Monday, 1 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Ploughing steadily through the Western sea,

Enroute to San Pedro Bay in old Leyte.

As special task unit, DENVER plus three,*

All keeping station on the dauntless "D".

Rear Admiral Riggs is OTC

In the DENVER, known also as the mighty "D".

Zigging and zagging in the bright moonlight,

Plan 25 we are following all this night.

Our course 296, our speed 18,

Gyrating on toward the Philippines.

Far below with muted roar,

Driving mightily boilers 2 and 4.

Readiness III and "B" throughout,

To keep us from harm, within and without.

Piercing the night, still as a church,

DENVER’s radar has air-surface search.

Throughout topside the ship is darkened,

To prevent the enemy from being hearkened.

Over a sea that is soft and caressing,

Secure in the knowledge that we’re always progressing,

We steam on into a bright new year,

Alert and confident, undimmed with fear.

*U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLAXTON and SMITH.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 281^oT(PGC) speed 18 knots, base course 296^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25. 0723 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on course 306^oT(PGC) to received destroyer along port side. 0736 Slowed to 10 knots. 0747 Received U.S.S. SMITH along port side. Transferred, Beard, C. R., CFC, 272 18 49, USN, to SMITH for temporary duty in connection with repair of fire control equipment. 0757 U.S.S. SMITH cast off and stood clear to resume station in screen. 0759 Went to 17 knots.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 306^oT(PGC) speed 17 knots. 0802 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 296^oT(PGC). 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 296^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25. 1256 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 296^oT(PGC). 1257 Changed fleet course and axis to 280^oT(PGC). 1308 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 280^oT(PGC). 1356 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 280^oT(PGC). 1357 Changed fleet course and axis right to 296^oT(PGC). 1405 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 296^oT(PGC).

H. H. McCammond, Lt.(jg), USN.

16- 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 296^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25. 1700 Set all clocks back one hour to –9 time zone. Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 296^oT(PGC). 1610 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 25, base course 296^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 296^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1833 U.S.S. SMITH reported possible submarine contact. 1835 Changed course to 186^oT(PGC), ceased zig-zagging. SMITH left formation to investigate possible sound contact. 1840 Changed course to 231^oT(PGC). 1844 Changed course to 276^oT(PGC). 1845 SMITH reported results of contact negative and rejoined formation. 1848 Changed course to 296^oT(PGC). 1851 Changed course to 330^oT(PGC). 1901 Changed course to 296^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 296^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots. 2004 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25 and went to 18 knots. 2321 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base 296^oT(PGC). 2328 Changed course and axis to 303^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Tuesday, 2 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Special Task Group consisting of U.S.S. DENVER, MONPELIER, CLAXTON and SMITH. OTC is Rear Admiral R. S. Riggs in DENVER. Course 303^oT(PGC) and speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. Guide is DENVER with MONTPELIER 1,000 yards astern and screen formation 52. Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. Boilers No. 2 and 4 cut in on main steam line.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 303^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0545 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0545 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. Conducted battle problem. 0632 Set Condition III. 0632 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B".

