00 - 04

In company with Task Force 39, making approach toward Buka, Northern Solomons, for the purpose of making bombardment of Japanese military installations in that area. Operating in accordance with ComTaskForce 39 (Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, USN in U.S.S. MONTPELIER) Operation Plan 3-43 dated 29 October 1943. Action report of this vessel submitted by secret letter file 0015, dated November 4, 1943. Task Force in company consisted of CruDiv 12, (MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, in column, in that order, at 1500 yards distance) and DesRon 23, 8 DD's, ComDesRon 23 in CHAS. F. AUSBURNE. Approach course 090^o T, speed 20 knots. All boilers in use. Ship's company at battle stations. 0007 Changed fleet course and axis to bombardment course, 160^o T (PGC). 0020 U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC) opened fire, followed according to plan by other vessels of the force. 0022 DENVER opened fire with 6" battery to port, on shore objectives (see action report). 0027 Observed large explosion in target area, which resulted in fire which was visible for nearly two hours later. 0035 Observed flares on our starboard quarter. 0035 Ceased firing. 0038 Increased speed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0039 Increased speed to 26 knots (269 RPM). 0040 Increased speed to 29 knots (306 RPM). 0041 According to plan, changed to retirement course, 220^o T (PGC). 0048 Reduced to 27 knots (282 RPM). 0054 Changed course to 280^o T (PGC). Increased to 28 knots (294 RPM). 0100 Resumed retirement course, 220^o T (PGC). 0105 Increased to 30 knots (318 RPM). 0118 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T (PGC). 0123-0124 Opened fire with starboard 5" battery at Japanese snooper plane. 0156 Executed ship's turn movement to course 250^o T (PGC), in order to avoid crossing line of float lights reported by leading DD to have been laid ahead of and across our track by Japanese planes. 0205 Resumed course 180^o T (PGC). 0215 Began moving empty cartridge cases (6") and empty tanks and cartridge cases (5") from vicinity of turrets and mounts to the hangar, in order to clear decks of interferences and missile hazards, preparatory to next shore bombardment and possible air attack. Also began preparation of breakfast. 0300 Changed course to 131^o T (PGC). About 0300, BACHTELER, Lawrence F., S1c USN., handling empty cartridge cases under darken ship under battle conditions, sustained following injuries in line of duty, not result of own misconduct: Amputation, traumatic, terminal phalanx, left thumb.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 322

W. I. LEAHY,

Cdr. USN.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, retiring from Buka bombardment, and preparing for bombardment of Shortland Area (Bougainville, Solomons Island Group). 0420 Set Condition II, for the purpose of serving breakfast. 0505 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 0527 All hands having had breakfast, sounded General Quarters. 0605 Changed course to 075^o and at 0611 to 105^o by simultaneous turn movement. 0617 Resumed approach course 090^o T (PGC). 0620 Observed shore batteries opening fire, apparently at our leading ship. 0621 MONTPELIER and CLEVELAND, and at 0622 leading destroyers opened fire to port. 0623 Changed course to 110^o T (PGC). For details of bombardment action see DENVER action report, Secret serial 0015 dated November 4, 1943. 0623 DENVER commenced firing with secondary battery on coastal shore batteries. 0625 Resumed course 090^o T (PGC) and checked fire. 0625½ Resumed firing. 0627 Received TBS signal to "go ahead with scheduled bombardment missions", and at 0629 commenced firing in accordance with bombardment plan contained in ComTaskForce 39 Operation order 3-43 of October 29, 1943. 0627 Changed course to 105^o T (PGC). 0632 Several single shot salvos began falling in our wake and inshore quarter about 200 yards short; several fragments were later found aboard, but no damage to material or personnel was sustained. 0643 Changed course to 050^o T (PGC) for second leg of bombardment. During firing of this leg, changed course, on signal, by simultaneous turn movements to 080^o, 040^o and 070^o in order to avoid enemy fire. 0656 Ceased firing and on signal formed column on flagship. 0700 Changed course to 100^o T (PGC). 0706 Changed course to 115^o T (PGC), retirement course. 0710 Reduced to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0713 Reduced to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0717 Began maneuvering to form Cruising Disposition Two, usual order. 0729 Formation speed increased to 22 knots (223 RPM). 0744 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 115^o T (PGC). 0751 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition 3.6 (All A.A. mounts manned).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 296

W. I. LEAHY,

Cdr. USN.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 115^o T (PGC), at speed 22 knots (223 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0802 Shifted steering and engine control to pilot house. 0817 Changed course and axis by column movement, to right , by simultaneous method to 165^o T (PGC). 0843 Changed course and axis by column movement to the right, by simultaneous method to 210^o T (PGC). 0852 Changed course and axis by column movement, to the right, by simultaneous method to 255^o T (PGC). 0926 Shifted steering units from No. 1 unit, starboard cable to No. 2 unit port cable. 1010 Changed course and axis by column movement to the right, by simultaneous method to 265^o T (PGC). 1027 Went to 26 knots (269 RPM). 1039 Changed course and axis, by column movement, to the right, by simultaneous method to 275^o T (PGC). 1114 Sighted destroyer bearing 330^o T, distance about 9 miles, in lee of Mono Island. 1125 Sighted ship, hull down, bearing 316^o T, later identified as destroyer. 1141 Changed course and axis, by column movement, to the right, by simultaneous method to 312^o T (PGC).

J. P. WILEY,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on base course 312^o T (PGC), speed 26 knots (269 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1214 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 305^o T (PGC). 1255 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 305^o T (PGC). 1257 Formed Special Formation Four. 1302 Went to General Quarters after receiving report of bogeys bearing 345^o T (PGC), distance 55 miles. 1307 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1308 Shifted control of steering and engines to conning tower. 1319 Slowed to 23 knots (294 RPM). 1356 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1400 Ceased zig-zagging on course 305^o T (PGC). 1405 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 340^o T (PGC). 1410 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1440 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 1441 Ceased zig-zagging on course 320^o T (PGC). 1441 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6 and Material Condition "B". 1446 Shifted control of steering and engines to pilot house. 1451 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 025^o T (PGC). 1506 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 025^o T (PGC). 1535 Executed an emergency turn to course 305^o T (PGC), upon receipt of report of sound contact picked up by U.S.S. SPENCE, contact proved to be false. 1537 Returned to base course 025^o T (PGC). 1542 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 320^o T (PGC). 1557 Changed fleet course and axis to the left, to 275^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 228

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on base course 275^o T (PGC), at speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1608 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 8, on base course 275^o T (PGC). 1640 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 275^o T (PGC). 1648 Changed fleet course and axis to 115^o T (PGC), by column movement to the left, by sections. 1658 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 8, on base course 115^o T (PGC). 1745 Ships left to 115^o T (PGC). Ceased zig-zagging. 1753 On signal, executed counter movement, ships left to 295^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 196

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on base course 295^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1803 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 8, base course 295^o T (PGC). 1807 Unidentified plane reported bearing 042^o T, distance 11 miles, later identified as rain cloud. 1820 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 295^o T (PGC). 1828 On signal, changed fleet course and axis by column movement to left to 160^o T (PGC). 1832 On signal, slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1835 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1850 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 14, base course 160^o T (PGC) 1920 Ceased zig-zagging, remained on base course 160^o T (PGC). 1930 On signal, changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the right to 340^o T (PGC). 1940 On signal, executed ships left to 280^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 182

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 280^o T (PGC), at speed 18 knots (180 RPM), in Cruising Formation Two. 2011 Ships right 340^o T (PGC). 2036 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the right, by simultaneous method countermarch, to 160^o T (PGC). 2045 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2049 Changed course and axis, to the right, by column movement, by simultaneous method, to 180^o T (PGC). 2104 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38"Z". 2132 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 180^o T (PGC). 2226 Changed fleet course and axis by column movement, to the left, by simultaneous method to 132^o T (PGC). 2302 Unidentified plane flew overhead at a low altitude. 2345 Changed fleet course by column movement, to the right to 270^o T (PGC), by simultaneous method. 2359 Changed fleet course, by column movement, to the right, by simultaneous method to 345^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

J. P. WILEY,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Ammunition expended this date for battle:

6"/47 Cal.

Captain, U. S. Navy, Commanding.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 39, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER, in Cruising Formation One, on course 345^o T (PGC), axis 132^o T (PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, C.F. AUSBURNE, DYSON, CLAXTON, THATCHER, FOOTE, SPENCE, CONVERSE and STANLEY. The ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. All boilers are in use. 0001 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0006 Ships left to 270^o T (PGC). 0018 Ships right to 312^o T (PGC). 0034 Changed fleet course and axis to right, by column movement to 000^o T (PGC), simultaneous method. 0045 Changed fleet course and axis to the left, by column movement to 345^o T (PGC), simultaneous method. 0100 Went to General Quarters, on order from OTC and Lt. Cdr. Kurtz, Navigating Officer, relieved the deck for action. 0119 Went to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0130 Went to 28 knots (294 RPM). 0148 Shifted steering and engine control to conning tower. 0210 Flare bearing 030^o T (PGC), distance 14 miles. 0219 Received report of two (2) unidentified ships bearing 013^o T (PGC), distance 13 miles. 0220 Last two (2) unidentified ships are now reported as friendly. 0232 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC) in column. 0239 Ships right to 180^o T (PGC). 0245 Our destroyers launched torpedoes. 0249 Commenced firing on enemy with all batteries. 0255 Changed course to the left with full rudder to avoid ship. 0258 Ships right to 230^o T (PGC). 0302 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC). 0311 Ships right to 180^o T (PGC). 0322 Ships right to 200^o T (PGC). 0323 Went to 32 knots (347 RPM). 0324 A close hit to starboard. 0324 Changed course left to 010^o T (PGC). 0325 Took a hit on the starboard bow. Made funnel smoke. Steadied on course 010^o T (PGC). 0330 Ships left to 000^o T (PGC), and slowed to 28 knots (294 RPM). 0334 Ships left to 300^o T (PGC). 0346 Ships left to 160^o T (PGC). 0350 Ships right to 230^o T (PGC). 0357 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 259.3

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

T. R. Kurtz, Jr., Lt.Cdr., USN.
 
 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, with Task Force 39, in combat with the Japanese Task Force. CTF 39 in U.S.S. MONTPELIER, deployed in Cruising Formation One. The destroyers are working over two (2) Japanese light groups. No submarine screen available. On course 000^o T (PGC), speed 28 knots (294 RPM). 0400 Ships left to 330^o T (PGC). 0403 Slowed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0410 Ships left 210^o T (PGC). 0410 Went to 27 knots (276 RPM). 0415 Right to 270^o T (PGC), ships turn movement. 0416 Slowed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0419 Noted a very strong odor of fuel oil in the water. 0427 Ships right to 340^o T (PGC). 0427 Commenced to take assigned position in the cruiser column, having been on bearing 000^o T (PGC), distance 7,000 yards. CTF 39 was notified by TBS before our approach, which was later verified by CTF 39 by the use of bearing identification and battle lights. 0431 Ships left to 270^o T (PGC). 0434 Ships left to 240^o T (PGC). 0426 Noted a strong odor of fuel oil in the water. 0436 Went to 28 knots (294 RPM). 0438 Slowed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0441 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0442 Ships right to 270^o T (PGC). 0443 Slowed to standard speed, 15 knots (150 RPM). 0445 Went to full speed, 20 knots (200 RPM). 0459 Went to 28 knots (294 RPM). 0500 Slowed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0505 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0505 Ships left to 090^o T (PGC). 0510 Went to 21 knots (210 RPM) and unloaded necessary 6" guns through the muzzel. 0519 All batteries are now back in operation. 0520 "M" coil of degaussing system found to be ruptured and the degaussing system was secured. Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0526 Column right to 110^o T (PGC). 0538 Ships left to 090^o T (PGC). 0537 Ships right to 180^o T (PGC). 0601 Ships left to 090^o T (PGC). 0607 Passed through very heavy oil slick. The slick was wide and of undeterminable length. 0610 Ships left to 060^o T (PGC). 0616 Ships right to 100^o T (PGC). 0625 U.S.S. THATCHER, directed and began to take U.S.S. FOOTE in tow. 0631 Ships left to 090^o T (PGC). 0639 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0640 Went to 17 knots (170 RPM). 0640 Ships left to 320^o T (PGC). 0641 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0643 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC). 0651 Column left to 270^o T (PGC). 0655 Ships right to 315^o T (PGC). 0659 Ships left to 180^o T (PGC). 0710 Ships left to 165^o T (PGC), and then formed Cruising Formation Two. 0728 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 8. 0729 Ships left to 170^o T (PGC). 0734 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 0742 Ceased zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 8. 0742 Ships right to 240^o T (PGC), went to flank speed 25 knots. Went to General Quarters (re-sounded) to repel Japanese air attack. 0744 Ships right to 352^o T (PGC). 0745 Ships left to 180^o T (PGC). 0746 Slowed to 20 knots (223 RPM). 0748 Ships left to 140^o T (PGC), and formed Special Formation Four. 0750 Went to flank speed 25 knots (256 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 231

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr. U. S. Navy
 
 

08 -12

Steaming as before, in preparation to repel attack Japanese airplanes in Special Formation Four. The ship is at General Quarters. Lt. Cdr. T. R. Kurtz, Navigator has the deck. On course 140^o T (PGC), at speed 25 knots (256 RPM). 0800 Sighted a large group of enemy planes on 000^o T (PGC). This group consisted of Vals, Bettys and Zeros at about 10,000 feet. 0802 Emergency ships left to course 050^o T (PGC). 0803 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, opened fire on enemy aircraft. 0803 This ship opened fire on enemy aircraft. 0803 Made an emergency 360^o turn to the right. 0811 Made an emergency 360^o turn to the right. 0812 Observed downed enemy plane off the port bow, approximate range, 10,000 yards, pilot in parachute. Someone shot him down. 0812 Ceased firing 5" battery and automatic weapons. 0819 Steadied on course 150^o T (PGC). 0821 Made an emergency 360^o turn to the left. It is estimated that the Task Force was attacked by between 50 to 75 enemy planes, consisting mostly of Zeros and Vals. During the action six (6) enemy aircraft were observed to be destroyed. The right gun of 5"/38 cal. mount No. 3, was damaged by a 40 mm shell fired from one of our guns during the strafing attack on this ship. 0826 Commenced an emergency turn to the right. 0828 Emergency ships left and steadied on course 150^o (PGC). 0837 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". 0852 Slowed to 22 knots (223 RPM). 0946 Ships right to 175^o (PGC). 0946 Changed fleet course and axis by column movement to the left, by simultaneous method, to 128^o (PGC). 1000 Commenced feeding crew, one section at a time. Set Condition of Readiness II watches on deck. Lt. L. J. Tobin relieved the deck. 1030 Lt. J. P. Wiley relieved the deck. 1037 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 128^o T(PGC). 1040 Formed Special Cruising Formation Four, because of reported "bogies". 1040 "Bogey" contact report proved to be false. 1051 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". 1155 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 228

T. R. KURTZ, Jr., Lt. Cdr. USN

L. J. TOBIN, Lt., USNR.

J. P. WILEY, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 - 15

Steaming as before, on course 128^o T(PGC), at speed 20 knots (200 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". Ship is at General Quarters. Condition "A" is set. 1220 Changed course and axis to 132^o T (PGC) by column movement to the right, simultaneous method. 1232 Slowed to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1324 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" except in the damaged areas, where Condition "A" is maintained. 1350 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 132^o T (PGC). 1351 Shifted steering and engine control from the conning tower to the pilot house. 1352 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1411 Changed fleet course and axis by column movement to the right, by simultaneous method, to 312^o T (PGC). Received signal that Task Group is to return to the vicinity of Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville Island. Two (2) destroyers detached to return to base for fuel and ammunition, leaving two (2) destroyers with force as anti-submarine screen. 1426 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1434 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". 1453 Shifted steering control from NO. 2 unit, port cable, to No. 1 unit starboard cable.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 183

J. P. WILEY,

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

15 - 18

Steaming as before, on base course 312^o T (PGC), at 20 knots (200 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". 1503 Sighted Treasury Island, bearing 340^o T (PGC), distance 25 miles. 1530 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 308^o T (PGC), by column movement, by simultaneous method. 1537 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z" on base course 308^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 1745 U.S.S. CHAS. AUSBURNE, rejoined formation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 198

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z" base course 308^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 1818 Radar contact with unknown surface ship, bearing 316^o T (PGC), distance 17 miles. 1822 CTG 38 reported Radar contact with surface ships to be friendly transports. 1845 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1925 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1942 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to the left, by column movement to 135^o T (PGC) simultaneous method. 1947 On signal, slowed to 17 knots (170 RPM). 1949 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 135^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 193

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 135^o T (PGC), at speed 17 knots (170 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 2236 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 135^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

L. J. TOBIN,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

After the battle an inspection showed the following hits:

8" shell entered second deck, starboard, stateroom 205, pierced watertight bulkhead No. 35, passing through 2^nd deck in stateroom No. 203; entered 3^rd deck stateroom No. 309, passed through Warrant Officer's Mess door, and 3^rd deck below door to Warrant Officer's Stores; passed through hull in Small Stores Issuing Room on first platform level.

