Sunday, August 1, 1943

00 - 04

Anchored in berth No. 3, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Modified Condition III and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. HONOLULU (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, DIXIE, RENSHAW, WALLER, SAUFLEY, SCHLEY, PRINGLE, JENKINS, ZANE, ST. LOUIS, MONOGAHELA, TAPPAHANNOCK, VESTAL, MEDUSA, VIREO, SIOUX, TANGIER, CHANDELEUR, POCOMOKE, HOVEY, OCTANS, SUMNER, CHINCOTEAGUE, CHENANGO, PRYO, CHARLES AUSBURNE, JOSEPH MC KENNA, SANTA ANNA, S.S. PACIFIC SUN, H.M.A.S. HOBART, and various yard and district craft.

A. E. Gross,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0614 CLEVELAND underway, shifted berth. 0650 CLEVELAND moored alongside of tanker MONOGAHELIA. 0654 The SUMNER underway and stood out of harbor. 0723 The SCHLEY underway and stood out of harbor. 07254 The JOSEPH MC KENNA and SANTA ANNA stood out. RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 0733 ZANE underway and stood out of harbor. 0734 COLUMBIA underway and shifted berth. 0730 Plane No. 7 hoisted out, pilot lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger NEAL, J. E., CAMM, USN.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0803 U.S.S. CHENANGO and U.S.S. ST. LOUIS underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 U.S.S. MILLICOMA underway ands stood out of harbor. 0930 Held Divine Services. 1040 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. CONY stood in and moored alongside S.S. PACIFIC SUN. 1215 Aviation gas launch from U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK moored alongside starboard quarter and commenced pumping aviation gas. 1240 Completed fueling; lighter cast off. Received 1200 gals. 1304 PC 477 Underway and stood out of harbor. 1330 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) A. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 1355 U.S.S. CHANDELEUR underway and entered dry dock. 1430 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, observer, STEVENS, W. G., AMM1c, USN. 1540 U.S.S. CONY underway and anchored at other end of channel.

J. T. Flis,

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1648 U.S.S. VIREO underway and shifted berth. 1649 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway from alongside tanker, proceeded to and anchored in berth No. 14. 1740 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger NEAL, J. E., CAMM, USN.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2045 Condition "Yellow" reported over Espiritu Santo. 2047 Set Condition 3.6, ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set. 2200 Set Condition III.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

Monday, August 2, 1943

00 - 04

Anchored in berth No. 3, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides in 27 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Ship in modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". Ship darkened. Weather clear. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present as follows: U.S.S. HONOLULU (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, RENSHAW, WALLER, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE, JENKINS, CHARLES AUSBURNE, EATON, RALPH TALBOT, MONOGAHELA, TAPPAHANNOCK, VESTAL, VIREO, SIOUX, MEDUSA, TANGIER, DIXIE, HOVEY, PRYO, CHENDELEUR, POCOMOKE, OCTANS, CHINCOTEAGUE, CONY, S.S. PACIFIC SUN, H.M.A.S. HOBART, and various yard and district craft.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0608 U.S.S. FLIS underway and stood out of harbor. 0615 U.S.S. OCTANS underway and stood out of harbor. 0646 YMS SIOUX underway and stood out.

J. T. Flis,

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

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0830 S.S. ILLINOIS, U.S.S. PATAPSCO, ELLET, ABIGAIL ADAMS, DAVID GAILLIARD, and NATHANIEL BOWDITCH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0915 Lit off boiler No.2 1000 Commenced making preparations for getting underway. 1010 S.S. A.J. THROOP, underway and stood out of harbor. 1100 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1111 Hoisted plane BuAir No. 1095 aboard, Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, USNR, pilot. (This plane is replacement for plane BuAir No. 9903). 1130 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1145 U.S.S. PHILIP, WALLER and RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 1150 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway and stood out of harbor. 1157 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and stood out of harbor. 1157 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1200 Having made all preparations for getting underway, underway from Berth No. 3, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. Captain at the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge. Underway in accordance with Commander Third Fleet orders to proceed to operating area for fleet training exercises and tactics. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use, standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Maneuvering on various courses, making various speeds clearing anchorage and conforming to swept channel. 1200 Held quarters for muster and getting underway. Absentees none. 1246 Went to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1250 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC to assume station in Cruising Formation One. U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed search radar guard, forward sector of responsibility, U.S.S. DENVER after sector of responsibility. 1302 Changed course to 135^o T. & PGC. 1306 Fleet course and axis changed to 180^o T. & PGC. 1310 Changed course to 180^o T. (PGC). 1315 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z. 1335 Ceased zig-zagging, returned to base course 180^o T. (PGC). Fleet course and axis changed to 235^o T. (PGC). 1339 Changed course to 235^o T. (PGC). 1345 Resumed zig-zagging, base course to 235^o T. (PGC). 1352 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1352 Fleet course and axis changed to 270^o T. & PGC. 1356 Changed course to 270^o T. (PGC). 1422 Took departure from western end of Bougainville Strait swept channel. 1429 Fleet course and axis changed to 255^o T. (PGC). 1437 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10Z, base course 255^o T. (PGC). 1456 Exercised at firing of 5-inch and 40 mm battery at sleeve for anti-aircraft practice. Ammunition expended:

5"/38 cal. A.A. Common projectiles Mk. 18-2 Mech. Time Fuzes 56

5"/38 cal. Semi-Fixed Cartridges of various indexes of

smokeless powder, i.v. 2600 f.s. 56

40 mm. A.A. Cartridges SPDN 3635 Lot 132 76

40 mm. A.A. Cartridges SPDN 3630 Lot 126 35

1536 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 255^o T. (PGC). 1538 Went to 24 knots (246 RPM). 1539 Changed course to 240^o T. 1550 Changed course to 255^o T., slowed to 19 knots (193 RPM). On station in Cruising Formation Two. 1557 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 14Z, base course 255^o T. (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.8.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before, base course 255^o T. (PGC), speed 20 knots, (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 14Z. 1624 Slowed to 18 knots (186 RPM). 1745 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1750 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 255^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 231.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 255^o T. (PGC) at 19 knots (192 RPM). 1800 Changed fleet course and axis to 272^o T. & PGC. 1810 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 14Z. 1835 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1842 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 272^o T. (PGC) at 19 knots (193 RPM). 2204 Shifted steering control to steering aft for drill. 2257 Shifted steering control to pilot house. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 189.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