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 303^oT(PGC), at speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0817 Slowed to 17.5 knots. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powders samples. Conditions: normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 303^oT(PGC), at speed 17.5 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1232 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery, unidentified plane bearing 190^oT, distance 10 miles. 1233 Formed "5-V" formation. 1249 Unidentified plane left area. Resumed cruising formation as before. 1250 Set Condition of Readiness II(AA). 1421 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1424 Changed course and axis to 000^oT(PGC). 1426 Went to 22 knots. 1436 Changed course and axis to 340^oT(PGC). 1455 Sighted hospital ship, U.S.S. EMILY WEEDER, bearing 025^oT. 1500 Launched plane No. 8 to starboard to search in company with one U.S.S. MONTPELIER plane, along course 270^oT, for a distance of 60 miles from 10^o 02’ N, 129^o 23’ E, this search made to investigate SOS signal reported by U.S.S. HOPE (AH 7), who picked up signal at 1040(I), bearing 272^oT from position 10^o 02’ N, 129^o 34’ E. Pilot Lt.(jg) E. G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; radioman, Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 1538 Launched plane No. 7 to starboard to search along Latitude 10^o N from Longitude 127^o 56’ E to 128^o 22’ E, in company with one U.S.S. MONTPELIER plane. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; radioman, Tucker, A.D., Jr., 357 41 75, ARM2c, USNR. 1546 Went to 24 knots. 1555 Commenced zig-zag plan No. 25.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 –18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 340^oT(PGC), speed 24 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 1749 Ceased zig-zagging returned to base course; slowed to 18 knots. 1753 Slowed to 10 knots, for aircraft recovery. 1754 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 1758 Recovered plane No. 8; assigned search area covered, results negative.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 035^oT(PGC) at 10 knots. 1802 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No. 7; assigned search area covered, results negative. 1830 Went to 18 knots. 1804 Changed course to 340^oT(PGC). 1805 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1805 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1809 Changed fleet course and axis to 290^oT(PGC). 1819 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25 and darkened ship. 1824 Went to 19 knots. 1852 Set Condition III. 1852 Secured from General Quarters and set Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 290^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, speed 19 knots. 2233 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 290^oT(PGC). 2241 Changed fleet course and axis to 272^oT(PGC). 2248 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25, base course 272^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Wednesday, 3 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Special Task Group. This Task group consists of the following ships: U.S.S. DENVER, MONPELIER, SMITH and CLAXTON. Rear Admiral R. S. Riggs is OTC and guide in the DENVER. Steaming on course 272^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III set. Boilers No. 1 and 4 in use. This ship has short range air and surface radar guard. 0220 Made radar contact on Mindanao Island, bearing 235^oT(PGC), distance about 55 miles. 0240 Radar contact with Siargao Island, bearing 263^oT(PGC), distance 61,500 yards. 0303 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0304 Changed course and axis to 305^oT(PGC). 0311 Slowed to 17 knots. 0316 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0325 Sighted Siargao Island visually, bearing 260^oT(PGC), distance 20 miles. 0341 Changed course to 308^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 308^oT(PGC), speed 17 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 25. 0600 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0600 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0620 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0629 Changed course right to 328^oT(PGC). 0630 Commenced pumping ballast. 0635 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0637 Changed course left to 288^oT(PGC) for entrance into Leyte Gulf. 0645 Went to 19 knots. 0649 Passed sono buoy, abeam to starboard, distance about 1 mile. 0650 Passed son buoy abeam to port, distance about ľ mile. 0654 Changed course right to 308^oT(PGC). 0655 Passed through Surigao Strait into Leyte Gulf, with Homonhon Island abeam to starboard, distance 10 miles and Desolation Point abeam to port distance 19˝ miles. 0708 Changed course and axis left to 305^oT(PGC). 0715 Sighted group of ships, hull down bearing 295^oT(PGC). 0737 Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0738 Set Condition 2AA. (AA battery fully manned). 0740 Previously sighted ships identified as units of Task Group 77.2

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 305^oT(PGC) at 19 knots. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. 0820 Slowed to 15 knots. 0823 Changed course and axis to 330^oT(PGC). 0830 U.S.S. SMITH came alongside to starboard to receive mail. 0835 U.S.S. SMITH cast off. 0845 Slowed to 10 knots to receive charts from pilot boat. 0840 Changed course to 332^oT(PGC). 0850 Changed course to 335^oT(PGC). 0851 Went to 15 knots. 0909 Proceeding on various courses and speeds conforming to channel entering San Pedro Bay, Philippines Islands and passed No. 1 buoy abeam to port about 1,000 yards. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. 0915 Proceeded independently. 0953 Maneuvering to alongside U.S.S. CARIBOU. 1010 Moored to U.S.S. CARIBOU, berth 16, SAN PEDRO BAY for fuel. 1010 Moored port side to starboard side of U.S.S. CARIBOU in Berth No. 76, with six manila lines. 1030 Commenced receiving fuel from U.S.S. CARIBOU. Ship’s draft forward 22’ 6", aft 25’ 9". 1045 Set Condition of Readiness III. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Moored as before, alongside U.S.S. CARIBOU for fueling. 1255 Completed receiving fuel, having received 216,310 gallons of fuel oil. 1306 Let go all lines. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1307 underway from alongside tanker U.S.S. CARIBOU, in Berth 75, San Pedro Bay, Philippines Islands. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds proceeding to assigned berth. Captain at the conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Ship’s draft forward 24’ 3", aft 25’ 10". 1307 Cast off from U.S.S. CARIBOU. 1346 Anchored in berth 100, SAN PEDRO BAY. 1346 Anchored in Berth No. 100, San Pedro Bay, Philippine Islands, in 10 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following true bearings: Lighthouse on Mariquitdaquit Island 122^o; Old Fort on Leyte 204^o; Beacon on Mt. Guihandang, Leyte Island, 297.5^o; Lighthouse on Jinamac Island 005^o. 1400 Secured steering engines, put main engines on 1 hours notice. Set special Gunnery Condition III throughout the ship. 1423 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1525 Received LCI 958 along port side to receive fresh water. 1540 Commenced discharging fresh water to LCI.

