DECK LOG BOOK & WAR DIARY

CONDENSED






USS DENVER

CL 58




MARCH 1, 1943

TO

MARCH 31, 1943

 

 

Wednesday, March 1, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 50.4' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 45.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 59.6' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 12 knots, steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). In company with Task Force 68, SOPA and OTC in WICHITA. Nos. 1 & 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Condition III and Material Condition "B". 0345 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), keeping station on U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0655 Secured from General Quarters. 0700 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 0703 Changed course to 165o T. & P.G.C. 0704 Increase speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 0716 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0722 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. 0730 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0733 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Steaming in patrol plan east of Solomon Islands. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0815 Quarters for muster. Made daily visual inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples. 0900 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17, on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.), exercising at Radar Tracking Drill, Exercise No. "1-S". 0946 At range 30,000 yards from formation guide, changed base course 230o T. & P.G.C., commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 23, changed speed to 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 1052 Ceased present exercises. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds to regain station in formation "C-2". 1104 On station, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1148 Changed formation course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C., maneuvering at various speeds, astern of MONTPELIER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 209.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (173 R.P.M.). 1202 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1253 Ship now cruising in "Cruising Formation 1", ceased zig-zagging. 1318 Commenced firing first run for machine gun practice. 1319 Commenced firing second run for machine gun practice. 1406 Commenced firing first run for machine gun practice. 1409 Commenced firing second run for machine gun practice. 1445 Ship now in "Cruising Formation 2". 1447 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. Speed17 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C., speed17 knots (175 R.P.M), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1920 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1936 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. Changed base course 285o T. & P.G.C. Maneuvering on various speeds and courses. 1946 Changed fleet course to 235o T. & P.G.C., speed to 17 knots (192 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on formation course and axis 235o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

Tuesday, March 2, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 48.6' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 21.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 04.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming as before on base course 235o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M). Boilers 1 & 3 on the line. Ships present are U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, U.S.S. DENVER and U.S.S. CLEVELAND. Cruising in Formation "D-1", the U.S.S. WICHITA is formation guide. This ship is in condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0318 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. speed17 knots (175 R.P.M). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 235o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M). Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0600 Sounded General Quarters. 0707 Changed speed to 12 knots. 0715 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 0716 Changed course to 190o T. & P.G.C. 0725 Changed course to 125o T. & P.G.C. 0727 Changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0729 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 065o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 19 knots (192 R.P.M.). 0747 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 169.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 065o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), various R.P.M. to keep station. 0800 U.S.S. CLEVELAND left formation to our port in range finder and radar tracking maneuvers. 0800 Held Quarters for Muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0912 Shifted steering unit to port cable No. 2. 1000 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 065o T. & P.G.C. Assumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 6 on same base course as before. 1110 Ceased present exercises, resumed base course 065o T. & P.G.C. 1123 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1124 U.S.S. CLEVELAND returned to station in formation, increased speed to 22 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1126 Changed speed to 19 knots (194 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 192.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming on course 065o T. & P.G.C. at 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1202 Changed course and axis to 053o T. & P.G.C. 1206 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1245 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, various courses at various speeds. 1258 Steady on base course 065o T. & P.G.C., in column formation. 1300 Commenced exercising at Training Exercise No. 11, 5" A.A. Surprise Firing at bursts. 1321 Ceased present exercise, expended 51 rounds of service A.A. Common Ammunition. Formed cruising formation "C-2", various courses at various speeds. 1334 Changed to course 053o T. & P.G.C., resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1337 Set Condition III, Watch 3 in 5" A.A. Battery. 1524 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, maneuvering with division to recover MONTPELIER and CLEVELAND planes. 1547 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, division on station in Cruising Formation "C-2", planes recovered. 1559 Steady on base course 053o T. & P.G.C., speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 188.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 053o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1623 Shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 053o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.). 1910 Changed Fleet Speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1920 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1935 Ceased zig-zagging. Changed Fleet Course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 1945 Changed Fleet Course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1959 Secured from General Quarters. 2000 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 185o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 185o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2001 Changed speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 2009 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2011 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 2016 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Light rain squalls during watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

Wednesday, March 3, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 43.3' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 00.8' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 32.5' S.

00 -04

Steaming in company with Task Force 68 less U.S.S. COLUMBIA. On course 185o T. & P.G.C., 178o T. P.S.C., standard speed 15 knots(151 R.P.M.). Steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use, split plant operation. Condition "B" set, ship darkened, Condition of Readiness III. In Cruising Formation "D-1". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 185o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0504 Changed Fleet Course & axis to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0522 Changed Fleet Course & axis to 270o T. & P.G.C. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0652 Secured from General Quarters. 0705 Made rendezvous with U.S.S. NEOSHO and escort. 0711 Changed fleet course to 330o T. & P.G.C. 0730 Launched plane No. 9903 from starboard catapult. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.0.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C. Speed 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). Maneuvering to go alongside tanker. Made daily inspection of magazines and S.P. samples. Conditions normal. 0810 Received tow line from the tanker. Changed speed to 9 knots. 0817 Commenced fueling, forward and aft. 0912 Completed fueling, having received 125,322 gals of fuel oil. 0929 Cast off towing line from the NEOSHO. 0937 Took position abeam to starboard of the tanker, distance 1,000 yds. Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10 (Modified). 1045 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1117 Catapulted Plane No. 14, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, ARM3/c. 134 Recover Plane No. 13, pilot Ens. E. W. Andrews, passenger Rasmussen ARM1/c. 1151 Commenced zig-zagging. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 101.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C., speed 9 knots (94 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Modified Plan No. 10. 1225 U.S.S. MONTPELIER left tanker. 1232 Changed speed to 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1245 U.S.S. CLEVELAND went alongside port side of tanker. 1315 Held Fire and Collision Drills, simulated fire in Battle II. 1322 Secured from Fire Quarters. 1344 Secured from Collision Drill. 1352 Retreat from General Drills. 1355 Destroyer No. 449 came alongside port quarter with official mail. 1356 Received package from destroyer and destroyer left. Various courses and speeds stationing on starboard of tanker and zig-zagging. 1444 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling and left tanker. 1452 Increased speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), various courses. 1505 Took position in "J-1", base course 202o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1508 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1510 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1530 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course, reduced speed to 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1534 Recovered plane No. 14, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, ARM3/c by "D" method. 1538 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), commenced zig-zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 117.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 202o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1608 Shifted steering unit to No. 2 port cable. 1703 Changed speed to 10 knots and ceased zig-zagging. CLEVELAND recovered plane. 1709 Resumed zig-zag Plan No. 10, and changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), plane on board CLEVELAND. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 202o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (170 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1915 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1930 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 176o T. & P.G.C. 1944 Commence Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1955 Ceased Zig-Zag, resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming on course 126o T. & P.G.C., Speed 22 knots. 2005 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 091o T. & P.G.C. Took station No. 1120 in "J-1" Formation. Changed speed to 17 knots. 2025 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Upon making rendezvous with NEOSHO, Rear Admiral R. C. Giffen in WICHITA, with LOUISVILLE, FRAZIER and EDWARDS, left the formation and Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER became SOP and Comtaskforce 68.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

 

Thursday, March 4, 1943

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

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

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 53' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force on course 091o T. & P.G.C. 082o T. P.S.C., at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.) using boilers Nos. 1 & 3, in Formation "J-1". Maintaining stations with U.S.S. MONTPELIER bearing 061o T. and distance 1800 yds; U.S.S. CLEVELAND on port beam, five destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. Comtaskfor 68 in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Ship in darkened condition, material condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. 0030 Radar reports land 091o T., distant 80,000 yds. 0247 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 116o T. & P.G.C. 0249 Changed speed to 13 knots (131 R.P.M.). 0253 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), and 22 knots (223 R.P.M.), changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0259 Changed course to 116o T. & P.G.C., and formation to Cruising Formation 1, preparatory to entering channel Espiritu Island harbor. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 125o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0408 Lost steering control on bridge, shifted to steering aft. 0414 Shifted steering control to Pilot House, casualty corrected. Casualty caused by inadvertently opening power switch, personnel error. 0435 Changed formation course and axis to 090o T. & P.G.C. 0540 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0542 Flight Quarters for bringing up, gassing and arming both planes. 0611 Changed formation course and axis to 045o T. & P.G.C. 0618 Changed formation course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0640 Changed formation course and axis to 315o T. & P.G.C. 0642 Changed formation speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), standard speed. 0645 Stationed all special sea details for entering port. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, conforming to movements of MONTPELIER entering port. 0730 Set all clocks back 1 hour to -11 Time Zone. 0634 proceeded independently to anchor in berth assigned. 0644 Anchored in Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in Berth No. 13 in 25 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Beacon "C" 024o T., Beacon "D" 143o T., Beacon "G" 278o T., Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0907 U.S. Navy Yard Oiler No. 20 came alongside our port side. 0935 The following destroyers got underway and stood out: U.S.S. AARON WARD, U.S.S. RADFORD, U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. MAHAN, U.S.S. ELLETT, U.S.S. FLETCHER, U.S.S. NICHOLAS, and U.S.S. CONWAY. 0947 Commenced fueling ship. 0953 U.S.S. ANDERSON stood in. 1026 Completed fueling ship, received 915 barrels (37340 gallons). 1035 Yard Oiler cast off from our port side. 1112 Lowered Plane No. 14 over the side, pilot Ens. Andrews, passenger Ducote, ARM2/c, for removal to base.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. 1208 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 14. 1245 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1409 Underway from Berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the Bridge. Steaming at various courses following movements of MONTPELIER. 1531 Changed course to 280o T. & P.G.C. Speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 1535 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 139.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 280o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1648 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1656 Changed Fleet Course to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1705 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1711 Turret No. 1 fired 1 round HC to port in accordance with fleet test plans. 1721 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 320o T. and "C" Formation No. 3 was formed. 1720 Changed speed to conform to position, 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1735 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, changed fleet speed to 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 129.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1805 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1815 Shifted steering control to Conn. 1900 Darkened ship. Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1929 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 1930 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 242.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 241.6.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

Friday, March 5, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 15.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 02.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 8o 46' S.