Tuesday, August 3, 1943

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER, in Cruising Formation Two on base course 272^o T. (PGC) at 19 knots (193 RPM), standard speed is 15 knots (153 RPM). DENVER is second ship in Section II, 1000 yds. astern of the U.S.S. COLUMBIA at interval 2,000 yards. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use; the ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III; Material Condition "B" is set. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 189.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 272^o T (PGC), speed 19 knots (193 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0414 Surface ships contacted by search radar bearing 235^o T, distance 31,000 yds., identified as friendly. 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 14Z. 0624 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 275^o T (PGC). 0628 Changed course to 292^o T (PGC). 0634 Changed course to 272^o T. (PGC). 0640 Changed fleet course and axis to 160^o T (PGC). 0643 Secured from General Quarters, Set Condition III. 0645 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to gain station in Cruising Disposition 5-LS with Task Units 36.3.1, 36.3.2 and 36.2, fleet axis 210^o T, fleet course 350^o T. 0721 On station, Cruising Disposition 5-LS, course 350^o T (PGC), speed 17 knots (173 RPM), bearing of guide 293^o T (PGC), distance 2500 yds. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 182.3.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 150^o T (PGC), speed 17 knots (173 RPM). The SARATOGA launching planes. Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0819 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC). 0836 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0846 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC). 0906 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6, base course 350^o T (PGC). 0933 Changed course to 225^o T (PGC). 0934 Went to General Quarters (exercise repelling air attack). 0953 Changed course to 180^o T (PGC). 0957 Steaming on various courses at various speeds while simulated dive bombing and torpedo attacks are being made on this force by the SARATOGA^Òs air group. 1011 Steadied on course 180^o T (PGC). 1013 SARATOGA commenced launching planes. 1019 Secured from General Quarters. 1020 SARATOGA commenced recovering planes. 1031 Shifted from No. 2 to No. 1 steering unit. 1112 SARATOGA completed launching and recovering planes. Plane No. 8, Bureau No. 1095 was put out of commission to make periodic recheck of engine. 1115 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC). 1155 Changed fleet course and axis to 190^o T (PGC). 1155 SARATOGA assumed fleet guide. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 174.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 350^o T (PGC) at speed 17.5 knots (178 RPM), fleet axis is 190^o T (PGC). 1213 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1235 U.S.S. MARYLAND assumed fleet guide. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1255 Commenced maneuvering on U.S.S. SARATOGA as guide, preparing to launch aircraft. 1302 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft. 1313 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed thirty-five (35) aircraft. 1315 Resumed base course 350^o T (PGC). 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1335 Commenced maneuvering on U.S.S. SARATOGA guide, preparatory to launching aircraft. 1350 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft. 1355 Completed launching aircraft, nineteen (19). 1357 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced maneuvering for recovery of aircraft, changed to various courses. 1442 Manned automatic weapons and anti-aircraft battery preparatory to repelling an air attack, for purpose of drill. Changed to various courses and speeds to avoid various types of plane attack, all planes being from the U.S.S. SARATOGA. 1523 Maneuvered with U.S.S. SARATOGA preparatory to recovering aircraft. 1526 One plane crashed on flight deck of U.S.S. SARATOGA. 1537 On signal, changed course of Task Unit 36.2 to 230^o T (PGC). This unit, including H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA left formation for night search and simulated attack on section of the Task Force. 1538 On signal, changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). On signal, this ship formed on U.S.S. COLUMBIA as guide in position of 180^o relative. 1539 On signal, changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). Signal to form Cruising Formation Two. 1550 On signal, slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 230^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (203 RPM), resuming station in Cruising Formation Two. 1641 Resumed station 800 yds. astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA in Cruising Formation Two, base course 270^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1650 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 254.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (257 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1743 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225^o T (PGC). 1758 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 242.4.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 175^o T (PGC) at 25 knots (257 RPM). 2016 Changed course to 190^o T (PGC). 2030 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC). 2037 Secured from General Quarters. 2043 Changed fleet course and axis to 053^o T (PGC). 2046 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 2055 Changed fleet course and axis to 079^o T (PGC). 2056 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speed to regain station in Cruising Disposition 5-LS with Task Units 36.2.1, 36.2.2 and 36.2.3. Fleet axis 190^o T, fleet course 270^o T, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), guide bearing 273^o T (PGC), distance 2500 yds. 2300 Changed fleet course to 180^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

Wednesday, August 4, 1943

00 - 04

Steaming on course 180^o T. & PGC. Speed 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. Fleet axis is 190^o T (PGC). Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". The ship is operating with Task Units 36.3.1, 36.3.2., and 36.2 in Cruising Formation 5-SL with Rear Admiral Sherman (OTC) in the SARATOGA, conducting fleet tactical exercises. The following ships present: U.S.S. SARATOGA (OTC), MARYLAND, COLORADO, NORTH CAROLINA, MASSACHUSETTS, SAN DIEGO, SAN JAUN, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA; screening destroyers: FANNING, CLAXTON, PHILIP, WALLER, DYSON, CONY, SELFRIDGE, McCALL, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, CONWAY, EATON, CUMMINGS, CHARLES AUSBURNE. 0100 Changed fleet course to 070^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 070^o T (PGC) at 17 knots (173 RPM). 0525 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0553 Changed course to 115^o T (PGC), maneuvering preparatory to U.S.S. SARATOGA launching planes. 0612 Changed course to 110^o T (PGC), U.S.S.SARATOGA commenced launching planes. 0631 U.S.S. SARATOGA completed launching planes. 0634 U.S.S. SARATOGA recovered one plane (emergency landing). 0635 Changed course to 070^o T (PGC). 0637 Secured from General Quarters. 0647 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6Z. 0650 Received message dropped on deck by U.S.S. MARYLAND plane. 0700 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching planes. 0724 On signal, changed fleet axis from 190^o to 125^o on U.S.S. SARATOGA as guide. 0734 Resumed zig-zagging on base course 070^o T (PGC) in accordance with plan No. 6Z. 0743 Manned anti-aircraft battery and automatic weapons to repel simulated air attack by U.S.S. SARATOGA air group. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 169.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6Z, base course 070^o T (PGC), speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0820 All four boilers were put on line. 0822 Commenced steaming at various courses and speeds during fleet tactical maneuvers and exercise and conforming to movements of carrier in launching and recovering aircraft. 1038 Sounded General Quarters for Event No. 7. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 192.6.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 160^o T (PGC), fleet course 100^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (183 RPM). Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1203 Steaming at various courses and speeds conforming to movements of fleet guide in rejoining formation, having completed scheduled exercises. 1228 Secured from General Quarters. 1316 Hauled fires under boiler No. 1. 1324 Hauled fires under boiler No. 3. 1330 Lost power on after gyro. 1336 Regained power on after gyro. Steaming at various courses and speeds conforming to movements of fleet guide during fleet tactical maneuvers and exercises. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 169.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 040^o T (PGC), at 17.5 knots (178 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1600 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds conforming to movements of guide. 1616 Tactical maneuvers completed. Task Unit 36.2, less U.S.S. COLUMBIA, proceeding to Espiritu Santo in accordance with directive of Commander Third Fleet. 1617 Changed course to 130^o T (PGC), slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). 1619 Changed course to 120^o T (PGC), went to standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1620 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds taking station, forming 180^o on U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1632 On station in formation, course 152^o T (PGC), speed 22 knots (224 RPM). 1634 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T (PGC). 1656 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1725 Went to 25 knots (253 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 214.5.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 090^o T (PGC), speed 25 knots (257 RPM). Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1837 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1900 Commenced exercising at night surface attack with unit of which the MARYLAND is guide and OTC. 1920 Changed course to 000^o T (PGC). 1921 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1930 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 1944 Changed course to 340^o T (PGC). 1945 Went to 25 knots (257 RPM0. 1950 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 1955 Changed course to 290^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 215.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming at various speeds on various courses in simulated attack on heavy units of formation. 2028 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Condition III. Steaming on base course 090^o T (PGC) at speed of 15 knots (153 RPM) in Cruising Formation One, U.S.S. MONTPELIER as guide and OTC, this ship third in column. 2115 Went to 19 knots (193 RPM). 2125 Allowed fires to die out under boilers Nos. 1 & 3, boilers Nos. 2 & 4 are in use. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 185.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Thursday, August 5, 1943