8" shell entered starboard side of Paravane Stowage (A-302 A) and passed out port side about 18" above water line.

8" shell touched starboard after rim, and passed through port side of watch cap on forward stack.

R. P. BRISCOE,

Captain, U. S. Navy, Commanding.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 135^o T (PGC), at 17 knots (170 RPM), in company with Task Force 39, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Force consists of U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA and DENVER, in Cruising Formation One, with the U.S.S. CHAS. AUSBURNE (ComDesRon 23), U.S.S. DYSON, and STANLEY forming anti-submarine screen. This force is covering the withdrawal of four transports from Empress Augusta Bay. Boilers No. 1,2,3, and 4 in use. The ship is darkened, Condition "B" set, except the damaged spaces, Condition of Readiness III. 0205 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T (PGC), by column movement to the right, simultaneous method. 0300 Changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T (PGC), by column movement to the left, simultaneous method. 0349 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 115^o T (PGC), column movement, simultaneous method.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on base course 115^o T (PGC), speed 17 knots (170 RPM). 0423 On signal, executed ships right to 155^o T (PGC). 0504 On signal, executed ships left to 115^o T (PGC). 0511 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 115^o T (PGC). 0539 On signal, executed ships right to 145^o T (PGC). 0549 On signal, executed ships left to 115^o T (PGC). 0556 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 115^o T (PGC). 0610 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and CHAS. AUSBURNE assumed Radar Guard. 0626 On signal, went to 19 knots (190 RPM). 0632 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 1. 0650 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to left to 090^o T (PGC), by column movement, simultaneous method. 0653 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 3. 0658 On signal, went to full speed (20 knots (200 RPM). 0700 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 095^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 095^o T (PGC), at speed 20 knots (220 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Mustered crew on stations, absentees, none. 0814 Sighted U.S.S. NASHVILLE, and one (1) destroyer on horizon, bearing 059^o T (PGC). 0921 Went to 22 knots (223 RPM). 0924 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed course 095^o T (PGC). 0925 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". 1116 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the left simultaneous method to 090^o T (PGC). 1131 Sighted Buraka Island, bearing 065^o T (PGC), distance 33 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 209

J. P. WILEY,

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

12 - 16

Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1225 Sighted Russell Islands bearing 068^o T (PGC), distance 15 miles. 1400 Sighted Guadalcanal Island, bearing 090^o T (PGC), distance 35 miles. 1405 Went to 24 knots (245 RPM). 1415 Slowed to 22 knots (220 RPM) because of heavy strain on forward bulkhead. 1418 Changed fleet speed to 22 knots (220 RPM). 1439 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 060^o T (PGC). 1530 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 100^o T (PGC). 1535 Passed U.S. merchant ship, abeam to starboard. 1544 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course 100^o T (PGC). 1545 Ships right to 130^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 221

L. J. TOBIN,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, base course 100^o T (PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", at speed 22 knots (223 RPM). 1600 Ships left to 100^o T (PGC) on signal. 1610 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", base course 100^o T (PGC), speed 22 knots (223 RPM). 1700 On signal changed fleet course and axis, by column movement to the left to 060^o T (PGC) simultaneous method. 1710 Commenced following movements of column leader. 1712 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM), on signal. 1720 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1724 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1727 Slowed to 5 knots (50 RPM). 1746 Passed through torpedo nets. 1749 Commenced pumping water out of A-410-L. 1750 Commenced proceeding independently, on various courses at various speeds to anchorage.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, proceeding on various courses at various speeds conforming to channel, entering Purvis Bay Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 1823 Anchored in Berth 9, Purvis Bay Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings: "J" 110.2^o T (PGC), "K" 047.5^o T (PGC), "I" 355^o T (PGC) and "L" 081.9^o T (PGC). Ship's draft forward 20' 2", aft 25' 6". 1833 Secured main engines and steering engines. 1835 Secured all special sea and anchor details, set regular sea details.

Av. Steam

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Ammunition expended in battle during day of 2 November 1943.

1039 6"/47 Projectiles AP Mk 35-2 MCBD Mk 21

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 21 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings as follows: : "J" 110^o T (PGC), "I" 355^o T (PGC), "K" 048^o T (PGC) and "L" 082^o T (PGC). Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, CHAS. AUSBURNE, WALLER, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, WADSWORTH, TERRY PHILIP, STANLEY, CONY, ANTHONY, CONFLICT, SPENCE, TALBOT, STRINGHAM, DYSON, CONWAY, CONVERSE, SELFRIDGE, SIGOURNE, PRESIDENT JACKSON, PRESIDENT ADAMS, PRESIDENT HAYES, LIBRA, GEORGE CLYMER, WHITNEY, WARD, STRATFORD, KILTY, DENT, MAITI, ARISTAEUS, FULLER, CROSBY, MC KEAN, WATERS, LST 166, S.S. RICHARD YATES and yard and district craft. 0130 U.S.S. NASHVILLE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. J. TOBIN,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0505 U.S.S. MC KEAN (APD 5), underway and stood out of harbor. 0510 U.S.S. CROSBY (APD 17), underway and stood out of harbor. 0520 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY, TALBOT, and WALLER underway and stood out of harbor. 0522 U.S.S. SAUFLEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0523 U.S.S. PHILIP, underway and stood out of harbor. 0525 U.S.S. RENSHAW and STRINGHAM, underway and stood out of harbor. 0528 U.S.S. WATERS, underway and stood out of harbor. 0530 U.S.S. DENT and WARD, underway and stood out of harbor. 0532 U.S.S. KILTY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0650 U.S.S. THATCHER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0805 U.S.S. DYSON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 Mustered crew on station, absentees - none. 0805 U.S.S. DYSON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0813 U.S.S. WADSWORTH, underway and shifted berth. 0821 U.S.S. CHAS. AUSBURNE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0835 Divers commenced inspection for battle damage of hull, starboard and port sides. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0925 S.S. RICHARD YATES (U.S.) underway and stood out of harbor. 1008 ComSoPac and staff came aboard to inspect battle damage. 1030 U.S.S. BAINE and U.S.S. GUEST stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1040 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, underway to shift berth. 1100 ComSoPac and staff left ship, having completed inspection of battle damage. 1115 Lit fires under Boiler No. 1. 1135 U.S.S. STANLEY and CHAS. AUSBURNE, underway and shifted berths. 1145 U.S.S. SPENCE underway and shifted berth. 1153 U.S.S. CONFLICT, underway and shifted berth.

J. P. WILEY,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1235 U.S.S. HUDSON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned, 1242 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 4. Boiler No. 1 on the line for auxiliary purposes. 1400 U.S.S. LST 166 moored alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER with a load of ammunition. 1425 U.S.S. FOOTE stood in under tow by U.S.S. SIOUX and moored alongside U.S.S. WHITNEY. 1530 U.S.S. SIOUX, underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1635 U.S.S. ADVENT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1750 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURNE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1752 U.S.S. DYSON, underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. TOBIN,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1803 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, underway and stood out of harbor. 1803 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, underway and stood out of harbor. 1803 U.S.S. CLEVELAND, underway and stood out of harbor. 1803 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1908 Received 5" and 6" ammunition barges alongside to port and starboard.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2100 Completed taking aboard the following ammunition:

Lt. U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 21 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III are set. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Anchorage bearings: Beacon "J" 110.2^o T (PGC), Beacon "K" 047.5^o T (PGC), Beacon "I" 355^o T (PGC) and Beacon "L" 081.9^o T (PGC). This ship is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER (SOPA), ANTHONY, SPENCE, CONWAY, STANLEY, CONVERSE, WADSWORTH, CONY, SELFRIDGE, TERRY, FOOTE, HUDSON, BENNETT,ADVENT, SIOUX, PRESIDENT JACKSON, PRESIDENT ADAMS, PRESIDENT HAYES, GEORGE CLYMER, FULLER, STRATFORD, WHITNEY, ARISTAEUS, LIBRA, LIPAN, LST 460, HMS MOTAIL, S.S. RICHARD YATES, S.S. GEORGE HIMES and various landing and patrol craft. 0015 U.S.S. STANLEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0204 Condition "Red" reported in Tugali, Purvis Bay area. 0214 Condition "Green" reported in area. 0229 Condition "Red" reported in Tulagi, Purvis Bay area and Guadalcanal. 0230 Went to General Quarters. 0233 Condition "Green" reported in area. 0235 Secured from General Quarters, set condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B".

J. P. WILEY,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0530 U.S.S. ANTHONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0535 U.S.S. BENNETT, WADSWORTH and TERRY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0601 U.S.S. FULLER, PRESIDENT ADAMS, PRESIDENT JACKSON, and PRESIDENT HAYES, underway and stood out of harbor. 0603 U.S.S. ADVENT, underway and stood out of harbor. 0655 U.S.S. HUNTER LIGGETT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0736 U.S.S. WADSWORTH and ANTHONY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0740 U.S.S. BENNETT, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. HUDSON. 0742 Cut Boiler No. 4 in on main steam line. 0750 U.S.S. TERRY, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. ANTHONY.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0800 This ship is on one half (1/2) hours notice. 0800 Tested main steering engines, condition satisfactory. 0810 U.S.S. LST 460, underway and stood out of harbor. 0810 Tested main engines, condition satisfactory. 0836 U.S.S. LCI 331, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0840 Received lighter alongside port quarter and began discharging empty ammunition tanks. 0945 U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1015 U.S.S. MONOGEHELA, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1024 U.S.S. OSTERHAUS, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1025 Having made all preparations for getting underway, all stations were secured, due to delay because of necessity of continuing repair work on battle damage.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1201 S.S. HUNTER LIGGETT, underway and stood out of harbor. 1301 S.S. CRESCENT, City stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1325 U.S.S. SEIDE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 U.S.S. PINKNEY, stood in and moored alongside to starboard. Lines in use: 6" manila and bow and quarter breast lines, 6" manila. 1440 Commenced taking 6" Projectiles and powder from U.S.S. PINKNEY.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U. S. Navy.

16 - 18

Anchored as before, with the U.S.S. PINKNEY, moored alongside to starboard and ammunition lighter on starboard quarter. Ammunition being taken aboard from the U.S.S. PINKNEY and from the ammunition lighter for the 5" and 6" and machine gun batteries. 1603 Plane No. 7 took off. 1615 U.S.S. DAVID GAILLARD, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1630 U.S.S. SIOUX, underway and stood out of harbor. 1645 U.S.S. WARRENTON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1650 S.S. CRESCENT CITY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1655 U.S.S. ORTOLAN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1705 U.S.S. LIPAN, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1815 U.S.S. PINKNEY, underway from alongside. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1827 underway from Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, to go alongside tanker to fuel. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship's draft forward 19' 10", aft 25' 6". Boilers No. 1 and 4 in use. Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds conforming to channel. 1852 Moored port side to YO 164 in Berth No. 5, with the following lines in use: bow and stern line, crossed fore and after spring wires. 1905 Commenced fueling fore and aft. Ship's draft forward 19' 10", aft 25' 6".

L. J. TOBIN,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2040 Completed taking fuel aft. 2053 Completed taking fuel forward. Received aboard 320,264 gallons bunker fuel oil at 97^o F. Ship's draft forward 25' 0", aft 24' 5". 2053 Hauled fires under boiler No. 3.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

00 - 04

Moored to port side of YO 164, Berth No. 5, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 24 fathoms of water. The following lines are in use: Bow and stern line, 6" manila, forward and after bow and quarter springs, 1" wire. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. DENVER is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER, ANTHONY, SPENCE, CONWAY CONVERSE, WADSWORTH, CONY, SELFRIDGE, TERRY, FOOTE, HUDSON, PRESIDENT JACKSON, PRESIDENT ADAMS, PRESIDENT HAYES, GEORGE CLYMER, FULLER, STRATFORD, GUEST, FULLAM, WARRENTON, WHITNEY, ARISTAEUS, PINKNEY, LIBRA, MONONGEHELA, DE 256, S.S. RICHARD YATES, S.S. GEORGE HIMES, HMN MOTAIL and various smaller auxiliary and district craft.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0535 Cast off ammunition lighter which stood out of harbor under tow. 0605 U.S.S. MONONGEHELA, underway and stood out of harbor. 0605 U.S.S. PINKNEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0745 Lit fires under Boiler No. 3. 0745 Tested steering engines, steering control and engine order telegraph. Test satisfactory.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Stationed special sea and anchor details. 0803 Cut in Boiler No. 3 on main steam line. 0805 U.S.S. GUEST, underway and stood out of harbor. 0810 Tested main engine. Test satisfactory. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0824 underway from alongside YO 164, Berth No. 5, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, to shift berth. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds conforming with channel. 0838 U.S.S. FULLAM, underway and stood out of harbor. 0850 Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group., in 22 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings: "K" 046^o T, "J" 111^o T, "I" 351^o T and "L" 082^o T (PGC). 0859 Secured main engines and steering engines. Secured all special sea and anchor details. 0906 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 3, leaving Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1005 U.S.S. SANTA FE, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1015 U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1018 Set Condition of Readiness III (modified). 1030 U.S.S. MOBILE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1042 U.S.S. JOHN RODGERS, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1045 U.S.S. WARRENTON, underway and stood out of harbor. 1115 U.S.S. HARRISON, MC KEE and MURRAY, stood in and anchored in assigned berths.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. SANTA FE, underway and anchored in berth assigned. 1215 U.S.S. MOBILE, underway and went alongside YO 164. 1300 U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM, underway and stood out of harbor. 1318 U.S.S. MC KEE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1325 U.S.S. BENNETT, underway and stood out of harbor. 1330 U.S.S. HARRISON, underway and stood out of harbor. 1340 U.S.S. JOHN RODGERS, underway and stood out of harbor. 1355 U.S.S. DORSER (DMS) stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1405 U.S.S. ANTHONY, underway and stood out harbor. 1410 U.S.S. WADSWORTH, and HUDSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 1455 U.S.S. MOBILE, underway and anchored in berth assigned. Note: The following ammunition was received aboard 5 November 1943.