G. S. Freutel, Lt.(jg), USNR.

16 –18 Watch

Anchored as before. 1615 Completed pumping fresh water to LCI 958, having discharged 4,000 gallons. 1627 LCI 958 cast off from port side. 1730 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1830 U.S.S. EMILY WEEDER (USA) stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1830 Darkened ship. 1900 Received LCI 700 along port side to transfer passengers. 1930 Cast off lines of LCI 700. 1935 Beard, C.R., 272 18 49, CFC, USN, returned aboard having completed temporary duty aboard U.S.S. SMITH. 1945 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.

Thursday, 4 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 100, San Pedro Bay, Philippine Islands Group, in 10 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to port anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" set, and the ship is in modified Condition of Readiness III. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes and No. 4 boiler is in standby condition. Ships present: U.S.S. WASATCH (SOPA Vice Admiral Kincaid), DENVER, MONTPELIER, BOISE, PHOENIX, CONVERSE, TAYLOR, CLAXTON, EDWARDS, RADFORD, HOPEWELL, FOOTE, O’BANNON, STANLEY, PRINGLE, PHILIP, MC GOWAN, CHARLES AUSBURNE, SPENCER, and various auxiliary, harbor, district and merchant vessels.

J. R. Hatcher, Lt.(jg), USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0550 Called away the anti-aircraft battery. 0630 Set Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 Called away the anti-aircraft battery. 0713 Set modified Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters, no absentees. U.S.S. STANLEY, AUSBURNE, FOOTE and STERETT underway and stood out. 0830 Lighted fires under boiler No. 4. 0835 U.S.S. WACHAPREAGUE and HMS K-376 underway and stood out. 0855 Cut No. 4 boiler in on main steam line. Mr. A. Raymond, war correspondent was transferred, by verbal orders, to U.S.S. PHILIP (DD498). 0900 Secured No. 1 boiler. 0935 U.S.S. MERTZ, STEMBLE, and MC DEMUT stood in and anchored. 0945 U.S.S. JACCORD and U.S.S. LLOYD ACREE stood in. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder sample, conditions normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1300 Held Catholic Mass. 1350 U.S.S. COGHLAN underway from alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1400 U.S.S. RADFORD and FLETCHER underway. 1408 U.S.S. NICHOLAS underway. 1408 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1420 Made routine test of smoke generators. 1510 U.S.S. HOPEWELL underway. 1520 No. 1 boiler cut in on main steam line. 1525 Tested steering gear, preparatory to getting underway; results satisfactory. 1556 Stationed special sea and anchor details.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Anchored as before. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1618 underway, with units of Task Group 77.3 and Task Unit 77.1.2, OTC is in the U.S.S. PHOENIX. Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds, Captain has the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator are on the bridge. Ship’s draft at getting underway: 24’ 2" forward, and 25’9" aft. 1618 Underway from SAN PEDRO harbor as part of Task Group 77.3, Rear Admiral R. S. BERKEY, USN, O.T.C. 1634 Passed channel buoy No. 5 abeam to starboard, distance 500 yards. 1635 Passed channel buoy No. 2 abeam to port, distance 1200 yards. 1638 Secured special sea and anchor details. 1650 Passed lighthouse abeam to starboard, distance 1800 yards. 1715 Passed clear of channel on departure course 190^oT(PGC), maneuvering to form Cruising Disposition "V". 1730 On station in Cruising Disposition "V", DENVER’s station 135, axis 270^oT(PGC), fleet course 160^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots; guide is MONTPELIER bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 160^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1800 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1800 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1805 Slowed to 10 knots and changed course to 120^oT(PGC). 1817 Shifted steering control to conning tower. 1808 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 1. 1825 Shifted steering control to pilot house. 1846 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1849 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery which is in Condition I. Set special Material Condition "B". 1850 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots. Set Condition III. 1912 Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 1921 Went to 20 knots. 1924 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC). 1925 U.S.S. DENVER designated fleet guide. 1957 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots. 2000 Entered SURIGAO STRAIT. 2001 1850 Changed course left to 150^oT(PGC). 2010 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, designated formation guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1414 yards. 2014 Slowed to 15 knots. 2019 Slowed to 10 knots. 2039 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 2200 Slowed to 9 knots. 2250 Changed course right to 241^oT(PGC); DENVER designated formation guide. 2300 Entered MINDANAO SEA. 2302 Slowed to 8 knots.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Friday, 5, January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Group 77.3 and 77.1.2 which consists of U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, FLETCHER, RADFORD; (77.1.2) BOISE, COGHLAN, EDWARDS. Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey, USN, is OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. U.S.S. DENVER is guide; in Cruising Formation "V"; fleet axis 270^oT(PGC); course 241^oT(PGC); speed 8 knots. Ship is darkened, special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III is set throughout the ship. Boilers 1 and 4 in use. 0105 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 21.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 201^oT(PGC), in Cruising Formation "V"; speed 8 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 21. 0432 Ceased zig-zagging , resumed base course 241^oT(PGC). 0434 Changed course to 230^oT(PGC). 0600 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0600 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0608 Shifted steering control to steering aft and then to conning tower. 0630 Resumed steering control in Pilot House. 