 

00 - 04

Steaming on course 320o T. & P.G.C. Speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.) on boilers Nos. 1, 2, 3. Steaming with Task Force 68 in Cruising Formation 3, MONTPELIER, guide. Seven destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. Ship darkened and Material Condition "B" set. In Readiness Condition III. SOPA and OTC in the MONTPELIER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 243.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before in Formation "C-3", course 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 0500 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0507 Shifted steering and instrument control to Conn and held Bombardment Rehearsal. 0508 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0521 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0605 Secured form General Quarters, set Condition 2.5 in Gunnery Department, Condition III elsewhere in ship. 0617 Shifted steering and instrument control to Pilot House. 0729 Sighted Santa Catalina Island bearing 302o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 243.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0804 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 0830 Held Quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0847 Ceased zig-zagging. 0854 Changed formation course and axis to 320o T. & P.G.C. 0855 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10, on base course 327o T. & P.G.C. 0919 Passed left tangent of Santa Catalina Island abeam to port bearing 237o T, distance 6 miles. Changed formation course and axis to 290o T. & P.G.C. 1120 Reduced speed to 15 knots, steering various courses to take new station. 1124 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 253.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12- 16

Steaming as before on base course 290o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M.) zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1235 Sighted Guadalcanal Island bearing 237o T. 1245 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1311 Changed Fleet course to 301o T. & P.G.C. 1348 Sighted two ships 2 points on starboard bow. 1408 Ships identified as tanker and Destroyer DD-607. 1436 Sighted 7 Navy "Corsair" fighter planes. 1514 Changed course to 281o T. & P.G.C. 1529 Changed course to 277o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 256.6.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 277o T. & P.G.C. Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). In column astern of the CLEVELAND. 1641 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 295o T. & P.G.C. 1701 Launched Plane No. 13 Pilot Ens. B. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c and Plane No. 14 Pilot W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger Ducote, B. A. ARM2/c, which departed for seaplane base, Tulagi. 1752 Changed speed to 25 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 266.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 295o T. & P.G.C., speed 22 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1820 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 1841 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert and in preparation for entering enemy waters for bombardment of Vila. 1929 Shifted steering and instrument control to Conn. 1948 Following motions of column leader, changed course to 302o P.G.C. and True. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 254.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Proceeding with Task Force Sixty-eight to Kula Gulf, New Georgia Group, for bombardment of Vila, Kolombangara Island, and Munda, New Georgia. At 2000 Munda detachment, consisting of FLETCHER, O'BANNON, RADFORD and NICHOLAS left the formation and proceeded independently toward Munda in accordance with Comtaskforce 68 Operations Plan 2-43. Vila detachment, consisting of MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, CONEY and CONWAY steaming on course 302o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Ship in Battle Condition. Cruisers in column, order MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, destroyers disposed as screen ahead on three thousand yard circle. 2145 Began serving battle rations to ship's company on station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 249.5.

N. D. Brantly,

Comdr., U.S.N.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Details of preparation for Bombardment of Vila and of information as to enemy movements received enroute are contained in action report, copy attached to Operational Log and War Dairy for March 6, 1943.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Saturday, March 6, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. (Latitude 9o 05.4' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. (Latitude Anchored at Port Purvis,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 20.4' S.

00 - 04

Proceeding in company with Comtaskforce 68 in MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, CONWAY, CONY and WALLER to Kula Gulf for bombardment of Vila, Kolombangara Island, New Georgia Group, in accordance with Comtaskforce 68 Operation Plan 2-43 of March 3, 1943. Base course 302o P.G.C. & T. Speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Boilers 1,2,3, & 4 in use. Ship's company at battle stations, and ship in Battle Condition. Cruisers in column, the MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, distance 1000 yards; destroyers disposed ahead as screen on 3,000 yard circle. At 0000 destroyers proceeded as directed in operation plan to bombardment approach stations. At 0015 reduced speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) and changed course to 240o P.G.C. & T., rounding Visuvisu Point, New Georgia, heading into Kula Gulf. At 0021 Condition "A", which had been partially relaxed for battle messing, was restored. At 0027 Radar operators reported getting curious interference effects. At 0030 All stations were alerted. At 0100 unidentified surface target reported by MONTPELIER and Taskforce was ordered to stand alerted. At 0100 unidentified surface target reported by MONTPELIER and Taskforce was ordered to stand by to commence firing. 0101 MONTPELIER opened fire to starboard on enemy surface target followed immediately by CLEVELAND and DENVER, and then the order to commence firing was received. Details of ensuing action in which two (2) Japanese cruisers were sunk by cruiser main battery gunfire and destroyer torpedoes, and shore batteries and surface targets were engaged by 5" battery, are contained in DENVER Action Report, copy attached to this log. 0113 1/2; Checked fire. 0113 Shifted control of steering to after steering station, Conning Tower having lost control. 0115 Increased speed to 25 knots to maintain station. 0116 During lull in firing it was reported that one man was injured at 20 MM Mount No. 17; man was removed to main deck battle dressing station and at 0125 pronounced dead by the Medical Officer as a result of blast of turret guns. Identity of man was later established as Thompson, James William, S2/c, 560-09-06, V-6, U.S.N.R. At 0124 began changing to planned bombardment course 000o P.G.C., speed 15 knots, adjusting course and speed to maintain position. 0127 Opened fire and 0136 ceased firing with main battery on shore objective. At 0139 began changing course to the right to retirement course, 045o P.G.C. & True. At 0140 Opened fire with starboard 5" battery on surface target and changed to flank speed 25 knots. At 0143 Ceased fire. At 0145 increased speed to 31 knots (330 R.P.M.) and sighted flares on starboard quarter. 0151 Shifted control of steering back to Conning Tower. 0215 Changed course to 090o P.G.C. & T. 0217 began working up to full power. 0231 Changed course to 115o P.G.C. & T. 0240 Reduced speed to 31.5 knots (340 R.P.M.). 0300 Reduced speed to 31 knots (330 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 273.3.

N. D. Brantly,

Comdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, retiring from action at Vila, heading toward Guadalcanal at Flank Speed, (330 R.P.M.) on course 115o P.G.C. & T. 0614 Changed course to 123o T. & P.G.C., steaming in column, MONTPELIER being the guide. 0630 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0655 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 115o T. & P.G.C., forming Cruising Formation No. 3, DENVER position No. 3. 0652 Secured from General Quarters and set Readiness Condition III in accordance with signal of OTC to set Condition III at discretion. 0711 Changed base course to 120o T. & P.G.C. and speed to 26 knots (269 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0715 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 07333 Secured Nos. 1 & 3 boilers. 0754 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 140o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 305.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 140o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, in Cruising Formation No. 3. 0823 Stationed special sea details. 0825 Cease zig-zagging, resumed base course and changed fleet course to 070o T. & P.G.C. 0831 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), formed Cruising Formation 1, to enter Port Purvis. 0834 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds to anchorage. 0914 Anchored in Berth No. 20 in Port Purvis, Florida Island in 19 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "K" 061o T., "J" 119o T., "N" 057o T., ships head 051o T. 0915 Secured main engines. 0926 Sounded Flight Quarters. Draft upon anchoring, Forward 23' 5", Aft 24' 7". 0951 Destroyer U.S.S. CONY came alongside for fueling. 1000 Recovered plane No. 13, Pilot Ensign D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c. 1010 Commenced fueling destroyer. 1020 Recovered plane No. 14, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM2/c. 1111 U.S.S. CONY completed fueling and cast off. 1130 Stationed special sea details, prepared to get underway. 1155 Lieut. (jg) Philip G. Taylor, E-V(G) U.S.N.R., reported aboard for further transportation to first available hospital, from U.S.S. TREVER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 085.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1204 Underway from Berth No. 20, Port Purvis, Florida Island, Captain Conning, Executive Officer and Navigator on the Bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) with boilers nos. 2 & 4 in use. Steaming on various courses at various speeds to clear harbor, in company with MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv 12), CLEVELAND, and destroyer screen, 7 destroyers: FLETCHER, CONWAY, O'BANNON, CONY, RADFORD, NICHOLAS, AND WALLER. 1238 Formed cruising formation No. 1. Changed speed to formation speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1300 Quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1316 Changed course to 070o T. & P.G.C. 1320 Fire reported in B-204-M; sounded Fire Quarters. Faulty operation of fire warning apparatus. 1334 Secured from fire quarters. 1335 Changed formation speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1338 Went to General Quarters in obediance to signal. Condition "Red" in Guadalcanal Island. 1347 Cut all boilers in on line. 1355 Formed Special Disposition "J-3". 1357 Commenced zig-zagging according to Plan No. 10, base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 1429 Secured from General Quarters. Turned to course to 130o T, new formation course. 1500 Set clocks ahead 1 hour to zone time -12. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, formation axis 110o T., base course 130o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 251.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming on base course 130o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M. on zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1600 Commenced burial services for James William Thompson, S2/c, 560-09-06, V-6, U.S.N.R., killed by gun blast during action on March 6, 1943. 1602 DENVER and ships in company half-masted colors. 1608 The body of James William Thompson was committed to the deep with appropriate ceremonies. 1609 Two blocked colors. 1621 Changed Fleet Course to 107.5o T. & P.G.C. 1721 Changed Fleet Course to 110o T. & P.G.C. 1749 Sounded General Quarters in readiness for possible air attack. 1756 All boilers lit off and on the line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 252.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 110o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). 1828 Secured from General Quarters. 1908 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. 1910 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 118o to P.G.C. 1912 Commended Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1935 Sounded General Quarters. 1947 Changed speed to 24 knots (243 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 253.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 118o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (243 R.P.M.). Various speeds in position-keeping. 2355 Changed course to 078o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 240.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

ADDITONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER. 

As noted in log for the mid-watch, details of action are contained in Action Report, copy attached hereto.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

 

Sunday, March 7, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 17' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 53.5' S.

00 -04

Steaming on course 078o T. & P.G.C., 071o T. & P.S.C., at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers No. 2 & 4 in use. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set, Condition II in anti-aircraft battery, and condition III in rest of ship. In company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, O.T.C., CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONY, RADFORD, O'BANNON, NICHOLAS, CONWAY, and WALLER, in Cruising Formation "C-3", DENVER on station No. 2. 0020 Formation changed course to 118o T. & P.G.C., by turn signal. Formation changed course to 078o T. & P.G.C., by turn signal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 241.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 -08

Steaming as before on base course 118o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0659 Secured from General Quarters. 0735 Making preparations for fueling destroyer to port. 0740 Made rendezvous with Tanker SABINE and escort. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 235.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on course 225o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0817 Changed course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 0823 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. Speed 10 knots. On station, 1000 yds. on the starboard beam of tanker. 0853 U.S.S. WALLER alongside to port for fueling. 0908 Commenced fueling WALLER. 1020 Completed fueling, transferred 39,793 gals. fuel oil. WALLER left from alongside. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 115.8.

J. G. Lightburn

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

 

12 -16

Steaming as before on base course 265o T. & P.G.C. at 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). Made daily, weekly, and fortnightly tests of magazines smokeless powder samples, magazine sprinklers, shell storage and hangar spaces sprinklers; conditions normal. 1330 Destroyer DD 449 completed fueling, left tanker, Destroyer DD 445 went alongside to fuel. 1429 Destroyer 445 completed fueling, left for station in screen. 1443 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1445 Changed course to 205o T. & P.G.C. 1450 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. to take position preparatory to going alongside tanker for fueling. 1454 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling and left tanker's side. 1517 DENVER went alongside, received first line from U.S.S. SABINE. 1542 Commenced pumping after hose. 1544 Commenced pumping forward hose. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 100.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before at 10 knots (100 R.P.M.), with tanker U.S.S. SABINE alongside to starboard, on course 265o T. & P.G.C., receiving fuel. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1700 Completed fueling form tanker. Received 267,463 gals. of fuel oil from tanker, oil on hand 660,675 gal. 1719 Cast off all lines, steering various courses at various speeds, taking station in Formation "C-3". U.S.S. SABINE and destroyer escort, U.S.S. MAHAN proceeded on duty assigned, all fueling of this force completed. 1720 Changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C. 1725 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 22 knots to take station. 1727 Changed speed to 18 knots, on station. 1742 Changed speed to 16 knots, formation speed. 1744 Changed formation course to 278o T. & P.G.C. 1748 Changed formation course to 300o T. & P.G.C., steering various courses at various speeds to take station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 122.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on base course 340o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (158 R.P.M.). 1820 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.5.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 -24

Steaming as before on course 305o T. & P.G.C. Speed 21 knots. 2020 Changed speed to 16 knots. 2027 Changed course to 310o T. & P.G.C. 2100 Changed Fleet course and axis to 020o T. & P.G.C. 2130 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 70o T. & P.G.C. 2200 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 110o T. & P.G.C. Steadied on this course in Cruising Formation No. 3. Speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Monday, March 8, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 23.5' S.