6"/47 Caliber

708 A. P. Projectiles Mk 35-2.

958 H. C. Projectiles Mk 34-1.

6"/47 Caliber

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1705 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1710 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. The following officers and man of the Aviation Unit returned aboard with the planes, having completed temporary duty on the beach: Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR; Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, USNR; Ens. E. G. Yesko, USNR; Fritz, F., ARM3c, USN. 1755 U.S.S. JOHN RODGERS, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1835 Ammunition lighter, came alongside starboard quarter. Ammunition lighter rammed side of ship while coming alongside, putting 16" tear in the side between frames 143 and 144, 2 feet above the water line.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R

20 - 24

Anchored as before. The following ammunition was received aboard:

350 Rounds 6"/47 Cal. A. P. Projectiles Mk 35-2.

2200 CHENSKI, A., S2c 1^st Division, while carrying a 6" projectile slipped and fell dropping projectile on right foot. An x-ray was taken but extent of injury not yet known.

M. F. YERGER,

Lt.(jg) USN.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 22 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. ComCruDiv 13 in U.S.S. SANTA FE is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. SANTA FE, BIRMINGHAM, MOBILE, DENVER, SPENCE, CONY, JOHN RODGERS, SELFRIDGE, FOOTE,THATCHER, MC KEE, DYSON, BRAINE, FULLAM, WHITNEY, ARISTAEUS, ORTOLAN, AMERICAN LEGION, MURRAY, HUNTER LIGGETT, GEORGE CLYMER, MAUI, LIPAN, SICARD, TRACY, S.S. RICHARD YATES, S.S. GEORGE HIMES, S.S. DURANTE and various landing and patrol craft. 0155 Completed repairs to hull between frames 143 and 144, starboard side.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G) USNR.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0530 S.S. DURANTE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0705 U.S.S. MAUI, underway and stood out of harbor. 0715 U.S.S. GAMBLE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0718 U.S.S. BREESE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0730 U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0740 U.S.S. GAMBLE and BREESE underway and moored alongside YO 164. 0745 U.S.S. TRACY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees - none. 0801 U.S.S. MURRAY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0802 U.S.S. MC KEE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0804 U.S.S. LIPAN, underway and stood out of harbor. 0832 U.S.S. SANTA FE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0836 U.S.S. MOBILE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0930 Hoisted out plane No. 8. Pilot Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR; passenger Lt. J. T. Flis, USNR. 0935 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Ens. E. G. Yesko, USNR; passenger, Ens. A. O. Walter, USNR. 0935 U.S.S. SICARD, underway and stood out of harbor. 0937 U.S.S. BAINE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0941 U.S.S. TRACY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0948 U.S.S. BREESE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0950 U.S.S. GAMBLE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1035 U.S.S. OCEANGRAPHER, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1047 Condition "Red" reported at Tulagi. 1048 Went to General Quarters. 1049 S.S. MORMACWREN, underway and stood out of harbor. 1055 Condition "Green" reported by "Y 3". 1100 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B". 1115 U.S.S. THATCHER, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1215 Plane No. 7 struck port side of ship while taxiing. The damage necessitated putting plane out of commission for twelve (12) hours. 1255 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1230 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1300 Made weekly tests and inspections of magazines. Smokeless powder, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, hangar space sprinklers - conditions normel. 1345 U.S.S. PRINGLE stood in and moored alongside tanker.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) US.R.

16 - 18

Anchored as before.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt. (jg) US NAVY.

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1810 U.S.S. CONY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

H. M. BRINSER,

Lt. US NAVY.
 
 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

M. F. HEALY, Jr.

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 22 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1, in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) set. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER (SOPA), FOOTE, SELFRIDGE, CONY, DYSON, PRINGLE, CONROY, WHITNEY, ARISTAEUS, AMERICAN LEGION, GEORGE CLYMER, CRESCENT CITY, HUNTER LIGGETT, CONFLICT, LST'S 398, 303, 390, 353, 447, LCI'S 328, 132, 66, 22, 329, DE 256, HMNZS MATAI, S.S. RICHARD YATES, DAVID GAILLARD, GEORGE HIMES also various U.S. Navy yard and auxiliary craft.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt.(jg) USN.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0604 U.S.S. CROSBY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0618 U.S.S. SAUFLEY, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0620 U.S.S. WARD, stood in and anchored in assigned berth tanker. 0625 U.S.S. WATERS and U.S.S. STRIGNAN, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0700 U.S.S. TALBOT stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0725 U.S.S. DENT, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0740 U.S.S. OSBORNE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0748 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, and NASHVILLE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.
 
 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0806 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. SAUFLEY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0820 The forward ship's gyro was put out of commission for overhaul. 0825 U.S.S. SPENCE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0830 U.S.S. CONVERSE, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURNE. 0833 U.S.S. DYSON and CLAXTON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0835 U.S.S. CLAXTON and CONY, underway to shift berths. 0850 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR, passenger, Reynolds, R. R., AMM2c, USNR. 0855 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, USNR; passenger Moliero, J. L., AMM2c, USN. 0900 Went to General Quarters for drill. 0900 U.S.S. PATUXENT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0910 U.S.S. WARD, underway and stood out of harbor. 0915 U.S.S. WALLER, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0930 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B". 0948 U.S.S. GEORGE CLYMER and U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0950 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0950 U.S.S. DENT, underway and stood out of harbor. 1035 U.S.S. TALBOT, underway and stood out of harbor. 1050 Two (2) gasoline bowsers from the shore base completed taking on 2,000 gallons of aviation gasoline and cast off starboard quarter. 1055 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1100 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., U.S. Navy.
 
 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1230 S.S. DAVID GAILLAIRD, underway and stood out of harbor. 1230 U.S.S. OCEANGRAPHER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1230 U.S.S. DE 256, underway and stood out of harbor. 1300 U.S.S. STARLING, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1310 U.S.S. CONY, Underway and stood out of harbor. 1330 Hoisted out plane No. 8. Pilot Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR; passenger Murphy, L. F., AMM3c, USNR. 1335 Hoisted out plane No. 7, Pilot Lt. A. B. Haseltine, USNR; passenger Kirby, E. J., S2c, USNR. 1402 U.S.S. SEIDE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 U.S.S. CONY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1430 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. 1430 CHENSKI, A. (none), S2c USNR was transferred to an advanced U.S. Naval Base Hospital for further treatment for fracture of 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th metatarsols of the right foot. 1435 U.S.S. ADROIT, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1439 Received aviation gasoline bowser along starboard quarter. 1444 Received aviation gasoline bowser (B2-27) along starboard quarters, outboard of first bowser. 1450 Commenced discharging gasoline to bowsers. 1450 U.S.S. SAMPSON, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT. 1533 U.S.S. SPENCE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1535 Completed discharging aviation gasoline to bowsers, having delivered 1400 gallons. 1540 Aviation gasoline bowser cast off from along starboard quarter. 1547 U.S.S. SAMPSON, underway from alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1620 U.S.S. DYSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 1638 U.S.S. OCEANGRAPHER, underway and stood out of harbor. 1655 HMNZS MATAI, underway and stood out of harbor. 1720 U.S.S. PATUXENT, underway to shift berth. 1730 Called away anchor detail to stand by anchor, for veering chain if necessary. Sudden squall, wind 35 knots. 1800 Pursuant to the Orders of Commanding Officer Lieutenant R.H. GOEBEL, USNR assumed duties of First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer, relieving Comdr. F. J. GRANDFIELD, USN. Lt. GOEBEL assumed all duties & responsibilities of First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer in accordance with U.S. Navy Regulations, Chapter 27, Articles 1046 to 1051 inclusive. 1817 U.S.S. RENSHAW, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1823 U.S.S. DASH (AM), stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. P. WILEY,

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

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 22 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1, in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, NASHVILLE, TERRY, SELFRIDGE, FOOTE, PRINGLE, CONWAY, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, EATON, WALLER, CONSTANT, CONVERSE, CLAXTON, CHARLES AUSBURNE, WARD, CORY, CRESCENT CITY, DARING, AMERICAN LEGION, HUNTER LIGGETT, KILTY, SAMPSON, CROSBY, CONFLICT, ARISTAEUS, WHITNEY, MORINDO, ORTOLAN, PATUXENT, SIGOURNEY, STARLING, SEIDE, LST 399, LCI 61, S.S. GEORGE H. HIMES also various small Naval yard and auxiliary craft.

M. F. YERGER,

Lt.(jg) U.S.N.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0536 U.S.S. CONWAY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0542 U.S.S. PRINGLE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0542 U.S.S. SAUFLEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0549 U.S.S. EATON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0607 U.S.S. CORY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0650 U.S.S. HAMILTON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0658 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, underway and moored alongside U.S.S. WHITNEY. 0658 U.S.S. CONSTANT underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 U.S.S. SAMPSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0702 U.S.S. RENSHAW, underway and shifted berth. 0707 U.S.S. GEORGE CLYMER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0720 U.S.S. PATUXENT underway and stood out of harbor. 0735 U.S.S. BRAINE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.
 
 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0815 U.S.S. LST 388, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0816 U.S.S. LST 399, underway and stood out of harbor. 0820 U.S.S. DARING, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0845 U.S.S. LST 341, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0900 Hoisted out plane No. 8. Pilot Ens. E. G. Yesko, A-V(N), USNR; passenger Ducote, B. A., ARM1c, 274 67 57, USN. 0910 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR; passenger, Haeling, W. J., ARM2c, 274 67 37, USNR. 0940 U.S.S. HAMILTON, underway and shifted berth. 1020 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1030 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1100 U.S.S. LST 207, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1115 U.S.S. ALLENA, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1115 Made daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples-conditions normal. 1128 U.S.S. LCI 61, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1315 Hoisted out plane No. 8. Pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR; passenger, Oberwise, F. L. AOM1c, 299 90 73, USN. 1320 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Ens. E. G. Yesko, A-V(N), USNR; passenger, Ducote, B. A., ARM1c, 274 6737, USN. 1406 S.S. GEORGE L. CURRY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1430 HMS VITI, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1521 U.S.S. DARING, underway and stood out of harbor. 1529 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, underway from alongside U.S.S. WHITNEY and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) U.S.N.R.

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1610 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1615 U.S.S. ALLENA, underway and stood out of harbor. 1656 U.S.S. MC KEE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1707 U.S.S. MURRAY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1708 U.S.S. RENSHAW, underway and stood out of harbor. 1715 U.S.S. SANTA FE, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1731 U.S.S. MOBILE, stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 1744 U.S.S. HARRISON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1750 S.S. CAPE DES PALMES (FR), stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1802 U.S.S. JOHN RODGERS, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1915 U.S.S. SANTA FE, underway from alongside YO 164, and shifted berth. 1915 Lit fires under Boiler No. 4

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2100 Set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 2108 Cut in Boiler No. 4 on main steam line. 2110 U.S.S. SPENCE, underway and stood out of harbor. 2130 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 2146 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, underway and stood out of harbor. 2156 Turned on speed and side lights. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 2156 underway from Berth No. 9, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet, to proceed to take position for and to cover the 3^rd Echelon of the Empress of Augusta Bay occupation. Proceeding in company with Task Group 39.1, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLAXTON, STANLEY, SPENCE, CONVERSE and C.F. AUSBURNE. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boilers No. 1 and 4 in use. Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds conforming with the channel. 2205 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, underway and stood out of harbor. 2222 Secured speed and side lights. 2239 Secured all special sea detail; set regular sea detail. 2254 Formed Cruising Formation One, base course 300^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 2257 Assumed Radar Guard of Forward semi-circle. 2307 Ships left to 230^o T (PGC). 2319 Went to 23 knots (234 RPM). 2321 Ships right to 260^o T (PGC). 2348 Ships right to 300^o T (PGC).

L. J. TOBIN,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 39, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, DENVER, C. F. AUSBURNE, EATON, CLAXTON, STANLEY, and CONVERSE. Ships in Cruising Formation One, with destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boilers No. 1 and 4 are in use. Fleet course and axis 300^o T (PGC), 23 knots (234 RPM), U.S.S. DENVER and SPENCE have Radar Guard. 0017 Changed fleet course and axis to the left, 235^o T (PGC), by column movement. 00505 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", base course 235^o T (PGC) speed 23 knots (234 RPM). 0105 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course 235^o T (PGC). 0136 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 275^o T (PGC), by column movement. 0148 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", on base course 275^o T (PGC), speed 23 knots (234 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 232

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", on base course 275^o T (PGC) speed 23 knots (230 RPM). 0420 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 275^o T (PGC). 0426 On signal, changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the right, simultaneous method to 295^o T (PGC). 0436 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z", base course 295^o T (PGC). 0446 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0557 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0740 Sighted Simbo Island, bearing 314^o T (PGC), distance 40 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 231

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 295^o T (PGC), at speed 23 knots (232 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10"Z". Mustered crew on stations. Absentees, none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0845 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0906 Fired one (1) test round from the right gun of 5"/38 cal. mount 3. 0914 Sighted object on horizon, bearing 293^o T (PGC), identified as barrage balloon. 0917 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the left, simultaneous method to 270^o T (PGC). 0926 Took station for Radar Calibration, double echo method. 0928 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270^o T (PGC). 0930 Slowed 23 knots (234 RPM). 1015 Cut in Boiler No. 3 on main steam line. 1023 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line. All boilers are now on the line. 1032 Reformed Cruising Formation One, Radar Calibration exercise having been completed. 1035 Changed fleet course and axis by column movement, to the right, simultaneous method to 310^o T (PGC). 1039 Went to General Quarters, for Radar Gun Calibration firing. 1045 Went to 25 knots ( 256 RPM). 1054 Commenced Radar Gun Calibration exercise. 1124 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1142 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement to the right, simultaneous method, to 330^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 238.6