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2 consisting of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC), CLEVELAND, DENVER, CLAXTON, RENSHAW, WALLER, SAUFLEY, PHILIP, DYSON, and SELFRIDGE enroute to Espiritu Santo in accordance with orders of Commander Third Fleet. In Cruising Formation One, on base course 100^o T (PGC), 090^o T PSC at 19 knots (193 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM); this ship is third in column. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III; Material Condition "B" is set. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. 0304 Changed fleet course and axis to 055^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 189.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 055^o T (PGC at 19 knots (192 RPM). 0505 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0515 Sighted Malepula Island bearing 090^o T (PGC). Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 0535 Changed course to 045^o T (PGC). 0540 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 055^o T (PGC). 0600 Changed course to 090^o T (PGC). 0605 Secured from General Quarters. 0630 Catapulted plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USNR. 0631 Catapulted plane No. 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCTORE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 0635 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0702 Fleet course and axis changed to 045^o T (PGC). 0716 Fleet course and axis changed to 000^o T (PGC). 0743 Fleet course and axis changed to 315^o T (PGC). 0749 Fleet course and axis changed to 270^o T (PGC). 0750 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0755 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 270^o T (PGC), speed 15 knots (152 RPM) and commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds conforming to Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides Group. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees none. 0915 U.S.S. MONTPELIER moored port side to U.S.S. MONOGAHELA. 0929 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored starboard side to tanker. 0930 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. MONOGAHELA in berth No. 34, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides Group. 0945 Commenced refueling. Hoisted No. 7 plane aboard, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 0950 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USNR. 0951 U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1030 Made all preparations for getting underway. 1049 Completed taking on 130,259 gals. fuel oil. 1057 Underway from alongside U.S.S MONOGAHELA, ship proceeding to assigned berth, maneuvering at courses and speeds to conform with Pekoa Channel. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1109 U.S.S. COLORADO and MARYLAND stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1127 Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. 1149 Secured main engines, steering engine and special sea details. 1157 Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 69.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Moored as before. At 1226 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored. At 1335 U.S.S. TREVOR stood in and anchored. 1449 U.S.S. CHANDELEUR stood in and anchored.

A. E. Gross,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1604 The CHANDELEUR moored in assigned berth. 1627 the CONY moored alongside the WALLER. 1718 The S.S. JAMES HARRO stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1719 The CHARLES AUSBURNE moored alongside the CLAXTON.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. A. Bird

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

Friday, August 6, 1943

00 - 04

Moored to buoy berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Condition of Readiness III, modified and Material Condition "B" set. Ship is darkened. Ships present include the battleships U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA) and COLORADO; cruisers U.S.S. HONOLULU, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA and H.M.A.S. HOBART and AUSTRALIA; destroyers U.S.S. WALLER, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, SELFRIDGE, CLAXTON, DYSON, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, BUCHANNAN, EATON, CONY, CHARLES AUSBURN; auxiliary aircraft carriers U.S.S. BRETON, SUWANNEE, and SANGAMON; hospital ship U.S.S. RELIEF; submarine U.S.S. S-38; repair ships and tenders U.S.S. VESTAL, DIXIE, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE; and various oilers, cargo vessels and auxiliary craft.

J. P. Wiley,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0807 The HONOLULU underway and stood out of harbor. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 0817 The DYSON underway and moored alongside the CLAXTON. 0820 The EATON underway and moored alongside the DIXIE. 0915 The TAPPAHANOCK underway and moored alongside the COLORADO. 0950 The TRYON stood in and anchored. 1022 The S.S. DEL BRAZIL and S.S. ARIDED underway and stood out. 1100 The CONY underway and stood out. 1115 The TRYON anchored.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1315 Held inspection of lower decks, holds, storerooms and machinery spaces. 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1400 S.S. ANDREW ROWAN underway and stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1630 Starboard catapult back in commission. 1717 U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK underway and stood out of harbor. 1727 U.S.S. S-38 Stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. T. Flis,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2220 GABRELICK, A.A., 653 27 62, MoMM2c, USNR and BOURGEOIS, T. J. MoMM1c, USN, 274 19 13, were treated for light burns received while working on the engine of the ships boat.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Saturday, August 7, 1943

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. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, modified Condition III and Material Condition "B" set.. The following ships are present: ComAirSoPac (SOPA), U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, BRETON, WALLER, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, SELFRIDGE, CLAXTON, DYSON, McCALLA, RALPH TALBOT, EATON, TYSON, SIOUX, BUCHANNAN, CHARLES AUSBURN; DIXIE, VESTAL, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, and various oilers, cargo vessels and auxiliary craft.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

04 - 08

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0930 Held quarters for muster and Captain^Òs Inspection. No absentees. 1130 Made daily and weekly inspection tests of magazines, powder, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage, sprinklers, hangar deck sprinklers. Conditions normal.

J. T. Flis,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, temporary shore patrol left the ship for duty; DONATH, Herman (n), 242 33 62, CTC(PA), USFR, in charge. 1310 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and stood out of harbor. 1310 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out of harbor. 1316 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway and stood out of harbor. 1345 U.S.S. ALGORAB underway and stood out of harbor. 1430 U.S.S. WOODWORTH stood in and anchored. 1545 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway and stood out of harbor. 1555 U.S.S. TRYON underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1635 The shore patrol returned aboard from temporary duty. 1745 S.S. MORMACQUL stood in and anchored.

A. E. Gross,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2019 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN underway and stood out of harbor. 2027 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out of harbor. 2050 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and stood out of harbor. 2104 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and stood out of harbor. 2124 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

Sunday, August 8, 1943

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. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III, modified. Condition "B" is set. ComAirSoPac is SOP. The following ships are present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, BRETON, COLUMBIA, DENVER, WALLER, PRINGLE, SAUFLEY, SELFRIDGE, RENSHAW, DYSON, McCALLA, JAMES HARROT, PRESTIGE, CONWAY, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, CLAXTON, RALPH TALBOT, VESTAL, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, THORNTON, TAPPAHANNOCK, MONONGAHELA, CELENO, DIXIE, CACHE, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN and various small yard and district craft.

L. A. Bird

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0650 U.S.S. CHINCOTEAGUE underway in tow by S.S. SANDKEY and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. SIOUX underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 Held quarters for muster. Absentees none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0835 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored. 0850 S.S. ALEXANDER O. DALLAS stood in and anchored. S.S. JOSEPH SMITH stood in and anchored.

A. E. Gross,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, ISAACS, H.K., CTC(PA), USN, 316 21 50, left the ship in charge of the temporary shore patrol to report to the Senior Patrol Officer for duty. 1434 U.S.S. PC 477 stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

16 - 18

Moored as before. Temporary shore patrol returned to the ship. 1637 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and stood out of harbor. 1705 U.S.S. CACHE stood out of harbor.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Monday, August 9, 1943

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. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, and in Condition of Readiness III modified, with Condition "B" set. The following ships are present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, BRETON, SANGAMON, WALLER, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, SELFRIDGE, DYSON, McCALLA, CONY, CONWAY, PHILIP, DIXIE, VESTAL, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, THORNTON, TAPPAHANNOCK, MONONGAHELA, CELENO, ARD, PRESTIGE, JAMES HARROT, SIOUX, VIREO, S-38, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA, HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, S.S. MORMACQUL, and various small district and harbor craft. 0345 Condition "Yellow" reported by station Y-5 at Espiritu Santo. 0355 Condition "Green" reported.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0611 Lighted ship. 0728 U.S.S. S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. 0730 U.S.S. MORMACQUL underway and stood out of harbor.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 S.S. MEREDITH stood in and anchored. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees none. 0915 S.S. ABIGAIL ADAMS stood out of harbor. 1006 Rear Admiral CRUTCHLEY, R.A.N., came aboard on personal visit. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1155 U.S.S. RIO GRANDE stood in and anchored.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1204 U.S.S. WALLER underway and stood out of harbor. 1207 U.S.S. SUSTAIN (YMS) stood in and anchored in assigned berth. U.S.S. CONVERSE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1245 The shore patrol with, HARDESTY, D.A., 258 05 66, CGM(AA), USN, in charge left the ship for temporary duty. 1255 U.S.S. CONWAY underway and stood out of harbor. 1315 S.S. MEREDITH underway and stood out of harbor. 1327 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and stood out of harbor. 1355 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1. 1437 U.S.S. SCHLEY underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1615 U.S.S. CONVERSE underway and stood out of harbor. 1635 The shore patrol returned aboard from temporary shore patrol duty and resumed regular duties. 1645 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in berth No. 1. 1648 Cut in boiler No. 1 on main steam line for auxiliary purposes. 1700 Hauled fires under boiler No. 4 and cut out same.