(Longitude 166o 56.0' E.

 

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 12.0' S.

(Longitude 167o 34.0' E.

 

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 26.4' S.

(Longitude 166o 16.8' E.

 

00 -04

Steaming on course 110o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), fleet speed, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers No. 2 and 4 in use, in cruising formation 3, in company with Task Force 68, SOPA U.S.S. MONTPELIER is guide. Ship in darkened condition and Material Condition "Baker" and Readiness Condition 2.5. 0238 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 0243 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 0246 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 -08

Steaming on course 110o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0520 "SG" radar picked up land bearing 055o T., distance 22 miles, identified as Vanikuro Island. 0600 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0626 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft, casualty drill. 0626 Shifted steering control to Central, casualty drill. 0650 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0703 Secured from General Quarters. 0709 Shifted steering control to Bridge. 0730 Formed astern of MONTPELIER on base course 110o T. CLEVELAND left the formation to take station as Radar Target. 0746 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0751 Changed speed to 20.5 knots (204 R.P.M.), commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 41 on base course 110o T. & P.G.C., exercising at Radar Tracking Drill, Training Exercise "2-P", CLEVELAND acting as target. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 164.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

  

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 41, speed 20 knots (204 R.P.M.). 0830 Held Quarters for muster. 0845 Sighted land bearing 341o T. & P.G.C. 0850 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 0900 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 110o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots. 1045 Fleet changed course and axis to 028o T. & P.G.C. 1105 Fleet changed course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 -16

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 330o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1259 Fleet course and axis changed to 240o T. & P.G.C. 1330 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1541 Ceased Zig-zagging, and changed Fleet course and axis to 216o T. & P.G.C. 1454 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.6.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 216o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1702 Sighted land (North Island, Torres Group) bearing 189o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on course 216o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1835 Formation changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.), while U.S.S. FLETCHER went alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1840 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1853 Changed formation course and axis to 194o T. & P.G.C., changed formation speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1906 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 194o T. & P.G.C. 1915 General Quarters for dusk alert. 2000 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 163.0.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 -24

Steaming as before on base course 194o T. & P.G.C., at 16 knots (161 R.P.M.). 2043 U.S.S. CONWAY reported a target bearing 126o T. distance 7 miles. 2050 Radar reported two targets bearing 140o T. and 125o T. respectively. 2052 U.S.S. NICHOLAS despatched to investigate targets. 2105 Targets identified as two friendly ships. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 156.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

Tuesday, March 9, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16o 9.8' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 05.9' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Tanker U.S.S. KANKAKEE

In Berth No. 1, Havannah Harbor,

(Longitude Efate, New Hebrides.

00 -04

Steaming on Fleet Course 190o T. & P.G.C. at fleet speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Readiness Condition II (A.A. Battery), other departments Condition III. Steaming in company with Task Force 68. MONTPELIER guide and SOPA. Cruising Formation No. 3, DENVER in position 1.5-220. 0219 Fleet Course changed to 149o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 154.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 149o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), Cruising Formation 3, speed to maintain position. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. Sounded Flight Quarters. 0607 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0614 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0642 Made emergency turn to course 066.5o T. & P.G.C. 0646 Made turn right to course 126.5o T. & P.G.C. 0650 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0658 Secured from General Quarters. 0715 Changed speed of fleet to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on formation course, and axis, 149o T. & P.G.C., at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0813 Sighted ship and plane bearing 275o T., distance 9 miles, believed to be U.S.S. NAUTILUS. 0830 Mustered crew at Quarters. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0952 Passed Malikula Island abeam to port, distant 6 miles. 1057 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft, for drill. 1126 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 1140 Shifted steering control to the Bridge. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 197.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 149o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1403 Signal to commence scheduled exercise was executed. Exercise consisted of A.A. firing at towed sleeve, simulating high level bomber, dive bomber, and torpedo plane. 1406 Ceased Zig-Zag, resumed base course 149o T. & P.G.C. 1410 Cruisers formed column in obedience to signal. 1512 Commenced firing 5" battery, Mounts 1 & 6. 1513 Ceased firing, "H" runs. 1535 Sounded Flight Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 -20

Steaming as before, Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 000o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Commenced firing "T" runs. 1612 Ceased firing, completed exercise. 1614 Ceased Zig-Zag. 1620 Changed course to 112.5o T. & P.G.C. 1626 Catapulted Plane No. 9928, Pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, W. U., ARM3/c. 1628 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1632 Changed course to 050o T. & P.G.C. 1637 Changed course to 110o T. & P.G.C. 1650 Changed speed to 15 knots, commenced steaming on various courses enroute to harbor. Captain at the Conn. 1710 Moored port side to the U.S.S. KANKAKEE in Berth No. 1, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. 1728 Commenced fueling. 1757 Completed fueling, having received 70,162 gals. of fuel oil. Secured main engines. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Wednesday, March 10, 1943

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

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

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

00 -04

Moored port side to tanker U.S.S. KANKAKEE in Berth No. 1 in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. No. 4 boiler in use for auxillary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, EONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUAWANNEE, SANGAMON.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0415 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0555 Draft of ship, Forward 24' 1", Aft 24' 5". 0558 Underway enroute to Berth No. 4, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the Bridge. 0613 Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor. Bearing: Beacon "K" 041.7o T., "B"-"Z" 305o T., "B"-"F" 102.2o T. Ship's head 071o T. 0625 Secured No. 2 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at Quarters. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 The following named men left the ship on temporary shore patrol duty: GIBSON, A. E., CWT; VAN SICKLE, L. W., CM2c; DEBEVIC, M. F., MM2c; DELLAPA, F. S., EM1c; SCHENUNEMANN, L., MoMM2c; MATHESON, P.C., MM2c; HIESTER, A. J., SK2c; MULLINS, J. B., CTC; FRINK, L. A., BM2c; ORTON, J. W. BM2c; EHRINGER, E. BM2c; BENSON, H. R., BM2c; MCLEOD, J. W., BM2c. 1410 Hoisted out Plane No. 13, Pilot Ens. Haseltine, Passenger Lt. (jg) Peery, for routine local flight.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. The following men returned aboard, temporary duty as Shore Patrol having been completed: GIBSON, A. E., CWT; VAN SICKLE, L. W., CM2c; DEBEVIC, M. F., MM2c; DELLAPA, F. S., EM1c; SCHENUNEMANN, L., MoMM2c; MATHESON, P.C., MM2c; HIESTER, A. J., SK2c; MULLINS, J. B., CTC; FRINK, L. A., BM2c; ORTON, J. W. BM2c; EHRINGER, E. BM2c; BENSON, H. R., BM2c; MCLEOD, J. W., BM2c. 1633 Set Modified Condition III on A.A. Battery. 1700 Hoisted aboard No. 13 plane.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before, ship in Readiness Condition III, Modified. Ship darkened.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Thursday, March 11, 1943

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored at Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, Berth No. 4 in 34 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain on the port anchor. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes. Ship in Readiness Condition III, Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0450 Manned A.A. Battery for dawn alert.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0838 Hoisted out plane No. 13, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, A-V(N) U.S.N.R., passenger Milton S. Doane 628 97 66, Y3/c, V-6, U.S.N.R. 0843 U.S.S. PHILLIPS got underway and stood out. 0855 U.S.S. MC CALLA standing in. 0910 U.S.S. NICHOLAS stood out. 0920 Pursuant to orders of the commanding officer, the following named men left the ship with recreation party as shore patrol: TEN BRINK, Eugene "T". "R". no. 632 12 34, MM1c, V-6 USNR; KNAPP, Walter Burton, no. 393 61 71, EM2c, USN; STONE, John J., PhM1c, to render first aid if necessary. 0937 Fired one no-load shot on starboard catapult. 0940 S.S. GULF BIRD stood in and moored to starboard side of U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 0957 U.S.S. FRAZIER stood in. 1130 Hoisted in Plane No. 13. 1133 Recreation party and above-named men returned aboard.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Pursuant to orders of the commanding officer, the following named men left the ship with recreation party, to act as temporary shore patrol: PIERCE, C. B., GM2c; BROWN, O. D., GM2c, SEAMANS, D. B., GM2c; FINNIN, R., FC2c; TIGHE, T. M., BM2c; JONES, F. K., SC2c, WILSON, E. R., WT1c; PROFITT, S. H., WT1c; GULAS, J. P., MM2c; CHAIDO, P. C., MM2c; McCARTHY, J. R., MM2c; NORTH, O. O., BM1c (in charge). 1145 PETRE, K. W., S2c, 628 65 24 USNR (V-6) received cuts and bruises due to a fall from air aft - first aid was administered in the sick bay. 1315 Fired one no-load shot on port catapult.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

16- 20

Anchored as before. 1730 The shore patrol returned to the ship.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Friday, March 12, 1943 

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, with bearings on the following beacons: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes. The ship is in Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, WICHITA, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, and SANGAMON.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0450 Manned the 5" Battery for dawn alert. 0700 U.S.S. CONWAY, U.S.S. CONY, U.S.S. WALLER, and U.S.S. EATON standing out.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1303 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 1357 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main line, and let fires die out under No. 4. 1415 S.S. GULF BIRD got underway and stood out. 1421 U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood into harbor and moored alongside U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 1451 U.S.S. CONWAY, CONY, and WALLER stood in and anchored. 1520 U.S.S. PHILLIPS stood in and anchored. 1522 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in and anchored. 1550 Prepared to receive U.S.S. WALLER alongside to port. 1559 U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 20

Anchored as before with U.S.S. WALLER tied up on our port side.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

Saturday, March 13, 1943

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of cable to the port anchor, on the following bearings of Beacons: "F" 102.3o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in darkened condition and Readiness Condition III. U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, DENVER, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, and SANGAMON.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Made weekly test of magazine sprinkling systems. Conditions satisfactory. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0800 Assumed Cruiser Ready Duty. 0817 Hoisted Plane No. 13 over the stern. Pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Stevens, W. G., AM2/c, U.S.N. 0855 WALLER left from alongside. 0905 Hoisted in Plane No. 13. 0920 Hoisted out Plane No. 14, Pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Stevens, W. G., AM2/c, U.S.N. 1050 Hoisted in Plane No. 14.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before, ship with "Ready Duty.". 1208 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE got underway. 1230 Lowered Plane No. 13 overboard, pilot Ens. Allison, passenger Ducote, ARM2/c. 1248 U.S.S. CONY underway, shifted anchorage berth. 1415 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE stood in, berthed starboard side to alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA to fuel. 1546 U.S.S. shifted berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1600 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE got underway from alongside of tanker and proceeded to anchorage. 1615 LOUISVILLE anchored in Berth No. 10. 1631 CONY moored to port side of LOUISVILLE. 1651 The Shore Patrol unit consisting of one officer and two C.P.O.'s returned to the ship, temporary shore patrol duty completed.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Sunday, March 14, 1943 

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of cable to the port anchor on the following bearings: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. Ship darkened, in Readiness Condition 2.5. A.A. Battery with "Ready Duty," Condition "B" set. Ships present: U.S.S. COLORADO, MARYLAND, WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, DENVER. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

0800 Anchored as before. This ship released from Cruiser Ready Duty. U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed Ready Cruiser Duty. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 1000 Daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples made - conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. MARYLAND and COLORADO underway and standing out. 1215 DONA-NOTI standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before.