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 330^o T (PGC), at speed 23 knots (234 RPM). 1204 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1212 Went to 25 knots (256 RPM). 1225 Commenced firing Radar Calibration practice 5" and 6" batteries. Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1237 Completed firing. 1238 Went to 25 knots (256 RPM). Ships right to 340^o T (PGC). 1240 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1337 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1346 Ships left to 330^o T (PGC). 1355 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 1401 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1409 Changed fleet course and axis to 110^o T (PGC). 1419 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1450 Bogey gadget bearing 350^o T (PGC), distance 20 miles, closing. 1453 Sighted group of friendly ships on the horizon, bearing 120^o T (PGC). 1505 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1512 Changed fleet course and axis to 320^o T (PGC). 1520 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1541 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1543 U.S.S. SPENCE, sighted raft with four (4) Japanese flyers aboard. 1550 U.S.S. SPENCE, reported that the Japanese on the raft shot themselves. 1550 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 280^o T (PGC). 1557 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 202

Note: The below listed ammunition has been expended this date for Training:

6"/47

1. Projectiles Mk 35-2 Armor Piercing.

1. Cartridges, Semi-fixed, Flashless.

1. Projectiles Mk 35-3, A.A. Common.

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 280^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1626 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 280^o T (PGC). 1632 Changed fleet course and axis to 150^o T (PGC), by column movement to the left. 1641 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 150^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots. 1645 Sighted convoy of LST's and DD's on port bow. 1724 Ceased zig-zagging remained on base course 150^o T (PGC). 1731 Changed fleet course and axis, to 310^o T (PGC), by column movement to the right. 1737 Went to flank speed, 25 knots (256 RPM). This changed of speed was necessary to get away from U.S.S. COLUMBIA, who made a turn inside and came dangerously close to our stern. 1738 Slowed to fleet speed, 18 knots (180 RPM). 1741 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178.5

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1836 Went to General Quarters. 1840 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1842 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds forming Special Cruising Formation Three. 1856 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1859 Shifted steering and engine order control to conning tower. 1944 On signal, executed ships right to 020^o T (PGC). 1959 On signal, executed ships right to 110^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 110^o T (PGC), at 18 knots (180 RPM). 2015 Ships right to 150^o T (PGC). 2017 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 2025 Ships right to 270^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging. 2030 Went to 22 knots (223 RPM). 2035 Ships left to 210^o T (PGC). 2042 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 2057 Ships right to 270^o T (PGC). 2014 Ships right to 330^o T (PGC). 2107 Recommenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on course 330^o T (PGC). 2110 Sighted one (1) red, one (1) green flares, 005^o T (PGC), 5 miles. 2111 Went to 24 knots (245 RPM). 2115 Went to 22 knots (223 RPM). 2157 Slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 2202 Ships left to 300^o T (PGC) and zig-zagging. 2212 Re-commenced zig-zag plan No. 6. 2234 Ships left to 180^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan. 2240 Went to 22 knots (220 RPM). 2241 Slowed to 20 knots and re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 2250 Red flare sighted 100^o T (PGC) distance 22 miles. 2311 Ships left to 090^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan. 2324 Re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 2340 Ships left to 000^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan. 2345 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC) and re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 2359 Ships left to 275^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan 6. During the entire watch, there were many unidentified planes in the area.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 202.7

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 39, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. In Special Formation Three. The Task Force consists of the U.S.S. MONTPELIER (guide), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLAXTON, STANLEY, EATON, C. F. AUSBURNE. The ship is at General Quarters, darkened and Material Condition "A" is set. Boilers No. 1,2,3 and 4 in use. This force is covering the third echelon to Empress Augusta Bay. Steaming on course 275^o T (PGC) at 20 knots (200 RPM). 0005 Ships left to 215^o T (PGC). 0006 Ships emergency right to 275^o T (PGC). 0015 Ships right to 315^o T (PGC). We have many unidentified aircraft in the vicinity. 0020 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 6. 0111 Ceased zig-zagging and ships left to 295^o T (PGC). 0115 Ships right to 325^o T (PGC). 0119 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC). 0150 Ships right to 255^o T (PGC). 0152 Ships left to 195^o T (PGC). 0155 Ships left to 075^o T (PGC). 0155 U.S.S. MONTPELIER fired at unidentified plane - results negative. 0157 Ships right to 135^o T (PGC). 0207 Re-commenced zig-zag plan No. 6. 0250 Notice smell of heavy fuel oil slick. 0315 Served a ration of ham sandwiches, coffee and apples to the crew at their battle stations. 0325 Ceased zig-zagging and ships right to 315^o T (PGC). 0347 Re-commenced zig-zag plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 200

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.
 
 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 315^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 0500 Ceased zig-zagging. Ships left to 135^o T (PGC). 0506 Commenced zig-zaggin in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 135^o T (PGC)., speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 0544 Ceased zig-zagging. Ships left to 075^o T (PGC). 0604 Ships right to 115^o T (PGC). 0605 Sighted three (3) friendly aircraft carriers off starboard quarter, bearing 230^o T, distance 10 miles (approximately). 0619 Ships right to 295^o T (PGC). 0622 Ships left to 105^o T (PGC). 0622 Went to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0625 Slowed to 23 knots (234 RPM). 0625 Slowed to 20 knots (214 RPM). 0630 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 105^o T (PGC). 0633 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0650 Slowed to 18 knots (180 RPM). 0717 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 0756 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 105^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 198

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on base course 105^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 0801 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to right, by column movement, simultaneous method to 155^o T (PGC). 0810 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 155^o T (PGC). 0841 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 0845 Unidentified aircraft reported bearing 070^o T (PGC) distance 32 miles. 0847 On signal, changed fleet course and axis, by column movement to the left, in succession by station units to 310^o T (PGC). 0857 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC). 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1123 On signal, changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to left in succession, by station units, to 130^o T (PGC). 1130 Sighted men parachuting from "Liberator" bomber, bearing 080^o T (PGC). Five (5) men in all parachuted from bomber, two (2) recovered by U.S.S. CLAXTON, one (1) by U.S.S. STANLEY, one (1) by U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURNE, one (1) by U.S.S. CONVERSE. 1134 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base 110^o T (PGC). 1136 On signal, ceased zig-zaggin, resumed base course. 1146 On signal, sounded air defense, manned all 5" and automatic weapon batteries. 1158 On signal, executed ships right to 310^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 197

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. U.S. Navy.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 310^o T (PGC), at speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1204 Ships right to 330^o T (PGC). 1217 Ships right to 010^o T (PGC). 1222 Ships right to 130^o T (PGC). 1225 Ships right to 220^o T (PGC). 1229 Ships left to 130^o T (PGC). 1233 Ships right to 310^o T (PGC). 1242 Ships right to 320^o T (PGC). 1243 Ships left to 310^o T (PGC). 1245 Ships left to 130^o T (PGC). 1258 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1308 Slowed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 1310 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 1316 Secured from air defense call. Set Condition of Readiness III. 1321 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1330 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 1335 Shifted steering and engine control to pilot house. 1340 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1351 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 1400 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1410 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 1421 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1431 Ships right to 190^o T (PGC). 1441 Ships left to 070^o T (PGC). 1450 Sighted Shortland Island, bearing 053^o T (PGC), distance 40 miles. 1501 Ships right to 130^o T (PGC). 1507 Change course and axis by column movement to the left, by simultaneous method, to 310^o T (PGC). 1515 Ships right to 010^o T (PGC). 1523 U.S.S. EATON, joined formation. 1528 Ships left to 250^o T (PGC). 1541 Ships right to 310^o T (PGC). 1544 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1551 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 310^o T (PGC). 1552 Ships right to 340^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 182

J. P. WILEY,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on base course 310^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1608 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1650 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 150^o T (PGC). 1705 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1753 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1758 Changed fleet course and axis, to the right to 315^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 177.5

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on fleet course and axis 315^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM). 1808 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 315^o T (PGC). 1837 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 315^o T (PGC). 1837 Went to General Quarters. 1839 Commenced forming Special Formation Three. Ships right to 345^o T (PGC). Slowed to 15 knots (180 RPM). 1842 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC). Went to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1845 Shifted steering control and engine order telegraph control to conning tower. 1849 Shifted to No. 2 steering unit, starboard cable remained in use. 1850 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 315^o T (PGC). 1852 Went to 21 knots (212 RPM). 1929 Task Force opened fire on "bogey" bearing 300^o T, distance 5 miles. 1930 "Bogey dropped two (2) red flares bearing 305^o T. Ceased firing at "bogey". 1934 Red flare bearing 228^o T (PGC), distance 7 miles. 1938 White flashing float light, bearing 287^o T, distance 7 miles. 1943 Ships right to 355^o T (PGC), (Emergency signal). 1944 Task Force opened fire on "bogey" bearing 280^o T, distance 6 miles. 1945 Ships left to 295^o T (PGC) (emergency signal). 1947 Went to 25 knots (256 RPM). 1947 "Bogies" bearing 230^o T, 3 miles, believed to be six (6) planes. 1948 Red flare bearing 242^o T, distance 5 miles. 1949 Ships right to 355^o T (PGC). 1953 Ships left to 325^o T (PGC). 1954 Ships left to 235^o T (PGC). (Emergency signal). U.S.S. CLAXTON reported torpedo heading towards U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1657 Ships right to 325^o T (PGC). (Emergency signal). 1958 Destroyers opened fire on various "bogies". 1959 Ships left to 235^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 199

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 235^o T (PGC), at 25 knots (256 RPM). 2003 Ships right to 325^o T (PGC). 2004 Destroyers opened fire on Jap planes and drove them off without loss. 2005 Emergency ships right to 025^o T (PGC). 2007 Ships left to 295^o T (PGC). 2013 Green flare observed 210^o T, distance 10 miles. 2019 Slowed to 21 knots (212 RPM). 2030 Ships left to 180^o T (PGC). 2031 Destroyers opened fire on Jap planes and drove them off. 2034 Emergency ships left to 100^o T (PGC). 2038 Ships right to 180^o T (PGC). 2046 Emergency ships left to 140^o T (PGC). 2104 Observed flashing white float light 070^o T, distance 6 miles. 2140 Ceased zig-zagging and executed ships left to 335^o T (PGC). 2145 Passed through heavy rain squall, visibility 0. 2147 Re-commenced zig-zag plan No. 6. 2227 Ceased zig-zag and executed ships left to 355^o T (PGC). 2230 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC). 2235 Ships left to 285^o T (PGC). 2247 Ships right to 315^o T (PGC). 2251 Re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 2230 Ceased zig-zagging plan No. 6 and slowed to 19 knots (190 RPM). 2323 Ships left to 160^o T (PGC) and re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 2355 Ships left to 120^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan 6.

Through out the watch, the bright full moon illuminated the Task Force. There were scattered rain squalls and the sky was otherwise partially overcast, with large white cumulus clouds. The Japanese bombers would come in from the bad weather and visibility areas until driven off. The planes used were "Bettys" carrying torpedoes and it is known that they would break off the attack before in a proper firing position, as if they did not have the courage to press home the attack. No damage was inflicted on the Task Force but one (1) destroyer knocked down a Jap.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 209

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 39, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLAXTON, STANLEY, CHAS. AUSBURNE, CONVERSE and EATON,. The Task Force is covering Task Group 31.7, during landing operation and withdrawal from Empress Augusta Bay. The ship is darkened, at General Quarters (easy), on course 120^o T (PGC), at 19 knots (190 RPM). The ship has all boilers in use. Steaming. In Special Formation Three. 0018 Ships right to 140^o T (PGC). 0019 Ships left to 120^o T (PGC) and recommended zig-zag plan No. 6. 0045 Ceased zig-zag on course 120^o T (PGC). 0046 Ships right to 160^o T (PGC). 0048 Re-commenced zig-zag plan 6. 0130 Ceased zig-zag plan 6 and executed ships left to 130^o T (PGC). 0132 Recommenced zig-zag plan 6 on course 113^o T (PGC). 0137 Fed crew a ration at their battle stations. 0247 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zag plan. 0258 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC). 0310 Ships right to 345^o T (PGC). 0320 Ships left to 145^o T (PGC). 0325 Recommenced zig-zag plan 6 on course 150^o T (PGC).

Weather conditions remain the same: Large bright full moon, large white masses of cumulus clouds and occasional rain squalls.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 185

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., USN
 
 

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0440 Ships left to 115^o T (PGC). 0446 Ships left to 105^o T (PGC). 0455 Ships right to 145^o T (PGC). 0505 Ships right to 185^o T (PGC). 0512 Ceased zig-zag on plan No. 6, ships right to 310^o T (PGC). 0524 Ships right to 350^o T (PGC). 0531 Ships right to 010^o T (PGC). 0540 Ships right to 140^o T (PGC). 0546 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6"Z", on base course 140^o T (PGC). 0546 Ships right to 160^o T (PGC). 0600 Ships left to 120^o T (PGC). 0609 Ships right to 160^o T (PGC). 0615 Ships left to 315^o T (PGC). 0615 Ceased zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6"Z", base course 140^o T (PGC). 0619 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0619 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0625 Slowed to 19 knots (190 RPM). 0626 On signal, formed Cruising Formation One. 0632 Ships left to course 140^o T (PGC). 0639 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6"Z".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 185

E. F. BALDWIN,

Lt. D-V(V) USNR

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on base course 140^o T (PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, at 19 knots (190 RPM). Mustered crew on stations. Absentees, none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0800 Ships left to 140^o T (PGC), resumed base course, preparatory to course change. 0804 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the left to 120^o T (PGC). 0814 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 120^o T (PGC). 0905 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course 120^o T (PGC). 0911 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the left (countermarch) to 310^o T (PGC). 0913 Sounded AA call. Manned 5" battery and all automatic weapons, to repel possible air attack. 0917 Commenced forming Special Cruising Formation Three. 0938 Ships left to 230^o T (PGC). 0945 Secured A.A. battery. Set Condition of Readiness III. 0946 Ships right to 260^o T (PGC). 0950 Ships right to 310^o T (PGC). 0955 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1011 Changed fleet course and axis by column movement to the right to 130^o T (PGC). 1017 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 130^o T (PGC), speed 19 knots (190 RPM). 1157 Shifted control of steering units and engine order telegraph from the conning tower to the pilot house.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 188

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 130^o T (PGC), speed 19 knots (190 RPM). 1238 Unidentified aircraft reported bearing 310^o T (PGC), distance 12 miles. 1239 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds forming Special Cruising Formation Three. 1240 Sounded air defense call, manned all 5" batteries and automatic weapons. 1245 Unidentified aircraft reported friendly. 1246 Commenced maneuvering on various speeds reforming Cruising Formation One. 1247 Secured from air defense, set Condition of Readiness III. 1250 On station in Cruising Formation One, 1000 yards astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1252 Changed fleet course and axis, to the left by column movement to 330^o T (PGC), simultaneous by station units. 1259 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 330^o T (PGC). 1447 Changed fleet course and axis to the left, to 150^o T (PGC), by column movement, simultaneous by station units. 1455 Condition reported "Red" on Guadalcanal. 1457 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 150^o T (PGC). 1525 Completed blowing tubes in all steaming boilers.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 188

