course 320o T. & PGC. 1755 Went t o General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.0.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on course 320o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 38. 1840 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 320o T. & PGC. 1845 Changed fleet course and axis to 287o T. & PGC. 1850 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on course 287o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 201.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Thursday, July 29, 1943
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
13o 40.75' S. |
13o 47.5' S. |
13o 33.0' S. |
| Long. |
160o 40.8' E. |
160o 54.7' E. |
158o 47.0' E. |
00 - 04
Steaming in company with Task Unit 36.2.2. consisting of the U.S.S. COLUMBIA, (OTC), DENVER, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW and EATON; in Cruising Formation Two, base course 287o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Ship is darkened an d in readiness condition III with Condition "B" set. Boilers Nos. 1, 3 and 4 are in use. U.S.S. COLUMBIA has the radar guard forward, U.S.S. DENVER has the radar guard for after sector. 0003 The S. A. Radar was placed back in commission. 031 0 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 38. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 201.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 287o
T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM).
Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 0525 Went to General Quarters
for dawn alert. 0600 Made radar c ontact with Task Unit 36.2.1 and simulated
an attack on that group. 0613 Ceased zig-zagging and formed Cruising Formation
One. 0615 Changed fleet course and axis to 320o T. & PGC.
Went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0616 Changed course to 020o
T. & PGC. Went to 26 knots (270 RPM). 0624 Changed course to 140o
T. & PGC. 0627 Changed course to 180o T. & PGC. 0634
Changed course to 000o T. & PGC. Ships of this task unit
are now in Cru ising Formation One. 0641 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM).
0644 Secured from General Quarters. 0645 Changed fleet course and axis
to 300o T. & PGC. Sighted Task Unit 36.2.1 bearing 30o
T., range 9 miles. 0701 Changed course to 330o T. & PGC.
0704 Maneuvering on various courses and speeds incident to joining formation
with Task Unit 36.2.1. 0715 Cruising on base course to 290o
T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM) in Cruising Formation Two, having
jo ined Task Unit 36.2.1. Ships in this Task Group are U.S.S. MONTPELIER
(CTG), fleet guide, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, SAUFLEY, EATON,
RENSAW, PRINGLE, PHILIP. 0718 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with
plan No. 10. 0754 Ceased zig-zagging a nd resumed base course 290o
T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 208.8.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 287o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 0803 Changed fleet course and axis to 125o T. & PGC. 0803 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. SMITH, B., WT1c, USN, #287 26 24 received the following injuries due to flare back. First and second degree burns around left eye, blistered eye lid and eyeball burned slightly. Treated and returned to duty. 0806 Launched plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenge r FRITZ, R., ARM 3c, USN. 0809 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 0850 The PRINGLE came alongside starboard quarter to deliver mail. 0907 PRINGLE left from alongside. 1035 Changed fleet course and axis to 290o T. & PGC. 1042 Went to 20 knot s (203 RPM). 1044 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1046 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1050 Changed course to 305o T. & PGC. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1138 Slowed to 17 knot s (173 RPM). 1144 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1146 Changed course to 045o T. & PGC. 1150 Changed course to 135o T. & PGC. 1153 Slowed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 1153 Changed course to 145o T. & PGC. 1155 Went to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1157 Changed course to 180o T. & PGC. Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1159 Changed course to 090o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 164.8.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 305o T. & PGC, 15 knots (152 RPM) and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1201 Slowed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 1205 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1206 On signal, ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1208 Hoisted in plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR, observer HAELING, W. J. ARM3c, USN. 1215 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1355 Plane No. 7 reported back in commission. 1458 Cea sed zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1502 On signal slowed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 1503 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 270o T. & PGC and took departure from Task Unit 35.2.1 and proceeded as previously directed. 1504 On si gnal from U.S.S. COLUMBIA, OTC of Task Unit 36.2.2, executed taking assigned station on port beam of U.S.S. COLUMBIA. 1525 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 197.7.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1641 Shifted steering unit to No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1850 Ceased zig-zagging and resume base course 270o T. & PGC. 1855 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & PGC. 1857 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1903 Changed fleet course and axis to 240o T. & PGC. 1904 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.0.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 240o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
13o 45.0' S. |
13o 36.3' S. |
13o 47.0' S. |
| Long. |
159o 43.2' E. |
159o 46.1' E. |
162o 08.0' E. |
00 - 04
Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & PGC, 171o PSC, at 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. In Company with Task Unit 36.2.2 consisting of the U.S.S. COL UMBIA (OTC), DENVER, and destroyers SAUFLEY, EATON; and RENSHAW forming anti-submarine screen. This task unit in Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6, with Material Condition "B" set. The U.S.S. COLUMBIA has the radar guard forward and this ship has the radar guard aft. 0001 Changed fleet course and axis to 060o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.3.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 060o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 0400 U.S.S. RENSHAW left the formation to take station for radar tracking exercise. 0500 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0547 Shifted steering control to steering aft after simulating steering casualty in pilot house. 0635 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0643 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 0646 Secured from Genera l Quarters. 0647 Changed fleet course and axis to 150o T. & PGC and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 0733 Shifted steering control back to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 169.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 150o T. & PGC, speed 15 knots (152 RPM), Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0800 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 150o T. & PGC. Changed course to 130o T. & PGC. 0808 Changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 0814 U.S.S. SAUFLEY came alongside port side to deliver mail. 0823 Changed course to 170o T. & PGC. 0824 Went to 2 2 knots (224 RPM). 0829 Changed course to 160o T. & PGC. Slowed to 15 knots. 0833 Changed fleet course and axis to 310o T. & PGC. 0841 Went to 18 knots (183 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 08 56 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 310o T. & PGC. 0901 Changed course to 040o T. & PGC. 0904 Changed course to 310o T. & PGC. Fleet guide now bears 090o relative from U.S.S. DENVER, dis tant 1000 yds. 0911 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12 on base course 310o T. & PGC. 1010 This ship's S.G. Radar secured for approximately four hours by permission of OTC to make adjustments and repairs. 1033 Ceased zig -zagging and resumed base course. 1041 Changed fleet course and axis to 130o T. & PGC. 1047 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1100 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1107 Having received orders from Commander Third Fleet to return to Espiritu Santo Island, changed fleet course and axis to 107o T. & PGC. 1115 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12 on base course 107o T. & PGC. 1118 U.S.S. DENVER assumed fleet guide. 1147 Changed fleet course and axis to 095o T. & PGC. 1151 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 on base course 095o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 161.5.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 l bs. Av. RPM 199.5.
E. E. Ball, Jr.,
Lt. U.S.N.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1803 Condition "Red" reported in the Russell Islands. 1805 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1845 Ceased zig-zagging and took position 180o relative on U.S.S. COLUMBIA, cruising Formation One. 1857 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.5.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1803 Condition "Red" reported in the Russell Islands. 1805 W ent to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1845 Ceased zig-zagging and took position 180o relative on U.S.S. COLUMBIA, cruising Formation One. 1857 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 201.5.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
20 - 24
Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2046 Shifted steering control to steering aft for drill. 2135 Shifted control back to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.3.
L. J. Tobin,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
| Position |
0800 |
1200 |
2000 |
| Lat. |
14o 07.7' S. |
14o 52.2' S. |
Underway in Pekoa Channel |
| Long. |
166o 06.3' E. |
167o 16.2' E. |
Enroute to Berth No. 3, |
|
Espiritu Santo Island, |
|||
|
New Hebrides Group. |
00 - 04
Steaming as before, enroute to Espiritu Santo, on base course 095o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), in company with Task Unit 36.2.2 consisting of the U.S.S. COLUMBIA, OTC, DENVER, RE NSHAW, EATON and SAUFLEY. The fleet disposition is Cruising Formation One. Cruisers are in column and the destroyers are in the van as anti-submarine patrol. The U.S.S. SAUFLEY has radar guard forward sector and the U.S.S. COLUMBIA in the after sector. The ship is darkened, in Condition of Readiness 3.6 and Material Condition "B". 0212 Shifted steering control to steering aft for drill. 0232 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 0254 Shifted steering control to pilot house. Av. St eam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.8.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
04 - 08
Steaming as before on base course 095o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 0510 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0520 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0617 Shifted steering control to conni ng tower. 0625 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 0626 Exercised at abandon ship drill. 0634 Secured from General Quarters. 0637 Secured from abandon ship drill and general drills. 0721 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 095o T. & PGC. 0730 Launched plane No. 7 to starboard, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 0731 Changed course 085o T. & PGC, went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0739 Changed base course to 12o T. & PGC. 0742 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0746 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12, base course 120o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 204.3.