L. J. Tobin

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

G. C. Wilson

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

Monday, March 15, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth No. 4

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

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18o 03' S.

00 - 04

Anchored in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island in Berth No. 4 in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor. Bearings of beacons: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Material Condition "B" set. Modified Condition No. 3 set. SOPA in the WICHITA. The WALLER alongside to port.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0637 U.S.S. CONY underway. 0700 U.S.S. WICHITA underway. 0720 Lit off No. 1 and No. 2 boilers.

L. J. Tobin

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0805 U.S.S. CONWAY underway. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 0845 U.S.S. PHILLIPS and RENSHAW standing in. 1112 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1120 Let fires die out under No. 1 boiler.

G. C. Wilson

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before with the U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside our port side. 1228 Lighted off boiler No. 1. 1230 Secured boiler No. 2. 1300 Commenced preparations for getting underway. 1330 U.S.S. WALLER got underway. 1402 This ship underway. 1447 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, base course 270o T. & P.G.C., in company with CruDiv 12. Formed column in order MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER and stood out of harbor at various speeds and courses, conforming with channel, Captain and Navigator on the bridge. 1505 Changed course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 1506 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1513 Sounded General Quarters to carry out exercise "1-S", destroyers and then cruisers each in turn firing on towed sleeve simulating high level bombing attack. 1514 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 128.6.

J. G. Lightburn

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

16 - 18

At 1600 clocks were set ahead one hour to -12 Zone Time. Steaming as before on course 225o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots, 202 R.P.M. 1600- Clocks were set ahead one hour to zone 12 time. 1728 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1810 Changed fleet course and axis to 280o T. & P.G.C. 1818 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 218.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 280o T. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1905 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1910 Heavy rain squall, 2000 yd. visibility. 1939 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 280o T., increased visibility. 1945 Commenced scheduled exercises. 1949 Commenced firing 5' and automatic weapons at floating flares. 1952 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced firing. 1953 U.S.S. CLEVELAND ceased firing. 1954 Commenced firing. 1955 Ceased present exercise. 1957 No. 4 mount unloaded through muzzle. Overcast and squally. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 280o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (171 R.P.M.). 2003 Secured from General Quarters. 2008 Changed formation course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C., changed formation speed to 22 knots. 2103 Shifted to No. 2 steering unit, port cable. 2120 Entered very heavy rain squall and electrical storm, visibility 500 yards. 2140 Visibility increased to 1500 yards. 2150 Changed formation speed to 17 knots (171 R.P.M.). 2200 Changed formation course and axis to 270o T. & P.G.C. Formed cruising disposition No. 2. Steering at various courses at various speeds astern of CLEVELAND to take station. 2128 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C. and speed 17 knots (171 R.P.M.), on station. 2330 Changed formation course and axis to 215o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

Tuesday, March 16, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 01.3' S.

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18o 57.0' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 57.8' S.

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2 in company with Cruiser Division No. 12 and destroyers WALLER, EATON, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW, on base course 215o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on the line. Ship darkened, Condition of Readiness 2.5 and Material Condition "B". Fleet guide and SOPA in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. U.S.S. CLEVELAND is our unit guide. 0002 Changed fleet course and axis to 157o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 157o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0616 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0700 Secured from General Quarters. 0704 Ceased zig-zagging. 0704 Sighted six (6) ships bearing 130o T. & P.G.C. 0705 Changed course to 095o T. & P.G.C. 0717 Changed speed to 22 knots. Commenced steaming on various courses at various speeds to join up with the SARATOGA and accompanying ships of Task Force 14, ComTaskForce 14 in SARATOGA, SOPA and OTC. 0748 In position in formation "1 L" and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19 on base course 325o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, 202 R.P.M. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 325o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0804 Changed ship's speed to 19 knots. 0810 Set all ship's clocks back one hour to -11 Zone time. 0711 Changed ship's speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0712 Changed ship's speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 0857 Signal ceased zig-zag and resume base course. 0900 On Signal, changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 0913 On signal, changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 0920 On signal changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 0931 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19, base course 235o T. & P.G.C. 0943 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft, on course 120o T. & P.G.C., this ship conforming and ceasing zig-zag. 0955 Resumed base course 235o T. & P.G.C., resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Various speeds for station-keeping. 1020 According to plan, U.S.S. SARATOGA dropped bomb into sea. 1026 Changed course to 325o T. & P.G.C. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1034 Formed Cruising Formation I. 1035 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1040 Changed course to 325o T. & P.G.C. 1104 Changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 1110 Changed course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1125 Formed Cruising Formation 1-V. 1137 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 1146 Changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 1156 Made 360o turn from original head of 055o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 055o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (183 R.P.M.) formation axis 325o T. 1246 Changed formation course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1256 Shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. 1300 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, exercising at tactical maneuvers with ComTaskForce 14, OTC in SARATOGA. 1335 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1443 Formed Cruising Formation 1-V. 1555 Ceased present exercises. 1559 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, steadied on course 325o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation No. 1 on base course 290o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.) 1616 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 325o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Speed 18 knots. 1800 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1857 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 340o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2235 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 340o T. & P.G.C. 2240 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 2250 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan number 19, on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed to maintain position in formation 1-L. Light rain squalls during watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

At 0000 (Zone Description -12) (1200 March 15, G.C.T.), U.S.S. DENVER (together with CruDiv 12 and ships in company) became part of Task Force 19, Pacific Fleet, attached to the Command of Commander, South Pacific Force (Commander, Third Fleet). At 0717 CruDiv 12 and destroyers in company under Command of Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, U.S.N., (all ships being regularly assigned to Task Force 19, Sopacfor), in accordance with orders from Comsopacfor, made rendezvous with a detachment of Task Force 14, consisting of U.S.S. SARATOGA, SAN JUAN, FANNING, DUNLAP, CASE, CUMMINGS, McCALL under command of ComTaskForce 14, Rear Admiral D. C. Ramsey, U.S.N., for tactical exercises and indoctrination in carrier task force operations.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Wednesday, March 17, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 01.1' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 10.1' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 35.7' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 14 and 19, on fleet course 250o T. & P.G.C., fleet axis 325o T. & P.G.C., at fleet speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots, with U.S.S. SARATOGA (O.T.C.), Comtaskfor 19, at fleet center, in formation "1-L". Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. Ship darkened, Condition "B" set, Condition of Readiness III. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0100 Changed course and fleet course to 160o T. & P.G.C. 0135 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

R. E. MAGOFFIN,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 160o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.) in cruising formation "1-L". 0450 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0500 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0554 Secured from General Quarters. 0609 Ceased zig-zagging, changed fleet course to 135o T. & P.G.C. 0615 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0657 Ceased zig-zagging. 0712 Changed fleet course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 0712 Changed speed to 14 knots (141 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.4.

J. G. LIGHTBURN

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C. Speed 15 knots, Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0947 Ceased zig-zagging. 1000 CruDiv 12 proceeding independently and steaming on various courses to take position in Cruiser Formation No. 2. 1036 In formation, Section No. 2, astern of the CLEVELAND. 1037 Changed to -12 Zone Time. 1140 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 335o T. & P.G.C., Speed 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 159.4.

K. P. HOULIHAN,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 335o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1250, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powders samples, conditions normal. 1253 Shifted to No. 2 unit and port cable. 1458 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 335o T. & P.G.C. 1500 Commenced scheduled exercise 1-L, changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), U.S.S. CLEVELAND section leader and guide, U.S.S. CONWAY and U.S.S. EATON escorting. 1511 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, on course 260o T. & P.G.C. as base. 1554 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1558 Changed course to 342o T. & P.G.C., speed 21 knots (212 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.

E. F. BALDWIN,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 342o T. & P.G.C. at speed 21 knots (212 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zaggging in accordance with Plan No. 1, exercise at Radar Tracking Drill, exercise "1-S". 1705 Ceased present exercises. Commenced reforming Cruising Disposition No. 2. Steering various courses at various speeds, steering astern of CLEVELAND. 1726 In position in Cruising Formation No. 2, on fleet course and axis 305o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1730 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 201.

R. E. MAGOFFIN,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 305o T. & P.G.C. at speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.) in cruising formation No. 2. 1833 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. Changed fleet course and axis to 335o T. & P.G.C. 1911 Commenced to zig-zag in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1926 Ceased zig-zagging. Resumed base course 335o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.7.

J. G. LIGHTBURN

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming on course 335o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots. Commencing firing runs, practice "9-L" and "9-S". 2055 Completed exercise. 2058 Secured from General Quarters. 2106 Fleet course and axis changed to 055o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots. 2122 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 2207 Changed speed to 18 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.0.

K. P. HOULIHAN,

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

Thursday, March 18, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 38.9' S.

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

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

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2, base course 055o T. & P.G.C., 045o T. P.S.C., on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) at speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), using boilers Nos. 1 & 3. Ship in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) (ComCruDiv 12), U.S.S. COLUMBIA, U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. PHILLIPS, U.S.S. RENSHAW, U.S.S. CONWAY and U.S.S. EATON. Ship darkened, in Readiness Condition III, and Material Condition "B". 0217 Heavy rain squall of short duration. 0323 Entered heavy rain squall. 0330 TBS signal of radar contact bearing 105o T., changed course to 355o T. & P.G.C., ceased zig-zag on Plan No. 10. 0335 TBS signal, changed course to 015o T. & P.G.C. 0345 changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 0349 Changed speed to conform to position to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0351 U.S.S. RENSHAW reported "Contact negat". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on formation course 055o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0448 Radar contact of land bearing 020o T. to 028o T., distant 22.5 miles. 0528 Radar bearing on nearest point of land 007o T., distant 23000 yds. 0545 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551 Changed formation course to 065o T. & P.G.C. 0603 Flight Quarters to bring up one plane. 0614 Changed speed to 10 knots to form Cruising Formation No. 1, steering various courses. 0639 On course 090o T. & P.G.C. in Cruising Formation No. 1, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0645 Secured from General Quarters. 0700 Changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. by section column. 0717 Changed formation course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0720 Launched Plane No. 14 to port from Port Catapult, for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Ensign D. Allison, passenger Rasmussen, A. F. RM3/c, U.S.N.R. 0722 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 000o T. 0729 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0730 Set special sea details and anchoring detail. Made all preparations for entering port. 0733 Formed Division column formation. 0739 Commenced following motions of column leader conforming to channel, entering Pekoa Channel at Esirpitu Santo Island, New Hebrides. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 155.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before steering various courses to conform with the channel, Captain conning, Navigator on the bridge. 0900 Set all clocks back 1 hour to -11 time zone. 0825 Moored port side to U.S.S. KANAWHA in Berth No. 34. 0855 Commenced fueling from U.S.S. KANAWHA. 1004 Completed fueling (123984 gal.). 1017 Got underway shifting to Berth No. 15. 1102 Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santos, New Hebrides with 60 fathoms of chain to port anchor in 21 fathoms of water. Ship's head 319o T., bearings as follows: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., and "F" 183o T. 1107 Secured main engines. 1102 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1 to be used for auxiliary purposes. 1116 Secured boiler No. 2. 1125 Secured boiler No. 3. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 50.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1612 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 1645 Provision barge YF247 moored alongside on starboard quarter. 1725 U.S.S. JOHN PENN, U.S.S. TANSER, U.S.S. CLYMER, U.S.S. ALGORAB stood into harbor and anchored. 1745 U.S.S. FLUSSER, U.S.S. PREBLE, U.S.S. SC747 and SC745 and H75 stood in and anchored. 1800 Received 20 catapult charges.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1820 Received 20 catapult charges from the U.S.S. DIXIE.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2140 Tug came alongside of lighter YF247. 2212 Launch came alongside with 6" H.C. projectiles and commenced unloading same. 2240 Second launch came alongside with 6" H.C. projectiles from U.S.S. RANIER and commenced unloading. 2244 Lighter YF247 left from alongside. 2340 Launch arrived alongside with 6" powder from U.S.S. RAINIER and commenced unloading.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Friday, March 19, 1943 

