00 - 04

Steaming on course 285^o T (PGC), 274.5 (PSC), speed 17 knots, (174 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (153 RPM). In Cruising Formation "5-LS", Rear Admiral Sherman (OTC) in U.S.S. SARATOGA. In company with Task Forces THIRTY-SEVEN, THIRTY-EIGHT and THIRTY-NINE, holding fleet tactics, composed of the following ships: U.S.S. SARATOGA, MARYLAND, COLORADO, WASHINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, MASSACHUSETTS, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, BRETON (guide) and the destroyers U.S.S. FARENHOLT, LARDNER, BUCHANAN, PHILIP, FOOTE, SELFRIDGE, RALPH TALBOT, RADFORD, JENKINS, CONVERSE, MC CALLA, STACK, STERETT, WILSON, BENNETT, GUEST, FULLAM, ANTHONY for anti-submarine screen. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 0130 On signal changed fleet course to 000^o T (PGC). 0324 Completed blowing tubes in all steaming boilers. 0330 On signal changed fleet course to 065^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.3.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 065^o T (PGC), speed 17 knots, (174 RPM). 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0635 Secured from General Quarters. 0706 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0729 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds following movements of the U.S.S. SARATOGA preparatory to launching planes. 0751 Changed course to 065^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 171.1.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 065^o T (PGC) at 17 knots, (174 RPM). 0800 Changed course to 040^o T (PGC). 0810 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0815 Crew mustered on stations. No absentees. 0827 Followed movements of carrier in connection with flight operations. 0846 Sounded A.A. call for event No 6. 0903 Followed movements of carrier in connection with flight operations. 0938 Ceased present exercises. 0950 Lit fires under boiler No. 2. 0955 Lit fires under boiler No. 3. 1004 Secured from A.A. Drill, Event No. 6. 1018 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 1026 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main steam line. 1030 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 1044 Slowed to 16 knots (164 RPM). Changed fleet course and axis to 315^o T (PGC). 1051 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 1. 1120 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1130 Changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T (PGC). Cruiser Division TWELVE left formation for deployment and to carry out battle plans. Went to General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 170.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on various courses and speeds in maneuvers during battle problem, base course 135^o T (PGC), fleet speed 16 knots (164 RPM). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless samples. Conditions normal. 1228 Took station 180^o relative on unit guide (U.S.S. COLUMBIA), distant 1000 yards. 1304 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Material Condition "B". 1304 Steamed at various courses and speeds to rejoin formation. 1319 Hauled fires under boiler No. 2, and at 1325 under boiler No. 3. 1330 On station in formation on fleet course 030^o T (PGC) at fleet speed 17 knots (174 RPM), guide U.S.S. SARATOGA bearing 021^o T, distant 1600 yds. 1335 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1336 Changed course to the right to avoid collision with U.S.S. WASHINGTON crossing our bow from port to starboard. 1337 Captain took the Conn. Steamed on various courses to return to position in formation. 1348 Captain returned the Conn to the Officer-of-the-Deck. 1423 Ceased zig-zagging on course 050^o T (PGC) as carrier prepared to launch planes. 1443 Changed course to the right to avoid possible collision with U.S.S. COLORADO crossing our bow from starboard to port. 1506 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1515 Ceased zig-zagging on course 060^o T (PGC) as carrier prepared to launch aircraft. Steamed on various courses and speeds conforming to movements of carrier. 1544 On emergency signal changed course 135^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 140^o T (PGC) speed 15 knots (153 RPM). 1603 On signal, changed fleet course to 075^o T (PGC). 1614 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1615 On signal resumed base course 075^o T (PGC). 1617 On signal, changed fleet course to 040^o T (PGC). 1625 Sounded Air Defense for exercise during simulated air attack by SARATOGA's planes. 1646 Changed course to 130^o T (PGC) preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA recovering planes. 1647 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced recovering planes. 1653 U.S.S. BRETON commenced recovering planes. 1701 Secured from Air Defense, set Condition III. 1732 U.S.S. JENKINS came close aboard to port to transfer mail. 1736 Completed transfer of mail. 1744 On signal, changed fleet course to 080^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1754 On signal, changed fleet course to 030^o T (PGC), axis to 120^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 171.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 030^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1805 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1809 Shifted steering units from No. 2 to No. 1 unit, starboard cable. 1812 Commenced steaming on various courses and at various speeds accompanying carrier during flight operations. 1831 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 030^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1834 Lit fires under boiler No. 3. 1900 Cut boiler No. 3 in on main steam line. 1904 Hauled fires under boiler No. 4. 1912 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1930 Changed fleet course to the right to 040^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 196.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 040^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 2015 Cut boiler No. 4 in on main steam line. 2020 Secured boiler No. 3. 2153 Green flare sighted on port beam. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

00 - 04

Steaming In company with Task Group THIRTY-NINE, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER, and Task Group THIRTY-EIGHT, Rear Admiral Sherman, OTC, in U.S.S. SARATOGA. These task groups consist of the following: U.S.S. SARATOGA, WASHINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, MASSACHUSETTS, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, PHILIP, FOOTE, JENKINS, CONVERSE, STACK, STERETT, WILSON, BENNETT, GUEST, FULLAM, ANTHONY. In Cruising Formation "5-LS". Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition of III. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. Fleet axis 120^o T (PGC). Base course 040^o T (PGC), fleet speed 20 knots, (204 RPM). 0030 Torres Island reported bearing 097^o T (PGC), distant 90,000 yds. 0100 In accordance with signal changed fleet course to the right to 060^o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.R.

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 060^o T (PGC), speed full, 20 knots (204 RPM). 0520 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0540 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 060^o T (PGC). 0540 Changed course to 110^o T (PGC) preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA launching aircraft. 0550 On signal, slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 0557 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft. 0602 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed launching aircraft. Changed course to 060^o T (PGC), base course. 0612 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 060^o T (PGC). 0627 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III. 0634 On signal changed fleet course to 030^o T (PGC), ceased zig-zagging. 0644 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 030^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.5.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 030^o T (PGC), at speed 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0800 - Mustered crew on station. Absentees - none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0956 Ceased zig-zagging and maneuvered on various courses conforming to movements of fleet guide during flight operations in the U.S.S. SARATOGA. 1030 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 175.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 030^o T (PGC), at speed 18 knots (184 RPM). 1200 Changed course left to 010^o T (PGC). 1355 Changed course to 145^o T (PGC) for aircraft operations. 1402 Changed course to 030^o T (PGC), base course. 1405 Went to 19 knots (194 RPM). 1409 Secured S. A. Radar for a period of approximately one hour to replace a tube. 1409 Slowed to 18 knots (180 RPM). 1410 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC). 1415 Slowed to 16 knots (164 RPM). 1416 Changed course to 125^o T (PGC). 1417 Changed course to 025^o T (PGC). 1420 Aircraft operations completed. 1421 Went to 19 knots (194 RPM). 1425 Slowed to 17 knots (175 RPM). 1426 Changed course to 050^o T (PGC) and resumed zig-zagging on plan, No. 6. 1553 Followed movements of OTC in half-masting colors. 1559 Two-blocked colors. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 050^o T (PGC), base course 030^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (154 RPM). 1600 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 030^o T (PGC) preparatory to executing course signal. 1601 On signal changed course to the left to 270^o T (PGC). 1611 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. And remained on base course 270^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., Cdr., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270^o T (PGC), 263^o T (PSC), speed 18 knots (183 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1800 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed. 1804 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed recovering aircraft. On signal changed course ships right to 270^o T (PGC). 1808 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1814 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 270^o T (PGC). 1835 Shifted steering unit from starboard to port, starboard cable in use. 1905 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 270^o T (PGC). 1906 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III. 1915 On signal, changed fleet course to 330^o T (PGC). 1925 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 330^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 330^o T (PGC) at 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 2000 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 330^o T (PGC). 2036 Contacted, by radar, the Bass Islands bearing 215^o T and Duff Island bearing 258^o T, distance 29 miles. 2117 Changed course to 000^o T (PGC). 2140 Changed course to 330^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

00 - 04

Steaming In company with Task Force THIRTY-EIGHT and Task Force THIRTY-NINE in Cruising Formation "5-LS" on course 280^o T (PGC), 270.5^o T (PSC), axis 120^o T (PGC), 18 knots (184 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (154 RPM). Rear Admiral Sherman in SARATOGA, OTC, U.S.S. SARATOGA is fleet guide. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III set. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 0000 Changed course to 280^o T (PGC), night signals. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 180.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 280^o T (PGC), 269.8^o T (PSC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (154 RPM). 0520 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0555 Steaming on various courses conforming to movements of carrier launching planes. 0615 commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0624 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 0625 On signal, changed course to the right to 335^o T (PGC). 0631 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". 0635 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0643 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 0647 On signal, changed course to the left to 320^o T (PGC). 0657 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 0755 Changed course to 100^o T (PGC) preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA launching planes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 180.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 320^o T (PGC), course 100^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots, (184 RPM). 0800 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft. 0802 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed launching aircraft, returned to base course 320^o T (PGC). 0812 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 320^o T (PGC). 0900 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples conditions normal. 0911 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0915 On signal, changed fleet course to 140^o T (PGC). 0930 On signal, changed fleet course to 105^o T (PGC). 0940 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 105^o T (PGC), preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA launching aircraft. 1002 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft. 1006 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed launching aircraft. 1013 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced recovering aircraft. 1021 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed recovering aircraft; returned to base course 105^o T (PGC). 1031 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 105^o T (PGC). 1147 Ceased zig-zagging, changed course to 125^o T (PGC), preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced recovering aircraft. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 176.8.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

12 - 16

Steaming as before at speed 18 knots, (184 RPM), maneuvering on various courses, following movements of fleet guide during flight operations in U.S.S. SARATOGA. 1220 Resumed base course, 105^o T (PGC). 1230 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1358 Ceased zig-zagging and maneuvered on various courses following movements of fleet guide during flight operations in U.S.S. SARATOGA. 1423 Resumed base course 105^o T (PGC). 1428 Executed ships right to 125^o T (PGC). 1438 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 176.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 125^o T (PGC) at fleet speed 18 knots, (184 RPM). 1611 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC) for aircraft operations. 1615 Changed course to 145^o T (PGC). 1618 Changed course to 125^o T (PGC). 1625 Changed course to 145^o T (PGC). 1625 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 176.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 125^o T (PGC), 114.8^o T (PSC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (154 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1820 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1905 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 1912 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". 1915 Changed fleet course to the left to 090^o T (PGC). 1925 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 175.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 2005 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2015 Changed fleet course to 140^o T (PGC) in accordance with night orders. 2025 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 2100 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course in accordance with night orders. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Steaming In company with Task Force THIRTY-EIGHT and Task Force THIRTY-NINE in Cruising Formation 5LS, on course 140^o T (PGC), at speed 18 knots (184 RPM). Rear Admiral Sherman in SARATOGA, OTC. Fleet axis 120^o T. U.S.S. SARATOGA, is fleet guide. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 0045 Changed fleet course to195^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 180.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 195^o T (PGC), at 18 knots (184 RPM). 0510 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0535 Commence zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6, base course 195^o T (PGC). 0535 Changed course to 175^o T (PGC). 0547 Changed course to 125^o T (PGC). Carrier conducting flight operations. 0549 Carrier commenced launching aircraft. 0552 Carrier completed launching aircraft, 6 planes. Changed course to 195^o T (PGC) base course. 0602 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6, base course 195^o T (PGC). Changed course to 175^o T (PGC). 0617 Secured from Dawn Alert, set Condition III. 0620 Sunrise, lighted ship. 0703 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC), to form Cruising Formation TWO. 0705 Went to 23 knots (236 RPM). 0708 Slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0712 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0717 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0719 Slowed to 15 knots (154 RPM). CruDiv 12 left formation to proceed to Espiritu Santo Island. 0720 On station in Cruising Formation TWO. Course 180^o T (PGC). Speed 15 knots (154 RPM). 0737 On signal changed speed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0750 On signal WENT to 23 knots (236 RPM). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 184.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 180^o T (PGC), speed 23 knots (236 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (154 RPM). Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder, pyrotechnics, magazines sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions normal. 0941 Took station for and exercised at Radar Calibration, (Exercise 20). 1030 Sighted Vataganai Island, bearing 228^o T, distant 21.5 miles. 1110 Sighted Saddle Island bearing 210^o T, distant 21 miles. 1117 Exercised at anti-aircraft practice, fired five-inch battery and automatic weapons. Ammunition expended:

5"/38 cal. A.A. Common Projectiles with Mk. 18 Mech. Time fuzes -40

5"/38 cal. Semi-fixed cartridges, smokeless powder, various indexes -40

40 mm. Cartridges, SPDN 3635, Lot 135 -78

1143 Sighted Mota Island, bearing 210^o T, distant 24 miles. Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 234.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 180^o T (PGC), at 23 knots, (236 RPM). 1235 Sighted Gaua Island, Banks Island Group, bearing 215 T, distant 31 miles. 1247 Sighted Meralan Island, bearing 165^o T, distant 34 miles. 1249 Sighted Merig Island, bearing 191^o T, distance 24 miles. 1349 Passed Gaua Island abeam to starboard, distance 14 miles. 1354 Passed Merig Island abeam to starboard distance 5 miles. 1402 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 200^o T (PGC). 1403 Passed Meralan Island abeam to port distance 5 miles. 1407 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 3. 1419 Sighted north point, Aurora Island, bearing 151 T, distance 34 miles. 1425 Cut in Boiler No. 3 on main steam line hauled fires under No. 4 Boiler. 1430 Catapulted plane No. 7 to port. Pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, AV(N), USNR, and passenger, DUCOTE, B.A., 274 6737, ARM2c, USN. 1442 On signal went to 23½ knots (241 RPM). 1443 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z, base course 200^o T (PGC). 1555 Sighted north east end of Espiritu Santo Island, bearing 260^o T, distance 27 miles. Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 235.3

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 200^o T (PGC), speed 23½ knots, (241 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 1615 Set all ship's clocks back one-half (1/2) hour to minus eleven (-11) Zone Time Description. 1643 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course 200^o T (PGC). 1646 Formed Cruising Formation one. 1650 Stationed all anchor and special sea details. 1706 Changed course to the right to 270^o T (PGC). 1708 Slowed speed to 20 knots, (204 RPM). 1721 Changed course to the right to 345^o T (PGC). 1729 Slowed to 15 knots, (153 RPM). 1730 Slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). 1750 Steaming on various courses and at various speeds conforming to Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. Av. Steam Av. RPM 191

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 240^o T (PGC) entering Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island. 1801 U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored in berth assigned. 1809 Maneuvering at various speeds and on various courses approaching tanker, U.S.S. MONOGEHELA. 1826 Moored starboard side to tanker, U.S.S. MONOGEHELA, in berth No. 31, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 26 fathoms of water. Ships draft before fueling, Forward 24'2" Aft 23'11". 1845 Commenced fueling on both hoses.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2025 Completed fueling on both hoses, having received, 228,228 gallons. Draft Forward 24'10" Aft 24'9". Having made all preparations for getting underway at 2116 underway from alongside U.S.S. MONONGEHELA (tanker) berth No. 31, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides Group, to shift berths. Course and speed changes as necessary to arrive to assigned berth No. 2. 2128 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway from alongside tanker. 2158 Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. 2200 Observed small craft APC 127 anchored within our anchorage circle. Notified same that she was encroaching in our berth. 2120 Secured main engines and steering engines. 2232 Secured boiler No. 1. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. 2313 Condition RED at Espiritu Santo. 2314 Went to General Quarters. 2346 Condition GREEN having been set, at Espiritu Santo, secured from General Quarters, set Condition III, Modified.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, WRIGHT, MONONGAHELA, VESTAL, PINKNEY, DIXIE, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, JENKINS, CASE, SELFRIDGE, RALPH TALBOT, EATON, LARDNER, FARENHOLT, STRINGHAM, FOOTE, CONVERSE, RADFORD, COOS BAY, PRINCE WILLIAM, CHEVELEIR, BRETON, TRYON, TAGAMAC, S-38, S.S. MATHEW LYON, ESSO RICHMOND, MERINDA, LST 343, and various yard and district craft. 0214 U.S.S. APC 27 underway and shifted berth in order to clear this anchorage, due to the swing of the U.S.S. DENVER, which imperiled the APC 27.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0709 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT shifted berth. 0726 U.S.S. JENKINS stood into harbor and proceeded to assigned berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 - Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 1045 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1120 S.S. WISCONSIN (Panamanian Registry) stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, HEMAN, G. E., CEM(PA), USN, #371 73 92, left the ship in charge of temporary shore patrol. 1242 the Australian S.S. MERINDA underway and stood out of harbor. 1349 U.S.S. CASE underway and stood out of harbor. 1350 U.S.S. TRYON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. U.S.S. CUMMINGS stood in and moored alongside tanker. 1400 U.S.S. PINCKNEY underway and stood out of harbor. 1501 U.S.S. ELIET stood in and moored starboard side to U.S.S. JENKINS. 1522 U.S.S. McCALLA stood in and moored to tanker. 1522 S.S. ALEHEBA stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. A. Bird,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1605 S.S. ESSO RICHMOND underway and stood out of harbor. 1606 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1610 French ship CAPE de PALMES stood in to assigned berth. 1614 U.S.S. FAGANAC underway and stood out of harbor. 1628 Fuel barge moored along port side. Received 1,000 gals. of aviation gasoline. 1700 Fuel barge cast off. 1740 - The temporary shore patrol returned aboard ship. 1750 Veered anchor chain to 9½ fathoms from buoy to bull nose.

J. P. Wiley,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, WRIGHT, SELFRIDGE, RALPH TALBOT, EATON, FARENHOLT, STRINGHAM, FOOTE, CONVERSE, RADFORD, JENKINS, CUMMINGS, ELLET, McCALL, S-38, WADSWORTH, DIXIE, VESTAL, MONONGAHELA, PATAPSCO, BRETON, CHANDELEUR, CHEVELEIR, TRYON, ALCHIBA, COOS BAY, POCOMOKE. S.S. MATHEW, LYON, PRINCE WILLIAM, WISCONSIN, BALSAM, the French ship, CAPE de PALMES and various other yard and district craft.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0744 U.S.S. CHEVELIER underway and stood out of harbor. 0755 U.S.S. WADSWORTH underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0802 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. 0900 Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine flight, Pilot Lt. (jg( A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Oberwise, F. L., AOM1c. 0952 U.S.S. CUMMINGS underway and stood out of harbor. 1028 U.S.S. TAGONAK stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1103 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. 1128 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. P. Wiley,

Lt., DE-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1202 S.S. CARP SAN MARTIN stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1204 S.S. POELAU (Dutch Registry) stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1215 U.S.S. ELLET underway and stood out of harbor. 1230 - Shore patrol with ASHER, Herman H., #290 97 41, CTC(PA), USN, in charge left the ship for temporary duty. 1320 U.S.S. TAGANAK underway and stood out of harbor. 1450 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in berth assigned. 1544 Received ammunition lighter on port quarter. 1558 Following ships underway and stood out of harbor: U.S.S. LARDNER, MONOGAHELA.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 U.S.S. FARENHOLT underway and stood out of harbor. The following 5" ammunition was received from the U.S.S. DIXIE:

150 - SPD - 2676

150 - SPDN 4111 F

300 - A.A. Common Projectiles, B.D.F. MK28-7

Mechanical Time Fuse MK 18-2 White Tracer.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

1810 - Shore patrol returned to the ship having completed its turn of duty ashore.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2151 Completed blowing tubes in Boiler No. 3. 2200 Received message from ComSeronSoPac addressed to all ships present: "Fire on STANVAC CAPETOWN, berth No. 34 send help." 2204 Called away ship's Fire and Rescue Party. 2225 Fire and Rescue Party embarked on motor launch and left ship for STANVAC CAPETOWN. Lt. C. E. Lamm, Jr., D-V(G), USNR, in charge. 2353 The Fire and Rescue Party returned to the ship, the fire on board the STANVAC CAPETOWN having been extinguished. The U.S.S. DENVER Fire and Rescue Party assisted in extinguishing the fire having brought their motor launch close aboard the starboard bow of the STANVAC CAPETOWN and having maintained pressure on the fire hose to the ship by the use of a gasoline handy-billy for approximately twenty (20) minutes.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened and Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III, Modified set. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, RALPH TALBOT, JENKINS, SELFRIDGE, EATON, FOOTE, CONVERSE, RADFORD, RENSHAW, ELLET, McCALL, S-38, DIXIE, MONONGAHELA, WRIGHT, VESTAL, STRINGHAM, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, COOS BAY, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, DARING, ADROIT, CHANDLER, CARLTON, THORNTON, ALCHIBA, PATAPSCO, S.S. ISLAND MAIL, MATHEW LYONS, ROANOKE, BALSAM, CAP DES PALMES, STANVAC CAPETOWN, WISCONSIN (Panamanian), CAPE SAN MARTIN, POELEAULAUT, and various district craft.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0657 S.S. MARINDA stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0716 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. 0717 U.S.S. THORNTON underway and stood out of harbor. 0754 U.S.S. ROAMER stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0755 LST 354 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0755 LST 354 stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0757 S.S. BALSAM underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0800 This ship assumed anti-aircraft and radar guard duty. 0845 Both steering engines and both cables were tested at each steering station, and conditions found satisfactory. 0850 S.S. BALSAM stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0940 U.S.S. CONFLICT (AM85) stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1120 U.S.S. CARLTON underway and stood out of harbor. 1148 S.S. CAPE SAN MARTIN underway and stood out of harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1210 The POELEAULAUT (Dutch Ship) underway and stood out of harbor. 1230 U.S.S. ELLET underway and stood out of harbor. 1235 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT and U.S.S. SELFRIDGE underway and stood out of harbor. 1245 - The shore patrol consisting of seven (7) men with OSTLUND, Clarence William, #378 47 41, CMM(AA), USN, in charge left the ship for temporary duty ashore. 1304 U.S.S. MARYLAND and U.S.S. COLORADO underway and stood out of harbor. 1315 U.S.S. HOVEY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1316 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in assigned berth.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. The shore patrol consisting of seven (7) men, with OSTLUND, Clarence William, #378 47 41, CMM(AA), USN, in charge was received aboard from temporary duty ashore.

L. A. Bird,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1853 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

Henry Bress,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2015 Commenced swinging to flood tide, stern to port. 2050 S.S. ALLEN stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of water with 9½ fathoms of starboard chain to the buoy. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition B. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. This ship has the anti-aircraft and Radar guard duty until 0800, September 8, 1943. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, WALLER, JENKINS, EATON, FOOTE, CONVERSE, RADFORD, S-38, McCALL, RENSHAW, WRIGHT, STRINGHAM, CHANDELEUR, CHANDLER, SOUTHARD, HOVEY, VESTAL, DIXIE, ADROIT, COOS BAY, POCOMOKE, ROAMER, CONFLICT, ROANOKE, BALSAM. S.S. MATHEW LYONS, MARGARET FULLER, WISCONSIN, RHEEM, ISLAND MAIL, W.H. ALLEN, and various district craft.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0700 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. 0715 U.S.S. COOS BAY underway and stood out of harbor. 0720 U.S.S. ORTOLAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0725 U.S.S. CHANDELEUR underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Mustered crew at quarters, Absentees: None. 0800 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger, Ducote, B. A., ARM2c, USNR, 247 6737. U.S.S. BRETON, relieved this ship of Radar and A.A. guard duty. 0900 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1030 S.S. W.H. ALLEN underway and stood out of harbor. 1030 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1100 Placed No. 1 unit of after steering out of commission. 1120 W.H. ALLEN stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. A. Bird,