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on course 150^o T (PGC), at speed 19 knots (188 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1610 Sighted group of transports on horizon, bearing 100^o T, with escorting destroyers. During this watch the formation had fighter coverage consisting alternately of 8 P38's and 8 F4U's. 1613 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement to the right, simultaneous method, to 300^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 187

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 300^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (180 RPM) zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1800 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement to the right, simultaneous method to 100^o T (PGC). 1802 Sighted friendly troop transports ahead. 1810 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1816 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 1822 Changed fleet course and axis, by column movement, to the left, simultaneous method to 310^o T (PGC). 1832 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1835 Went to General Quarters for the night; ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1839 Went to 19 knots (190 RPM). 1844 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. t. 1857 Shifted control of steering and engines to conning tower. 1922 Anti-aircraft fire bearing 055^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 187

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, on base course 310^o T (PGC), at 19 knots (190 RPM). 2000 Ships left to 290^o T (PGC). 2013 Ships right to 330^o T (PGC). 2030 Ships left to 305^o T (PGC). 2040 Ships left to 280^o T (PGC). 2055 Ships right to 310^o T (PGC). 2059 Ceased zig-zagging and changed fleet course, right to 225^o T (PGC) on signal. 2103 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 225^o T (PGC), on signal. 2105 Ships right to 265^o T (PGC). 2113 Ships left to 255^o T (PGC). 2120 Ships left to 230^o T (PGC). 2130 Ceased zig-zagging and changed fleet course to the right to 340^o T (PGC), on signal. 2154 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 340^o T (PGC), on signal, steadied on course 000^o T (PGC). 2159 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, opened fire on enemy aircraft. 2200 Ships left to 320^o T (PGC). 2211 Ships left to 290^o T (PGC), and ceased zig-zagging on signal. 2216 Ships right to 340^o T (PGC), on signal. 2219 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC), and resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 340^o T (PGC). 2230 Ceased zig-zagging and ships left to 250^o T (PGC), on signal. 2237 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 250^o T (PGC), on signal and steadied on course 245^o T (PGC). 2240 Ships left to 220^o T (PGC). 2247 Ships left to 210^o T (PGC). 2250 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, opened fire on enemy aircraft. 2251 U.S.S. DENVER and U.S.S. MONTPELIER opened fire on enemy aircraft. 2252 All ships ceased firing. 2255 Ships right to 250^o T (PGC). 2301 Ceased zig-zagging and changed fleet course to the right to 345^o T (PGC) on signal. 2305 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 345^o T (PGC) on signal and steadied on course 025^o T (PGC). 2313 Ships left to course 015^o T (PGC). 2320 Ships left to course 350^o T (PGC). 2330 Ships left to 325^o T (PGC). 2335 Received radio report condition "Red" at Treasury Islands. 2340 Searchlights sighted on the horizon, to starboard bearing 350^o T, distance approximately 15 miles, on Treasury islands. 2345 Ships left to course 300^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging on signal. 2348 Ships left to course 270^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging, on signal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 187

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U.S. Navy.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 39, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, COLUMBIA, STANLEY, CLAXTON, CHASLES AUSBURNE, CONVERSE, and EATON , in Special Formation Three, escorting troopships to Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville Island, in the Solomons Group. The ship is darkened and at General Quarters, with Material Condition "A" set throughout and a Condition of Readiness I Easy in effect. Boilers 1, 2, 3, and 4 are in use. On course 270^o T (PGC), at 18 knots (188 RPM). 0000Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base On course 270^o T (PGC), on signal. Steadied on course 250^o T (PGC). 0013 Ships right to course 290^o T (PGC). 0030 Ships left to course 260^o T (PGC). 0031 Ships right to course 340^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging on signal. 0036 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with zig-zag plan No. 6, base course 340^o T (PGC) and steadied on 335^o T (PGC), on signal. 0040 Ships left to course 310^o T (PGC). 0046 Sighted two (2) white float lights, bearing 310^o T (PGC), distance 7 miles. 0047 Ships left to 300^o T (PGC). 0052 Unidentified aircraft bearing 085^o T, distance 7 miles. Emergency turn 6, ships right to course 000^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging. 0055 Ships left to course 300^o T (PGC), on signal. 0055 Aircraft identified as friendly. 0103 Ships right to course 340^o T (PGC). 0104 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with zig-zag plan No. 6, base course 340^o T (PGC). 0105 Ships right to course 020^o T (PGC). 0113 Ships left to course 010^o T (PGC). 0120 Ships left to course 345^o T (PGC). 0126 Ceased zig-zagging, ships left to course 260^o T (PGC) on signal. 0130 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 260^o T (PGC), on signal and steadied on course 240^o T (PGC). 0147 Ships right to course 280^o T (PGC). 0153 Sighted red, white, green flares bearing 052^o T (PGC). 0158 Ships right to 335^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging, on signal. 0214 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 335^o T (PGC) on signal, and steadied on course 355^o T (PGC). 0230 Ships left to 330^o T (PGC). 0240 Ships right to 000^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging on signal. 0243 Ships left to 270^o T (PGC), on signal. 0252 course 310^o T (PGC) on signal. 0256 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC) and steadied on course 310^o T (PGC), on signal. 0303 Changed fleet speed to 25 knots (256 RPM). 0305 Ships right to 350^o T (PGC). 0306 Unidentified aircraft reported bearing 225^o T, range 11 miles. 0313 Ships left to 340^o T (PGC). 0315 Slowed to 19 knots (190 RPM). 0316 Ships left to 280^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging on emergency 6 turn signal. 0319 Ships right to 310^o T (PGC), on signal. 0344 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC), on signal and steadied on course 290^o T (PGC). 0347 Ships right to 330^o T (PGC). 0355 Made radar contact on one (1) unidentified aircraft, bearing 075^o T (PGC), range 6½ miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 191.5

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,
 
 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on course 330^o T (PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 310^o T (PGC), speed 19 knots (190 RPM). 0400 Ships left to 290^o T (PGC). 0413 Ships right to 330^o T (PGC). 0420 Observed night fighter shooting down enemy plane, identified as "Betty", bearing 360^o T (PGC), distance 6 miles, "Betty" down in flames. 0430 Ships left to course 305^o T (PGC). 0434 Ceased zig-zagging, ships right to course 000^o T (PGC), on signal. 0435 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 000^o T (PGC), on signal, and steadied on course 355^o T (PGC). 0440 Ships left to course 330^o T (PGC). 0441 Ships right to course 050^o T (PGC) and ceased zig-zagging on signal. 0446 Emergency turn 6, ships right to course 110^o T (PGC). 0446 Contact on more than one unidentified aircraft. 0448 Ships left to course 080^o T (PGC). 0450 Made contact on three (3) or four (4) enemy planes, bearing between 130^o and 140^o T. Planes began coming in for torpedo attack. 0451 Commenced firing A.A. battery and automatic weapons at enemy aircraft. 0454 U.S.S. STANLEY reported by TBS that a torpedo was going by her side, course 310^o T. At same time OTC transmitted an emergency turn signal to 310^o T. 0455 Emergency ships left to course 350^o T (PGC). Before completion of this turn, emergency full left rudder (34^o). 0455 Ship was hit by aerial torpedo, in starboard side, at frame 101. Conning tower lost steering control and all communication with steering aft, except warning howler, which was sounded. Gyro repeaters out of commission. Observed two (2) enemy aircraft shot down by this vessel at the start of the attack and one (1) more after completion of attack by the Task Force. 0455 Engine order telegraph out of commission. Position at time of hit 06^o 45.8' S, 154^o 15.0' E, by DRT. Speed 18 knots (188 RPM). 0456 Main engine control reported No. 1 shaft not turning over. 0457 Observed torpedoes estimated three (3) pass close aboard and parallel to ship. 0459 Central station reported main damage in after engine room. Ship making 11 knots by pitometer log. Chart house reported nearest point of land to bear 107^o Magnetic, Variation 7.7E, distance 77 miles, Treasury Island. 0500 Central station reported list of 7^o to starboard, and that all port tanks were already full. 0502 Ship's list 9^o to starboard. 0504 All engines were stopped. Central station reported that pumping of flooded compartments had begun, without controlling list. Ship's list 11^o to starboard. 0508 Made all preparations for lowering boats, life rafts and life nets over the side. No. 1 whaleboat reported badly damaged and unserviceable. 0510 On orders from OTC, U.S.S. STANLY and U.S.S. EATON, reported to standby this ship. Circled ship in phase. 0514 Forward fire room reported temporary out of order. 0515 Steering control reported to be in steering aft. Communications from open bridge to steering aft by means of the public address system. Using magnetic compass. 0515 Ship's list 9^o to starboard. 0516 Ship's list reduced to 8^o to starboard. 0517 Ship's list 7^o to starboard. 0523 Ship's list 7½ ^o to starboard. 0524 Forward master gyro back in operation and gyro repeaters in conn, pilot house and open bridge cut in. 0525 Enemy plane driven all by A.A. fire from cruisers and destroyers. 0525 Ship moving ahead 1/3 using No. 4 shaft, course 165^o T (PGC). 0529 Enemy plane bearing 174^o T (PGC), 12,000 yards. 0529 Ship's list still 7½ ^o to starboard. 0530 Shifted entire load to No. 2 boiler. 0531 Both generators in forward fire room reported in good working order. 0531 Port steering cable reported to be in working order. 0534 Steering control shifted back to conning tower. 0534 Ship left 20^o rudder. 0538 Engine order telegraph in conning tower back in commission. 0539 Ships list 7^o to starboard. 0541 Ship making 5 knots, steadied up on course 115^o T (PGC). 0542 Six (6) feet of water and oil reported in after mess hall, compartment C-407. 0548 Unidentified aircraft reported 292^o T, distance 14,000 yards going out. 0552 Ship's list 6½ ^o to starboard, still pumping. 0607 Ship's head 130^o T (PGC). 0610 Forward master gyro lost power temporary. Steering by magnetic compass. 0614 Sighted land bearing 040^o T, distance 20 miles, Bougainville Island. 0620 Ship's list reduced to 4½ ^o to starboard. 0635 Ship's list 3½ ^o to starboard, pumping continuously. 0710 Sighted U.S.S. SIOUX, on port beam bearing 281^o T, distance 8 miles. 0715 Ships list 1½ ^o to starboard. 0718 Ship's list 0.1^o having been righted by pumping the starboard fuel and water tanks. 0720 Began steering by gyro, with gyro on the meridian. 0725 Level of water in after mess hall decreased to 18". 0749 Ship's list 1^o to port. 0749 Forecastle prepared to receive tug for towing.

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,

08 -12

Steaming as before, on course 115^o T, at 5 knots. 0808 U.S.S. SIOUX came alongside to port and commenced taking U.S.S DENVER in tow. 0835 Tows secured and SIOUX has DENVER under tow at 7.4 knots. 0847 Set course 125 T.

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,

12 - 16

Steaming as before, under tow at 7.4 knots, on course 125^o T. 1357 Lost steering control, with rudder jammed 8^o to port, slowed to 7 knots. The ship is still at General Quarters.

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,

16 - 18

Steaming as before, under tow at 7 knots on course 125^o T. The ship is still at General Quarters.

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, under tow at 7 knots, on course 125^o T. 1815 Darkened ship. The ship is still at General Quarters.

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,

20 - 24

Steaming as before, under tow, at 7 knots, on course 125^o T. The ship is still at General Quarters. 2053 Changed course to 135^o T. 2235 Regained steering control in the after steering station. Using No. 2 unit, port cable. (The starboard cable is cut.).

T. R. KURTZ, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S, Navy,

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

When attack by enemy low flying planes was first detected, one group of at least four (4) were sighted on starboard quarter, in vicinity of a rain squall. Fire was opened with 5" and one (1) plane seen to crash immediately. Observed two (2) torpedoes dropped, estimated distance 1500 yards. Ordered hard left rudder just before U.S.S. STANLY reported torpedoes. Fourth plane swung wide around squall and headed in towards DENVER, under heavy fire of A.A. from ships in vicinity and plane dropped torpedo at 750 yards and turned across DENVER'S bow and crashed 1000 yards to port. Third plane seen to crash after heavy automatic fire from U.S.S. STANLY.

This torpedo, running at right angles to those first seen, struck the ship in the vicinity of frame 101 starboard.

R. P. BRISCOE,

Captain, U.S. Navy, Comm anding.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 135^o T (PGC), at 8 knots (135 RPM), on No. 4 screw, being towed by the U.S.S. SIOUX in company with the U.S.S. EATON and U.S.S. STANLEY, with U.S.S. EATON screening U.S.S. DENVER in the van and U.S.S. STANLEY screening DENVER astern. OTC Captain R. P. Briscoe, USN in U.S.S. DENVER. The ship is darkened and at General Quarters, with Material Condition "A" set throughout and Condition of Readiness I (Easy) in effect. Boiler No. 1 in use. One (1) Catalina is furnishing anti-submarine coverage for the formation. 0045 Main engine control reported that all holes in the after fire room were plugged up and that pumping of that compartment had been completed. 0214 Changed course to the left to 115^o T (PGC). 0230 Ship's list to port was 2½ ^o.

S. D. CORNISH,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before. 0615 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0620 Shifted the watch from conning tower to the pilot house. 0710 Sighted several ships on the horizon, hull down, bearing 150^o T (PGC). 0750 U.S.S. DYSON, joined out formation. U.S.S. EATON, left our formation.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

08 - 12

Steaming under tow as before, on course 115^o T (PGC), at speed 8 knots. 1037 U.S.S. BENNETT, was assigned to the DENVER as an additional screening destroyer by order of ComTaskUnit 31.5.1 and took station in the screen.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. SIOUX at 8 knots on course 115^o T (PGC). 1220 On orders of the Captain, tug changed course to 100^o T (PGC). 1225 Sighted U.S.S. SC 733, astern approaching to join formation. 1240 Sighted three (3) LCT'S bearing 073^o T, distance 20 miles. 1315 U.S.S. SC 733 joined formation, screening astern. 1503 Lit fires under Boiler No. 2.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. SIOUX, at 8 knots, on course 100^o T (PGC). 1655 Cut in Boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 1705 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 1.

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. S-V(G) USNR.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. SIOUX, at 8 knots on course 100^o T (PGC).

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. SIOUX, on course 095^o T (PGC), at a speed of 8 knots. 2313 Changed course to 080^o T (PGC).