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., and "F" 183o T. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONWAY, WALLER, EATON, PHILLIPS, DENVER, GANSEVOORT, AARON WARD, RENSHAW, MAURY, DIXIE, CURTIS, TANGIER, and various other transports, oilers, and supply ships and small craft. Receiving dry stores from YF247 lighter aft, and ammunition from U.S.S. RAINIER forward and aft. Rain squalls throughout watch. 0230 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0255 Let fires die out under No. 2 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0525 Set Condition I in A.A. Battery. 0620 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2 to boost steam pressure. 0643 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 0632 U.S.S. TALAMANCA stood out. 0653 U.S.S. PREBLE stood out. 0707 U.S.S. FLUSSER stood out. 0725 U.S.S. LAMSON stood out.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Mustered crew on station. 0855 Set Condition III in A.A. Battery. 1105 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1315 U.S.S. ROAMER standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1612 Mine Layer U.S.S. SALEM stood in to anchorage. Received balance 6" ammunition.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2310 Commenced receiving provisions aboard from the U.S.S. ROAMER.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Saturday, March 20, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 26.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 37' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 21.4' S.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in 20 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Bearings: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., "F" 183o T. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONWAY, EATON, WALLER, PHILLIPS, CANSEVOORT, AARON WARD, TANGIER, RENSHAW, MAURY, DIXIE, CURTIS, and various other transports, tankers and supply ships. 0055 Completed receiving provisions. 0102 Three launches left the ship to be returned to boat pool. 0315 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0510 Made preparations for getting underway. 0530 Tested main engines. 0600 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0609 Got underway from Berth No. 15, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides in company with CruDiv 12, and destroyers EATON, CONWAY, WLLER, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW; Captain at Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on bridge, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds. 0627 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 0645 Let fires die out under No. 3 boiler. Standing out on course 163o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0645.5 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0653 Changed course to 152o T. & P.G.C. 0656 Changed course to 085o T. & P.G.C. 0657 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0700 Secured special sea details. 0703 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two, speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.). 0705 Changed speed to 13 knots (131 R.P.M.). 0706 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 0711 Changed course and axis to 060o T. & P.G.C. 0714 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 10. 0724 Secured from Flight Quarters, one plane 30 minutes readiness and on plane 90 minutes readiness. 0742 Ceased zig-zag, resumed base course 060o T. & P.G.C. 0745 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0756 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 10, course 000o T. & P.G.C. as base, speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation No. 2, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 000o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0810 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0812 Formed anti-aircraft disposition "J-1". 0815 Sounded General Quarters to exercise at repelling aircraft attack. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 0822 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0830 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds using avoiding tactics and exercising anti-aircraft battery. Approximately 28 fighter planes exercising, using ships in formation as dive bombing and strafing targets. 0925 Commended zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course and axis 000o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Fighter planes proceeded back to base. 0937 Secured from General Quarters except for anti-aircraft battery, and set condition III. Anti-Aircraft battery standing by to fire high level bombing practice and torpedo practice using sleeve towed by PBY plane. 1000 Set all clocks ahead one hour to Zone -12 Time. 1115 PBY Plane with sleeve target sighted. 1120 Destroyers in screen commenced firing. Sleeve shot down. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 207.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1200.5 Destroyer ceased firing. 1239 Set Condition III, Watch 4 in the A.A. Battery. Due to plane having engine trouble scheduled firing exercises were cancelled. 1241 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 310o T. & P.G.C. 1246 Changed speed to 23 knots, changed course to 285o T. & P.G.C., maneuvering to take station in Cruising Formation 2. 1303 Resumed base course 310o T. & P.G.C. and commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 5 and speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). MONTPELIER (SOPA) guide of detachment and also of first section: U.S.S. CLEVELAND guide of second section. 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) on Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1956 Secured from General Quarters. On signal at 2000, changed course to 355o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 355o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 5. 2100 Shifted steering unit to port cable, Unit No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

This detachment of Task Force 19 having fueled, provisioned and rearmed to maximum practicable extent at Espiritu Santo put to sea under command of Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill (ComCruDiv 12) for exercises and indoctrination and operations as directed from time to time by Commander, Third Fleet.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Sunday, March 21, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 20.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 54.1' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16.1' S.

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2 with CruDiv 12 and destroyers EATON, WALLER, CONWAY, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW. Fleet course 355o T. & P.G.C., fleet speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). U.S.S. MONTPELIER is fleet guide (SOPA) and first section guide, U.S.S. COLUMBIA second ship in column in first section; U.S.S. CLEVELAND guide of second section, U.S.S. DENVER second in column maintaining station on unit guide, distance 1000 yds. Interval between units 2000 yds. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 are on the line. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set. Ship in Condition of Readiness III. 0000 Changed fleet course & axis to 045o T. & P.G.C. 0001 Changed speed 23 knots (232 R.P.M.). 0011 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0012 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 5. 0025 Ceased zig-zagging. 0030 Changed fleet course & axis to 095o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0040 Reduced speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0040 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 095o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0700 Launched Plane No. 7, Pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Ducote, ARM/2c. 0702 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R. 

08 -12

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation Two on base course 095o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 5, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0804 Changed course to 135o T. & P.G.C., speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0810 Manned all automatic weapons and A.A. Batteries. Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 19. 0812 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0836 Commenced firing 40 MM. and 20 MM. at sleeve. 0920 Ceased zig-zag, returned to base course 135o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Signal, changed course to 315o T. & P.G.C. from run by station units. 0948 Set Condition III in machine gun battery. 0950 Shifted steering to No. 2 unit, port cable. 1000 Held divine services. 1006 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19, base course 135o T. & P.G.C. 1015 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1045 Launched one plane from port catapult, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger, Healing, W. J., ARM3/c, U.S.N.R., No. 646-40-23. 1107 Signal, ceased zig-zag, resumed base course 135o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1112 Changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. 1113 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1117 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 7. 1118 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), changed course to 135o T. & P.G.C. 1130 Changed speed to 23 knots(234 R.P.M.) and course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1138 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 19, base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1150 changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1158 Ceased zig-zag, resumed course 180o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & P.G.C. at formation speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1203 Changed formation course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1213 Changed formation course to 240o T. & P.G.C. Steaming at various speeds. 1240 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19 on base course 240o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots. 1259 Ceased zig-zag and resumed base course. 1308 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1338 Formed column astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER, preparatory to conduction Exercise No. 16. 1338 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1351 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 1400 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1410 Commenced scheduled exercise, Exercise No. 16, Radar Calibration exercise for 6" and 5" battery. 1414 U.S.S. RENSHAW commenced firing. 1431 Launched Plane No. 7 to port from port catapult, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer Rasmussen, W. J., ARM1/c. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds maintaining station in column. 1509 Recovered Plane No. 8 to port by "C" method, pilot Ens. A. Allison, U.S.N.R., observer Healing, W. J. ARM3/c. 1525 U.S.S. EATON commenced firing. 1527 All hands to General Quarters to conduct 6" and 5" firing. 1544 U.S.S. PHILLIPS commenced firing. 1558 U.S.S. MONTPELIER commenced firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 280o T. & P.G.C. at formation speed 18 knots. Engaged in Exercise No. 16. 1634 Changed course to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1650 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced and 1711 ceased firing. 1718 This ship commenced firing 6" battery. 1720 This ship commenced firing 5" battery. 1738 This ship ceased firing. 1740 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 189.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M). 1822 Ceased present exercises. 1848 Recovered plane No. 7, "C" method. 1900 Sounded General Quarters. 2000 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Change course to 330o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M), on signal. 2010 Resumed zig-zag on Plan No. 19 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. 2025 Ceased zig-zag, resumed base course. 2030 Signalled change, changed course and axis to 295o T. & P.G.C. 2040 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 19. 2300 U.S.S. COLUMBIA developed engine trouble and fell astern out of formation with U.S.S. RENSHAW designated as escort. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