0634 Went to 9 knots and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39Z, on base course 230^oT(PGC). 0640 Secured from general Quarters, set special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0700 Set Condition 2AA. 0700 Set Condition 2(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z, on course 220^oT(PGC); speed 9 knots. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1003 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 230^oT(PGC). 1006 Changed course right to 241^oT(PGC). 1011 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z, on base course 241^oT(PGC). 1021 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1050 U.S.S. FLETCHER left formation to investigate unknown object. 1055 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1058 Changed course right to 260^oT(PGC). 1102 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z, on base course 260^oT(PGC). 1105 U.S.S. FLETCHER reported unknown object as abandoned life raft. 1127 U.S.S. FLETCHER rejoined formation.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 220^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z. 1257 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1257 Sighted group of ships, hull down, bearing 276^oT(PGC). 1259 Changed base course right to 290^oT(PGC). U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed formation guide, bearing 000^oT(PGC), distance 1440 yards. 1302 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z. 1306 FLETCHER left formation to investigate the surface craft mentioned previously. 1321 FLETCHER reported them as friendly native boats and returned to her station. 1400 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1402 Changed course left to 260^oT(PGC); DENVER assumed fleet guide. 1402 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z. 1435 Flash red – Control green signaled by OTC; formed special Cruising Disposition for red alert, ceased zig-zagging. 1510 Flash white – Control green signaled by OTC; formed Cruising Disposition "V". 1511 Sighted torpedo broaching to starboard; went to General Quarters to repel submarine attack; commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds to avoid torpedoes. 1513 Set Condition I. PHOENIX sighted two torpedoes passing ahead from midget submarines which broached after firing. Torpedoes missed. U.S.S. TAYLOR attacked submarine with gunfire, depth charges, and reported ramming. 1523 Steadied on course 260^oT(PGC); U.S.S. NICHOLAS and TAYLOR left formation to engage enemy midget submarine (reported 60’ in length). 1530 U.S.S. TAYLOR rammed and destroyed enemy submarine. 1534 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 39 Z. Set Condition 2AA. 1540 Slowed to 9 knots. 1540 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery; set Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery; remained in Material Condition "A". 1551 Went to 15 knots; changed course left to 210^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 210^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1602 changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 1609 Changed course right to 240^oT(PGC). 1613 Changed course right to 300^oT(PGC). 1613 U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed formation guide; bearing 000^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. 1624 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 1625 Slowed to 9 knots. 1631 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 21. 1700 Entered SULA SEA. 1733 Set modified Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1734 Made emergency change of course right to 320^oT(PGC), and went to 15 knots. 1736 Entered Sulu Sea. 1743 Slowed to 9 knots. Results of investigation of sound contact negative. 1747 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 21, base course 280^oT(PGC). 1750 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 280^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 280^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. Set Condition III. 1927 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to 260^oT(PGC). 1933 Changed course to 300^oT(PGC). 1937 Secured from General Quarters and set special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 1940 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z, on base course 280^oT(PGC). 1950 Ceased zig-zagging. Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 280^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots. 2000 Changed course right to 330^oT(PGC). 2005 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Saturday, 6 January, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Group 77.3 and 77.1.2, Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey, USN, in PHOENIX OTC. Task Group 77.3 consists of U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, FLETCHER, and RADFORD. 77.1.2 consists of U.S.S. BOISE, COGHLAN, and EDWARDS. In Cruising Formation "V"; fleet axis 270^oT(PGC); PHOENIX is guide bearing 000^oT, distance 1440 yards. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B"; boilers 1 and 4 in use. On base course 330^oT(PGC); speed 9 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z. 0023 Slowed to 7 knots. 0035 Set Condition I in AA Battery. Bogie closing from northeast. No attack developed, closes approach of bogie being 13 miles. 0035 Manned the anti-aircraft battery for possible air attack. 0058 Set Condition III. 0058 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 330^oT(PGC), speed 7 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z. 0432 Made radar contact on unidentified aircraft, bearing 315^oT(PGC), distance 19 miles. 0436 Set Condition I in AA Battery. Bogies closing from northwest. Two bigies were on screen bearing 330^oT, distance 17 miles. This was nearest approach to formation. 0436 Set Condition of Readiness I, in the anti-aircraft battery. 0446 Went to 8 knots. 0457 Unidentified aircraft passed clear of formation. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0458 Set Condition 2AA. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0650 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. Set special Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 0700 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0745 Set Condition 2AA.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