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

The following men are reported missing in action as a result of a torpedo explosion on 13 November 1943, during an enemy torpedo plane attack:

BEEBE, Olin Francis S1c V-6 USNR 642 47 59

CHAIDO, Peter Charles MM2c V-6 USNR 652 51 15

COTALING, Louis Frederick S1c V-6 USNR 642 47 50

DAIGRE, Rivet John MM2c USN 274 75 01

DREFS, Justus John MM1c V-6 USNR 648 13 47

FANNING, Buster Eli S2c V-6 USNR 878 65 36

FIELDING, Harold Earl MM2c USN 204 81 78

FERACI, Joseph James S2c V-6 USNR 851 55 44

GRACE, Jacob Martin S1c V-6 USNR 666 62 05

GULAS, Joseph Peter MM2c V-6 USNR 652 50 32

HEITT, Alvin Perry CMM(AA) USN 287 17 19

HORAK, William (n) MM1c USN 265 89 31

JACKSON, Clyde Bradley S1c USN 383 08 65

JUROVITCH, Charles Francis EM1c USN 321 40 49

KASPER, George Frank GM3c V-6 USNR 642 49 82

NORRIS, Thames Frederick MM2c V-6 USNR 626 52 54

REEDER, Norbert Joseph S1c V-6 USNR 611 67 48

TARKINGTON, Claude Francis MM2c V-6 USNR 658 22 16

VIA, Joseph Garland S1c V-2 USNR 658 82 92

WHITE, Charles Edwin WT2c V-6 USNR 624 06 13

The following men were wounded in the same action:

ABRAHAM, Joseph (n) S2c V-6 USNR 608 45 90

Diagnosis: Wound, Lacerated, Forehead and Left Eye.

Scheunemann, Lester (n) MoMM2cV-6 USNR 305 93 21

Diagnosis: Undet: Fracture, Spine.

BALAS, Andy (n) S1c V-6 USNR 642 49 07

Diagnosis: Wound, Lacerated, Left Hand.

ALYWARD, Charles Philip S1c USN 204 82 16

Diagnosis: Fracture, Simple, Fourth, Left Metatarsal.

MILES, Otis Simes SC(B)3c V-6 USNR 633 46 00

Diagnosis: Multiple Contusions and Lacerations; Sprain Right Knee.

BROWN, Raymond Eiliott S1c V-2 USNR 666 54 19

Diagnosis: Contusion, Right Ankle.

DIAMOND, Earl Joseph S1c V-6 USNR 666 54 77

Diagnosis: Contusion, Head.

PUCHALSKI, Joseph (n) Pfc USMC 352165

Diagnosis: Contusion, Head.

DANIELS, Joel Wallace F2c V-6 USNR 641 55 50

Diagnosis: Burns, Second Degree, Both Feet.

DIOGENES, Louis Silvia S1c USN 204 77 10

Diagnosis: Wound, Lacerated, Left Forehead.

BENNETT, Howard Ernest F1c V-6 USNR 666 54 32

Diagnosis: Laceration, Left Little Finger.

HOWE, Edward Otty S1c USN 202 43 37

Diagnosis: Contusion and Laceration, Head.

KREMER, James Francis EM3c USN 337 46 96

Diagnosis: Contusion, First and Second Fingers, Right Hand.

CORBY, James Edward EM3c V-6 USNR 663 62 70

Diagnosis: Wound, Lacerated Scalp.

ZSIGA, Steve Lawrence GM3c V-6 USNR 706 60 07

Diagnosis: Laceration, Scalp.

R. P. BRISCOE,

Captain, U. S. Navy, Commanding.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 080^o T (PGC), at 8 knots (135 RPM), on No. 4 shaft, being towed by U.S.S. SIOUX, in company with the U.S.S. DYSON, STANLEY, and SC 733. OTC Captain R. P. Briscoe, USN in U.S.S. DENVER. Boiler No. 2 in use. The ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. 1220 Changed course to 085^o T (PGC). 0312 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC).

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. SIOUX. 0537 Commenced taking off RPM's to cast off wire cable. 0544 Commenced taking in anchor chain. 0550 Unshackled anchor chain from tow line. 0556 Cast off tow line. U.S.S. SIOUX took standby position on our starboard quarter. 0557 Added 20 RPM, (065 RPM). 0558 Added 10 RPM, (075 RPM). 0559 Added 10 RPM, (085 RPM). 0600 Added 10 RPM, (095 RPM). 0602 Added 10 RPM, (105 RPM). 0603 Lit fires under Boiler No. 1 0604 Added 10 RPM, (115 RPM). 0605 Connected anchor chain to anchor. 0606 Added 10 RPM, (125 RPM). 0606 Added 10 RPM, (135 RPM). 0606 Both anchors ready for lowering. 0615 Took off 100 RPM (050). 0616 Made all preparations for receiving U.S.S. SIOUX alongside starboard. 0616 Cut in Boiler No. 1 on main steam line. 0629 Received messenger line from U.S.S. SIOUX. 0630 Received 10" manila bow line from SIOUX. 0632 Received 10" manila spring line from SIOUX. 0634 Received second 10" manila bow line. 0637 Added 25 RPM (075 RPM). 0638 Added 25 RPM (100 RPM).

J. G. LIGHTBURN,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 075^o T (PGC) in tow by U.S.S. SIOUX, MAKING 100 rpm on No. 4 shaft. 0810 U.S.S. SC 733 left formation. 0815 Slowed to 75 RPM on No. 4 shaft. 0816 Went to 100 RPM on No. 4 shaft. 0817 Ships left to 062^o T (PGC). 0830 Stationed all special sea and anchor details 0832 Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds, conforming to channel, entering Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group. 0846 Held quarters for entering port. 0940 Anchored in Berth No. 19, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island Group, in 22 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to port anchor. This anchorage was temporary, pending clearance of assigned berth. 1000 Underway from Berth No. 19, to shift berth. Ship is under tow by U.S.S. SIOUX. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 1043 Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearings (with ship's head 043^o T (PGC): "K" 044.5^o T, "I" 291.8^o T and "J" 139.6^o T. Ships draft forward 23' 3", aft 27' 6". 1052 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 1140 U.S.S. WADSWORTH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1159 Secured main engines.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1212 U.S.S. ANTHONY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1220 U.S.S. SIOUX underway from this ship starboard side.At 1240 Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, reported aboared having completed temperary duty. 1310 U.S.S. DORISY, underway to shift berth. 1415 HMAS AVUNTA and WARRAMUNGA underway and stood out of harbor. 1416 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT and HMAS AUSTRALIA HMAS SHROPSHIRE, and U.S.S. HELM underway and stood out of harbor. 1520 U.S.S. YP 515 moored to starboard quarter.

H. M. BRINSER,

Lt. USN.

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1655 U.S.S. BALCH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1715 U.S.S. YP 515 cast off from alongside starboard quarter.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

L. J. TOBIN,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) USNR.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to port anchor. Derrick lighter No. H-127 and tow (2) ammunition lighters are moored alongside port quarter. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) are set. The ship has a list to port of 1 ¾^o. The smoking lamp is out throughout the ship and special sentries are posted in the damaged areas. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (CTF 39 SOPA), BIRMIN CHAM, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SELFRIDGE, GUEST, BENNETT, FULLAM, HUDSON, STANLY, PHILIP, CONVERSE, EATON, FOOTE, SPENCE, CHAS. AUSBURNE, CLAXTON, DYSON, WADSWORTH, ACREE, SOUTHARD, HOVEY, AMERICAN LEGION, PRESIDENT JACKSON, FULLER, SIOUX, ANTHONY, BALCH, OCTANS, WHITNEY, WARD, ADVENT, WASMUTH, ORTLAND, LIBRA also various patrol and landing craft. 0015 Completed removal of all ammunition from turrets 3 and 4 and mount 4, and from upper handling rooms of mounts 5 and 6. Ammunition removed, has been loaded on ammunition lighter for transfer to nearest Naval Ammunition Depot this date:

6"/47

1. Projectiles H.C. MK 34-1

1. Projectiles, A. P. MK 35-2

1. Point Detonating fuzes MK 29-1

1. Cartridges, Semi-Fixed, Smokeless powder with flashless pellets added. Various indexes. 1.V. 2500 F.S.

1. Cartridges, Semi-fixed. Smokeless powder various indexes 1.V.2500f.s.

1. Projectiles A.A. Com MK 35-3 with MK 18-2 Mech fuze M.C.B.D. Mk 28.

1. Projectiles A.A. with MK 32 fuze.

1. Cartridges Semi-fixed. Smokeless powder flashless pellets added, 1.V. 2600 f.s. MK13.

1. Cartridges. Semi-fixed. Smokeless powder, various indexes. 1.V. 2600 F.S. Pr. MK 13.

1. Projectiles, Illuminating, MK 30-5 L & F BLK P. Mech Time fuzeMK18-2.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt.DE-V(G), USNR.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0525 U.S.S. OCTANS, underway and stood out of harbor. 0530 U.S.S. LIBRA, underway and stood out of harbor. 0710 U.S.S. AGAWAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0753 U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM, underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0809 U.S.S. BALCH, underway and stood out of harbor. 0812 U.S.S. ADVENT, underway and stood out of harbor. 0820 U.S.S. WADSWORTH, underway and stood out of harbor. 0902 U.S.S. WOODWORTH, stood in and moored alongside tanker.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1325 U.S.S. ORTLAND, underway and stood out of harbor. 1340 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1354 Following ships stood in and anchored in berth assigned: U.S.S. ST. LOUIS, FARNHOLT, LANSDOWNE. 1417 U.S.S. LARDNER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1515 U.S.S. JAMESTOWN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1535 Remains of two (2) unidentified enlisted men, fragments of whose bodies were recovered from hole in ship's side, left ship for Base Hospital No. 7, for interment.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1711 U.S.S. LARNER, underway to shift berth. 1728 U.S.S. ST LOUIS, underway and stood out of harbor. 1735 U.S.S. VERIO stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S) USNR.

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2220 S.S. HOWELL,(U.S), stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 2300 Completed blowing tubes in Boiler No. 1.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (modified) with Material Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship's list to port 2^o. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, NASHVILLE, HELM, SELFRIDGE, GUEST, BENNETT, FULLAM, HUDSON, STANLY, PHILIP, CONVERSE, EATON, FOOTE, SPENCE, PRESIDENT JACKSON, AMERICAN LEGION, FULLER, JAMESTOWN, WHITNEY, AGAWAM, LANSDOWNE, CLAXTON, DYSON, WADSWORTH, WOODWORTH, LARDNER, ANTHONY, TERRY, BRAINE, FARENHOLT, CHAS. AUSBURNE, ALCHIBA, WARD, ACREE, VIREO and various small craft.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt. (jg) USN.

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0830 Mustered crew on station. Absentees none. 1000 Held High Requiem Military Mass on forecastle. 0921 U.S.S. GUEST, underway to shift berth. 1003 List to port 2 ¼^o. 1056 S.S. ANTHONY NORTHERN, stood in and moored at fueling pier. 1127 U.S.S. GUEST underway and stood out of harbor. 1139 U.S.S. ADVENT, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1145 U.S.S. FULLAM, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1245 U.S.S. BRAINE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1245 NICKILA, Walter, messman (civilian) S.S. THOMAS HOWELL, was brought aboard for medical treatment, due to lack of facilities aboard his own ship. Diagnosis: Infected right ear. 1307 U.S.S. ANTHONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1358 U.S.S. HUDSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 1534 Lit fires under Boiler No. 1. 1537 U.S.S. VIREO, underway and stood out of harbor. 1550 U.S.S. JAMESTOWN underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1725 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 2.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1802 U.S.S. DORSEY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1804 S.S. PERIBA, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1900 The unidentified remains of one (1) man taken from the damaged portion of the ship, was removed to Base Hospital No. 7 for interment.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Boiler No. 1, in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) set. Ships present: U.S.S. NASHVILLE (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, COLUMBIA, HELM, SELFRIDGE, BENNETT, STANLY, CONVERSE, EATON, FOOTE, SPENCE, CHAS. AUSBURNE, CLAXTON, DYSON, WADSWORTH, TERRY, WOODWORTH, FARENHOLT, LANSDOWNE, LARDNER, WHITNEY, AMERICAN LEGION, PRESIDENT JACKSON, FULLER, WARD, ACREE, AGAWAM, ALCHIBA, ARISTAEUS, ORTOLAN, DORSEY, ADVENT, LST 460, LST 449, S.S. ANTHONY NORTHERN, S.S. PERIBA, HMS TULLY also various yard and district craft.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt.(jg.) U.S.Navy

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0806 U.S.S. ORTOLAN, underway and stood out of harbor. 0543 Completed blowing tubes in Boiler No. 1.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U. S. Navy.

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0806 U.S.S. ADVENT, underway and stood out of harbor. 0819 U.S.S. TREVER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0830 Mustered crew on station. Absentees; none. 0837 U.S.S. LST 460, underway and stood out of harbor. 0913 U.S.S. LST 449 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1005 HMS TULLY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1127 U.S.S. CONFLICT, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. LST 449.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1220 U.S.S. ARIDED, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1230 U.S.S. DENT, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1300 U.S.S. ORTOLAN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1544 U.S.S. CONFLICT, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1708 Received first line from U.S.S. MAJABA on port side. 1714 U.S.S. OCTOANS, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1716 U.S.S. TALBOT, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1720 U.S.S. MAJABA, moored starboard side to with the following lines: Bow line and stern line, double cross springs forward and aft, using all 6" manila lines.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) USNR.

20 - 24

Anchored as before, with the U.S.S. MAJABA moored alongside port side.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (modified), Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. MAJABA moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SELFRIDGE, DEERING, FOOTE, BENNETT, SPENCE, WARD, WADSWORTH, CONWAY, DENT, ADVENT, TALBOT, TREVER, WHITNEY, ACREE, AMERICAN LEGION, PRESIDENT JACKSON, FULLER, JAMESTOWN, ORTOLAN, ARIDED, RIO GRANDE, ARISTAEUS, VIREO, MALIVITIA, S.S. THOMAS HOWELL, ANTHONY NORTON, PERITA and various other yard and district craft.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt. (jg) USN.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0545 U.S.S. PHILIP stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. WADSWORTH. 0620 U.S.S. AUSBURNE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0627 U.S.S. CLAXTON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0631 U.S.S. STANLY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0633 U.S.S. DYSON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0645 U.S.S CONVERSE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0732 Received lighter along starboard side of forecastle for ammunition.

J. P. WILEY,

Lt., USNR.