Monday, March 22, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 04.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 31.4' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force No. 19 in Cruising Disposition "C-2", on station No. 4, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19, on base course 295o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), steaming at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). U.S.S. COLUMBIA and U.S.S. CONWAY temporarily absent from formation due to engineering breakdown of U.S.S. COLUMBIA. Boilers No. 1 & No. 4 in use. In Condition of Readiness III, Condition "B" set, ship darkened. 0355 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 295o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Changed fleet course and axis to 245o T. & P.G.C. 0410 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0425 Ceased zig-zagging. 0430 Changed fleet course and axis to 195o T. & P.G.C. 0440 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0455 Ceased zig-zagging. 0500 Changed fleet course and axis to 140o T. & P.G.C. 0500 U.S.S. CONWAY left formation to take station 30,000 yards distant for radar tracking drill. 0600 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0604 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0659 Catapulted Plane No. 7 from port catapult, pilot Ens. Haseltine. 0704 Secured from General Quarters. 0745 U.S.S. COLUMBIA rejoined formation. 0746 Formed Cruising Formation I, Ships in column MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and DENVER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 140o T. & P.G.C., 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0800 Sounded A.A. Defense. 0819 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, base course 100o T. & P.G.C. 0826 Commenced firing. 0835 Ceased firing. 0900 Ceased zig-zagging and took position in Formation "C-1". 0922 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 1015 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1045 Launched Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Allison, passenger Ducote, B. A., ARM3/c. 1055 Ceased zig-zagging. 1104 Plane No. 7 recovered. 1121 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1135 Plane No. 8 recovered. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 100o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (184 R.P.M.), in cruising formation No. 2, zig-zagging on Plan No. 19. 1230 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1315 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1318 Secured. 1431 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 100o T. & P.G.C. 1434 Executed Emergency Turn Nine, speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1439 Executed Nine Turn. 1440 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1446 In accordance with signal, second section deployed astern of first section. 1456 Changed course to 070o T. & P.G.C. in battle formation. Various courses and speeds in battle and A.A. avoiding maneuvers. 1458 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1502 Changed course to 050o T. & P.G.C. 1505 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C., and speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 1514 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1516 Changed course to 340o T. & P.G.C. 1520 Changed course and axis to 025o T. & P.G.C. and formed "C" Formation No. 4, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds exercising at tactical exercises, at fleet speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1604 Made 360o turn to right. 1613 Commenced emergency 360o turn. 1617 Steadied on course 025o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1623 Ceased present exercises. 1636 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1659 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1700 Changed speed to 23 knots, changed fleet course and axis to 065o T. & P.G.C. 1709 Changed speed to 18 knots. 1717 Changed course to 300o T. & P.G.C. to recover aircraft in formation. 1718 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1721 Changed course to 030o T. & P.G.C. 1723 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1730 Changed speed to 18 knots, all planes on board various ships. 1733 Changed fleet course and axis to 115o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1742 Changed course to 155o T. & P.G.C. 1753 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1757 Changed fleet course and axis to 215o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1759 Changed course to 205o T. & P.G.C. to take station following astern of CLEVELAND in Cruising Formation No. 2. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 192.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 205o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1807 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1809 Changed course to 215o T. & P.G.C. 1812 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 1821 Shifted from steering unit No. 2 to No. 1. 1855 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1955 Ceased Zig-zagging and resumed base course 215o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.0.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 215o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.). Secured from General Quarters. 2000 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 250o T. & P.G.C. 2010 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Tuesday, March 23, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 34.8' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 59' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 08.5' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2, base course to 250o T. & P.G.C., 240o P.S.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), at speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, using boilers Nos. 1 & 4. Ship in darkened condition, and Condition III, Watch 2 of Readiness and Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. MONPELIER (SOPA) (Comcrudiv 12), U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. COLUMBIA, and destroyers U.S.S. CONWAY, EATON, WALLER, RENSHAW and PHILLIPS, forming anti-submarine screen. U.S.S. CLEVELAND section guide for U.S.S. DENVER. Light rain squalls latter part of watch, slightly overcast moon, visibility good. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 250o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0424 U.S.S. WALLER, on destroyer screen, reported surface target bearing 245o T. distance 10 miles. 0430 Formation changed course to 345o T. & P.G.C. U.S.S. EATON proceeded to investigate target. 0449 Identified target as friendly vessel of another task force. U.S.S. EATON proceed to rejoin formation. Formation changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C., base course and axis. 0503 Resumed Zig-Zag plan No. 19. 0511 U.S.S. PHILLIPS left the formation to take station for Radar Tracking Exercise. 0555 All hands to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0643 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0652 Shifted steering control to conning tower. 0653 Ceased zig-zag plan and resumed base course. 0656 Commenced making 180o T. turn to the left, to course 070o T. & P.G.C. 0702 Commenced making 180o T. turn to left, to course 250o T. 0709 Secured from General Quarters. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0745 Sounded Flight Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.0.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0812 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 0820 manned all machine gun battery. 0826 Completed maneuvering to form Cruising Formation No. 1. Ships now in column order, MONTPELIER (SOPA) guide followed by COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and DENVER respectively. 0831 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19 on base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 0845 Commenced firing machine gun battery in execution of Exercise "5-A", firing to port. 0847 Commenced firing machine gun battery to starboard. 0920 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 0937 Ships of this fleet now disposed in Cruising Formation No. 2. MONTPELIER in column order, CLEVELAND left hand section guide and DENVER astern of her in column order. 0942 commenced Zig-zag Plan No. 10, base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 1020 Ceased zig-zagging. 1026 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 1032 Ceased zig-zagging. 1102 Changed course to 040o T. & P.G.C. 1105 Recovered Plane No. 8 on port side, "C" method. 1109 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 1116 Emergency turn to 140o T. & P.G.C). 1125 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 1126 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.3.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, 182 R.P.M. 1312 Ceased zig-zagging. 1323 Formed with section guide bearing 180o relative. 1343 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 250o T. & P.G.C. 1345 Commenced Exercise No. 11. 1404 Fired to starboard. 1405 Fired to port. 1425 Ceased zig-zagging. 1427 Ceased Exercise No. 11. 1455 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C. 1500 On signal took position in Formation "C-2". 1515 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 1537 Ceased zig-zagging. 1540 Made emergency turn 6. 1549 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before. 1605 Changed course to 215o T. & P.G.C. 1607 Speed changed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1608 deployed on course 200o T. & P.G.C. 1609 Changed course to 150o T. & P.G.C. 1614 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1615 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1617 Changed course to 210o T. & P.G.C. 1619 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.) and course to 270o T. & P.G.C. 1621 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1629 Changed course to 060o T. & P.G.C. and formed Cruising Formation 2. 1630 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1632 Changed speed to 13 knots (131 R.P.M.). 1640 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19, on base course to 060o T. & P.G.C. and changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1650 Changed course to 080o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 1703 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 060o T. & P.G.C. 1707 Changed course to 010o T. & P.G.C. 1715 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19. 1727 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course to 010o T. & P.G.C. 1729 Changed fleet course and axis to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1750 Changed course to 300o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on Formation Course and axis 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1813 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1826 Changed course to 120o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 12 knots, CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA recovering aircraft. 1841 Steadied up on course 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1852 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1910 General Quarters for dusk alert. 1942 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 1943 Shifted steering control to conning tower. 1955 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on fleet course and axis 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2000 Changed fleet course and axis to 010o T. & P.G.C. 2010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 2015 Secured from General Quarters. 2016 Shifted steering control back to pilot house. 2025 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2030 Changed fleet course and axis 050o T. & P.G.C. 2040 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.4.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

Wednesday, March 24, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 04.1' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 37.0' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 47.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 050o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) Zig-Zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. No. 1 and No. 4 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in readiness condition III and Material Condition "B". Ships Present: CruDiv 12 plus the CONWAY, EATON, WALLER, RENSHAW and PHILLIPS. MONTPELIER (SOPA). In Cruising Formation "C-2", second section, CLEVELAND guide of section. 0200 Changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0230 Changed course to 140o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 140o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), cruising formation 2. 0430 Destroyer on port screen left formation for Radar Tracking Exercise. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0559 sounded Flight Quarters. 0699 Catapulted Plane No. 8, to port, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Rasmussen, J. M., ARM1/c. 0700 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 140o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0830 Mustered crew at Quarters. 0831 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0855 Completed change of fleet course and axis to 250o T. & P.G.C. 0901 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Commenced firing 5" A.A. Battery exercise No. 8, firing at "surprise" bursts. 1000 Ceased 5" A.A. exercise. Expended 23 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common ammunition. 1000 Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. Ceased zig-zagging. 1010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1045 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Changed course to 210o T. & P.G.C. 1103 Recovered plane No. 8, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c. 1110 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16, on base course 250o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 in effect. 1253 Shifted from starboard to port steering units. 1303 Sounded abandon ship call for drill. 1330 Secured from abandon ship drill. 1340 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1342 Changed base course to 200o T. & P.G.C. 1345 Made daily inspection of magazine & smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1346 Launched Plane No. 8 to port from port catapult, pilot Ens. Haseltine. 1405 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 1410 maneuvering at various courses and speed to form Cruising Formation No. 1. 1425 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the right. Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the left. 1440 Commenced firing port machine guns in execution of Exercise No. 5. 1441 Ceased firing. 1442 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the right and began firing the starboard machine guns. 1443 Ceased firing. 1450 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the left. 1457 Ceased present exercises . 1459 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course of 300o T. & P.G.C. 1510 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the left. 1521 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the left. 1537 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1542 Executed Emergency Turn of 360o to the right with 17 1/2; degree rudder. 1551 Changed course to 290o T. & P.G.C. 1559 Reduced speed to 12 knots preparatory to recovering aircraft. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.0.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 250o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1600 Recovered Plane No. 6, (COLUMBIA plane), pilot Lt. Bennett, passenger Van Noy, ARM3/c. 1616 Zig-Zag Plan No. 19 on course 300o T. & P.G.C. 1649 Ceased zig-zagging. 1652 Changed course to 350o T. & P.G.C. 1722 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 350o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1910 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1940 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1945 Changed fleet course and axis to 045o T. & P.G.C. and speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1956 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1959 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), Changed fleet course and axis to 114o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 104o T. & P.G.C. at 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), formation speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2005 Secured from General Quarters. 2010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16 on base course 114o T. & P.G.C. 2210 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 2233 Shifted steering control to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

Thursday, March 25, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 45.2' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 19' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 05' S.