08 –12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 330^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan 20 Z. 0830 Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. 0853 Went to 9 knots. 0900 Changed base course to 310^oT(PGC). 0948 Changed base course to 330^oT(PGC). 1004 Commenced ) zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z; on base course 330^oT(PGC). Slowed to 8 knots. 1100 Changed base course to 000^oT(PGC). Fired automatic weapons for test purposes. 1145 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z, speed 8 knots, base course 000^oT(PGC). 1359 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1400 Changed course left to 335^oT(PGC) and went to 9 knots. 1410 Resumed zig-zagging, plan 38-Z. 1449 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course and went to 20 knots; maneuvered to form special anti-aircraft disposition "V". 1452 Resumed normal cruising formation "V" and slowed to 9 knots. 1501 Resumed zig-zagging, plan 38-Z, on base course 335^oT(PGC). 1543 Made emergency turn to 255^oT(PGC) and went to 20 knots. 1547 Slowed to 9 knots. 1548 Changed course to 335^oT(PGC), and resumed zig-zagging, plan 38-Z.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 335^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 335^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z. 1825 U.S.S. HOPEWELL reported sound contact, bearing approximately 235^oT(PGC), distance 4,000 yards. 1815 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1827 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. Made emergency change of course right to 055^oT(PGC). 1828 Went to 15 knots. 1829 Went to 20 knots. 1832. Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC). 1834 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 1835 U.S.S. HOPEWELL reported sound contact not submarine. 1836 Slowed to 15 knots. 1837 U.S.S. BOISE designated formation guide, bearing 045^oT(PGC), distance 2,000 yards. 1839 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1841 Slowed to 9 knots. 1834 Changed course left to 335^oT(PGC). U.S.S. PHOENIX resumed guide, bearing 000^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. 1846 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z. Base course 335^oT(PGC). 1942 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery and Condition of Readiness III throughout remainder of ship. Set Modified Material Condition "B". 1947 Set Condition III. 1958 Slowed to 8 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 335^oT(PGC), speed 8 knots, zig-zag plan No. 38-Z. 2030 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Sunday, 7 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in the Sulu Sea, Philippine Islands Group, in company with Task Group 77.3 plus Task Unit 77.1.2, which consists of: U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE, MONTPELIER, DENVER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, FLETCHER, RADFORD, COGHLAN and EDWARDS. Rear Admiral R .S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX is OTC. In Cruising Formation "V"; U.S.S. PHOENIX is guide, bearing 000^oT, distance 1440; axis 270^oT(PGC); DENVER station 1315; zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z on base course 335^oT(PGC), speed 8 knots. The ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" modified and Readiness Condition III. DENVER has short range air radar guard. Boilers 1 and 4 in use. 2345 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0000 Set Condition 2AA. (1 hour before moonrise). 0058 Went to 9.5 knots. 0100 Sighted Ilim Island, bearing 023^oT, distance about 16 miles. 0105 Sighted San Jose light, Mindoro Island, bearing 001^oT, distance 30 miles. 0121 Went to 10 knots. 0157 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0159 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0210 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 38-Z. 0252 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0258 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). 0346 Changed course left to 330^oT(PGC). 0355 Lighted fires under boiler No. 3 to boost steam.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 330^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0400 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2 to boost steam. 0505 Let fires die out under boiler No. 3 and at 0510 under boiler No. 2. 00615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0638 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0642 Enemy twin engine bomber dropped two bombs about 1000 yards on starboard beam of DENVER. This plane came from west at an estimated altitude of 1000 feet and was not picked up by radar or visually in time for A.A. fire. Plane went out of sight toward LUZON without being fired upon. Numerous bogies were reported in vicinity from this time to 0720 but no further attacks developed. 0647 Went to 20 knots. 0656 Changed course right to 160^oT(PGC). 0700 Slowed to 11 knots. 0705 Enemy dive bomber made unsuccessful run on formation; went to 20 knots. 0714 Changed course right to 340^oT(PGC). 0717 Slowed to 10 knots. 0720 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 0722 Changed course left to 290^oT(PGC). 0725 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery, which remained in Condition I; remained in Material Condition "A". 0730 Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0731 Set Condition 2AA. 0731 Changed course left to 150^oT(PGC). 0736 Changed course right to 330^oT(PGC). 0754 Slowed to 5 knots to take station on U.S.S. SUAMICO for fueling exercise; SUAMICO designated guide.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 330^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots. 0802 Went to 10 knots. 0830 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0840 Changed course left to 300^oT(PGC). 0840 Japanese bomber appeared over formation. Ceased fueling exercise. Commenced maneuvering independently on various courses at various speeds while screen fired on plane. 0844 Combat air patrol shot down plane. 0848 Slowed to 10 knots, and resumed base course 300^oT(PGC). 0854 Resumed fueling exercise. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1040 All cruisers closed in to circle 1; U.S.S. SUAMICO guide bearing 045^oT(PGC), distance 1,000 yards. 1125 Completed fueling exercise; U.S.S. SUAMICO left formation. 1129 U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 000^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 300^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z, speed 10 knots. 1200 Entered South China Sea. 1300 Entered SOUTHCHINA SEA 1510 Slowed to 9 knots. 1558 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 300^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots. 1600 Changed course right to 340^oT(PGC) and slowed to 8 knots. 1610 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 38-Z.Set Condition I. Several bogies on screen to the northwest, closing. 1744 Went to General Quarters for air alert. Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to form special Cruising Disposition "V". 1758 Resumed "V" Cruising Formation; base course 340^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 340^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots; ship is at General Quarters. 1803 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan 38-Z. 1804 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 1811 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to repel enemy air attack. 1815 Commenced firing on one single engine Jap plane, range 10,000 yards, bearing 340^o relative, altitude 3400 feet. Plane attempted suicide attack on PHOENIX but was shot down by combined AA fire from several ships at 1817. Other bogies were in vicinity, but no further attacks developed. 1816 Opened fire on enemy plane. 1818 Enemy plane shot down on starboard beam, distance about 2,000 yards; ceased firing. 1836 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1840 Changed course left to 120^oT(PGC). 1844 Slowed to 8 knots. 1850 Lighted fires under boilers No. 2 and 3. 1851 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main steam line. 1900 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 1907 Changed course right to 250^oT(PGC). 1917 Commenced maneuvering to form normal Cruising Disposition. 1925 On station. 1936 Changed course right to 350^oT(PGC). 1937 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery and modified Material Condition "B". 1946 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship. Set Condition III.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 350^oT(PGC), speed 8 knots. 2010 Hauled fires under boilers No. 1 and 4.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