J. P. Wiley,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Tuesday, August 10, 1943

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III modified; Condition "B" is set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships are present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, BRETON, SANGAMON, PRINGLE, SELFRIDGE, DYSON, McCALLA, PHILIP, S-38, DIXIE, VESTAL, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, THORNTON, TAPPAHANNOCK, MONONGAHELA, CELENO, RIO GRANDE, SUSTAIN, VIREO, PATUXENT, SIOUX, PRESTIGE, AGRESSOR, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, and JAMES HARROT, and various yard and district craft.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0550 Exercised at General Quarters and held damage control and casualty drills. 0552 U.S.S. SIOUX underway and shifted berth. 0620 U.S.S. PRESTIGE underway and stood out of harbor. 0645 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III, modified. 0658 Secured from forward Gyro Compass. 0700 U.S.S. AGGRESSOR underway and stood out of harbor. 0735 Submarine S-38 underway and stood out of harbor. 0738 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0805 The Dutch ship POELAN LAUT stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0920 U.S.S. PATAPSCO stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0925 U.S.S. MAURY stood in and anchored. 0944 The Captain of H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and a visiting party of eleven (11) officers came aboard. 1100 U.S.S. MARYLAND underway and shifted berth. 1139 The Captain and visiting officers from H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA left the ship. 1146 Lifted safety valves by steam on boiler No. 1.

J. P. Wiley,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 The temporary shore patrol, HANSEN, C.J., 316 10 71, CWT(PA), USN, in charge, left the ship. 1308 U.S.S. DYSON got underway and stood out of harbor. 1429 U.S.S. PRINGLE got underway and stood out of the harbor. 1458 YAG No. 27 stood into harbor and anchored in assigned berth. 1520 U.S.S. MONOGAHELA underway and stood out of harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 Condition "Red" reported at New Georgia and Segi. U.S.S. RIO GRANDE got underway and stood out of harbor. 1604 Condition "Red" reported at Russell Islands. 1612 U.S.S. AGRESSOR stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. SIOUX. 1630 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1634 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in berth assigned. 1650 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1700 Condition "Green" reported at New Georgia, Segi, and Russel Islands. 1741 Executed sunset. 1745 The temporary shore patrol, HANSEN, C.J., 316 10 71, CWT(PA), USN, in charge, returned to the ship having completed temporary duty.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

18 - 20

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2145 The temporary shore patrol, FIELDER, D.M., 320 68 56 CWT(PA), USN, in charge, returned to the ship having completed temporary duty. 2225 Condition "Red" reported in this harbor. Went to General Quarters. 2231 Condition "A" set. 2256 Lighted fires under Boiler No. 4. 2345 Condition "Green" having been reported, secured from General Quarters. 2350 Condition "B" set.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Wednesday, August 11, 1943

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, with starboard chain to buoy; ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B", and in Readiness Condition III, modified. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), COLORADO, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, BRETON, SANGAMON, SELFRIDGE, TAPPAHANNOCK, S-38, McCALLA, PHILIP, DIXIE, VESTAL, CHANDELEUR, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, THORNTON, CELENO, SIOUX, PATUXENT, VIREO, TAYLOR, CONVERSE, SUSTAIN, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, and JAMES HARROT, and various yard and district craft.

J. T. Flis,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0625 U.S.S. McCALLA underway and stood out of harbor. 0745 LST 487 stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0747 U.S.S. PATERSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 Held quarters for muster for crew. No absentees. 0840 U.S.S. RIO GRANDE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0920 U.S.S. FOOTE and STANLY stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK. 0940 U.S.S. ARGONNE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1000 U.S.S. PATERSON got underway and shifted berth. 1010 U.S.S. DENT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1049 U.S.S. DENT got underway and moored alongside U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1133 U.S.S. TAYLOR stood in and anchored.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1300 Made weekly test of magazines sprinkling valves. Conditions satisfactory. 1450 U.S.S. TAURUS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1525 U.S.S. ARGONNE underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1645 U.S.S. SIOUX underway and stood out of harbor. 1727 U.S.S. TAYLOR underway and stood out of harbor. 1755 U.S.S. CONVERSE underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1907 U.S.S. PATERSON underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2142 Condition "Red" reported on Espiritu Santo Island. 2143 Went to General Quarters. 2147 Condition "Green" reported on Espiritu Island. Secured from General Quarters.

A. E. Gross,

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

Thursday, August 12, 1943

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. The ship is darkened, and in Readiness Condition III, modified, and in Material Condition "B". Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Vice Admiral Fitch, ComAirSoPac is SOP. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, BRETON, MAURY, SELFRIDGE, PHILIP, DIXIE, VESTAL, AGGRESSOR, STANLY, BUCHANAN, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, THORNTON, TAPPAHANNOCK, CELENO, PATUXENT, VIREO, PATAPASCO, SUSTAIN, FOOTE, TAURUS, S-38, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, RIO GRANDE, JAMES HARROT, and various district craft.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0731 The Dutch ship POELAU LAUT underway and stood out of harbor.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 1045 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0835 U.S.S. MONTPELIER stood in and moored to starboard side of tanker S.S. CHESTER SUN. U.S.S. CLEVELAND stood in and moored to port side of S.S. CHESTER SUN. 0850 U.S.S. WOODWORTH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0851 U.S.S. PATTERSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0925 S.S. KINKIDE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0930 The U.S.S. Oiler No. 20 moored to our port side and began pumping fuel at 0935. 0935 The S.S. MATHEW LYONS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0912 The U.S.S. CLAXTON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1000 Completed fueling, having received 33,348 gallons. 1002 The U.S.S. Oiler No. 20 cast off. 1130 U.S.S. PATERSON underway and moored alongside the U.S.S. SELFRIDGE.

L. A. Bird

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. The temporary shore patrol, BOYD, R.W., CGM(PA), 356 46 76 in charge left the ship. 1220 U.S.S. MONPELIER underway and shifted berth. 1232 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and shifted berth. 1257 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and moored alongside U.S.S. PATTERSON. 1324 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway from alongside S.S. CHESTER SUN and proceeded to anchor in assigned berth. 1330 Hoisted out plane No. 8; pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1345 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8. 1350 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN stood in and proceeded to anchor in assigned berth. 1405 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway and proceeded to moor alongside U.S.S. CLAXTON. 1408 U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK got underway and proceeded to anchor in assigned berth.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. The temporary shore patrol, BOYD, R.W., CGM(PA), 356 46 76 in charge, returned to the ship having completed temporary duty. 1605 S.S. RIO GRANDE underway, stood out of harbor. 1642 U.S.S. BUCHANAN and U.S.S. TAURUS underway, stood out of harbor. 1650 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN underway and stood out of harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

Friday, August 13, 1943

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 Condition of Readiness III, modified, set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, BRETON, PHILIP, SELFRIDGE, FOOTE, MAURY, STANLY, CHARLES AUSBURN, PATTERSON, WOODWORTH, CLAXTON, CELENO, DIXIE, VESTAL, TANGIER, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, TAPPAHANNOCK, THORNTON, VIREO, SUSTAIN, PATAPASCO, S-38, LST 487, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. JAMES HARROT, PATUXENT, CHESTER SUN, MATHEW LYONS, and KINCAID, and various yard and district craft.