00 -04

Steaming as before on base course 114o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Standard speed is 15 knots, boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on the line. Ship is darkened in Condition of Readiness III, Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Steaming in Cruising Formation II. MONTPELIER (SOPA) is fleet guide and also unit guide of Section I. U.S.S. COLUMBIA is in column astern of MONTPELIER. U.S.S. CLEVELAND is unit guide of Section II, U.S.S. DENVER is in column astern of CLEVELAND. Destroyers in the screen: U.S.S. COWAY, EATON, WALLER, RENSHAW, and PHILLIPS. Fleet course and axis is 114o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots. 0104 Changed course to 174o T. & P.G.C. by simultaneous turn on signal. 0106 Executed Emergency Turn 90o to left and increased to full speed. 0125 Reduced to fleet speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0126 Resumed base course 114o T. & P.G.C. and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 158.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 114o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.)., Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0620 Ceased zig-zagging. 0630 Changed fleet course and axis to 105o T. & P.G.C. 0628 Made rendezvous with tanker SABINE and escort, MAURY. 0649 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0700 Secured from General Quarters. 0715 Changed fleet course and axis is 315o T. & P.G.C., speed 10 knots and formation to "J-2" fueling formation. DENVER proceeded to position No. 5. 0730 COLUMBIA and RENSHAW alongside tanker SABINE for fueling. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 163.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 315o T. & P.G.C., speed 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 0900 U.S.S. PHILLIPS went alongside starboard side of tanker SABINE. 0905 U.S.S. COULUMBIA hoisted "Prep". 0915 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0923 Increased speed to 14 knots and changed course to come astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA, preparing to fuel. 0928 U.S.S. COLUMBIA completed fueling. 0932 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.), prepared to go alongside tanker. 0944 Launched plane No. 6 to port, pilot Lt. Bennett, observer Benoit, ARM1/c. 0953 Secured bow line from tanker. 0959 U.S.S. PHILLIPS completed fueling and cast off from starboard side of tanker. 1002 Commenced pumping on forward hose. 1004 Commenced pumping on after hose. 1007 U.S.S. WALLER came alongside tanker's starboard side to fuel. 1059 U.S.S. MONTPELIER maneuvered to recover plane by "C" method. 1101 U.S.S. MONTPELIER recovered plane, rejoined formation. 1103 Stopped pumping gasoline. 1110 Stopped pumping fuel forward hose. 1111 Stopped pumping fuel after hose, completed fueling. 1126 Let go bow line and cast off, speed increasing to 15 knots, course 305o T. & P.G.C. to position No. 2. 1133 Changed speed to 10 knots (100 R.P.M.) and course 315o T. & P.G.C. 1145 U.S.S. CLEVELAND went alongside tanker to fuel. 1148 Increased speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.) and commenced independently zig-zag thirty degrees right and left of base course, 500 yds. each side base. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 104.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 315o T. & P.G.C., on station No. 2 in Fueling Formation, zig-zagging independently at 12 knots (121 R.P.M.), U.S.S. CLEVELAND fueling alongside port side of tanker at center of formation, U.S.S. EATON fueling from starboard side of tanker, U.S.S. SABINE. 1259 U.S.S. EATON cast off. 1304 U.S.S. CONWAY came alongside tanker to fuel. 1332 Received U.S.S. WALLER on the port quarter to transfer steam trap. 1336 U.S.S. WALLER cast off, steam trap not ready for delivery. 1341 U.S.S. CLEVELAND hoisted "Prep". Commenced steering various courses at various speeds to take station No. 4, 220o relative from guide, U.S.S. SABINE, on circle 1.5. 1410 U.S.S. CLEVELAND cast off from SABINE and proceeded to station No. 2. 1415 Sounded Flight Quarters to recover plane. 1425 U.S.S. CONWAY cast off from alongside tanker. 1441 Recovered Plane No. 6 (COLUMBIA Plane) to port by "C" method. Pilot Lieut. Bennet, passenger Benoit, ARM1/c. 1445 U.S.S. MONTPELIER came alongside tanker. Commenced zig-zagging, patrolling station from wake to 1000 yds. from wake, on a line normal to base course, passing through station No. 4. 1455 Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 119.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before, zig-zagging independently, patrolling station on port quarter of U.S.S. SABINE, speed 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1630 U.S.S. MONTPELIER completed fueling and shoved off from U.S.S. SABINE. 1633 fleet course and axis changed to 250o T. & P.G.C. 1637 Forming Cruising Formation No. 2 Section 1 consisting of U.S.S. MONTPELIER as fleet and section guide and U.S.S. COLUMBIA. Section 2 consisting of U.S.S. CLEVELAND as unit guide and U.S.S. DENVER. Sections in column order, Section 1 on the starboard hand. 1647 U.S.S. SABINE and her destroyer escort left this formation. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 149.5.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming on course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1905 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (169 R.P.M.), and ceased zig-zagging. 2000 Sounded secure from General Quarters and set Condition III. 2109 Increased speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.) and changed fleet course and axis to 300o T. & P.G.C. 2117 Decreased speed to 17 knots (169 R.P.M.). 2200 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 2325 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 300o T. & P.G.C. 2330 Increased speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.) and changed fleet course and axis to 355o T. & P.G.C. 2340 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, reduced speed to 17 knots (169 R.P.M.). 2355 Ceased zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, resumed base course 355o T. & P.G.C. 2400 Increased speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.) and changed fleet course and axis to 040o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Friday, March 26, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 16.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 01.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force No. 19, in Cruising Disposition No. 2, on course 355o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Ship darkened, condition "B" set, in Readiness Condition III. 0000 Changed fleet course to 040o T. & P.G.C., changed speed 22 knots to take station, steering astern of CLEVELAND. 0009 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), on station. 0010 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 040o T. & P.G.C. 0245 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0313 Shifted steering control to Conning Tower. 0340 Shifted steering control to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 221.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 040o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0430 One destroyer left formation to take position 30,000 yds. distant on port hand for radar tracking exercise. 0600 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0623 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 0654 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 0659 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & P.G.C. 0713 Secured from General Quarters. 0714 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No 10 on base course 090o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots. 0728 Ceased zig-zagging. 0731 Changed fleet course and axis to 140o T. & P.G.C. 0742 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0756 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0759 Began changing fleet course and axis to 185o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, maneuvering to change course and axis to 185o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Sounded A.A. Call. 0815 Mustered crew on station. 0820 Changed course to 215o T. & P.G.C. 0828 Changed course to 185o T. & P.G.C. 0848 Commenced firing machine gun battery, port and starboard runs. 0905 Ceased firing. 0915 Ceased zig-zagging. Formed "C-1". 0930 Launched Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Andrews, passenger Stevens, AAM1/c. 0934 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1059 Recovered Plane No. 7. 1113 Ceased zig-zagging. 1120 Received WALLER alongside to port. 1122 WALLER cast off and left from alongside. 1123 Commenced Zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.6.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 185o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1216 Signal, contact report from U.S.S. PHILLIPS, changed course by turn to 095o T. & P.G.C. 1218 U.S.S. PHILLIPS reported contact lost. 1220 1/2; Signal turn, changed course to 185o T. & P.G.C. 1225 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1225 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1244 Executed Nine Turn signal. U.S.S. WALLER reported sound contact, changed course to 074 1/2;o T. & P.G.C., U.S.S. PHILLIPS designated to assist U.S.S. WALLER. 1247 Increased speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1251 Negative on contact from U.S.S. WALLER. 1253 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1254 1/2; Changed course to 185o T. & P.G.C. 1257 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 19. 1308 Secured No. 1 boiler, cut in No. 2 boiler on line. 1325 U.S.S. CLEVELAND reported radar contact 015o T., 69 miles. 1416 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, resumed base course 185o T. & P.G.C. 1423 On signal, commenced tactical exercises. Changed course to 200o T. & P.G.C. 1428 Changed course to 005o T. & P.G.C. 1432 Changed course to 185o T. & P.G.C. (Turn Nine). 1440 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. on Turn Five signal. 1442 Changed course to 185o T. & P.G.C., speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1445 Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1448 Speed decreased to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.), course 235o T. & P.G.C. in "C" method of plane recovery. (U.S.S. MONTPELIER, and U.S.S. CLEVELAND). 1453 Increased speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1527 Deployed on course to 140o T. & P.G.C. 1530 Changed course to 170o T. & P.G.C. Various speeds. 1538 Changed course to 140o T. & P.G.C. 1540 Changed course to 125o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 1554 Course changed to 140o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (180 R.P.M.). 1559 Changed course to 230o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on various courses at various speeds, exercising at tactics, base course and axis 140o T. & P.G.C., standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1625 Ceased present exercises. Formed Cruising disposition No. 2. Changed fleet course and axis 190o T. & P.G.C. 1645 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1758 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 187.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 190o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (179 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1802 Changed fleet course and axis to 225o T. & P.G.C. 1809 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1829 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1831 Changed course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 1840 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16 base course 225o T. & P.G.C. 1910 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.4.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 275o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 325o T. & P.G.C. 2230 Changed fleet course and axis to 020o T. & P.G.C. 2300 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 185.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Saturday, March 27, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 31.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 52' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 28.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 020o T. & P.G.C., 010o P.S.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), in Cruising Formation 2, using Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. Ship in darkened condition, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA-0TC), U.S.S. COLUMBIA, U.S.S. CLEVELAND, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. RENSHAW, U.S.S. PHILLIPS, U.S.S. CONWAY, U.S.S. EATON, forming anti-submarine screen. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 020o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16, standard speed 15 knots, steaming at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0430 U.S.S EATON left the formation to take station for Radar Tracking Drill, Exercise No. "1-S". 0600 All hands to General Quarters for dawn alert. Commenced Radar Tracking Drill. 0602 Flight Quarters, to prepare for catapulting. 0700 Launched one plane to port from port catapult, COLUMBIA plane, Plane No. 6, pilot Lt. Bennet, passenger, Van Noyes, ARM3/c. 0702 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition III and Condition of Readiness "B". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 167.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on base course 020o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0800. Manned all machine gun batteries in preparation for execution of Exercise No. 5. 0805 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0806 Maneuvering to change fleet disposition to Cruising Formation No. 1. 0810 On base course 020o T. & P.G.C. in Cruising Formation No. 1. 0815 Commenced zig-zagging. 0815 Mustered crew on station. 0827 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0841 Commenced firing automatic weapons to starboard. 0846 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 0851 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 0856 Commenced firing automatic weapons to starboard. 0912 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 0917 Ceased present exercises. 0928 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 020o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Maneuvering to change fleet disposition to Cruising Formation No. 2. 0945 Steadied on base course 020o T. & P.G.C. in position in Cruising Formation No. 2. 0946 Changed fleet course and axis to 070o T. & P.G.C. 0952 in compliance with signal to all cruisers, took station bearing 170o relative from CLEVELAND, section guide. 0958 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 070o T. & P.G.C. 1036 Maneuvering to form Cruising Formation No. 1. 1045 Steadied on base course 070o T. & P.G.C. in Cruising Formation No.1. Launched Plane No. 7 from port catapult, pilot Ens. Allison. 1100 Recovered Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine. 1125 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16, on base course 070o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.4.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 070o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.)., zig-zagging on Plan No. 16. 1300 Fleet course and axis changed to 120o T. & P.G.C. 1311 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 16. 1338 Changed course to 300o T. & P.G.C. 1351 Commenced zig-zagging , Plan No. 10. Speed 23 knots. 1412 Changed course to 120o T. & P.G.C. 1421 Sounded General Quarters. 1430 Catapulted Plane No. 8, Pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, passenger Rasmussen, J. M., ARM1/c. Steaming on various courses and speeds, exercising at Plan "14-S". 1455 Secured from General Quarters. 1459 Changed course to 300o T. & P.G.C. 1505 Formed "C-2". 1513 Recovered Plane No. 7. 1522 Changed course to 120o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before executing tactical maneuvers. 1603 Course changed to 195o T. & P.G.C., speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). 1608 Changed course to 189o T. & P.G.C., speed to we knots (234 R.P.M.). 1613 Changed course to 120o T. & P.G.C., speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1625 Commenced zig-zagging on Plane No. 16, base course 120o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1655 On signal from plane on anti-submarine patrol, U.S.S. CONWAY designated by OTC to investigate, ships executed Turn Nine to course to 175o T. & P.G.C., away from smoke pot. 1700 Object ascertained to be bundle of life jackets. 1705 Executed Nine Turn to course 120o T. & P.G.C. 1706 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 16. 1733 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 120o T. & P.G.C. 1748 Changed course to 210o T. & P.G.C. 1751 Executed Cruising Formation 1, course 120o T. & P.G.C., various speeds. 1755 Signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 16, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 120o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1837 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1853 Changed formation course and axis to 170o T. & P.G.C. 1858 Formed Cruising disposition "C-2". 1900 General Quarters for dusk alert. 1930 Changed fleet course and axis to 210o T. & P.G.C. 1939 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1955 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 210o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 210o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 2000 Changed fleet course and axis to 260o P.G.C. & true. 2005 Secured from General Quarters. 2010 Condition "B" set throughout the ship. 2100 Changed fleet course and axis to 310o T. & P.G.C. 2130 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 050o T. & P.G.C. 2330 Changed fleet course and axis to 085o T. & P.G.C. 2345 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16, base course 085o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 2345 Radar plot reported contact bearing 068o T. & P.G.C., distance 28,000. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 187.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

Sunday, March 28, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 52.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 52.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 47.0' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 085o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened, in Material Condition "B", in Readiness Condition III. Ships in company: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, RENSHAW, WALLER, CONWAY, EATON, PHILLIPS. Task Force in Cruising Formation II. DENVER in section 2, 1000 yds astern of the CLEVELAND. MONTPELIER and CLEVELAND have the radar guard duty. 0340 COLUMBIA having engineering casualty, fell out of formation. RENSHAW assigned to stay with the COLUMBIA. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 085o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0430 U.S.S. PHILLIPS left formation to position for tracking exercise. 0548 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0553 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0625 Sighted Vanikoro Island bearing 057o T. & P.G.C., distant 40 miles (approx.). 0639 Changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. 0645 Changed course to 075o T. & P.G.C. 0651 Changed course to 050o T. & P.G.C. 0700 Catapulted Plane No. 7 to port, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Ducote, ARM2/c. 0700 Changed course to 085o T. & P.G.C., ceased zig-zagging. 0701 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 0710 Signal, executed turn to course to 265o T. & P.G.C. 0716 Executed Cruising Formation No. 3. 0723 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 on base course to 265o T. & P.G.C. 0723 Sighted two ships hull down bearing 275o T. & P.G.C. 0745 Identified two ships as U.S.S. COLUMBIA and U.S.S. RENSHAW. 0758 Changed formation to Cruising Formation No. 4, and COLUMBIA and RENSHAW joined the formation. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 182.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 265o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots, (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 0900 Commenced Exercise No. 5-A, firing at sleeve target. Commenced emergency turn to right 360o, speed 23 knots. 0902 Commenced firing on sleeve. 0904 Ceased firing on sleeve, 40 MM. and 20 MM. guns firing. 0914 Commenced emergency left 360o turn. 0925 Commenced emergency right 360o turn. 0931 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), steady on base course 265o T. & P.G.C. 0936 Commenced firing 40 MM. and 20 MM. guns at sleeve. 0938 Ceased firing. 0939 Ceased present exercise. 0940 Formed Cruising Disposition No. 1. 0950 held divine service. 0954 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 1015 Commenced exercising at Periscope Exercise No. 11, firing 5" and 40 mm. batteries at smoke pots. 1017 Flight Quarters for launching plane. 1040 Ceased present exercise. 1040 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1041 Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. 1045 Launched Plane No. 8 to starboard for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger Fritz, ARM3/c. 1058 Changed course to 230o T. & P.G.C. 1111 Recovered Plane No. 9 to port "Dog" method, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Ducote, B. A., ARM2/c. 1113 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 -16