E. E. Ball,
Lt. U.S.N.
08 - 12
Steaming as before on base course 120o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powde r samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of magazine and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions satisfactory. 0850 Sighted Espiritu Santo bearing 146o T., distance 25 miles. 0930 Exercised at burst firing. Ammunition expended as follows:
5"/38 cal. A.A. Common Projectiles with Mk. 18-2 Time Fuze - 6
5"/38 cal. Semi-Fixed Cartridges Smokeless Powder i.v.2600 f.s. - 6
10143 Launched plane No. 8 to starboard, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 1022 Plane No. 8 reported airleons locked. 1034 Plane No. 8 reported as making a forced landing at St. Phillips Bay. 1038 Left formation in company with the SAUFLEY and EATON and changed course toward St. Phillips Bay to attempt recovery of plane No. 8. 1040 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM) and steadied on course 210o T & PGC. 1042 Changed course to 17 5o T & PGC. 1046 Changed course to 190o T & PGC. 1048 Changed course to 195o T & PGC. 1050 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1051 Changed course to 180o T & PGC. 1059 Changed course to 090o T & PGC. 1103 Went to 18 knots (183 RPM) and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1119 Changed course to 075o T & PGC, and went to 26 knots (270 RPM), rejoining formation having instructed plane to anchor in St . Phillips Bay. 1129 Changed course to 110o T & PGC. 1138 Changed course to 090o T & PGC. 1144 Changed course to 105o T & PGC. 1154 Changed course to 110o T & PGC. 1155 Slowed to 18 knots (1 83 RPM) and changed course to 120o T & PGC. 1158 Steadied on base course 120o T & PGC. 1158 Steadied on base course 120o T & PGC in Cruising Formation One, 1000 yds astern of the COLUMBIA. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 244.8.
K. P. Houlihan,
Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
12 - 16
Steaming as before on base course 120o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1207 Changed fleet course and axis to 170o T. & PGC. 1222 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1225 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance w ith plan No. 10. 1331 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1334 DENVER is now 1000 yds. astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA in column. 1345 Changed fleet course and axis to 225o T. & PGC. 1348 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1351 Began making preparations for entering port. 1401 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225o T. & PGC. 1420 Changed course to 270o T. & PGC. This ship is now following the movements of the column leader, entering harbor. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds, conforming to the channel. 1512 Anchored in berth No. 3, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. 152 7 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1529 Underway from berth No. 3 to go alongside tanker to refuel. Steaming on various courses and speeds. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 151.
J. G. Lightburn,
Lt. D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
16 - 18
Steaming as before on various courses and speeds proceeding from Berth No. 3 harbor anchorage to fueling berth. 1604 Moored starboard side to U.S.S MONONGAHELA in berth No. 28, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. 1621 Commenced receiving fuel forward. 1647 Commenced receiving fuel aft. 1735 Completed fueling forward and aft. Received 162,120 gals. Draft of ship: Forward 24' 3", Aft 24'. 1718 Underway from alongside U.S.S. MONONGAHELA to assigned anchorag e berth.
E. F. Baldwin,
Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
18 - 20
Steaming as before on various courses and speeds, proceeding to assigned anchorage, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. 1810 Anchored in Berth No. 3, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of w ater with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Following anchorage bearings in use: Ship's head 061o T. & PGC, Beacons "A" 013.7o T, "C" 025.4o T., "B" 128o T., " D" 162.7o T. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes.
L. A. Bird,
Lt.(jg), U.S.N.
20 - 24
Anchored as before.
J. P. Wiley,
Lt. DE-V(G), U.S.N.R.
Deck Log & War Diary Transcribed and Edited by Dick Bennett
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