Monday, 8 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 plus Task Unit 77.1.2 in the South China Sea. This group consists of the U.S.S. BOISE, PHOENIX, MONTPELIER, DENVER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, FLETCHER, RADFORD, COGHLAN and EDWARDS. In Cruising Formation "V" with PHOENIX guide, bearing 000^oT, distance 1440 yards. Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey is OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. Fleet axis 270^oT(PGC). Base course 350^oT(PGC), speed 8 knots. Boilers 2 and 3 in use. The ship is darkened, in Special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set throughout the ship. 0130 Set Condition 2AA (AA battery fully manned) 1 hour before moonrise. 0130 Set Condition of Readiness II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0200 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z; went to 9 knots. 0240 Set Condition I in AA battery. Several bogies on SK screen to the northwest at 15 to 20 miles. 0242 Sounded anti-aircraft call to repel air attack. 0258 Bogies commenced closing from 325^oT, 11 miles. 0300 Commenced firing, range 6000 yards, bearing 320^o relative, altitude 900 feet. 0301 Commenced firing at enemy plane coming in on port bow. 0302˝ Ceased firing. 0304 Ceased firing. 0324 Bogies closing from 325^oT, range 12 miles. 0325 Commenced firing, range 6700 yards, bearing 290^o relative, altitude 3600 feet. 0326 Commenced firing at enemy plane coming in from port. 0327 Ceased firing. Set Condition 2AA. 0330 Ceased firing.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z, on base course 350^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0725 Set Condition 2AA. 0727 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery; set Material Condition "B" modified. 0735 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0755 Commenced maneuvering to form special anti-aircraft disposition "V".