J. T. Flis,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0652 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out of harbor. 0709 S.S. C. W. FIELDS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0715 U.S.S. TANGIER got underway and stood out of harbor. 0725 U.S.S. TAPPAHANNOCK got underway and stood out of harbor.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0857 S.S. GENE LYKES stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1047 S.S. KINCAID got underway and stood out of harbor. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 The temporary shore patrol, GIBSON, A. E. CWT(AA), USN, 271 94 78, in charge left the ship. 1330 Held lower decks inspection. 1335 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR., passenger MC GURRIN, E. J., AMM3c, USNR, and at 1430 hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1430 S.S. SHENANDOAH stood in and anchored.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1725 The temporary shore patrol, GIBSON, A. E. CWT(AA), USN, 271 94 78, in charge returned to the ship having completed temporary duty.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

L. A. Bird

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. P. Wiley,

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

Saturday, August 14, 1943

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 27 fathoms of water, starboard chain to buoy. Ship is darkened, modified Condition III and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, COLUMBIA, DENVER, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, BRETON, SELFRIDGE, FOOTE, MAURY, TAYLOR, STANLY, CHARLES AUSBURN, PHILIP, WADSWORTH, PATTERSON, S-38, THORNTON, DIXIE, VESTAL, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, VIREO, PRESTIGE, AGRESSOR, STARLING, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. JAMES HARROT, SUSTAIN, MATHEW LYON, GENE LYKES, SHENANDOAH, C. W. FIELDS, CHESTER SUN and various yard and district craft.

A. E. Gross,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0700 The WOODSWORTH and PATTERSON underway and stood out of harbor. 0705 S-38 got underway and stood out of harbor. 0725 The SANGAMON got underway and stood out of harbor. 0730 U.S.S. PREBLE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on station. Absentees none. 0831 U.S.S. PINKNEY anchored in berth assigned. 0847 U.S.S. CONVERSE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0910 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR. 0935 U.S.S. WRIGHT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1015 Commenced exchanging 1400 rounds 5"/38 cal. anti-aircraft common projectiles. 1015 Held working inspection of upper decks and living spaces. 1115 Completed inspection of upper decks and living spaces by Captain, Executive Officer and Heads of Departments.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer the shore patrol left the ship for temporary duty, with MULLINS, J.B., 355 17 26, CTC(PA), USN, in charge. 1206 U.S.S. WOODWORTH stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. SELFRIDGE. 1316 U.S.S. COOS BAY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1550 U.S.S. AGRESSOR underway and stood out of harbor.

J. T. Flis,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 U.S.S. ALDEBARAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1605 U.S.S. LANSDOWNE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1620 U.S.S. PATTERSON stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. WOODWORTH. 1627 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1700 Shore patrol, MULLINS, J.B., 355 17 26, CTC(PA), USN, in charge, returned aboard having completed temporary duty. 1709 U.S.S. PREBLE got underway and stood out of harbor. 1728 U.S.S. PINKNEY got underway and stood out.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1911 Received ammunition lighter alongside port quarter.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2230 Completed receiving on board 1400 rounds 5"/38 cal. Mk. 32 Projectiles.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

Sunday, August 15, 1943

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. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened, modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" set. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, BRETON, SELFRIDGE, DIXIE, VESTAL, POCOMOKE, CROSBY, FOOTE, CLAXTON, MAURY, TAYLOR, STANLY, CHARLES AUSBURN, WOODWORTH, PATTERSON, LANDSDOWNE, COOS BAY, CONVERSE, CHANDELEUR, THORNTON, S-38, WRIGHT, SIOUX, VIREO, ALDEBARAN, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, C. W. FIELDS, SHENANDOAH, GENE LYKES, JAMES HARROT, SUSTAIN, PATAPSCO, MATHEW LYON, and various yard and district craft.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0650 U.S.S. ALGORAB stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0655 U.S.S. PATUXENT stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0709 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and stood out of harbor. 0713 U.S.S. S-38 got underway and stood out of harbor. 0755 U.S.S. DE 7 stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. T. Flis,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. Made daily visual inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0819 U.S.S. DYSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0845 U.S.S. LANDSDOWNE got underway and stood out. 0930 Held Divine Services on Main Deck aft. 1037 U.S.S. LANSDOWNE stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. CROSBY. 1038 U.S.S. DYSON underway and shifted berth.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. Pursuant to order of Commanding Officer the shore patrol left the ship for temporary duty with, SLUSSER, H.A., CEM(PA), 392 92 43, in charge. 1226 U.S.S. LANDSDOWNE underway and shifted berth. 1320 U.S.S. GRISWALD underway and stood out of harbor. 1354 U.S.S. ALGORAB underway and stood out of harbor. 1430 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and moored alongside tanker.

H. M. Brinser

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. Made daily tests of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly test of magazines, shell stowage and hangar space, sprinkler systems. Conditions satisfactory. 1615 U.S.S. S-38 stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1655 U.S.S. WOODWORTH stood in and moored alongside tanker. 1725 The temporary shore patrol, SLUSSER, H.A., CEM(PA), 392 92 43, in charge, returned aboard. 1753 The WOODWORTH left from alongside tanker and moored alongside the PATTERSON.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2145 U.S.S. SIOUX got underway and shifted berth.

L. A. Bird

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

Monday, August 16, 1943

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. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" is set, and the ship is in Condition of Readiness IV, Espiritu. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: Battleships, U.S.S. MARYLAND and COLORADO; Cruisers, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and DENVER, and H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART; Destroyers, U.S.S. SELFRIDGE, FOOTE, MAURY, STANLY, CLAXTON, WOODWORTH, LANDSDOWNE, PATTERSON, CHARLES AUSBURN, CROSBY, CONVERSE, and DYSON; Auxiliary Aircraft Carriers, U.S.S. SUWANNEE, and BRETON; Submarine S-38; Tenders, U.S.S. DIXIE, VESTAL, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, COOS BAY, and THORNTON; Cargo Ships U.S.S. ALDEBARAN, and ALGORAB, and various oilers, merchant vessels, and auxiliary craft.