Lt. (jg), US Navy.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1200 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, in reference to Comairsopac despatch 191915 of August 1943, BOYD, Reese Wilbren, #346 46 76, CGM(PA), USN, in charge, and GABRELCIK, Anthony Albert, MM1C, V-6, USNR left the ship for temporary Beach Guard duty. 1245 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, the shore patrol with CAVALCANTE, Michael Emmett, #250 31 05, CTC(AA), USN, in charge left the ship for temporary shore patrol duty. 1303 S.S. W.H. ALLEN underway and stood out of harbor. 1325 U.S.S. CHANDELEUR stood in and moored in berth assigned. 1420 Dutch Merchantman, WELTERDEN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1445 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, Lt. Cdr. Peter K. WELLS, D-V (G), USNR, left the ship for temporary duty as Beach Guard. 1500 U.S.S. CONY stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. 1510 No. 1 steering unit back in commission. 1550 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1702 U.S.S. ADROIT underway and stood out of harbor. 1705 U.S.S. ROAMER underway and stood out of harbor. 1707 U.S.S. CONFLICT underway and stood out of harbor. 1708 S.S. MARGARET FULLER underway and stood out of harbor. 1740 - Shore patrol returned aboard having completed their duty ashore. 1730 - Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, MC CORMICK, John James, EM1c, F-2 USNR, #243 53 65, left the ship for temporary duty as beach guard. Ref: ComAirSoPac despatch 191915 of August 1943. 1755 - BOYD, Reese Wilbren, #346 46 76, CGM(PA), USN, returned aboard from duty as beach guard.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1830 U.S.S. JENKINS underway and stood out of harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2013 U.S.S. CONVERSE, underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Ship is darkened, Material Condition B and Modified Condition of Readiness III. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, BRETON, PRINCE WILLIAM, CHANDELEUR, COOS BAY, WALLER, JENKINS, S-38, EATON, FOOTE, RADFORD, McCALLA, RENSHAW, STRINGHAM, CONY, CHANDLER, WRIGHT, VESTAL, DIXIE and various fleet oilers, supply ships, yard and auxiliary craft. 0010 - MC CORMICK, J.J., #243 53 65, EM1c, F2, USNR, returned aboard having completed duty as beach guard.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0600 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer and in accordance with Comairsopac Despatch #191915 of August 1943, SIMPSON, Uriah J., #320 98 24, CMM(AA), U.S.N. in charge of PAYNE, L.H., #268 47 77, GM2c, USN, left the ship for temporary duty as beach guard. 0640 U.S.S. ORTHOLON underway and stood out of harbor. 0710 U.S.S. S-38 Underway and stood out of harbor. 0711 U.S.S. RADFORD underway and stood out of harbor.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees; None. 0843 U.S.S. EATON underway to shift berth. 0844 U.S.S. FOOTE underway to shift berth. 0900 Hoisted out plane No. 7 Pilot Lt. D. K. English, passenger Mandeville, P., S2c. 0900 - Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 0902 U.S.S. WALLER underway from drydock and moored alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. 0905 U.S.S. EATON entered drydock. 1030 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1230 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, the following named men returned to the ship having completed their duties as temporary beach guard: SIMPSON, Uriah Jefferson, #320 98 24, CMM(AA), USN and PAYNE, L.H., GM2c, USN, #268 47 77. 1240 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol left the ship with CARTER, Sylvanis B., #291 27 90, CWT(AA) USN in charge. 1520 U.S.S. RADFORD stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1522 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. The shore patrol of which CARTER, S. B., #291 27 90, CWT USN, was in charge, returned aboard ship, having completed temporary duty ashore. 1637 U.S.S. ORTOLAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1700 U.S.S. ATASCOSA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1715 U.S.S. STARLING stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. ORTOLAN. 1717 U.S.S. RADFORD underway to shift berth.

L. A. Bird,

Lt. (jg), US Navy.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with 9½ fathoms of starboard chain in use. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (Modified), Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, WALLER, EATON, FOOTE, RADFORD, McCALLA, RENSHAW, CONY, STRINGHAM, SOUTHARD, STARLING, HOVEY, WRIGHT, POCOMOKE, DIXIE, VESTAL, BRETON, ROANOKE, PAPTAPSCO, BALSAM, CHANDELEUR, CHANDLER, S-38, and various fleet tankers, supply ships, yard and district craft.

H. M. Brinser,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0445 Lighted fires under Boiler No.1. 0600 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 2. 0630 Tested steering gear; tested whistle and siren; condition satisfactory. 0655 U.S.S. RADFORD underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 Set Condition III. Stationed all special sea details. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0723 underway from berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group., in accordance with CTF 39 Training Memorandum 10-43 in order to conduct gunnery exercise; proceeding in company with Task Force THIRTY NINE, Rear Admiral A. A. Merrill, OTC, in U.S.S. MONTPELIER; other ships in Task Group are : U.S.S. DENVER, CLEVELAND, MC CALLA, RADFORD, JENKINS, and CONVERSE. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the Bridge; proceeding on various courses and speeds conforming to anchorage and channel. 0725 - Held quarters for muster and getting underway - no absentees. 0750 Steadied on course 165^o T (PGC), speed 15 knots (153 RPM). 0756 Catapulted plane No. 7 to starboard; pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-(V), USNR, passenger Haeling, W. J., ARM3c, USNR, 646 40 23. 0758 Secured special sea detail, set Condition III. Av. St. 600 Av. RPM 94

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 165^o T (PGC) at 15 knots (153 RPM). 0809 On signal went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0815 Went to General Quarters. 0817 In Cruising Formation One, order of ships: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND. 0843 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T (PGC), went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0859 On signal slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0908 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 102, base course 135^o T (PGC). 0911 Secured from General Quarters except anti-aircraft battery, preparatory to conduction Event No. 1, CTF THIRTY-NINE, Underway Training Memorandum No. 10-43, High Altitude Sleeve Firing. 0936 Completed blowing tubes in all steaming boilers. 1030 Commenced firing 5" battery. 1038 On signal changed course to 295^o T (PGC), ceased zig-zagging. 1046 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10Z, base course 295^o T (PGC). 1050 Exercised at firing 5" battery Event No. 1. 1116 Exercised at firing 5" battery, Event No.1. 1123 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 295^o T (PGC). 1129 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 340^o T (PGC). 1145 On signal launched plane No. 8 for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenger, DuCote, B. A., ARM2c, USNR. 1146 Exercised at firing 5" battery, Event No. 1. 1153 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 340^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 200

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 340^o T (PGC) at speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1200 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1200 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1205 Changed course to 300^o T (PGC) slowed to 12 knots (124 RPM). 1210 Recovered plane No. 7. Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1212 Changed course to 340^o T (PGC). 1225 Changed fleet course and axis to 150^o T (PGC). 1236 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 1248 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC). 1250 Went to General Quarters. 1257 Changed course to 142^o T (PGC). 1300 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC). 1302 Changed course to 150^o T (PGC). 1304 Ceased zig-zagging. 1305 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1324 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 1325 Sighted ship bearing 145^o T, distance about eight (8) miles. 1325 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1329 Changed course to 150^o T (PGC). 1330 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1335 Went to 22 knots (225 RPM). 1337 Went to 24 knots (247 RPM). 1338 S. S. CASTOR, U.S. Merchantman, passed this formation on the starboard hand, beam bearing 240^o T distance about 4,000 yards, passed well clear astern of formation. 1339 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1347 Exercised at firing 6" battery, Event No. 2. 1353 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 1403 Completed Event No. 2 and secured from General Quarters. 1408 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1410 Changed fleet course and axis to 280^o T (PGC). 1412 Changed course to 246^o T (PGC), formed special Cruising Formation Three. 1415 Slowed to 20 knots, (204 RPM), changed course to 280^o T (PGC). 1430 Slowed to 16 knots, (164 RPM). 1435 Went to 20 knots, (204 RPM). 1450 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1531 Slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1534 Launched plane No. 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger, Fritz, F., ARM3c, USN. 1540 Changed course to 330^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 199.5.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 330^o T (PGC) in cruising Formation No. 3, speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1600 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1604 Executed emergency turns in signals from OTC simulating maneuvering to unmask guns against plane-towed sleeve for practice firing of automatic weapons. 1657 Ceased present exercise. 1712 Stationed all special sea details preparatory for entering port. 1716 Changed course to 325^o T (PGC). 1720 Changed speed to 15 knots (154 RPM) and changed course to 225^o T (PGC). Changed course to 345^o T (PGC). 1759 Changed course to 290^o T (PGC) and slowed to 10 knots (104 RPM). The following items of ammunition were expended this date: Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 191

6"/47 Cal. Projectiles A. P. MK35-2 12

6"/47 Cal. Cartridges Semi-fixed SPD 3135 12

5"/38 Cal. Projectiles A.A. ComMK35-2 with MK 18

Mech Time Fuses 149

5"/38 Cal. Cartridges Semi-fixed Various Indexes

Smokeless Powder I.V. 2600 f.s. 149

40mm Cartridges SPDN 3635 Lot 132 790

20mm Cartridges H.E. SPDN 3019 656

H.E.T. N.F. 1473 338

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 290^o T (PGC). 1800 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds, conforming to the channel, entering Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. 1820 Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 29 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1824 Secured steering engines and main engines. Secured special sea detail and set modified Condition III. 1825 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1830 Hoisted in plane #8. Av. Steam Av. RPM 45.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2320 U.S.S. MC CALLA and U.S.S. JENKINS underway from alongside of U.S.S. PATUXENT and anchored in assigned berths.

L. A. Bird,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with 7 fathoms of starboard chain in use. The ship darkened, Condition of Readiness III Modified and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, EATON, FOOTE, RADFORD, McCALLA, RENSHAW, CONY, STRINGHAM, SOUTHARD, STARLING, HOVEY, WRIGHT, POCOMOKE, S-38, DIXIE, VESTAL, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, ROANOKE, PAPTAPSCO, SIOUX, PATUXENT, BALSAM, CHANDELEUR, CHANDLER, DARING, BLUEBIRD, ROSEWOOD, SOUTHERN SEAS, COOS BAY, HOLLY ALCHIBA, ORTOLAN, ATASCOSA, S.S. ISLAND MAIL, MATHEW LYONS, WILEY POST, W.S. RHEEM STEPHEN M. WHITE, STANVAC CAPETOWN, CAP DES PALMES, ESSO RICHMOND, WELTERDEN, POE LAU LAUT, also various yard and district craft. 0345 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 1.

J. P. Wiley,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0531 Underway from berth No. 2, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in accordance with orders of ComTask Force THIRTY NINE, at various courses and speed conforming to channel. Boilers No. 1 and 2 cut in on main steam line. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 0606 Moored port side to U.S.S. PATUXENT in berth No. 32, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in 26 fathoms of water with six (6) wire hawsers. 0624 Commenced fueling, draft forward 24'7", aft 24'3". 0700 Completed fueling having received 36,720 gallons fuel oil; draft forward 24'9" aft 24'3". 0708 Underway from alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT enroute to berth No. 2. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. Steaming at various courses and speeds conforming to channel. 0753 Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides, in 27 fathoms, with 7 fathoms of starboard chain in use. 0800 Secured main and steering engines.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt. (jg), U. S. Navy.
 
 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0809 S.S. STEPHEN WHITE and S.S. WILEY POST underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 2. 0820 S.S. WELTERDEN (Dutch) underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. RADFORD underway and stood out of harbor. 0915 - Held quarters for inspection. 0925 U.S.S. MONTPELIER left from alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT and proceeded to berth anchoring at 0942. 0950 - Comcrudiv 12 came on board and held an informal inspection. 1115 - Comcrudiv 12 left the ship having completed his inspection. 1121 U.S.S. EATON underway and moored alongside U.S.S. WALLER.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - Pursuant to orders of the Commanding Officer the temporary shore patrol, MULLINS, Joseph Benjamin, #355 17 26, CTC(PA), USN, in charge, left the ship. 1320 S.S. MARK HOPKINS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1321 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1525 U.S.S. S-38 and U.S.S. JENKINS stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 1534 S.S. STANVIC CAPETOWN (Panamanian) underway and stood out of harbor. 1540 S.S. ESSO RICHMOND underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

16 - 18

Moored as before. The temporary shore patrol detail of which MULLINS, Joseph Benjamin, #355 17 26, CTC(PA), USN, was in charge, returned to the ship and resumed regular duties. 1615 U.S.S. BENNETT stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1850 S.S. BEN HOBAW stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group with 7 fathoms of starboard chain, in 27 fathoms of water. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III are set. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, POCOMOKE, VESTAL, BRETON, WRIGHT, JENKINS, CHANDELEUR, BALLARD COOS BAY, THORNTON, PAPTAPSCO, WALLER, DIXIE, EATON, RENSHAW, CONY, FOOTE, CONVERSE, McCALLA, BALSAM, PATUXENT, REO GRANDE, HOVEY, SIOUX, PRINCE WILLIAM, LONGSPUR, ALCHIBA, CASTOR, S-38, LST 395, LST 390, LST 354, BENNETT, LST 340, S.S. ISLAND MAIL, SOUTHERN SEAS, W.S. RHEEM, MATHEW LYON, BEN HOLING, MARK HOPKINS, CAP DES PALMES, J. L. LOGAN, DELPHINIUS and various district and base craft.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0549 Executed sunrise, lighted ship. 0608 S.S. BEN HOLING underway and stood out of harbor. 0655 S.S. DELPHINIUS underway in tow with YP415 to shift berth. 0712 U.S.S. CONVERSE underway and stood out of harbor. 0715 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. STARLING underway and stood out of harbor. 1115 S.S. ISLAND MAIL underway and stood out of harbor. 1140 U.S.S. BENNETT underway and stood out of harbor. 1151 U.S.S. ALCHIBA underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0805 U.S.S. WHITNEY stood in and moored in assigned berth. 0810 - Held quarters for muster: absentees - none. 0815 U.S.S. MC CALLA stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT. 0930 - Held divine services. 1100 U.S.S. JENKINS underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. STARLING underway and stood out of harbor. 1140 U.S.S. BENNETT underway and stood out of harbor.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1230 - The shore patrol with WARWICK, L.L., #223 42 28, CEM(AA), USN, in charge left the ship. 1305 U.S.S. CONVERSE stood in and moored alongside of U.S.S. MC CALLA. 1306 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1325 Veered 2½ fathoms of starboard chain to new scope of 9½ fathoms from buoy to bull nose. 1510 U.S.S. STARLING stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. P. Wiley,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1650 - The shore patrol with, WARWICK, LL, #223 42 28, CEM(AA), USN, in charge returned aboard.