08 - 12

Anchored as before. U.S.S. MAJABA moored alongside to port side. 0810 Commenced taking off 5" and 6" ammunition. 0815 Mustered crew on station. Absentees - none. 1000 NICKILA, Walter, messman (civilian) from the cargo ship S.S. THOMAS HOWELL was discharged this date from sickbay on completion of treatment. (Diagnosis - Infected right ear) This was man returned to his vessel via ship's transportation. 0855 U.S.S. RIO GRANDE underway and stood out of harbor. 0909 U.S.S. EATON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1055 U.S.S. STANLEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1140 Cast off ammunition lighter from starboard side of forecastle. 1152 U.S.S. BUCHANAN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(S) USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Pursuant to orders of the Commanding Officer the following named men left the ship for temporary duty as Beach Guard. Ensign R. F. Woodward USNR. In charge. Mech. H. DERR USN., STEELE, T. MM1c, PICKETT, W. C. GM2c, NICHOLS J. C. Cox, DECHICCO, B. H. EM3c, DRAZGA, T. A. Cox. 1210 U.S.S. ADRIOT, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1322 U.S.S. ADVENT, underway and moored alongside U.S.S. YO 146. 1352 U.S.S. STRINGHAM, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1354 U.S.S. ORTOLAN, moored alongside, port side. 1356 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1303 U.S.S. RENSHAW, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. BENNETT. 1304 S.S. BENJAMIN IBE WHEELER, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1307 U.S.S. KILTY, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. SPENCE. 1420 U.S.S. LST 399 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1432 U.S.S. PRINGLE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1455 Completed unloading ammunition. 1530 U.S.S. CROSBY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1533 U.S.S. LST 353, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. Following ammunition transferred to Advanced Base Tulagi:

6"/47

1. Projectiles H.C. MK 34-1.

1. Cartridges, Semi-fixed, I.V. 2500 f.s. Smokeless Powder with Flashless pellets added, various indexes.

1. Point Detonating fuzes, MK 29-1.

1. Projectiles A.A. with MK 32 fuze.

1. Projectiles A.A. Com MK 35-3 with Mech time fuze, MK 18-2 MCBD MK 28.

1. Cartridges, Semi-fixed Smokeless powder with flashless pellets added various indexes. I.V. 2600 f.s.

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1635 U.S.S. DEERING, underway and stood out of harbor. 1700 Shore patrol returned aboard to resume regular duties. 1714 U.S.S. CONWAY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1754 U.S.S. PRINGLE, underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2225 U.S.S. CRESCENT CITY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 2320 Completed blowing tubes in Boiler No. 1.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (modified), Material Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. The U.S.S. MAJABA is moored alongside port quarter, starboard side to; U.S.S. ORTOLAN alongside port beam, port side to. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SELFRIDGE, BENNETT, FOOTE, TREVER, SPENCE, WARD, FULLER, CHARLES AUSBURNE, CLAXTON, TALBOT, PHILIP, DYSON, CONFLICT, CONVERSE, CROSBY, WADSWORTH, PRINGLE, EATON, BUCHANAN, RENSHAW, DENT, WHEELER, ADROIT, WHITNEY, ADVENT, KILTY, STRINGHAM, SIGOURNEY, ADNOT, JAMESTOWN, ORTOLAN, AMERICAN LEGION, PRESIDENT JACKSON, LST 485, ARIDED, ARISTAEUS, CRESCENT CITY, VIREO, S.S. THOMAS HOWELL, PERITA, ANTHONY NORTON, MALAIVITI and other district and yard craft. Ship has a list to port of 2 ¾^o. 0115 Hoisted over the side, into U.S.S. WHITNEY motor launch one (1) diesel welding machine for emergency use.

Henry BRESS,

Lt. (jg), USN.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0654 U.S.S. LST 485 underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 Ship has list to port of 3^o. 0716 U.S.S. WALLER, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0759 U.S.S. ADNOT, underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt. (jg.), USN.

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Mustered crew on station, no absentees. 0850 Lit fires under Boiler No. 2. 1057 U.S.S. CACHEE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1114 U.S.S. WARRINGTON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1135 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 2.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.
 
 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. U.S.S. MAJABA moored alongside port quarter, starboard side to. U.S.S. ORTOLAN moored alongside port beam, port side to. 1425 U.S.S. ORTOLAN underway from port side and moored alongside U.S.S. MAJABA. 1450 U.S.S. MAJABA cast off port side and moored alongside U.S.S. SC 1268. 1451 U.S.S. SPENCE stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1625 U.S.S. NASHVILLE stood in and moored alongside tanker. 1637 U.S.S. ST. LOUIS stood in and moored alongside tanker. 1643 U.S.S. PLUNKETT stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1645 U.S.S. WOODWORTH, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1647 U.S.S. LANSDOWNE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1649 U.S.S. LARDNER stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1716 U.S.S SPENCE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1715 U.S.S. ADROIT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. The ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III (modified), with Material Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship has a list of 1^o to port. U.S.S. MONTPELIER is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, ST. LOUIS, NASHVILLE, WADSWORTH, BENNETT, PHILIP, SPENCE, FOOTE, CHAS. AUSBURNE, DYSON, CLAXTON, CONWAY, CONVERSE, BUCHANAN, SAUFLEY, KILTY, SIGOURNEY, EATON, RENSHAW, WALLER, WARRINGTON, PLUNKETT, WOODWORTH, LANSDOWNE, LARDNER, WHITNEY, ADVENT, ARISTAEUS, RIO GRANDE, ALCHIBA, ADROIT, STRINGHAM, ORTOLAN, TREVOR, CASSIOPEAE, TALBOT, DENT, CROSBY, WATERS, DARING, CACHE, LST 399, LST 485, LST 353, LST 449, LST 295, S.S. MAJABA, CRESCENT CITY, BENJAMIN IDE WHEELER, HMS MATAIL, HMS T234HMS MATAIL, HMS T234, also various yard and auxiliary craft. 0315 CAPE DES PALMES (FR) stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

Henry BRESS,

Lt. (jg), USN.

J. T. FLIS,

Lt. O-V(G), USNR.

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0515 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 0525 U.S.S. BENNETT underway and stood out of harbor. 0526 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and stood out of harbor. 0533 U.S.S. ADROIT underway and stood out of harbor. 0534 U.S.S. WALLER underway and stood out of harbor. 0547 U.S.S. SPENCE underway and stood out of harbor. 0550 U.S.S. LST 399 underway and stood out of harbor. 0605 U.S.S. ADVENT underway and stood out of harbor. 0606 U.S.S. LST 353 underway and stood out of harbor. 0607 U.S.S. LST 295 underway and stood out of harbor. 0613 U.S.S. LST 399 underway and stood out of harbor. 0632 U.S.S. LST 485 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0700 U.S.S. LANSDOWNE underway and moored alongside U.S.S. STRINGHAM. 0707 U.S.S. ANTHONY stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 0708 U.S.S. CACHE underway and stood out of harbor. 0730 U.S.S. LARDNER underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt. (jg), USN.
 
 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, Conditions normal. 0748 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. 0748 S.S. CAPE DES PALMES (FR) underway to shift berth. 0749 U.S.S. BALCH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0750 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 0810 U.S.S. CONWAY underway and stood out of harbor. 0811 S.S. CRESCENT CITY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 Held quarters for muster - Absentees - none. 0820 U.S.S. SPENCE stood in and moored alongside YO 164. 0823 U.S.S. SIGOURNEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0830 Lit fires under Boiler No. 2. 0840 U.S.S. GUEST stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0916 U.SS. CONFLICT stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0917 U.S.S. HOVEY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0925 U.S.S. SOUTHARD, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0958 Lifted safety valves on Boiler No. 2, by hand. 1013 U.S.S. HUDSON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1015 U.S.S. PAWNEE stood in and moored alongside starboard quarter of this ship. 1140 U.S.S. BALCH moored alongside YO 164 to fuel. 1159 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. ORTOLAN underway and stood out harbor. 1215 U.S.S. PAWNEE shifted mooring to alongside starboard bow. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1245 underway from Berth No. 10, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet, to proceed to Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group to repair battle damage. Proceeding in company with U.S.S. PAWNEE, alongside port beam, U.S.S. BALCH, TUMULT and ORTOLAN. Captain is at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boiler No. 2 in use. Ship's draft forward 22' 2½", aft 26' 9". 1246 Commenced proceeding on various courses, at various speeds, conforming with the channel. 1246 U.S.S. BALCH underway and stood out of harbor. 1415 U.S.S. PAWNEE cast off from starboard beam and took tow line from bow. 1425 Tow line rigged to 30 fathoms of starboard chain, U.S.S. PAWNEE commenced towing. 1440 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds entering Lengo Channel.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on course 095^o T (PGC), at 9.8 knots (175 RPM on No. 4 shaft) under tow by U.S.S. PAWNEE. 1614 Compartment C-407-L has one (1) inch of water on deck. 1639 Changed course by column movement to the right to 100^o T (PGC).

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course100^o T (PGC), being towed by U.S.S. PAWNEE, at speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 1820 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1850 Central station reports 3½" water in compartment C-407-L. 1915 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B".

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, being towed by the U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course100^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 2010 Changed fleet course and axis to course119^o T (PGC). 2255 Commenced pumping water out of compartment C-407-L, (8" of water).

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

00 - 04

Steaming in tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE in company with U.S.S. BALCH, U.S.S. TUMULT, ORTOLAN, OTC Captain R. P. Briscoe, USN, in U.S.S. DENVER. Thirty (30) fathoms starboard chain in use to towing cable. The ship is darkened Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 2 in use. Base course119^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM). Compartment C-407-L taking water through ruptured bulkhead, caused by battle damage, depth of water not in excess of eight (8) inches. 0328 Changed course to 100^o T (PGC) by column movement to left.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, under tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE on course100^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM on No. 4 shaft). 0534 Changed course to 130^o T (PGC).

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

08 - 12

Steaming as before, under tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 130^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - condition-normal. 0815 Changed course to the right to 135^o T (PGC). 0910 Condition reported normal in after fire room.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Steaming as before, under tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 135^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM).

S. D. CORNISH,

Lt. (jg), DV(G), USNR.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, under tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 135^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM).

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 135^o T (PGC), at speed 10 knots (175 RPM on No. 4 shaft). 1810 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1905 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition of Readiness III; Material Condition "B".

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 135^o T (PGC), at speed 10 knots (175 RPM) on No. 4 shaft. 2135 Sighted group of ships off starboard beam, bearing 160^o T, distance 4 miles.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

ADDITIONA REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Slight flooding of C-407-L, under control by pumping.

R. P, BRISCOE,

Captain, U. S. Navy, Commanding Officer.

00 - 04

Underway in tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE, in company with U.S.S. ORTOLAN, BALCH, and TUMULT. Captain R. P. Briscoe, in U.S.S. DENVER is OTC. Steaming on course 135^o T (PGC), at 10 knots (175 RPM). There is 30 fathoms of starboard chain to the U.S.S. PAWNEE'S towing cable. Boiler No. 2 in use. The ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Compartment C-407-L is taking water due to battle damage. When water reaches 8" level, compartment is pumped. 0340 Three (3) targets reported bearing 124^o T, distance 28,000 yards. 0341 Targets reported friendly.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, under tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 135^o T (PGC), at speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 0403 Changed course to right to 155^o T (PGC), by column movement. 0415 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0515 Changed course to 130^o T (PGC), by column movement. 0527 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B".

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 130^o T (PGC), at 10 knots (175 RPM). Steering control on bridge was lost at 0828, due to loss of power, from overload of turrets training. Steering aft gained control at 0832. 0836 Control was shifted to pilot house.

S. D. CORNISH,

Lt. (jg), DV(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 130^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM) under tow by the U.S.S. PAWNEE.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before, under tow of the U.S.S. PAWNEE, on base course 130^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 1609 Land sighted bearing 156^o T, distance 42 miles. Locality Great Summit Peak (Espiritu Santo Island).

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 130^o T (PGC), under tow by U.S.S. PAWNEE, at speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1855 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B".

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 130^o T (PGC), under tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE, at speed 10 knots (175 RPM on No. 4 shaft).

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

00 - 04

Steaming under tow by U.S.S. PAWNEE in company with U.S.S. ORTOLAN, BALCH and TUMULT, on course 130^o T (PGC), at speed10 knots (175 RPM). Captain R. P. Briscoe, in U.S.S. DENVER is OTC. There are 30 fathoms of the starboard chain out to the U.S.S. PAWNEE'S towing cable. Boiler No. 2 in use. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Compartment C-407-L is taking water due to battle damage. When water reaches 8" the compartment is pumped. 0012 Changed course to 150^o T (PGC). 0250 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC).

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, in tow by U.S.S. PAWNEE, on course 180^o T (PGC), speed 10 knots (175 RPM). 0437 Changed course to the right to 220^o T (PGC), slowed to 4 knots (095 RPM). 0448 Commenced hauling in starboard anchor chain in preparation for breaking tow. 0453 Changed course to 240^o T (PGC). 0510 Tow broken and wire sent back to tug. Starboard chain ranged on deck in preparation to mooring to buoy. 0531 Went to 8 knots (175 RPM). 0630 Changed course to 320^o T (PGC). 0640 Changed course to 330^o T (PGC). 0642 Changed course to 335^o T (PGC). 0645 Changed course to 344^o T (PGC). 0647 Slowed to 6 knots (100 RPM). 0650 U.S.S. PAWNEE moored alongside, starboard side, to tow and assist this vessel. 0730 Maneuvering on various courses and speeds, conforming with channel. 0735 Mustered crew at quarters for entering port. Absentees - none.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds, approaching berth in Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. 0803 Moored to buoy, in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 30 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Ship's draft forward 21' 2", aft 27' 1". U.S.S. PAWNEE, moored to our starboard quarter. Secured all main engines and steering engines. Ship is on two (2) hours notice. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. 0810 S.S. KLIP FONTAINE (Dutch Registry) stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 U.S.S. CACHE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 U.S.S. EATON, stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. 0810 U.S.S. WARRINGTON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0830 U.S.S TUMULT, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0830 Set Condition of Readiness III (modified). 0920 U.S.S. SWALLOW underway and stood out of harbor. 0925 U.S.S. BALCH stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1021 S.S. CHESTER SUN (tanker) underway and stood out of harbor. 1115 Received U.S.S. YO 20 alongside port quarter, in preparation for discharging fuel oil. 1128 U.S.S. RIO GRANDE, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1148 Floating crane moored alongside port quarter, in preparation for removal of port catapult.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1315 U.S.S. PAWNEE, cast off from starboard side and anchored in assigned berth. 1320 U.S.S. ORTOLAN underway to shift berth. 1407 S.S. ZEBIA, underway to shift berth. 1515 Floating crane cast off from port quarter, having completed removal of port catapult.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.

16 - 18

Moored as before.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt. (jg.), USN.

18 - 20

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. Ship has 2^o list to starboard. 2015 Commenced blowing tubes on Boiler No. 1 and completed at 2022. 2300 Ship has 1 ½^o list to starboard.

Henry BRESS,

Lt. (jg), USN.

00 - 04

Moored to a buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 30 fathoms of water, with 7 fathoms of starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. USN YO 20 is moored alongside port quarter, with a manila bow and stern line and a cross spring fore and aft and is receiving fuel oil from this ship. The ship has a list of 1½^o to starboard. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), DENVER, WHARTON, BALCH, WARRINGTON, EATON, PRINCE WILLIAM, CHANDELEUR, WRIGHT and various fleet oilers, supply and auxiliary small craft. 0202 U.S.S. BALCH underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0415 Completed transfering fuel oil to YO 20. 0620 U.S.S. TARUS underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0809 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 Ship is now on even keel, no list. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees - none. 0859 U.S.S. SEID underway and stood out of harbor. 0900 Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, Ref: (a) ComCru. Div. 12desp. 240426 of Aug. 1943 LOZARO, D. 611 55 55, MM2c, V6, USNR. Left this ship to proceed to a U.S. Advance Naval Base and report to officer in charge for temporaty duty as truck driver. Records and accounts are retained on board this vessel. 0935 U.S.S. EATON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1000 Made daily inspections of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions - normal. 1036 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR; passenger, Ducote, B. A., ARM1c, USN. 1055 Sounded church call and held divine services. 1125 Divine Servises complete. 1138 S.S. STANVAC CAPETOWN (Panama) stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt. (jg.), USN.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, following named men left the ship for temparary duty on shore patrol in charge of MULLINS, J. B. 255 17 26, CTC(PA), USN., MARTIN, L.L. GM3c, DEANGELO, G.J. MM2c, WALDREN, LL.VOTER, J.G. GM3c, and NEWELL,R.W. MM2c,. 1300 1.25^o list to starboard. 1500 Received oil barge on port quarter. 1510 Commenced pumping aviation gasoline to oil barge. 1605 Ceased pumping, having delivered 1600 gallons aviation gasoline to barge. 1615 Cast off lines of oil barge.