J. P. Wiley,

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

04 - 08

0642 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 U.S.S. PATTERSON and U.S.S. SELFRIDGE underway and stood out of harbor. 0712 U.S.S. CONVERSE underway and stood out of harbor. 0716 S-38 Underway and stood out of harbor. 0748 U.S.S. DYSON underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0818 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN got underway and stood out of harbor. 0825 The CLAXTON and FOOTE underway and stood out of harbor. 0845 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. ANDREWS, (A-V(N), USNR, passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0845 The S.S. JAMES HARROT underway and stood out of harbor. 0900 Lighted fires under boiler No. 4. 0915 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 0945 Commenced receiving provisions. 1035 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1137 Secured boiler No. 1; boiler No. 4 now in use for auxiliary purposes.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 The temporary shore patrol, SHANE, J.E., CGM(PA), USN, 265 50 67, in charge, left the ship. 1255 Veered 16 ft. of the starboard chain. 1320 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR; passenger, ELPHISTONE, E.R., AMM3c, USNR, 653-19-94. 1324 S.S. JAMES OTIS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1325 U.S.S. SIOUX got underway and stood out of harbor. 1355 U.S.S. GRIDLEY stood in moored alongside U.S.S. STANLY. 1438 U.S.S. LANG stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. 1454 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1525 U.S.S. SWALLOW stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

H. Bress,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. Veered two fathoms starboard chain to buoy. 1615 The temporary shore patrol, SHANE, J.E., CGM(PA), USN, 265 50 67, in charge, returned aboard ship having completed duty as temporary shore patrol.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

18 - 20

Moored as before. 1810 U.S.S. GRIDLEY underway and stood out of harbor. 1950 S.S. STONY POINT stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. T. Flis,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Tuesday, August 17, 1943

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 darkened, modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, BRETON, MAURY, STANLY, LANG, LANDSDOWNE, COOS BAY, VESTAL, DIXIE, POCOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, TAPPAHANNOCK, THORNTON, PATUXENT, SUSTAIN, PATAPSCO, PRESTIGE, AGGRESSOR, CROSBY, VIREO, SIOUX, SWALLOW, ALDEBARAN, SHENANDOAH, BALSAM, S-38, SC 730, 640, SC 669, SC 701, SC 477, and H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA and HOBART and S.S. JEAN LYKES MATTHEW LYON, AY RUSAFIELD, JOSEPH SMITH, JAMES OTIS, STONY POINT, and various small district craft.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0705 U.S.S. BUCHANAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0707 U.S.S. MONONGAHELA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0724 S.S. STONY POINT underway and stood out of harbor.

Henry Bress,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0801 S.S. STONY POINT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 0837 U.S.S. SIOUX underway and stood out of harbor. 0840 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 0845 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger OBERWISE, F. L., AOM1c, USN. 0855 Hoisted in plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger OBERWISE, F. L., AOM1c, USN; had engine trouble. 0905 Hull inspection barge moored alongside to starboard. 0906 Divers over on starboard bow and indicated so by signal. 0940 S.S. ELIZAH WHITE and S.S. JOSEPH STORY stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1115 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN.

J. T. Flis,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1200 Pursuant to the order of the Commanding Officer, MOREAU, G.C., CTC(AA) USN, 335 74 64; and MC COY, A.V., EM2c, USNR, 407 20 13, left the ship for beach duty. 1204 Hull inspection lighter cast off. 1245 Pursuant to the order of the Commanding Officer, the following men left the ship for temporary shore patrol: NOGGLE, R.S., CWT(PA), USN, 291 06 23, in charge, WILLIAMS, J.W., MM2c, USN 376 45 15; GLASS, H.E., SC(B)3c, V-6 USNR, 636 60 27; MILBURN, H.M., CM3c, V-6 USNR, 203 18 57; MC MILLAN, G.D., TC1c, USN, 272 21 87; JACKELS, T.P., FC3c(M), V-6 USNR, 633 31 06; DE PAUL, V., GM3c, USN, 360 25 21 and MC CRUM, R.C., EM2c, USN, 201 82 37. 1245 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1250 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway and stood out of harbor. 1310 U.S.S. FOMALHAUT stood in and anchored. 1310 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA underway and stood out of harbor. 1406 U.S.S. PATTERSON, SELFRIDGE, and WOODWORTH stood in and anchored. 1410 U.S.S. SIOUX stood in and anchored. 1430 U.S.S. FOOTE, DYSON, CLAXTON, and CHARLES AUSBURN stood in and anchored. 1440 U.S.S. CONVERSE stood in and anchored. 1445 Lt. Comdr., K.P. HOULIHAN, left the ship for beach guard duty.

J. P. Wiley,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1700 The temporary shore patrol, NOGGLE, R.S., CWT(PA), USN, 291 06 23, in charge, was received aboard having completed temporary duty. 1710 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE moored in assigned berth. 1725 Pursuant to the order of the Commanding Officer the following named men left the ship on temporary duty as shore patrol: WOODBURY, H.E., BM1c, USN, 261 89 61; MATHESON, H.F., MM1c, USN, 262 28 44. 1740 U.S.S. PATTERSON moored alongside SELFRIDGE. 1745 U.S.S. WOODWORTH shifted berth. 1831 The following named men were received aboard having completed temporary duty as shore patrol: MOREAU, G.C., CTC(AA) USN, 335 74 64; and MC COY, A.V., EM2c, USNR, 407 20 13.

H. M. Brinser

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

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2022 Lt. Comdr., K.P. HOULIHAN, USNR, returned aboard ship from temporary duty as Beach Guard Officer. The following named men were received aboard, having completed temporary duty: WOODBURY, H.E., BM1c, USN, 261 89 61 and MATHESON, H.F., MM1c, USN, 262 28 44.

L. J. Tobin,

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

Wednesday, August 18, 1943

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. Ship darkened, Modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, BRETON, MAURY, STANLY, LANDSDOWNE, CHANDELEUR, THORNTON, SIOUX, CROSBY, BUCHANAN, PATTERSON, SELFRIDGE, WOODWORTH, FOOTE, CLAXTON, DYSON, CONVERSE, CHARLES AUSBURN, GRIDLEY, LANG,HOVEY, COOS BAY, VESTAL, DIXIE, POCOMOKE, TAPPAHANNOCK, PATUXENT, SUSTAIN, MONONGAHELA, CELENO, ALDEBARAN, PATAPSCO, PRESTIGE, AGGRESSOR, VIREO, SHENANDOAH, BALSAM, SWALLOW, PASH, S-38, H.M.A.S. HOBART, S.S. JEAN LYKES, MATTHEW LYON, A. Y. RUSAFIELD, JOSEPH SMITH, ELIZAH WHITE, JOSEPH SMITH, JAMES OTIS, STONY POINT, and various small base craft.