H. M. Brinser,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened; Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III set. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, POCOMOKE, ATASCOSA, VESTAL, WHITNEY, BRETON, PRINCE WILLIAM, COOS BAY, PATUXENT, RIO GRANDE, BALSAM, CASTOR, BALLARD, WRIGHT, CHANDELEUR, WALLER, EATON, RENSHAW, CONY, FOOTE, CONVERSE, McCALLA, SHELDRAKE, STARLING, LEARY, THORNTON, DIXIE, HOLLY, LONGSPUR, SOUTHERN SEAS, HOVEY, ORTOLAN, SIOUX, S.S. W.S. RHEEM, MATHEW LYON, DELPHINIUS, VEERHAVEN (Dutch), MARK HOPKINS, U.S.S. RAIL, S.S. CAP DES PALMES (French), and various small district and yard craft.

L. A. Bird,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0614 U.S.S. SIOUX underway and stood out of harbor. 0645 U.S.S. STARLING underway and stood out of harbor. 0750 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0750 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 0800 - Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0844 U.S.S. SHELDRAKE underway to shift berth. 0900 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot, Lt. (jg) Andrews; passenger Dobrzynski, W. B., S1c, USNR. 1004 U.S.S. PATAPSCO underway and stood out of harbor. 1059 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No. 7. 1134 U.S.S. MC CALLA underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser,

Lt.(jg), U. S. Navy.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1330 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot; Lt. D. K. English; passenger; Murphy, W. F., AMM3c, 223 95 53, and plane No. 7, pilot; Lt.(jg), Haseltine, A. B.; passenger; Moliero, J. F., 224 25 53, AMM3c. 1352 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 2. 1500 Hoisted aboard planes Nos. 7 and 8. 1508 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 3.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1602 U.S.S. SHELDRAKE underway and stood out of harbor. 1604 U.S.S. POCOMOKE underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

18 - 20

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

1900 In accordance with the orders of Commander Third Fleet, assumed Condition of Readiness of two (2) hours for getting underway.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with 9½ fathoms of starboard chain in use. Ship is darkened with Material Condition "B" and modified Condition III of Readiness set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND, POCOMOKE, ATASCOSA, VESTAL, DIXIE, WHITNEY, BRETON, PRINCE WILLIAM, COOS BAY, PATUXENT, WRIGHT, RAIL, BALSAM, CASTOR, CHANDELEUR, WALLER, EATON, CONY, FOOTE, MC CALLA, CONWAY, S-38, S.S. SOUTHERN SEAS, ORTOLAN, MATHEW LYON, DELPHINIUS, W.S. RHEEM, MONOGAHELA, MARK HOPKINS, CHESTER SUN, U.S.S. LEVY, THORNTON, LST 395, 343, 354, 390, CAP DES PALMES (French), and various small district and auxiliary district yard craft.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0625 U.S.S. CONWAY stood in and entered dry dock. 0628 U.S.S. LST 390 underway and stood out of harbor. 0640 U.S.S. EATON, underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot, Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews; passenger, Du Cote, D. A., ARM2c. 0805 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot, Lt. D. K. English, USNR; passenger, Oberwise, F. L., AOM1c. 0815 Received U.S.S. MONTPELIER Damage Control Inspection party aboard. 0835 Went to General Quarters for Damage Control Inspection party aboard. 0835 Went to General Quarters for Damage Control Exercise and inspection. 0855 U.S.S. WALLER underway and stood out of harbor. 0942 Secured from General Quarters, having completed Damage Control Exercise and inspection. Set Condition of Readiness III (modified) and Material Condition "B". 0942 U.S.S. CONY underway and stood out of harbor. 1005 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1010 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1100 The Damage Control Inspection party from the U.S.S. MONTPELIER left the ship.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1235 U.S.S. SARATOGA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. U.S.S. SAN JUAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1240 U.S.S. SAN DIEGO stood in and moored starboard side to U.S.S. PATUXENT. 1245 - Pursuant to orders of the Commanding Officer, the temporary shore patrol left the ship with, HANSEN, Clarence John, CWT(PA), #316 10 71, USN, in charge. 1250 U.S.S. STACK stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT. U.S.S. STERRETT stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT. 1300 U.S.S. WILSON stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. ATASCOSA. 1340 S.S. MELVILLE STONE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1400 U.S.S. RAIL underway and stood out of harbor. 1427 U.S.S. MC CALLA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1448 U.S.S. ORTOLAN underway and stood out of harbor. 1529 U.S.S. SAN DIEGO underway from alongside tanker and anchored in assigned berth. 1539 U.S.S. EATON and U.S.S. RADFORD stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1546 U.S.S. CONY stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. A. Bird,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1610 U.S.S. THORNTON underway and stood out of harbor. 1640 M.T.B. RON No. 34, consisting of five (5) boats stood in to assigned berths. 1730 - The shore patrol were received aboard.

J. P. Wiley,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1800 U.S.S. CONWAY underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2355 Having received "Red Alert" signal went to General Quarters.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of water, with 9½ fathoms of starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened and at General Quarters, with Condition Affirm set throughout. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purpose; fires lighted under Boiler No. 3. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SARATOGA, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, BRETON, STERRETT, STACK, WILSON, WALLER, EATON, CONY, MC CALLA, RADFORD, FOOTE, LEVY, PRINCE WILLIAM, CONWAY, DIXIE, VESTAL, WHITNEY, PATUXENT, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, WRIGHT, CASTOR, CHESTER SUN, ATASCOSA, MONOGAHELA, JAMESTOWN, COOS BAY, DELPHINIUS, ORTOLAN, BALSAM, SIOUX, S-38, DASH, RAIL, SOUTHERN SEAS; S.S. MATHEW LYON, W.S. RHEEM, MARK HOPKINS, MELVILLE STONE, CAP DE PALMES (French), and various other yard and district craft. 0016 Shore batteries commenced firing at unidentified plane, bearing 050^o T, altitude 2200 feet. 0017 Search lights on shore turned on in vicinity of plane. 0018 Plane dropped yellow flare bearing 035^o T. 0018½ Plane dropped green cluster bearing 009^o T, altitude 2200 feet. 0022 Search lights turned off. 0039 Sounded "All Clear" signal. 0040 Secured from General Quarters; set modified Condition of Readiness III and material Condition "B". Secured fires under Boiler No. 3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0647 U.S.S. LST 447 stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0700 U.S.S. DASH, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0710 U.S.S. COOS BAY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0725 U.S.S. WRIGHT, underway and stood out of harbor. 0740 CAP DE PALMES (French) underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird,

Lt.(jg), U. S. Navy.
 
 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot; Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger; Fritz, F., 243 84 58, ARM3c, USN, for routine flight. 0804 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot; Lt. (jg), A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger; Haeling, W. J., 646 40 23, ARM3c, USN, for routine flight. 0807 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0809 U.S.S. STERRETT, underway and stood out of harbor. 0810 - Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0811 U.S.S. STACK, underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 U.S.S. MC CALLA, underway and stood out of harbor. 0845 U.S.S. SAN DIEGO, underway and stood out of harbor. 0847 U.S.S. SAN JUAN, underway and stood out of harbor. 0906 U.S.S. SARATOGA, underway and stood out of harbor. 1028 S.S. CAPE SAN JUAN, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1030 CAP DE PALMES stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1031 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1035 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. 1055 U.S.S. FANNING, stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. P. Wiley,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1300 U.S.S. WALLER, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1412 U.S.S. COOS BAY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1412 U.S.S. WRIGHT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1445 U.S.S. STARLING, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1448 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and moored alongside U.S.S. CONY. 1450 U.S.S. ESSO LITTLE ROCK stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1530 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot, Lt.(jg), Andrews, USNR, observer; Lt. D. K. English, USNR.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1640 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 7. 1650 U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1710 - KINDLE, Leroy Vincent, #680 01 42, Cox, V-6, USNR returned aboard upon completion of temporary duty ashore.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

18 - 20

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.
 
 

20 - 24

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, LOZARO, Dominick, MM2c, #611 55 55, V-6 USNR, reported aboard to resume regular duties upon completion of temporary shore duty.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

2100 In accordance with the Directive of Commander Third Fleet, assumed Condition of Readiness for getting underway of six (6) hours.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 5 fathoms of starboard chain to buoy. The ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III (modified), Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purpose. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, EATON, FOOTE, CONWAY, WILSON, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, BALSAM, RAIL, S-38, PATAPASCO, WHITNEY, MONOGAHELA, JAMESTOWN, ATASCOSA, COOSBAY, DASH, LEVY, CHESTER SUN, SOUTHERN SEAS, CASTOR, DELPHINIUS, ROANOKE, SIOUX; S.S. MARK HOPKINS, CAP DE PALMES, ESSO LITTLE ROCK, CAPE SAN JUAN, MELVILLE STONE, MATHEW LYON, W.S. RHEEM, and various other yard and district craft.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0515 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 3. 0600 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 4. 0620 U.S.S. CONWAY, and U.S.S. WILSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0625 U.S.S. DIXIE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0725 U.S.S. RENSHAW, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0730 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. Set Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. U.S.S. THORNTON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0756 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and stood out of harbor. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0756 underway in accordance with CTF THIRTY NINE, Underway Training Memorandum No. 11-43, from Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, Rear Admiral Merrill, O.T.C., U.S.S. DENVER. Captain is at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator are on the Bridge. Draft: Forward 24' 10", Aft 24' 3". Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on various courses and at various speeds conforming to channel. Mustered crew at quarters, no absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0827 On signal went to 19 knots (194 RPM). 0835 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 0837 On signal went to 22 knots (225 RPM). 0846 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 10Z. 0901 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 135^o T (PGC). 0907 On signal slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0919 Commence Exercise No. 1, anti-aircraft practice. Fired 5" batter and automatic weapons. 0933 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 180^o T (PGC). 0954 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 225^o T (PGC). 1011 On signal countermarched, changing Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 030^o T (PGC). 1032 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 070^o T (PGC). 1038 On signal executed ships right to 250^o T (PGC). 1049 On signal executed ships left to 160^o T (PGC). 1054 Launched Plane No. 8, to port for anti-submarine patrol; Pilot, Lt. D. K. English, USNR; Observer, Fritz, F., 243 84 58, ARM3c, USN. 1113 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 140^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600. Av. RPM 192.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on base course 140^o T (PGC), at 20 knots (204 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10Z. 1202 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 140^o T (PGC). 1208 Completed firing of 5" battery. 1215 On signal, changed course to 320^o T (PGC). 1221 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10Z, base course 320^o T (PGC). 1246 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1247 Took position on port beam of U.S.S. MONTPELIER, distance 1300 yards, for Radar Calibration. 1330 Completed Radar Calibration, resumed position, Cruising Formation One. 1339 On signal launched Plane No. 7 for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot Lt.(jg), W. R. Andrews, USNR; Passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1351 On signal executed Form 15 on guide. 1355 On signal slowed to 12 knots (123 RPM). 1400 Recovered Plane No. 8 "Dog" Method and hoisted aboard. 1413 On signal, executed Form 18 on guide. 1415 Went to General Quarters for Event No. 3, Surface Sled Target Firing. On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 140^o T (PGC). 1416 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10Z. 1426 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course, 140^o T (PGC). 1444 On signal went to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1446 On signal changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1452 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1454 On signal changed course to 085^o T (PGC). 1455 On signal changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1500 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1502 On signal resumed station in Cruising Formation No. 1, went to 20 knots (199 RPM). 1504 On signal went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1515 On signal changed course to 120^o T (PGC). 1517 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1518 Commenced firing 5" battery to starboard at sled target. 1520 Ceased firing at sled target. 1521 On signal changed course to 000^o T (PGC). 1525 On signal, changed course to 030^o T (PGC). 1527 On signal, changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1530 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1532 Commenced firing 6" battery to starboard at sled target. 1533 On signal changed course to 120^o T )PGC). 1537 Ceased firing 6" battery. 1538 Cease present exercises. 1540 On signal changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 1545 On signal slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1547 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III. 1550 On signal changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1555 On signal, changed Fleet Course and Axis to 135^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 204
 
 

Ammunition expended on this date for Training.