L. A. HEALY,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1610 U.S.N. YG 17 moored alongside starboard quarter. 1659 U.S.N. YG 17 cast off from alongside.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt., (jg) USN.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 30 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (modified), with Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. YO 20 moored alongside port quarter and in the process of receiving fuel oil being pumped from this ship. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER, WHARTON, PRINCE WILLIAM, WARRINGTON, EATON, CACHE, CHANDELEUR, POCOMOKE, DIXIE (SOPA), RIO GRANDE, PAWNEE, S.S. W.C. YEAGER, S.C. STONER, JOHN COLTER, GULFWAVE, and KLIP FONTAINE (Dutch) also various patrol and landing craft.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt. DE-V(G), USNR.

04 - 08

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. CARLSON stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 0800 Mustered crew on stations, absentees: none. 0850 Yard lighter YF 247 moored alongside port quarter.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt. (jg), USN.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1205 S.S. W.C. YEAGER (US) and S.S. S.C. STONER (US) underway and stood out of harbor. 1215 U.S.S. CARLSON underway and moored alongside U.S.S. LEVY. 1245 The temperary shore patrol, SIMPSON, V.J., CMM(AA), 320 98 24, USN. in charge left the ship to carry out duties assigned. 1250 S.S. JOHN COLTER and S.S. GULFWAVE underway and stood out of harbor. 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions-normal. 1423 Received floating crane alongside starboard quarter. 1435 U.S.S. YT 269 stood in and moored alongside this ship to port. 1520 The starboard catapult was removed from this ship by the floating crane and placed aboard a yard lighter.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt. USN.

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1650 The temparary shore patrol returned aboard having completed duty.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. USN.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt. (jg.), USN.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island New Hebrides Group, in 30 fathoms of water, with 7 fathoms of starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Yard tug No. 269 moored alongside, port b eam, starboard side to. A stores lighter moored alongside port quarter. List is zero degrees. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), PRINCE WILLIAM, WHARTON, WARRINGTON, CARLSON, EATON, KANKAKEE, CACHE, PATAPSCO, AVASCOSA, CHANDELEUR, POCOMOKE, WRIGHT, GRISWOLD, CAMANGA, RIO GRANDE, STANVAC CAPETOWN, ORTOLAN, PAWNEE; DENVER, S.S. KLIP FONTAINE,ZEBRA, PETER. H. BURNETT, SEABASS, ALVA PEAGUS; various other yard and district. 0119 Commenced blowing tubes and pumping bilges, completed at 0126.

Henry BRESS,

Lt. (jg), USN.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0440 Tested steering units, from all steering stations and tested main engine No. 4; condition satisfactory. 0500 Received U.S.S. PAWNEE alongside starboard quarter. 0510 Received U.S.S. YT 267 alongside starboard beam and U.S.S. YT 266 alongside port quarter. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0530 underway from buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, to proceed to YFD 21 for drydockin g, being assisted by the following tugs: U.S.S. PAWNEE, YT 266, YT 267, and YT 269. The Captain is at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boiler No. 1 in use. Ship's draft forward 24' 11½", aft 24' 2", list 0 degrees. Commenced proceeding at various courses and speeds conforming to Segond Channel, U.S.S. ORTOLAN close aboard astern, to assist as required. 0533 Received U.S.S. YT 153 alongside port bow. 0534 Received U.S.S. YT 204 alongside starboard bow. 0625 U.S.S. POCOMOKE underway and stood out of harbor. 0643 First line secured to YDF 21. 0643 Assisting tugs commenced to cast off in succession from the bow as this ship entered drydock. 0655 Held quarters for muster of crew, absentees - none. 0700 Moored in drydock YDF 21, with 2" manila bow and stern lines, six (6) crossed springs to port and starboard and centering tackles to port and starboard, forward and aft. 0730 YDF 21 commenced pumping. 0737 YDF 21 ceased pumping depth of water to keel blocks 26'. 0740 YDF 21 sent divers down to check centering of ship on keel blocks.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

08 -12

Water borne in drydock as before. 0801 Drydock commenced pumping. 0805 Ship resting on keel blocks. 0809 Drydock ceased pumping to check position of keel on blocks. 0915 Resumed pumping drydock. 0930 Ceased pumping drydock. 1015 U.S.S. FOOTE and U.S.S. PAWNEE, U.S.S. FOOTE under tow of U.S.S. PAWNEE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1022 U.S.S. ADROIT AND U.S.S. BOBOLINK stood in and anchored in berths assigned.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt., USN.

12 - 16

In drydock as before, partially water borne. Pumping of dock is being held up pending adjustment of keel blocks and placing of side shores. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1315 Secured No. 4 engine. 1337 Transferred the remains of WHITE, Charles Edwin, WT2c, 624 06 13, USNR, from the damaged area of the ship to the Military Cemetery, Espiritu Santo Island for burial. Half-masted colors during transfer of the body. 1350 U.S.S. GLENN CURTIS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1410 S.S. BREEZE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1417 S.S. SOMMELSDYK (Dutch) stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. P. Wiley,

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

16 - 18

In drydock as before, partially water borne. 1750 Made all preparations for pumping out drydock. 1755 Drydock commenced pumping.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

18 - 20

Drydocked as before. 1800 Tested electrical power from drydock. 1809 S.S. BREEZE, underway to shift berth. 1900 Secured evaporators. 1952 Commenced receiving electrical power from drydock. Drydock pumps operated intermittently throughout the watch, raising drydock.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt. (jg), USN.

20 - 24

Drydocked as before. 2126 YFD 21 free of all water.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt. (jg), USNR.

00 - 04

Drydocked in Floating Drydock No. 21, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. The drydock is free of water. This vessel is braced in the dock by twelve (12) wooden shores (6 to port and 6 to starboard) running from the side of the dock to the side of this ship. Receiving water from the dock and electric power aft from the dock. The forward part of the ship is being supplied electric power from the ships own supply. Boiler No. 1 in standby condition to keep steam pressure between 300 lbs and 600 lbs. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) set. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), DENVER, WARRINGTON, PATTERSON, LEVY, CARLSON, PRINCE WILLIAM, KANKAKEE, ATASCOSA, HOPKINS, WRIGHT, CHANDELEUR, OCEANUS, PATAPSCO, WORTON, RIO GRANDE, GLEN CURTIS, CACHE, GRISWOLD, PAWNEE, PACATACUT, SOKARISSO, FOOTE, CARMARACA, BOBOLINK; S.S. THOMAS M COOLEY, PETER. H. BURNETT, KLIP FONTAINE, STANVAC CAPETOWN, SE A BASS, ALCOA, PEGASUS; SOMMELSDYK, BREEZE. 0220 Transferred eight (8) bodies (Battle Casualties) to the Military Cemetery, Espiritu Santo Island for burial; tow (2) of the bodies were unidentified; six (6) identified as follows: CHAIDO, Peter Charles, MM2c, V-6 USNR, 652 51 15; GULAS, Joseph Peter, MM2c, V-6 USNR, 652 50 32; JUROVICH, Charles Francis, EM1c, USN 321 40 39; FANN ING, Buster Eli, S2c, V-6 USNR, 878 65 36; DAIGRE, Rivet John, MM2c, USN, 274 75 01; DREFS, Justus John, MM1c, V-6 USNR, 648 13 47.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt., (jg.), USN.

04 - 08

Drydocked as before. 0610 Lost power on diesel generators and commenced receiving all power from drydock. 0729 U.S.S. CARLSON underway and stood out of harbor. 0736 U.S.S. GRISWOLD, underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt., USN.
 
 

08 - 12

Drydocked as before. 0900 S.S. FORT ERIE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0915 Commenced receiving flushing water from dry-dock. 0932 U.S.S. PATAPSCO underway and stood out of harbor. 1012 Lit fires under Boiler No. 1, to boost steam pressure. 1045 S.S. ALCOA PEGASUS underway and stood out of harbor. 1045 Held Divine Services on the forecastle. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples condition - normal. 1050 U.S.S. CACHE underway to shift berth. Ship has 1/8 of a degree list to starboard.

Henry BRESS,

Lt., (jg), USN.

12 - 16

Drydocked as before. 1245 U.S.S. WARRINGTON underway and stood out of harbor. 1350 U.S.S. WHARTON underway and stood out of harbor. 1450 Ceased taking electrical power from drydock. The ship now provides its own electrical power. 1504 U.S.S. HOLLY stood in and proceeded to berth assigned. 1515 The following named man was admitted to sick bay, this date: KAMINSKI, H. S1c, 2^nd Division, the above named man received a severe electrical shock and a third degree burn of the right hand and wrist due to short circuit of casualty power bulkhead terminal in the C.P.O. Quarters. The accident occured while KAMINSKI WAS CLEANING THE TERMINAL. First aid was administered and he was leter admitted to sick bay.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt., (jg), USN.

16 - 20

Drydocked as before. 1600 U.S.S. WILLIAM KEITH stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1637 U.S.S. FORT DEARBORN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1644 U.S.S. APASCOSA underway and stood out of harbor. 1655 The lighter YF 247 was moved from its previous berth and moored along the port side of drydock. This lighter contains provisions and stores belonging to the DENVER. An armed guard is posted on it. 1800 U.S.S. MARINDA underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

20 - 24

Drydocked as before. 2005 Secured turbo and diesel generators and commenced receiving all electrical power from dry dock. 2230 Removed from damaged areas of ship one (1) unidentified body and bodies of COTALING, Louis Frederick, 642 47 50, S1c, V-6 USNR; and GERACI, Joseph James, 851 55 44, S2c V-6, USNR to Military Cemetery, Espiritu Santo Island for burial.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

00 - 04

Drydocked in Floating Drydock No. 21, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. The drydock is free of water. This ship is braced by twelve (12) wooden shores (6 to port and 6 to starboard). Receiving all services from the drydock, steam and electric power. The ship is darkened; Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), DENVER, PATTERSON, LEVY, PRINCE WILLIAM, KANKAKEE, HOPKINS, WRIGHT, CHANDELEUR, WADSWORTH, OCEANUS, HOLLY RIO GRANDE, GLEN CURTIS, CACHE, PAWNEE, PATAPSCO, WILLIAM KEITH, FOOTE, BREESE, CAMANGA, ADROIT, BOBOLINK, SAMPSON; S.S. MORMACWREN, SAKARISSA, PETER. BURNETT, STANVAC CAPETOWN, SEA BASS, SOMMELSDYK, FORT ERIE, FORT DEARBORN, and various other small and yard craft. 0325 Commenced receiving fresh water aboard.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Docked as before. 0535 Completed receiving water from water barge, having received 20,000 gallons.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt., (jg), USN.

08 - 12

Docked as before. 0835 Held quarters for muster. Absentees, none. 1028 U.S.S. MONONGAHELA stood in and moored to U.S.S. CACHE. 1036 U.S.S. WASMUTH, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1038 U.S.S. HOVEY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt., DE-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Docked as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the following named men, HEDMAN, G.E. CEM(PA), USN., 371 7392 in charge left the ship as temporary shore patrol: JURTZ, F.K. MM2c, GARDINER, D.E. GM3c, GREEN, W.F. EM3c, BRYANT, A.K. GM2c, FAGAN, D.V. TC1c. 1230 U.S.S. CAMANGA underway and stood out of harbor. 1342 U.S.S. MARAVAIBO stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 The bodies of the following named men, killed in action 13 November 1943, were recovered and sent ashore for burial in the Military Cemetery, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides: TARKINGTON, Claude Francis, MM2c, 658 22 16, V-6 USNR; HORAK, William (n), MM1c, 265 89 31, USN; FIELDING, Harold Earl, MM2c, 204 81 78, USN. 1430 U.S.S. SIED stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1550 S.S. MORMACWEN underway and stood out of harbor. 1555 U.S.S. WADSWORTH underway and stood out of harbor. 1558 U.S.S. KANAKEE underway and stood out of harbor.

Henry BRESS,

Lt., (jg), USN.

16 - 20

Drydocked as before.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.

20 - 24

Docked as before.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt., USN.

00 - 04

Drydocked in Floating Drydock No. 21, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. The drydock is free of water. This ship is braced by twelve (12) wooden shores (6 to port and 6 to starboard). Receiving the following services from dock: salt water and electricity. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (modified) set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE (SOPA), DENVER, PATTERSON, SAMPSON; LEVY, PRINCE WILLIAM, WRIGHT, CHANDELEUR, OCEANUS, CACHE, RIO GRANDE, SIED, ADROIT, HOLLY, PAWNEE, SICARD, EATON, BOBOLINK, FOOTE, MONONGAHELA, HOVEY WAMUTH, HMNZS MARINDA, S.S. STANVAC CAPETOWN, FORT ERIE, CHESTER SUN, FORT DEARBORN, WILLIAM KEITH, WILLIAM BARNETT, GLEN CURTIS, SOMMELSOIJK (Dutch), MARAVAIBO, MORMACWREN, and various other small yard and district craft. 0335 Commenced pumping fresh water from water barge.

L. A. BIRD,

Lt., (jg.), USN.

04 - 08

Docked as before. 0645 S.S. MORMACSEA stoodin and anchored in assigned berth. 0645 Ceased receiving fresh water from water barge, having received 20,000 gallons. 0735 U.S.S. PARKS stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. SIED.

Note: The two (2) unidentified bodies sent ashore for burial at Purvis Bay, Florida Island, 1535, 16 November 1943, have been identified to b e those of HEITT, Alvin P., CMM(AA), 287 17 19, USN; NORRIS, Thames F., MM2c, 642 49 82 USNR.

Henry BRESS,

Lt., (jg), USN.

08 - 12

Drydocked as before. 0935 Mustered crew at quarters, absentees - none.

E. E. BALL, Jr.,

Lt., USN.
 
 

12 - 16

Drydocked as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the following named men left the ship for temporary shore potral duty at the Recreation Center. CAVALCANTE, M.E. CTC(AA), 250 31 05, USN., JACKELS, T.P. FC2c, WITTIG, C.R., MM2c, BARBEE, D.B.EM3c, AVALOS, R. Cox, CLOUGH, J.P. WT1c. 1240 U.S.S. WARRINGTON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1255 S.S. MORINDA underway and stood out of harbor. 1435 U.S.S. PAWNEE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1530 U.S.S. MONOGAHELA underway to shift berth.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 20

Drydocked as before. 1740 U.S.S. GAMBLE stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

M. F. Yerger,

Lt., (jg), USN.

20 - 24

Drydocked as before.

J. P. Wiley,

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