L. A. Bird

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0534 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2. 0545 YMS 98 underway and stood out of harbor. 0620 Commenced preparations for getting underway. Ran wire to buoy. 0632 Lifted safety valves on boiler No. 2 by hand. 0730 Set Condition of Readiness III. U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN underway and stood out of harbor. 0734 U.S.S. FOOTE underway and stood out of harbor. 0740 U.S.S. DYSON underway and stood out of harbor. 0740 Set Material Condition "B". 0746 Set special sea and anchor details. 0747 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway and stood out of harbor. 0810 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and stood out of harbor. 0812 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and stood out of harbor. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0815 underway from berth No. 2, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, with Task Force THIRTY-NINE in accordance with Commander Task Force THIRTY-NINE Underway Training Memorandum No. 8-43. Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Force THIRTY-NINE consists of the following: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, and destroyers U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN, CONVERSE, FOOTE, DYSON and CLAXTON. The Captain has the Conn, the Executive Officer and Navigator are on the open bridge. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. Ship^Òs draft forward 24^Ò 7", aft 24^Ò 5". 0815 Proceeding at various courses and speeds conforming with channel. 0815 Held quarters for muster and getting underway. Absentees none. 0846 Launched Plane No. 7 to starboard, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger HAELING, W.J., ARM3c, USNR. 0915 Formed Cruising Formation One, steaming on base course 120^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (153 RPM). 0918 U.S.S. DENVER assumed radar guard in forward sector. U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed radar guard in after sector. 0940 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z on base course 120^o T (PGC). 0956 Commenced scheduled exercise, 5-inch battery and automatic weapons firing at towed sleeve. 1130 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1136 Changed fleet course and axis to course 285^o T (PGC). 1151 Cease present anti-aircraft exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 162.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 285^o T (PGC), speed 18 knots (184 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1204 Ceased zig-zagging on base course 285^o T (PGC). 1211 Slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM), changed course to 140^o T (PGC), on signal. 1217 On signal, executed ships left to 050^o T (PGC), slowed to 10 knots (103 RPM). 1221 Went to standard speed, 18 knots (184 RPM). 1222 Hoisted in plane No. 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USNR. 1229 On signal resumed base course 285^o T (PGC). 1236 Changed course to 260^o T (PGC). Went to 23 knots (236 RPM), forming Cruising Formation Two. 1252 Changed course to 285^o T (PGC), slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1252 On signal, executed ships left to 180^o T (PGC). 1254 Launched plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. H., ARM2c, USNR. 1257 On Signal, executed ships right to base course 285^o T (PGC). 1330 Took station for Exercise No. 2., Commander Task Force THIRTY-NINE Training Exercise, Radar Calibration, closing to interval 1300 yds. 1355 Resumed station in Cruising Formation Two, interval 2000 yds. 1400 Went to General Quarters, commencing CTF THIRTY-NINE Training Exercise, Surface Sled Target Firing. 1415 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 080^o T (PGC). 1418 Went to flank speed, 25 knots (258 RPM). 1439 On signal, slowed to full speed, 20 knots (204 RPM). 1443 Changed course to 347^o T (PGC), forming Cruising Formation One. 1445 Changed course to 080^o T (PGC). 1445 Destroyers in company commenced fire on sled target. 1454 On signal executed column movement to 155^o T (PGC), slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1520 On signal, executed column movement to course 125^o T (PGC). 1521 U.S.S. MONTPELIER commenced fire at target sled. 1523 U.S.S. MONTPELIER ceased fire. 1524 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced fire at target sled. 1528 U.S.S. CLEVELAND ceased fire. 1529 U.S.S. COLUMBIA commenced fire at target sled. 1533 U.S.S. COLUMBIA ceased fire. 1534 U.S.S. DENVER commenced fire at target sled. 1538 U.S.S. DENVER ceased fire. 1543 On signal, went to 25 knots (258 RPM) 1557 On signal slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1559 Secured from General Quarters with the exception of the five-inch battery. Set Condition III. 1559 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 305^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 192.3.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 305^o T (PGC), speed 15 knots (153 RPM). 1601 Exercised at firing 5-inch battery to starboard. 1615 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1615 Commenced taking position in Cruising Formation Two. 1629 Slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1635 Changed course to 355^o T (PGC). 1644 Slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1648 Changed course to 060^o T (PGC). 1653 Changed course to 160^o T (PGC). 1655 Changed speed to 10 knots (103 RPM). 1657 Hoisted in plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger, DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USNR. 1701 Went to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1702 Changed course to 305^o T (PGC). 1708 Went to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1712 Changed course to 335^o T (PGC). 1729 Changed course to 305^o T (PGC). 1730 The COLUMBIA assumed the radar guard forward and the CLEVLAND assumed the radar guard astern. 1730 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1750 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 169.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 305^o T (PGC) at speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1800 Changed fleet course and axis to 125^o T (PGC). 1810 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 1828 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1911 On signal, went to General Quarters for scheduled exercises. 1930 Changed course to 199^o T (PGC). 1944 Changed course to 020^o T (PGC). 1955 Went to 23 knots (234 RPM). 1959 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 181.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 350^o T (PGC), speed 23 knots (234 RPM), maintaining various speeds and courses in accordance with scheduled exercises. 2150 Ceased present exercise. Ammunition expended this date:

44 Rounds 6"/47 cal. Projectiles Type A.P.

44 " 6"/47 cal. Powder Charges, Various Indexes.

115 " 5"/38 cal. Projectiles Type A.A. Common.

24 " 5"/38 cal. Projectiles Type Illuminating Mk. 30-5.

130 " 5"/38 cal. Powder Charges, Smokeless, Various Indexes.

9 " 5"/38 cal. Powder Charges, Flashless, Various Indexes.

97 " 40 mm Cartridges, Index SPDN 3625, Lot 132.

151 " 40 mm Cartridges, Index SPDN 3630, Lot 126.

254 " 20 mm Cartridges, Index SPDN 3019, H.E.

127 " 20 mm Cartridges, Index N.F. 1473, H.E.

2154 Secured from General Quarters, steadied on course 000^o T (PGC), speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2155 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 2220 U.S.S. PATTERSON, SELFRIDGE and WOODWORTH joined this force and took assigned stations. 2232 Slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 2236 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 2248 Went to 19 knots (194 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 193.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

Thursday, August 19, 1943

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force THIRTY-NINE, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This Task Force consists of: U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, CHARLES AUSBURN, FOOTE, DYSON, CLAXTON, CONVERSE, SELFRIDGE, WOODWORTH and PATTERSON. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness 3.6 set. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use. Steaming on course 000^o T (PGC), speed 19 knots (194 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (153 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 0045 Changed fleet course and axis to 040^o T (PGC). 0100 Changed fleet course and axis to 083^o T (PGC). 0336 The U.S.S. SELFRIDGE, WOODWORTH and PATTERSON left the formation to take station for scheduled exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 083^o T (PGC). 0400 On signal, changed fleet course to 255^o T (PGC). 0410 Resumed zig-zagging, in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 0455 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0510 ComDesRon FOUR in U.S.S. SELFRIDGE reported sound contact. 0511 Maneuvered on various courses and speeds avoiding area of sound contact. 0604 Secured from General Quarters. 0605 On signal, returned to base course 255^o T (PGC). 0614 Changed fleet course and axis to 202^o T (PGC). 0622 On signal, changed speed to 19 knots (194 RPM). 0625 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 193.5.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 202^o T & PGC, speed 19 knots (193 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10Z. 0805 Ceased zig-zagging. 0812 Changed course to 112^o T & PGC. 0815 Catapulted plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passenger, FRITZ, F, ARM3c, USN. 0815 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance plan No. 10Z on base course 202^o T (PGC). 0815 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0845 Sounded A.A. Call, manned five-inch batteries and all automatic weapons and CIC for sleeve target firing, Exercise No. 7. 0848 Ceased zig-zagging. 0850 Took station in anti-aircraft formation. 0900 Changed course to 182^o T (PGC). 0911 Went to 23 knots (233 RPM). 0913 On signal, made an emergency 360^o turn. 0923 Changed course to 202^o T (PGC). 0925 Took station in Cruising Formation Two. 0930 Secured from anti-aircraft exercise. 0936 Slowed to 18 knots (184 RPM). 0941 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12Z. 1005 Changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T (PGC). 1015 Manned all five-inch batteries and automatic weapons for Exercise No. 7. 1044 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^o T (PGC). 1045 Took station in anti-aircraft formation. 1103 Slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1107 Took station in Cruising Formation One. 1111 Went to 18 knots (184 RPM). 1112 Changed course to 270^o T (PGC). 1114 Went to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1119 Changed course to 265^o T (PGC). 1130 Slowed to 15 knots (153 RPM0. 1150 Changed course to 350^o T (PGC) following movements of column leader, conforming to the channel enroute to Espiritu Santo. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 350^o T (PGC), following movements of guide, at a speed of 15 knots (153 RPM). 1213 Maneuvering on various courses, at various speeds, conforming to channel, entering Pekoa Channel Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group. 1247 Moored to buoy in berth No. 2 in 27 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Draft of ship: Forward 24^Ò 4"; Aft, 24^Ò 5". Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. The temporary shore patrol, PUCKETT, H.E., CBM (AA), 336 72 33 USN, in charge, left the ship. 1250 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, observer FRITZ, R, ARM3c, USN. 1301 H.M.A.S. HOBART underway from alongside U.S.S. VESTAL. 1325 Underway from berth No.2, proceeding to berth No. 13 to moor starboard side to U.S.S. VESTAL. 1326 H.M.A.S. HOBART anchored in assigned berth. 1337 S.S. C. W. FIELDS shifted anchorage berth. 1338 Moored starboard side to repair ship U.S.S. VESTAL in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 25 fathoms of water. The following bearings in use: Beacons "D" 138.9^o T, "A" 060.5^o T, "C" 023.4^o T, and "B" 114.6^o T. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1446 U.S.S. CLAXTON and U.S.S. DYSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1451 USN Y.O. No. 20 moored alongside to port. 1453 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1456 Commenced fueling forward. 1505 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE anchored in assigned berth. 1515 U.S.S. PATTERSON moored alongside U.S.S. SELFRIDGE. 1516 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN moored alongside U.S.S. WOODWORTH. 1540 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lieut. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, observer OBERWISE, B. A., ARM1c, USN. 1540 Completed fueling; received 63,630 gals. 1541 U.S.S. TALAMANCA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 54.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. The shore patrol, PUCKETT, H.E., CBM (AA), USN, 336 72 33, in charge, returned aboard and resumed their regular duties. 1625 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), USNR, passenger OBERWISE, B. A., ARM1c, USN. 1645 Degassed and debombed two planes. 1725 U.S.S. DYSON, CONVERSE, WOODWORTH, and CHARLES AUSBURN underway to shift berths. 1730 U.S.S. DYSON moored alongside U.S.S. LANG. 1735 U.S.S. WOODWORTH moored alongside U.S.S. McCALLA. 1738 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN moored alongside U.S.S. DIXIE. U.S.S. CONVERSE anchored in assigned berth. 1745 Two camels were brought alongside to port and made fast.