6"/47 Cal. Projectiles

24 A. P. MK 35-2

6"/47 Cartridges Semi-Fixed

24 S. P. D. 3135 I. V. 2500 f.s.

5"/38 Cal. Projectiles

67 A. A. Com MK 35-3 with MK 18-2 Mech Time Fuze.

5"/38 Cal. Cartridges Semi-Fixed

67 Cartridges Semi-fixed Smokeless Powder i.v. 2600 f.s. various indexes.

40 MM Cartridges

280 Rds. SPDN 3635 Lot No. 132.

20 MM Cartridges

384 Rds. H.E. SPDN 3019

186 Rds. H.E.T. N.F. 1473.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 135^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1602 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 180^o T (PGC). 1606 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 1646 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 000^o T (PGC). 1657 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10Z. 1732 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1733 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1734 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds preparatory recovering aircraft. 1740 Recovered Plane No. 7, to port, "Dog" Method. 1745 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 315^o T (PGC). 1748 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 270^o T (PGC). 1753 Executed ships left to course 240^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 193.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 240^o T (PGC), Base Course 270^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1801 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 1802 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 38Z. 1829 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270^o T (PGC). 1843 Sighted light starboard bow, bearing 305^o T, believed to be a light in harbor of Espiritu Santo. 1857 Went to General Quarters for Event No. 4. 1906 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to right to 090^o T (PGC). 1934 Maneuvering on various courses incident to making approach to target for night firing. Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 199.2.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 330^o T (PGC), Fleet course and axis 090^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). Ship is at General Quarters. 2008 On signal changed course to 290^o T (PGC). 2030 On signal changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 2042 On signal changed course to 115^o T (PGC). 2056 Exercises cancelled. 2102 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". 2109 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to the right to 295^o T (PGC). 2124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 14Z. 2131 On signal changed course to the right to 000^o T (PGC). 2143 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 14Z. 2313 On signal ceased zig-zagging and resumed course. 2317 On signal resumed zig-zagging. 2319 On signal ceased zig-zagging and remained on course 023^o T (PGC). 2326 On signal executed ships right 030^o. 2348 On signal executed ships left 030^o. 2353 On signal resumed base course 000^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 193.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, Rear Admiral Merrill, CTG THIRTY NINE, OTC, U.S.S. EATON, WALLER, RENSHAW, in Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set. Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 14Z, base course 000^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM), U.S.S. DENVER second ship in column. 0000 On signal changed Fleet Course and Axis to 045^o T (PGC). 0007 Commenced zig-zagging on signal in accordance with Plan 14Z. 0110 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 045^o T (PGC). 0120 On signal, changed course and axis 090^o T (PGC). 0310 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 14Z. 0330 U.S.S. RENSHAW, left formation to take station for tracking exercise. Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 198.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on course 270^o T (PGC), at speed 20 knots (204 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan 14Z. 0435 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0539 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 270^o T (PGC). 0541 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0545 Launched Plane No. 7, to port, for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot; Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR; Passenger; Haeling, W. J., ARM3c, USNR. 0554 Changed course to 185^o T (PGC). 0605 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 14Z. 0720 Sighted Espiritu Santo Island, bearing 270^o T, distance 30 miles. (PGC)0730 - Mustered crew on station - no absentees. Av. Steam 600 Av. RPM 198.5.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 185^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots, (204 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 14Z. 0836 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 185^o T (PGC). 0838 Took station Formation Two, for anti-aircraft firing practice. 0840 Manned all 5" batteries for firing practice No. 6. 0843 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 0849 Went to 25 knots, (258 RPM). 0852 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 180^o T (PGC). 0853 Commenced firing 5" battery to starboard. 0940 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 0943 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0945 Launched Plane No. 8, to port for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot, Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR; Passenger, Fritz, F., ARM3C, 243 84 58, USN. 0948 Changed course to 150^o T (PGC). 0950 Maneuvering on various courses simulating unmasking 5" battery for firing. 1015 Call away all Automatic Weapons for firing at sleeve. Event No. 6. 1021 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 000^o T (PGC). 1025 Commenced firing Automatic Weapons in accordance with Event No. 6. Maneuvering on various courses to unmask Automatic Weapons for firing. 1047 Completed Event No. 6. Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft batteries. 1050 Changed Fleet Course and Axis to 310^o T (PGC). 1057 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 1109 Sighted ship bearing 354^o T, distance 15 miles. 1116 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1130 Maneuvering on various courses, following movements of column leader, conforming to channel. 1145 U.S.S. LEVY, DE162, passed abeam to port. 1157 Proceeding independently on various courses and speeds conforming to the channel, entering Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 222

Ammunition Expended on this date for Training.

5"/38 Cal.

106 A.A. ComProjectiles, MK35-1 MK18-2 Mech Time Fuze

106 Cartridges Semi-fixed Smokeless Powder of various indexes.

I.V. 2600 f.s.

40 MM

411 SPDN 3635 Lot No. 132

20 MM

526 H.E. SPDN 3019

235 H.E.T. W. F. 1473.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on various courses at various speeds, conforming to the channel. 1200 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1228 Having made all preparations for mooring to buoy, at 1253 moored to buoy, Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water with 7 fathoms of starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 2, in use for auxiliary purposes. 1300 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 8. 1305 Secured Main and Steering Engines, special sea details and anchor details. 1307 Secured forward Gyro, forward and after degaussing. 1345 Hoisted in Plane No. 7. 1400 - Made weekly inspections of magazines, smokeless powder samples, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, and hangar space sprinklers - conditions normal. 1438 U.S.S. CROUTER, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1515 U.S.S. PINKNEY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1540 U.S.S. MINDORO, underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1710 U.S.S. HOLLY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1744 Received USN YO 20 on port side. 1750 Commenced fueling ship. Draft forward 24'1", Aft 24'4".

L. A. Bird,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1845 Discontinued taking fuel oil. Draft Forward 24'10", Aft 24'3". Fuel Oil Barge YO20, cleared port side to return later to complete fueling. 1805 U.S.S. SIOUX, stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. P. Wiley,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2303 U.S.S. YO20, moored to port side. 2320 Commenced receiving fuel from YO20. 2350 Completed fueling, having received 95,928 gallons of fuel oil. Draft Forward, 25', Aft 24'4".

H. M. Brinser,

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

00 - 04

Moored to a buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 7 fathoms of starboard chain to buoy. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. SARATOGA, BRETON, PRINCE WILLIAM, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WRIGHT, VESTAL, WHITNEY, COOS BAY, WALLER, FANNING, MC CALLA, CONY, RENSHAW, EATON, S-38, STERRETT, STACK, SAUFLEY, MONOGEHALA, CHESTER SUN, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, SAN DIEGO, SAN JUAN, ATASCOSA, PATUXENT, RIO GRANDE, BALSAM, PATAPSCO, CROUTER; S.S. GEORGE CLYMER, JAMES MONTGOMERY and various other yard and district craft.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0620 The French Ship, CAP DES PALMES, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0700 U.S.S. STERRETT, EATON, and WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0710 U.S.S. S-38, underway and stood out of harbor. 0738 U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0752 U.S.S. POCOMOKE, underway and stood out of harbor. 0758 U.S.S. CROUTER, underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 S.S. SEA BASS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0830 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBERNE, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 0835 U.S.S. CLAXTON, stood in and anchored alongside tanker. 1000 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBERNE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1005 U.S.S. FANNING, underway and stood out of harbor. 1010 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - Conditions normal. 1025 The French Ship, CAPE DES PALMES, underway and stood out of harbor. 1025 U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, underway and stood out of harbor. 1035 U.S.S. RIO GRANDE, underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the shore patrol left the ship with GIBSON, A.E., CWT(AA), USN #271 94 78, in charge on temporary duty as shore patrol. 1545 U.S.S. WALLER, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1547 U.S.S. CONY, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 U.S.S. BALSAM, underway to shift berths. 1600 - Temporary shore patrol returned aboard. 1625 U.S.S. EATON, and U.S.S. S-38, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1735 U.S.S. STERRETT, stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Moored to a buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 7 fathoms of in use. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III Modified, with Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. SARATOGA, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, WALLER, CONY, RENSHAW, MC CALLA, STERRETT, EATON, STACK, SAUFLEY, S-38, LEVY, SAMPSON, WHITNEY, VESTAL, WRIGHT, WHITNEY, CHANDELEUR, PATAPSCO, PATUXENT, MONOGEHALA, ATASCOSA, COOS BAY, CHESTER SUN, BALSAM, SIOUX, CLAXTON, PINCKNEY, GEORGE CLYMER; S.S. JAMES MC CLINTOCK, W.S. RHEEM, SEA BASS and various other yard and district craft.

J. T. Flis,

Lt., O-V (S), USNR.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0532 U.S.S. PINCKNEY, underway and stood out of harbor. 0710 U.S.S. MC CALLA, underway and stood out of harbor. 0712 U.S.S. SAMPSON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0714 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 - Held quarters for muster, absentees, none. 0815 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1050 This ship is on two (2) hours notice for getting underway.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1430 U.S.S. SARANC, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1440 U.S.S. LEVY, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1455 U.S.S. SIOUX, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1514 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 1. 1532 U.S.S. SAMPSON, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1553 U.S.S. S-38, stood in and moored in assigned berth.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 U.S.S. MC CALLA, stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1603 Lifted safety valve on No. 1 Boiler. 1612 Shifted from No. 2 to No. 1 Boiler, for auxiliary purposes. 1623 Commenced receiving ammunition aboard.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1800 H.M.A.S. WATT, Corvette, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1807 U.S.S. SIOUX, underway and stood out of harbor. 1850 S.S. PETER H. BERNETT, and U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1854. S.S. SABINE PASS, stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. A. Bird,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

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

00 - 04

Moored to a buoy, in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 7 fathoms of starboard chain to buoy. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III, modified, and Material Condition "B". Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. SARATOGA, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, WALLER, CONY, RENSHAW, MC CALLA, CLAXTON, STERRETT, EATON, STACK, SAUFLEY, LEVY, SARDNE, SAMPSON, WHITNEY, VESTAL, WRIGHT, CHANDELEUR, PATAPSCO, PATUXENT, MONOGEHALA, ATASCOSA, COOS BAY, BALSAM, ROANOKE, SEA BASS S-38, HMAS WATTI and various other supply, yard, district and small craft. 0315 Lit fires under Boiler No. 3.