Steaming as before on base course 265o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Made daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1258 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1300 Formed Cruising Formation No. 4, this ship in position on station No. 4. 1310 Commenced scheduled exercises, Exercise No. 4-Calibration of director and all batteries. 1325 Changed course to 310o T. & P.G.C. 1341 Changed course to 355o T. & P.G.C. 1345 Sighted unidentified ship bearing 285o T. & P.G.C., distance 16 miles (Identified as friendly). 1410 Changed course to 040o T. & P.G.C. 1417 Changed course to 085o T. & P.G.C. 1430 Launched Plane No. 7 to port, Pilot Ens. Andrews. 1435 Changed course to 130o T. & P.G.C. 1449 Changed course to 175o T. & P.G.C. 1503 Recovered Plane No. 8 by "Dog" method, pilot Ens. Allison. 1510 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1530 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. 1532 Ceased present exercises. 1535 Began maneuvering to and 1541 completed forming Cruising Formation No. 2. 1544 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16 on base course 265o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.2.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 265o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 1626 Executed 180o counter march to course 085o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 085o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 1813.5 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1821 Signalled course change executed to 265o T. & P.G.C. 1834 Changed course to 285o T. & P.G.C., speed 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1840 Hoisted Plane No. 7 aboard. 1841 Speed increased to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1842 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. 1843 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 16. 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1955 Ceased zig-zagging on Plan No. 16, resumed course 265o T. & P.G.C. 2000 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". Changed course to 308o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 265o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 2000 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III and Material Condition "B". Changed course to 315o T. & P.G.C. 2132 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 2152 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 005o T. & P.G.C. 2230 Changed fleet course and axis to 055o T. & P.G.C. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 110o T. & P.G.C. 2325 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 2350 Shifted steering control to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 186.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

Monday, March 29, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 05.2' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 01' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 43.2' S.

00 - 04

Steaming at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M. on Fleet Course and axis 110o T. & P.G.C., steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2, with U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), as fleet guide and also first section unit guide, with the U.S.S. COLUMBIA in column astern of the MONTPELIER. U.S.S. CLEVELAND is second section unit guide, on the port hand of the fleet disposition. The U.S.S. DENVER is in column astern of the U.S.S. CLEVELAND. This ship is darkened and in Condition III with Material Condition "B" set. The U.S.S. COLUMBIA and the U.S.S. DENVER have the radar guard duty. Destroyers on No. 6 circle in the screen are U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. EATON, U.S.S. PHILLIPS, U.S.S. RENSHAW, U.S.S. CONWAY. 0030 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 110o T. & P.G.C., speed 15 knots, Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 0548 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551 Changed speed to 23 knots. 0629 Sighted Vanikoro Island bearing 075o T. 0705 Secured from General Quarters. 0707 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots. 0719 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 197.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 160o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 16, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0755 U.S.S. EATON sighted possible periscope bearing 170o T. Signalled emergency turn, executed course change to 075o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). Sounded anti-aircraft call, manned automatic weapons, for exercise. 0805.5 Changed course on signal to 120o T. & P.G.C. 0806 U.S.S. Conway reported no contact and rejoined formation. 0812 Formed Cruising Formation One. 0811.5 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 0818 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C. 0821 Changed speed to 18 knots (179 R.P.M.). 0825 On signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, commenced scheduled exercise No. 5. 0850 U.S.S. EATON rejoined formation. 0850 Signalled cease Zig-Zag Plan 16, resumed base course 160o T. & P.G.C. 0858 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0859 Fired port run 40 and 20 mm. 0900 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0900 Fired starboard run automatic weapons. 0912 Ceased present exercise. 0917 Signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0921 Changed course to 205o T. & P.G.C. 0928 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0929 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Sounded Flight Quarters to launch aircraft. 0931 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 0933 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0937 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0942 Sighted Torres Island bearing 197o T., distant 40 miles. 0954 Ceased zig-zagging. 0954 Changed course to 230o T. & P.G.C. 0956 Increased speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0957 Changed course to 205o T. & P.G.C. 0959 Changed course to 163o T. & P.G.C., launched Plane No. 7 to port, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., observer Haeling, W. J., 646-40-23, ARM3/c, V-6, U.S.N.R. 1000 Changed course to 245o T. & P.G.C. 1004 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1005 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1015 Prepared to receive U.S.S. CONWAY on port quarter. 1022 Received destroyer, exchanged mail. 1024 U.S.S. CONWAY cast off. 1030 Sounded Flight Quarters, to recover aircraft. 1036 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 220o T. & P.G.C. 1056 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1059 Changed course to 280o T. & P.G.C., speed 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1102 Cruisers recovered aircraft "Dog" method, DENVER recovered No. 7 Plane. 1105 Increased speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1108 On signal formed 170o relative to right of CLEVELAND. 1108 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1114 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1117 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1119 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 186.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 220o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1329 Ceased zig-zagging and resume base course. 1332 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1342 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 1400 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Commenced scheduled exercise, Exercise No. 14, Day Attack. 1405 commenced counter march to course 000o T. & P.G.C. 1407 U.S.S. RENSHAW left the formation to act as target. 1436 Formation commenced counter march to course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1438 All hands to General Quarters to participate in exercise. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds. 1455 Formed Formation H-1. 1519 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 1530 Ceased present exercise. 1542 Formed Cruising Disposition "C-2", base course and axis 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots, (182 R.P.M.). 1545 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 194.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Fleet Disposition is Cruising Formation No. 2, fleet course and axis is 180o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 1850 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 2000 Ceased Zig-Zagging. Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2001 Sounded secure from General Quarters, set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 2030 Changed fleet course and axis to 149o T. & P.G.C. (Simultaneous Method). 2210 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 2235 Shifted control to Central Station. 2255 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

Tuesday, March 30, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 28.8' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 43.6' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Havannah Harbor,

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force No. 19 on Fleet Course and axis 149o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), in Cruising Formation No. 2, station No. 4. Ship darkened, Condition of Readiness III, Condition "B" set, boilers Nos. 2 and 4 in use. 0120 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. Bright Moonlight. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 149o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0640 Sighted land bearing 087o T., identified as Efate Island. 0647 Secured from General Quarters. 0720 Prepared to commence scheduled exercises, Firing at towed sleeve by all ships of formation. Changed Fleet Course to 300o T. & P.G.C. 0735 Changed fleet course to 305o T. & P.G.C. 0750 Manned 5" battery for firing exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.6.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 120o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 0809 Formed Formation "C-1", Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 0845 Ceased zig-zagging. 0847 Commenced firing on sleeve and brought it down. 0850 Changed course to 160o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0949 Ceased zig-zagging. Ceased present exercises. 1001 Changed course to 340o T. & P.G.C. by counter marching. 1013 Sounded General Quarters. 1018 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1021 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1034 Ceased zig-zagging. 1039 Changed speed to 25 knots. 1045 Catapulted Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger Rasmussen, J. M., ARM1/c, U.S.N. 1110 Commenced firing run No. 1, main and secondary battery to starboard at sled target. 1142 Commenced firing run No. 2, main battery to port. 1147 Ceased firing. 1200 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16 on base course to 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 210.0

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1215 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1219 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1224 Changed course to 150o T. & P.G.C. 1233 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1243.5 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. to form Formation "H-1". 1242.5 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1249 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1254 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1255 Second section changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. in maneuvers for run No. 3, sled firing with five and six inch batteries as test of Battle Plan No. 1. 1310 Commenced firing to port. 1312.5 Ceased firing. 1317 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 1325 Steering course 225o T. & P.G.C. 1327 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. On signal executed Cruising Formation Two, course to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1340 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1352 Changed course to 060o T. & P.G.C. and rejoined CruDiv 12 in Formation "C-2". 1400 Set ship's clocks back one hour to -11 Zone Time. 1318 Changed course to 040o T. & P.G.C. 1328.5 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) on signal. 1337 Executed Nine Turn to course to 330o T. & P.G.C. 1341 Changed course on signal to 060o T. & P.G.C. 1344 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C., forming Cruising Formation One. 1359.5 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds in column conforming to channel, entering Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. 1443.5 Moored starboard side to port side of U.S.S. KANKAKEE, oiler in Berth No. 1, in 61 fathoms of water. 1459 Secured special sea details, rigged to commence fueling. 1500 Commenced fueling from tanker forward and after hoses. Draft Forward 23' 0", Aft 23' 11". 1540 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 132.5

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1610 Completed fueling from U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 1623 Underway, shifting berths. 1641 Anchored in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain at the water's edge, to the port anchor. Boiler No. 2 on the line for auxiliary purposes. 1700 All ship's clocks set ahead 1 hour to -12 Zone Time. 1940 U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside our port side.

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.

Wednesday, March 31, 1943 

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

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

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Islands, in Berth No. 3, in 40 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following bearings: Beacons "Z" 354o , "F" 095o , "K" 055.2o. Ships present U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SAN FRANCISCO, MARYLAND, COLORADO, CONWAY, RENSHAW, PHILLIPS, WALLER, EATON, CONY, WILSON, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, RIGEL. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to our port side. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Partially overcast throughout watch.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before.

J. H. Parker

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1415 Allowed fires to die out under No. 2 boiler. 1600 U.S.S. KANKAKEE got underway.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside, port side. The below listed men returned aboard from shore patrol duty: REA, R. W. 316 53 76, GM1c USN; DELESKY, F. E. 243 66 37, GM1c USN; FRANKS, D. E. 302 04 30, GM1c USN; EHRINGER, E. F., 250 49 38, BM2c USN; HAMMEL, E. S., 227 78 41 BM2c USN; FAGAN, D. F. 393 49 38, GM2c USN; CLOUGH, J. R. 279 56 71, WT2c USN; WIGGINTON, H. O. 626 38 47, MoM2c USNR; HARRIS, E. R., 337 18 81, MoM2c USN; SABIN, R. O. 299 89 71, MM1c USN; PROFFITT, S. H. 265 90 34, WT1c USN; DIETZ, R. E. 360 51 21, WT2c USN; TIGHE, T. M. 201 08 57, BM2c USNR. 1614 U.S.S. SAUFLEY got underway to shift berths. 1707 U.S.S. CONY stood in and anchored.

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.

 

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