Henry Bress,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt., U.S.N.

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2240 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2. 2325 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main steam line for auxiliary purposes. 2330 Secured boiler No. 4.

J. T. Flis,

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

Friday, August 20, 1943

00 - 04

Moored starboard side to port side of U.S.S. VESTAL in berth No. 13 Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group, in 25 fathoms of water, with 8 manila bow line, wire stern line, 2 crossed bow spring wires and 2 crossed quarter spring wires. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness, Modified III set. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, VESTAL, DIXIE, BRETON, SUWANNEE, POKOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, McCALLA, ELIET, SWALLOW, SIOUX, SELFRIDGE, PATTERSON, WOODWORTH CROSBY, LANSDOWNE, PATAPSCO, ROANOKE, SHENANDOAH, STANLY, PATUXENT, SOUTHARD, HOVEY, PERRY, LANG, TALAMANCA, CHARLES AUSBURN, MONTGOMERY, DYSON, PREBLE, CLAXTON, CONVERSE, FOOTE, H.M.A.S. HOBART, S.S. MATHEW LYON, CHESTER SUN, JEAN LYKES, CYRUS FIELD, SIMON BUYON, EDWIN MEREDITH, ELIJAH WHITE, and various yard and district craft.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0725 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and stood out of harbor. 0736 U.S.S. SELFRIDGE and STANLY underway and stood out of harbor. 0755 U.S.S. SHENANDOAH underway and stood out of harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees none. 0819 U.S.S. MARYLAND and COLORADO underway and stood out of harbor. 0824 U.S.S. PREBLE underway and stood out of harbor. 0824 U.S.S. COOS BAY stood in and anchored. 0830 S.S. PINKNEY stood in and anchored in berth No. 3. 0900 U.S.S. PREBLE stood in and anchored. 0917 S.S. ESSO MANHATTAN stood in and anchored. 0923 U.S.S. SANGAMON stood in and anchored in berth No. 14. 1000 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Lt. (jg) E. P. McCauland, USNR. 1058 U.S.S. PATAPSCO underway and shifted berth. 1124 U.S.S. CLAXTON underway and stood out of harbor. 1124 U.S.S. PATAPSCO moored alongside U.S.S. DENVER, starboard side to. 1141 U.S.S. CHARLES AUSBURN underway and stood out.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

Lt. U.S.N.

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1220 U.S.S. DYSON underway and stood out of harbor. 1220 U.S.S. CONVERSE underway and shifted berth. 1220 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger Lt. (jg) E. P. McCauland, USNR. 1245 The temporary shore patrol, COCHRANE, R.W., CWT(AA), USN, 374 40 32, in charge left the ship. 1256 U.S.S. PREBLE underway and shifted berth. 1315 Held inspection below decks of all holds and storerooms. 1541 U.S.S. STANLY stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

L. A. Bird

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

16 - 18

Moored as before, starboard side to port side of U.S.S. VESTAL. U.S.S. PATAPSCO moored alongside, starboard side to. 1623 U.S.S. RIXIE stood in and anchored. 1630 U.S.S. FARENHOLT stood in and anchored. 1725 The temporary shore patrol, COCHRANE, R.W., CWT(AA), USN, 374 40 32, in charge, was received aboard. 1732 U.S.S. PREBLE underway and stood out of harbor. 1745 U.S.S. PINKNEY underway and stood out of harbor.

J. P. Wiley,

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

18 - 20

Moored as before.

H. M. Brinser

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Saturday, August 21, 1943

00 - 04

Moored starboard side to port side of U.S.S. VESTAL in berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo Island, New Hebrides Group with the following lines: Bowline, double crossed springs forward and aft, and a stern wire. The U.S.S. PATAPSCO is moored to our port side. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III, modified set. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. ComAirSoPac is SOPA. Ships present: U.S.S. DIXIE, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, BRETON, SUWANNEE, POKOMOKE, CHANDELEUR, ROANOKE, McCALLA, ELIET, LANSDOWNE, CROSBY, STANLY, HOVEY, PERRY, LANG, MONTGOMERY, CLAYTON, CONVERSE, DRACO, FARENHOLT, HAMILTON, STEEL, TALAMANCA, SOUTHARD, PATUXENT, FOMALHAUT, CELENO, S-38, SIOUX, LST 343, H.M.A.S. HOBART, S.S. CHESTER SUN, JEAN LYKES, CYRUS FIELD, SIMON BUYON, EDWIN MEREDITH, ESSO MANHATTAN, COOS BAY, U.S.S. RIXIE, FOOTE, and various yard and district craft.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0623 U.S.S. SIOUX underway and stood out of harbor. 0658 U.S.S. LANG underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 H.M.A.S. ARUNTA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0700 H.M.A.S. WARRAMUNGO stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0723 U.S.S. FARENHOLT underway and shifted berth.

L. A. Bird

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 0824 U.S.S. LST 343 underway and stood out of harbor. 0830 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, A-V(N), USNR, passenger MANDEVILLE, P., S2c, 201-97-05, USN. 0835 Hoisted out plane No. 8 for routine flight, pilot Lt. (jg) A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), USNR, passe