H. M. Brinser,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0400 Lit fires under Boiler No. 4. 0511 U.S.S. EATON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0515 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 0516 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0525 U.S.S. RENSHAW and U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0541 underway from Berth No 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet, to proceed to area "A". Proceeding in company with Task Force Thirty Nine, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC, in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S MONTPELIER, DENVER and destroyers, U.S.S. WALLER, EATON, CONY and RENSHAW, on screen. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship's draft, forward 25'0", aft 24' 4". Boilers Nos. 1 and 3 in use. Proceeding on various course and at various speeds, conforming with the channel. 0613 Lost control on the bridge, on course 160^o T (PGC), steering aft took control. 0620 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 0632 Formed Cruising Formation One. 0647 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12Z. 0648 Shifted control from steering aft to pilot house. 0650 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 135^o T (PGC). 0653 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0724 Changed course to 225^o T (PGC). 0733 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 0736 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed bas course 270^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 138

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before. Base course 270^o T (PGC) at 20 knots (204 RPM). 0805 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0808 Took departure from the western end of Bouganville Straight, swept channel with Malo Perle, bearing 347.8^o T, distance 11 1/4 miles. 0810 Held quarters for muster, absentees none. 0828 Went to General Quarters for five-inch sleeve firing. 0839 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0840 Formed Cruising Formation Two, took station 1500 yards astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 0851 Commenced scheduled exercise, five-inch sleeve firing. Commenced maneuvering on various course and at various speeds to unmask five-inch battery. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0910 Launched plane No. 8 to starboard for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Fritz, F., ARM3c, USN. 0947 Completed five-inch firing, commenced firing automatic weapons. Continued to steam on various courses and at various speeds to unmask automatic weapons base course 270^o T (PGC). 1038 On signal changed fleet course and axis to course 290^o T (PGC). 1104 Secured from General Quarters, course 290^o T (PGC) speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1111 On signal slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1112 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, went to 20 knots (204 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 195.5

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 290^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM) zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1300 Launched plane No. 7 to port, for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Lt.(jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, observer Ducote, B. A., 274 67 37, ARM2c, USN. 1305 Slowed to 17 knots (174 RPM). 1306 Ceased zig-zagging and commenced maneuvering to recover aircraft. 1310 Recovered plane No. 8, "D" method. 1313 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1315 Went to base course 290^o T (PGC). 1317 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 194.8.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

16 - 18

Steaming as before. Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 290^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1630 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1640 Changed course to 320^o T (PGC). 1645 Changed fleet course and axis to 245^o T (PGC). 1653 Slowed to 17 knots (172 RPM). 1655 Changed course to 205^o T (PGC). Slowed to 12 knots (121 RPM). 1700 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1702 Changed course to 245^o T (PGC), went to 20 knots (204 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 195.5

Note: Ammunition expended this date for training:

5"/38 Cal Projectiles AAC. MK 35-3 LF Exp "D" MTF MK 18-2 MCBD MK28 178

5"/38 Cal Cartridges Semi-fixed Smokeless Powder of various indexes N

2600 f. s. 178

40 mm AA Proj SPDN Lot No. 132 555

20 mm H. E. SPDN 3019 370

H.E.T. NF 1473 367

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before. Course 245^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1800 Went to General Quarters. 1835 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 245^o T (PGC). 1846 Changed course to 295^o T (PGC), slowed to 18 knots. 1858 Secured from General Quarters.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 186

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on base course 295^o T (PGC), at 18 knots (183 RPM). 2250 Completed blowing tubes in all steaming boilers. 2345 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 9.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group Thirty Nine, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group includes: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER and destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, EATON, and CONY. Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". Boilers No. 1 and 3 in use. Fleet course and axis is 295^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 9.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179.5

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 9, on base course 295^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (183 RPM). Mustered crew on stations; absentees none. 0455 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0530 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0553 Ceased zig-zagging, remained on base course 295^o T (PGC) executed on signal. 0555 Changed course to the left to 175^o T (PGC), on signal. 0559 Launched plane No. 7 to port, for anti-submarine patrol. Pilot Lt.(jg) Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, observer Haeling, W. J., 646 40 23, ARM3c, USN. 0600 Changed course to the right to 295^o T (PGC). 0603 Secured from General Quarters. 0606 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 9, base course 295^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (183 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178.7

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 295^o T (PGC), at speed 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 9. 08000 U.S.S. DENVER assumed Radar Guard. 0945 Ceased zig-zagging, assumed present course 315 T (PGC). 0955 Recovered plane No. 7, to port "D" Method. 0958 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1000 On orders of Commander Third Fleet, Task Force Thirty Nine, proceeding at best speed to a position northwest of Vella LaVella. 1001 Changed course to 323^o T (PGC). 1005 Went to 24 knots (247 RPM). 1013 Went to 26 knots (271 RPM). 1014 Formed Formation "D". 1015 Boiler No. 2 cut in on main steam line. 1025 Boiler No. 4 cut in on main steam line, all boilers now in use. 1048 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM). 1103 Went to 29 knots (308 RPM). 1155 Shifted steering units from No. 1 unit starboard cable to No. 2 unit port cable, time of shift ten (10) seconds.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 227.7

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 323^o T (PGC) at 29 knots (308 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 302

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on course 323^o T (PGC), speed 29 knots (308 RPM). 1659 Shifted steering and engine order telegraph control to Conning Tower.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 299.5

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 323^o T (PGC), speed 29 knots (308 RPM). 1800 Made all closures on third deck. 1817 Fleet disposition is now "J" Formation Two. U.S.S. DENVER being 1500 yards astern of the U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1820 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 300

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 323^o T (PGC), speed 29 knots (308 RPM). 2300 Went to General Quarters.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 304.2

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force Thirty Nine, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER (second ship in column), destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, EATON, and CONY in Special Formation No. 2 on course 323^o T (PGC), at 29 knots (302 RPM). The ship is darkened and Material Condition "A" set. Boilers No. 1,2,3, and 4 in use. 0007 Changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T (PGC). 0013 Went to 30 knots (323 RPM). 0023 Slowed to 29 knots (308 RPM). 0153 Changed fleet course and axis to 045^o T (PGC). 0225 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 0253 Changed fleet course and axis to 115^o T (PGC).

Throughout the watch, aircraft observed and identified to be "Black Cat" cover.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 306.9

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on course 115^o T (PGC) at speed 29 knots (308 RPM). 0500 Slowed to 26 knots (268 RPM). 0505 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" above first platform, maintaining first platform closures, set Condition of Readiness 3.6. 0601 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 0637 Changed fleet course and axis to 120^o T (PGC). 0645 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z, base course 120^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 275

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 120^o T (PGC), speed 26 knots (268 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1007 Secured Boiler No. 4. 1015 Secured Boiler No. 1. 1018 Shifted Engine Control from Conning Tower to Pilot House. Steering Control shifted from Conning Tower to Pilot House. Steering Control shifted from Conning Tower to Pilot House. 1018 Pilot House lost steering control on course 120^o T (PGC). Steering aft took control. 1021 Changed course to the left to 097½^o T (PGC). Attempted to shift steering control from Steering aft to Pilot House. Pilot House lost control. Steering aft resumed control. 1034 Shifted from No. 2 unit, Port Cable to No. 1 unit, Starboard Cable. 1038 Shifted steering control from Steering aft to Pilot House. Pilot House regained control on course 097½^o T (PGC). Shifted from No. 1 unit, starboard cable to No. 2 unit port cable. 1113 Sighted two (2) small ships one (1) point off the port bow at 15000 yards. 1117 Two (2) ships previously sighted, identified as submarine with escort. 1142 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC). Slowed to 24 knots (247 RPM). 1144 Commenced following movements of column leader on entering channel. 1145 Slowed to 22 knots (225 RPM). Changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1147 Slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1148 Captain took the Conn. 1151 Steaming on various courses at various speeds conforming to the channel.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 260.5

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before. Proceeding independently, on various courses and at various speeds, conforming to the channel, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group. Anchored in Berth No. 7, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in 22 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Anchorage bearing: "G" 280^o T (PGC), "L" 070^o T (PGC), "J" 078^o T (PGC), "K" 078^o (approximately) (PGC), "H" 137^o T (PGC), "F" 179^o T (PGC). 1300 Ship's draft, forward 22' 10", aft 24' 4". 1312 Secured all steering engines. 1312 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 1355 U.S.S. EATON, underway to come alongside, port side. 1448 First line across from U.S.S. EATON. 1453 Commenced pumping fuel to U.S.S. EATON. 1510 U.S.S. WALLER and U.S.S. GRISWOLD, underway and stood out of harbor. 1515 U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. 1530 Tested steering engines and made all preparations for getting underway. 1555 Stopped pumping fuel to U.S.S. EATON. 1558 U.S.S. RENSHAW, underway and stood out of harbor. 1559 U.S.S. EATON, cast off all lines and cast off from along port side. Draft after fueling destroyer; forward 22' 6", aft 24' 2".

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1605 Having made all preparations for getting underway at 1605 underway from Berth No. 7, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet, to proceed to a point 15 miles south of East Island. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Ships draft forward 22' 6", aft 24' 2". U.S.S. MONTPELIER, underway and stood out of harbor. 1606 Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds, conforming with the channel. Proceeding in company with Task Force Thirty-Nine, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, destroyers, U.S.S. RENSHAW, EATON, WALLER, and CONY. 1625 Boilers No. 1 and 4 cut in on main steam line. On signal changed course to 240^o T (PGC), went to 23 knots (236 RPM). 1630 On signal went to 25 knots (258 RPM). Took departure from Gavutu Island, bearing 000^o T (PGC), distance 2.4 miles. Took station 1000 yards astern U.S.S. MONTPELIER, in Cruising Formation One, course 260^o T (PGC). 1638 Secured special sea details, set regular sea details. 1640 On signal went to 29 knots (308 RPM). 1645 Went to fleet speed 30 knots (316 RPM). 1656 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 270^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 172

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 260^o T (PGC), speed 30 knots (316 RPM). 1816 Formed Special Formation No. Two. 1820 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1839 Observed anti-aircraft firing on Russell Island, bearing 355^o T (PGC). 1854 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6, Material Condition "B", above third deck. 1922 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 288^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 312

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on base course 288^o T (PGC), at speed 30 knots (320 RPM). 2117 Went to 31 knots (332 RPM) on signal. 2135 Changed fleet course and axis to 295^o T (PGC) on signal. 2202 On signal fleet speed slowed to 28 knots (296 RPM). 2210 On signal fleet course and axis changed to 165^o T (PGC). 2218 Formed Cruising Formation One. Slowed to 26 knots (271 RPM). 2218 Changed course to 160^o T (PGC), change of fleet course and axis. 2223 Slowed to 26 knots (271 RPM). 2240 Secured Boiler No. 1. 2243 Secured Boiler No. 4.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 298

J. G. Lightburn,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 39.1, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, CONY, EATON and RENSHAW, in Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness 3.6. Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Course 160^o T (PGC) 149.5^o T (PSC), speed 26 knots (271 RPM). 0130 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 Z.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 269.2

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, course 160^o T (PGC), at 26 knots (270 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 Z. 0607 On signal, ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 0610 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 7, base course 160^o T (PGC). 0618 On signal ceased zig-zagging resumed base course. 0621 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8. 0800 On signal, slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 268

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 160^o T (PGC), at speed 20 knots (204 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 8. 0935 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 160^o T (PGC). 0940 Changed fleet course and axis 105^o T (PGC). 0945 Launched plane No. 7, to starboard. Pilot Lt.(jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Haeling, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0953 Slowed to 12 knots (123 RPM. 1000 Formed special Cruising Formation No. 9. 1014 Received U.S.S. EATON on port side. 1018 Commenced pumping fuel to U.S.S. EATON, aft. 1030 Commenced pumping fuel to U.S.S. EATON forward. 1049 Sound contact reported by U.S.S. WALLER, bearing 075 T. 1052 Ceased fueling U.S.S. EATON and prepared for emergency cast off. 1059 Let go all lines and hoses to U.S.S. EATON cast off from port side having received 15,400 gallons of fuel oil. 1100 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). Changed course to 225^o T (PGC). 1101 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1104 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC). 1105 Sound contact reported as false. 1110 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1112 Slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1112 Changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1115 Changed course to 000^o T (PGC). 1120 Changed course 060^o T (PGC). 1124 Changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T (PGC). 1127 Lit fires under Boilers No. 1 and 4. 1128 Changed course to 330^o T (PGC). 1133 Slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). 1138 Recovered plane No. 7 "Dog" Method. 1139 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1140 Changed course to 000^o T (PGC). 1143 Changed fleet course and axis to 330^o T (PGC). 1146 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1150 Went to 26 knots (271 RPM). 1152 Cut in Boilers No.1 and 4 on main steam line.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, base course 330^o T (PGC), at 26 knots (271 RPM). 1202 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM), on signal. 1205 Went to 29 knots (308 RPM), on signal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 305.6

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on base course 330^o T (PGC), at 29 knots, (308 RPM).

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on base course 330^o T (PGC), at 29 knots (308 RPM). 1824 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1832 Shifted steering control and engine order telegraph control to Conning Tower. 1902 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6. 1929 Completed blowing tubes in all boilers.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 305

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 330^o T (PGC), at speed 29 knots (308 RPM). 2330 Went to General Quarters. 2359 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 305

L. J. Tobin,

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

00 - 04

Steaming with Task Force Thirty-Nine, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER (guide), U.S.S. DENVER (second in column, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, EATON and CONY. Deployed for action, on course 330^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (258 RPM). Ship is darkened, Material Condition "A" and at General Quarters. Boilers No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in use. 0015 Changed course and axis to right to 000^o T (PGC). 0018 Contacted unidentified plane 260^o T, distance 20 miles going out. 0041 Changed course and axis to right 045^o T (PGC). 0213 Changed course and axis to right 090^o T (PGC). 0243 Japanese barge was contacted dead ahead, distance approximately 6½ miles. 0247 Changed course to right 120^o T (PGC). 0248 Changed course to right to 150^o T (PGC). 0250 Changed course to left to 120^o T (PGC). 0253 Changed course to left to 090^o T (PGC). 0254 Commenced firing at objects believed to be Japanese barges, ceased firing 0255. 0258 Surprise contact 005^o T (PGC), range 20,000 yards, probably rain cloud or crossed wakes but M.T.B.'s. possible. 0302 Changed speed to 30 knots (320 RPM). 0308 Changed course to right to 150^o T (PGC). 0309 Changed course to left to 120^o T (PGC). 0320 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0326 Changed course to right to 135^o T (PGC). 0327 Contacted unidentified plane believed "snooper", 135^o T distance 17 miles coming in. 0339 Commenced firing at "snooper". 0345 Ceased firing. "Snooper" departed area. 0348 Changed course to right to 180^o T (PGC). 0352 Changed course to right to 270^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 258

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on course 270^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (258 RPM). Ship is at General Quarters. 0402 Changed course to the right to 090^o T (PGC). 0411 Went to 28 knots (298 RPM). 0417 Went to 30 knots (323 RPM). 0447 Changed course to the right to 118^o T (PGC). 0525 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6, Material Condition "B" above the first platform. 0541 Formed special Cruising Formation Two, and slowed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0545 Went to 30 knots (323 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 315.6

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 118^o T (PGC), at speed of 30 knots (320 RPM). 1030 Shifted control of steering and engine order telegraph to pilot house. 1039 On signal changed speed to 28 knots (296 RPM). 1044 On signal changed speed to 26 knots (271 RPM). 1050 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 148^o T (PGC). 1100 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 115^o T (PGC). 1110 On signal slowed to 22 knots (225 RPM). Hauled fires under Boilers No. 1 and 4. On signal changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 1115 On signal went to full speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1114 Commenced proceeding at various courses and at various speeds conforming to the channel entering Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 269.2

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on various courses and at various speeds conforming to channel entering Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group. 1217 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, moored starboard side to port side of U.S.S. PATUXENT. 1235 Moored port side to starboard side of U.S.S. PATUXENT, in Berth No. 7, in 26 fathoms of water with the following lines in use: one manila bow line forward, two wire cross springs forward, two wire cross springs aft, one manila stern line. 1252 U.S.S. RENSHAW, moored alongside to starboard. 1253 Secured all special sea details. Received forward and after hose from PATUXENT. Draft forward 21' 0", aft 23' 7". 1530 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 1543 Made test of steering engines, conditions satisfactory. 1545 Completed fueling ship, having received 477,002 gallons of fuel oil at 60^o F. 1555 U.S.S. RENSHAW, underway from alongside. Battle expenditures for this date:

5"/38 Cal. Projectiles A.A. ComMk 35 with MechTime fuze Mk 18-2

M.C.B.D. Mk 28 1 & f Exp "D" 30

Projectiles A.A. ComMk 35-3 L & F with Mk fuze. 30

Cartridges, Semi-fixed. Smokeless Powder with Flashless

Pellets added. Various indexes iv 2600 fs Primer Mk 13 60

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1617 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, underway from alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT and stood out of harbor. 1620 Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1620 underway from alongside U.S.S. PATUXENT, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in accordance with Commander Third Fleet's directive to proceed up the "slot" in order to cover landings being effected on Vella LaVella Island. Proceeding in company with Task Group 39.1, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, destroyers U.S.S. RENSHAW, EATON, WALLER, CONY. The Captain has the Conn, the Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship's draft forward 24' 8", aft 24' 4". Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Proceeding at various courses and at various speeds conforming with the confines of the channel. 1637 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1643 changed fleet course and axis to 298^o T (PGC). Fleet disposed in Cruising Formation One. 1645 Cut Boilers No. 1 and 4 in on the main steam line. 1655 Went to 29 knots (309 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 156.6

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on base course 298^o T (PGC) at 29 knots (308 RPM). 1821 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1835 Shifted steering and engine order telegraph control to the Conning Tower. 1856 Secured from General Quarters.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 304

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 298^o T (PGC) at 29 knots (308 RPM). 2207 On signal slowed speed to 28 knots (293 RPM). 2230 Went to General Quarters. 2250 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 290^o T (PGC). 2300 Sighted Kula Gulf, abeam to port. 2331 On signal slowed speed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 2354 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 225^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 295

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

00 - 04

Steaming 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 (guide), DENVER, destroyers U.S.S. RENSHAW, WALLER, EATON and CONY, in Cruising Formation One, deployed on course 298^o T (PGC) at 25 knots (258 RPM). Boilers No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in use. U.S.S DENVER and RENSHAW have the Radar Guard. Ship is at General Quarters and Material Condition "A" set. 0007 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 315^o T (PGC). 0016 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 345^o T (PGC). 0017 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM). 0018 Changed course and axis to the right to 015^o T (PGC). 0025 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0026 Changed course and axis to the left to 315^o T (PGC). 0055 Changed course to the left to 270^o T (PGC). 0139 Changed course to the left to 225^o T (PGC). 0143 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM). 0144 Commenced firing on "snooper" plane to starboard 330^o T (PGC), cased firing at 0145. 0152 Changed course to right to 255^o T (PGC). 0153 Plane dropped a white float light and a green and red flare along our direction of movement. 0155 Changed course to the left to 195^o T (PGC). 0157 Changed course to the right to 220^o T (PGC) and the "snooper" plane dropped white and green flares on our direction of movement. 0205 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0220 Changed course and axis to 180^o T (PGC). 0358 Changed course and axis to 130^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 258.8

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before. Ship at General Quarters, Material Condition "A" set. 0432 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 090^o T (PGC). 0607 Changed course to 064^o T (PGC), following movements of column leader in conforming to channel. 0617 Changed course to 070^o T (PGC). 0627 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). On signal went to 15 knots (153 RPM). 0637 Secured from General Quarters. 0648 Changed course to 105^o T (PGC). 0650 Went to full speed 20 knots (201 RPM). 0705 Changed fleet course and axis to 140^o T (PGC). 0711 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z, base course 140^o T (PGC) speed 15 knots (153 RPM). 0718 Shifted steering and engine order telegraph control to Pilot House. 0720 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 233.3

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 140^o T (PGC), at 25 knots (258 RPM) zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 0804 Ceased zig-zagging resumed base course 140^o T (PGC). 0805 Changed front to 180^o T (PGC). 0827 Changed front to 140^o T (PGC). 0845 Changed front to 090^o T (PGC). 0849 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 0951 Sighted ship hull down, bearing 114^o T, distance approximately 14 miles. 1005 Changed front to 085^o T (PGC). 1126 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course to 085^o T (PGC). 1126 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 085^o T (PGC). 1129 Went to 29 knots (297 RPM). 1132 Went to 27 knots (284 RPM). 1137 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 259.2

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 085^o T (PGC) speed 28 knots (296 RPM). 1200 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1246 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 115^o T (PGC). 1344 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 125^o T (PGC). 1451 On signal went to 26 knots (271 RPM). 1419 On signal went to 24 knots (245 RPM). 1420 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC), went to 22 knots (225 RPM). 1423 Stationed all special sea and anchor details preparatory to entering port. 1425 Commenced steaming on various courses and at various speeds, conforming with the channel, entering Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group. 1504 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, anchored in assigned berth. 1512 Anchored in Berth No. 7, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Soloman Island Group, in 21 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. 1522 Secured all special sea and anchor details. Ship's draft forward 23' 2", aft 24' 8". Battle ammunition expenditures this date:

5"/38 Cal - Com. Projectiles A.A. Mk 35-2 with Mk 18-2 Mech Time

fuse. MCBD Mk 28. 31

A.A. Com.Projectiles Mk 35-3 with Mk 32 fuzes 40

Cartridges, Semi-fixed, smokeless powder with

flashless pellets added, various indexes iv 2600 fs 71

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 203

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1620 Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1643 underway from Berth No. 7, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet. 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, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, CONY, and EATON. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship's draft forward 23' 2", aft 24' 8". Boilers No. 1,2,3 and 4 in use. Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds conforming to the channel. 1710 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 1715 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1720 Steadied on base course 298^o T (PGC). Formed Cruising Formation One. 1725 Went to 26 knots (271 RPM). 1730 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 298^o T (PGC), at 28 knots (296 RPM). 1821 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1826 Shifted steering control and engine order telegraph and revolution order controls to Conning Tower. 1905 Secured from General Quarters.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 292.5

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 298^o T (PGC), at 29 knots (308 RPM). 2045 Blew tubes and pumped bilges. 2300 went to General Quarters. 2330 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 2345 Passed Kula Gulf abeam to port bearing 208^o T (PGC), distance approximately 5 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 280

K. P. Houlihan,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 39.1, with Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. The Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (guide), DENVER, second in column, distance 1000 yards, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, EATON and CONY. The formation is deployed, the U.S.S. WALLER and RENSHAW are 5000 yards ahead of the U.S.S. MONTPELIER and the U.S.S. EATON and CONY are 2000 yards astern of the U.S.S. DENVER. Boilers No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in use. The ship is darkened, at General Quarters and Material Condition "A" set. Course 298^o T (PGC) speed 25 knots (258 RPM). 0018 Changed front to the left to 240^o T (PGC). 0021 Slowed to 22 knots (258 RPM). 0112 Changed front to the left to 060^o T (PGC). 0141 Changed front to the right to 060^o T (PGC). 0212 Changed front to the right to 060^o T (PGC). 0241 Changed front to the left to 100^o T (PGC). 0317 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 231.7

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on 100^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (258 RPM) 0405 Changed fleet course and axis 118^o T (PGC). 0603 Slowed to 22 knots (225 RPM). 0613 Formed Cruising Formation No. Four. U.S.S. DENVER, on station 1432 yards on port quarter of guide. 0625 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness 3.6. 0627 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and CLEVELAND and escort destroyers commenced joining formation, from astern. 0640 Went to 28 knots (296 RPM). 0642 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA on station in formation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 261.8

L. J. Tobin,

Lt., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, course 118^o T (PGC) at 28 knots (296 RPM). 0950 Shifted steering and engine order telegraph control to bridge. 1017 Slowed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1020 Commenced forming Form 18, astern U.S.S. MONTPELIER, on signal. 1023 Fleet speed 25 knots (258 RPM), on station 1000 yards astern U.S.S. MONTPELIER on course 118^o T (PGC). 1024 Slowed to 24 knots (248 RPM). 1030 Slowed to 22 knots (225 RPM) on signal. 1035 Slowed to full speed (204 RPM). 1040 Boilers No. 1 and 4 cut out. 1043 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 1046 Commenced following movements of column leader, conforming to channel. 1051 Captain took the Conn. Commenced proceeding independently on various courses and at various speeds, conforming to channel entering Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Island Group. 1107 Made all preparations for going alongside U.S.S. ERSKINE PHELPS. 1125 Stopped. 1126 Orders having been changed, Lt.(jg), J. Burke, Assistant Port Director, Purvis Bay came aboard. 1129 Proceeding at various speeds and on various courses to go alongside dolphins at Beacon "D". 1149 Moored starboard side to dolphins at Beacon "D". Draft forward 22' 11", aft 24' 5".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 225.5

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1240 Commenced fueling. Draft forward 22' 11" aft 24' 5". 1420 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 1445 Completed fueling, received 181,888 gallons fuel oil. 1500 Let go all lines and shifted to Berth No. 4. 1514 Anchored in Berth 4, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group, in 27 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. Bearings: "D" 182.6^o T, "B" 284.8^o T, "F" 121.2^o T, "C" 323^o T, "K" 056^o T, "G" 057.7^o T. Draft after fueling, forward 24' 7", aft 24' 5".

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1600 Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1600 underway from Berth No. 4, Port Purvis Anchorage, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group, in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet, to proceed to Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. 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, destroyers, U.S.S. WALLER, EATON, RENSHAW and CONY. Captain on bridge, Executive Officer at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Ships draft forward 24' 7", aft 24' 5". Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds conforming with the channel. 1628 Fleet course and axis, 182.6^o T, speed 20 knots (204 RPM) in Cruising Formation One. U.S.S. DENVER on station 1000 yards astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1700 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T (PGC). 1708 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 0751 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 10Z, base course 090^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 187.7

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 090^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 1811 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1900 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090^o T (PGC). 1903 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1920 Changed fleet course and axis to 150^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 198

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 150^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (204 RPM). 2042 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T (PGC) on signal. 2304 Changed course to 141^o T (PGC) on signal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 198

J. G. Lightburn,

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

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 39, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, EATON, RENSHAW and CONY. In Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened in Material Condition "B", and Condition of Readiness III. Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. Course 140^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 0100 Changed course to 122^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 198

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before, on base course 122^o T (PGC), at 20 knots (204 RPM). 0415 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 0445 Went to General Quarters for "Dawn Alert". 0552 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". 0600 Slowed fleet speed to 18 knots (184 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 187.7

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on course 122^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 0800 - Mustered crew on station - no absentees. 0929 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0930 Changed fleet course and axis to 140^o T (PGC). 0940 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 1100 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples; conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 177.5

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6 on base course 140^o T (PGC) at 18 knots (184 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 177.2

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 -18

Steaming as before, on course 160^o T (PGC) at 19 knots (194 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6, on course 140^o T (PGC), at 18 knots (184 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert". 1830 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 140^o T (PGC). 1845 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". 1845 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 165^o T (PGC). 1853 Cut in Boiler No. 4 on main steam line. 1915 Cut in Boiler No. 1 on main steam line. 1950 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 2.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 177.5

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

20 - 24

Steaming as before, on course 165 T (PGC), at 18 knots (184 RPM). 2037 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 3.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

00 - 04

Steaming 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, destroyers U.S.S. CONY, RENSHAW, EATON, and WALLER. Cruising Formation One. Ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. Boilers No. 1 and 4 in use. Fleet course and axis 165^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM). 0200 Changed fleet course and axis to 060^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 178.5

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V (G), US NR.

04 - 08

Steaming as before, course 060^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM). 0453 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 6. 0600 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0609 Changed course to 040^o T (PGC). 0613 Changed course to 060^o T (PGC). On signal ceased zig-zagging. 0631 Went to 22 knots (225 RPM). 0633 Launched plane No. 7 to starboard, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer, Ducote, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 0637 Resumed zig-zagging on signal. 0710 Went to 25 knots (258 RPM). 0727 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 040^o T (PGC). 0732 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC).

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. Cdr., D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, base course 090^o T (PGC), at 25 knots (254 RPM). 0802 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 045^o T (PGC). 0816 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T (PGC). 0835 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 315^o T (PGC). 0839 On signal, slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 0845 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 270^o T (PGC). 0847 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 0848 On signal, slowed fleet speed to 15 knots (154 RPM). 0853 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds, conforming with Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, new Hebrides Group. 0935 - Held quarters for muster - absentees, none, 1000 - made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1002 Moored to a buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 8 fathoms of starboard chain in use. Ships draft, forward 23' 8", aft 24' 6". 0945 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1010 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1016 Secured main engines, steering engines, all special sea and anchor details. 1110 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 4.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - Temporary shore patrol with BOYD, R. W., CGM(PA), USN, #346 46 76, in charge, left the ship for temporary shore patrol duty. 1245 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer in reference to a U.S. Adv. Naval Base ltr NB 109/P10 dated 13 August 1943, KINDLE, Leroy Vincent, #680 01 42, Cox, V-6 USNR, was transferred to recreation center for temporary beach duty. Records and accounts remained on board. 1300 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer and in reference to (A) Comcrudiv 12 Desp 240426 of August 1943 (B) Comseronsopac Subcom mgm 170238 of August 1943, LOZARO, Dominick (none), #611 55 55, MM2c V-6, USNR, left the ship for temporary duty at U. S. Naval Advance Base as truck driver in accordance with provision of reference (A) and (B). Records and accounts remained on board. 1355 U.S.S. APACHE, underway and stood out of harbor. 1359 U.S.S. PHILIP, underway and stood out of harbor. 1440 U.S.S. BRETON, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1445 U.S.S. PRINCE WILLIAM, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1446 U.S.S. SAN JUAN, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1447 U.S.S. SAN DIEGO, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1500 U.S.S. STERRETT, stood in and moored alongside tanker. 1504 U.S.S. STACK, stood in and moored in berth assigned. 1555 U.S.S. PHILIP, stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

J. T. Flis,

Lt. O-V(S), U.S.N.R.
 
 

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1700 - Shore patrol returned aboard having completed temporary duty ashore. 1725 Received fueling barge along port side. 1732 Commenced fueling from barge. Draft forward 23' 9", aft 24' 8". 1739 Received gasoline barge alongside starboard quarter. 1746 U.S.S. PHILIPS, underway and stood out of harbor. 1750 U.S.S. APACHE, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. Commenced taking aviation gasoline aboard.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V (G), US NR.

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1805 Completed receiving aviation gasoline having received 800 gallons. 1840 Completed fueling ship, having received on board, 2045 barrels of fuel oil at 60^o F. Ships draft forward 24' 9", aft 24' 4". 1842 Fuel barge cast off. 1845 Completed taking ammunition from N.A.D. 140, having received on board this date:

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

00 - 04

Moored to a buoy in Berth No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, 8 fathoms of starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, SARATOGA, PRINCE WILLIAM, BRETON, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONY, EATON, THATCHER, FARENHOLT, LARDNER, STERRETT, STACK, WOODWORTH, PHILIP, GRISOWLD, OSTERHAUS, BEBAS, VESTAL, WHITNEY, CHANDELEUR, WRIGHT, DRACO, TYPHOON, PATHFINDER, HAMILTO, S.S. STRADFORD, LA SALLE, and various supply, auxiliary and yard craft.

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0640 U.S.S. HAMILTON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 S.S. STRADFORD, underway and stood out of harbor. 0752 S.S. LA SALLE, underway and stood out of harbor.

J. T. Flis,

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

08 -12

Moored as before. 0800 - Held quarters for muster - absentees - none. 0805 U.S.S. OSTERHAUS, stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 U.S.S. TYPHOON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0827 U.S.S. PATHFINDER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0915 S.S. NOODAM (Dutch) stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0935 U.S.S. DRACO stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1056 Received the following ammunition aboard:

Lt., D-V (G), US NR.
 
 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1200 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1230 U.S.S. ARISTAVES, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1232 LST No. 70 and 71, stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1245 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, the temporary shore patrol with HEBERT, L. A., CEM(AA), USN, #359 80 73, in charge, left the ship. 1306 - Exercised at fire quarters. 1307 - First stream at scene of fire. 1325 - Secured from fire quarters. 1450 - Temporary shore patrol, with FARMER, C. R., MM2c, USN, #382 36 19, in charge left the ship. 1520 U.S.S. S 38 stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. P. Wiley,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1610 U.S.S. PATHFINDER, stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1630 Lit fires under Boiler No. 2. 1634 U.S.S. MONTGOMERY stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1643 Cut in Boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 1655 Hauled fires under Boiler No. 1

H. M. Brinser,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2040 - LOZARO, Dominick (none), MM2c, V-6, USNR, #611 55 55, returned aboard from temporary duty at the Naval Officers' Club.

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III (Modified) set. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, DENVER, SARATOGA, SAN JUAN, SAN DIEGO, BRETON, PRINCE WILLIAM, WALLER, RENSHAW, CONY, EATON, FARENHOLT, LARDNER, WOODWORTH, CHANDELEUR, STERRETT, STACK, WRIGHT, THATCHER, GRISWOLD, OSTERHAUS, MONTGOMERY, S 38, VESTAL, WHITNEY, ROAMER, CHESTER SUN, PATHFINDER, APACHE, BEBAS, PATAPSCO, ORTOLAN, BALSAM, SOUTHERN SEAS, JAMESTOWN, THORNTON, DRACO, DARING, ARISTAUS, CONFLICT, ATASCOSA, S.S. ROMAIN, NOODAM (Dutch), also various small yard and district craft.

L. A. Bird,

Lt.(jg), U. S. Navy.
 
 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0415 Lit fires under Boiler No. 4. 0515 Lit fires under Boiler No. 3, for standby. 0525 Lifted safety valves by hand on Boiler No. 4. 0540 Cut Boiler No. 4 in on main steam line. Boilers No. 1 and 3 in a standby condition. 0600 Made routine test of steering gear. Condition satisfactory. 0620 U.S.S. WALLER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0623 U.S.S. CONY, underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. EATON, underway and stood out of harbor. 0629 Lifted safety valves, by hand, on Boiler No. 3. 0630 Stationed all special sea and anchor details. 0631 U.S.S. RENSHAW, underway and stood out of harbor. 0632 Tested main engines, test satisfactory. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0652 underway, from buoy No. 2, Segond Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in accordance with Commander Third Fleet directive, to proceed to Tulagi. 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, DENVE, and destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, CONY, RENSHAW and EATON, on screen. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship's draft forward 24' 9", aft 24' 4". Boilers No. 2 and 4 in use. Proceeding on various courses, and at various speeds, conforming with channel. 0656 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, underway and stood out of harbor. 0711 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM), steadied on course 106^o T (PGC). 0716 Changed course to 160^o T (PGC). 0732 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM), on signal. 0734 Secured all special sea and anchor details. 0734 U.S.S. DENVER, assumed Radar Guard forward, and U.S.S. RENSHAW assumed Radar Guard aft. 0737 Changed course left to 090^o T (PGC). 0749 Formed Cruising Formation One, on signal. 0750 Fleet course and axis to 135^o T (PGC). 0752 Changed course right to 135^o T (PGC). 0756 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T (PGC). 0757 Went to fleet speed 25 knots (258 RPM). 0758 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC).

J. P. Wiley,

Lt., DE-V (G), USNR.
 
 

08 - 12

Steaming as before, on base course 180^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (258 RPM). .Held quarters for muster: absentees - none. 0814 Changed fleet course and axis to 225^o T (PGC). 0823 Changed fleet course and axis to 270^o T (PGC). 0853 Took departure at westward end of Bougainville Strait, swept channel with Rarah Mt. peak bearing 148.3^o T, distance 9.6 miles. 0856 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 10Z, on base 270^o T (PGC). 0925 Went to General Quarters for drills and anti-aircraft sleeve firing. 0926 Secured No. 1 steering unit (standby unit). 0936 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270^o T (PGC). 0938 Commenced forming "J" Form Two. Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM0 on signal. 0940 Went to 25 knots (225 RPM). 0940 On station in "J" Form Two. 0945 Commenced scheduled exercises. 0952 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10 Z, speed 25 knots (258 RPM). Proceeding on various courses and at various speeds to conform with OTC signals in conjunction with sleeve firing. Various turns and breaks in zig-zag plan were exercised. 1030 Secured from General Quarters, with exception of 5" Battery. 1032 Changed fleet course and axis to 325^o T (PGC). 11040 Sounded A.A. call, manned all automatic weapons. 1115 Set Condition of Readiness III in the 5" battery. 1157 Ceased present exercises, sleeve firing completed. 1159 Slowed fleet speed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1159 On signal formed Cruising Formation One.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 250

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V (G), US NR.
 
 

12 - 16

Steaming as before, on course 325^o T (PGC), speed 23 knots (234 RPM). Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1201 Slowed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1216 Went to 24 knots (242 RPM). 1218 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 17, on signal. 1452 Sighted two ships bearing 052^o T (PGC), hull down, distance approximately 18 miles. 1510 Secured degaussing system, forward and aft. Ammunition expended this date for training:

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before, on base course 325^o T (PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17, at 24 knots (242 RPM). 1750 On signal, ceased zig-zagging resumed base course 325^o T (PGC). 1800 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 355^o T (PGC), slowed fleet speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for "Dusk Alert".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 242

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U. S. Navy.

18 - 20

Steaming as before, on course 355^o T (PGC), at 22 knots (225 RPM). 1810 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 17. 1843 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 355^o T (PGC). 1900 Changed fleet course and axis to 320^o T (PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 220

L. J. Tobin,

Lt. D-V (G), USNR.
 
 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 320^o T (PGC) at 22 knots (225 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 220

J. G. Lightburn,

Lt., D-V (G), US NR.