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, maneuvering to form special cruising disposition to repel enemy air attack. 0801 On station, steadied on course 350^oT(PGC); went to 20 knots. 0805 Twin engine enemy plane, probably FRANCES, attacking from the west at low altitude. 0806 Commenced maneuvering to evade attack by enemy plane; opened fire to starboard. 0807 Commenced firing, range 11,000 yards, bearing 228^o relative, altitude 2800 feet. Plane fish-tailed violently on the approach and was manifestly bent on suicide crash. 0810 Plane shot down by DENVER’s five inch and 40mm fire. 0810 Observed enemy aircraft destroyed off port quarter, distance 500 yards; ceased firing. 0821 Steadied on course 350^oT(PGC), speed 9 knots. 0828 Manned the anti-aircraft battery to repel possible air attack. 0829 Went to 20 knots. 0834 Changed course right to 150^oT(PGC). Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0848 Slowed to 10 knots; formed Cruising Disposition "V". 0843 U.S.S. MONTPELIER designated formation guide. 0851 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC); PHOENIX assumed guide. 0902 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z. 1032 U.S.S. O’BANNON left formation to investigate floating object; found to be Japanese whaleboat (unoccupied) and sunk by machine gun fire. 1042 U.S.S. NICHOLAS left station to investigate floating object. Object found to be oil drum. 1044 NICHOLAS returned to station. 1047 O’BANNON returned to station. 1110 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 350^oT(PGC),speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z. 1201 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). U.S.S. BOISE designated formation guide, bearing 045^oT(PGC), distance 2,000 yards. 1211 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z. 1446 U.S.S. RADFORD, bearing 080^oT(PGC), reported sound contact. 1448 Made emergency change of course left to 270^oT(PGC), and went to 15 knots. 1447 U.S.S. RADFORD reported contact to be non-submarine. 1456 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 1502 Slowed to 9 knots and resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z. 1534 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC), and went to 15 knots. 1544 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 060^oT(PGC),speed 15 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38-Z. 1603 Changed course to 120^oT(PGC), and ceased zig-zagging. 1615 Changed course to 160^oT(PGC). 1619 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1620 Went to 20 knots. 1621 Changed course to 210^oT(PGC). 1639 Changed course to 190^oT(PGC). 1656 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1722 Radar contact with Task Force 79, bearing 162^oT(PGC), distance 24 miles.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC),speed 20 knots. 1801 Changed course left to 170^oT(PGC). 1807 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1808 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1810 to 1817 Observed four enemy planes (probably VALS) shot down by CAP in vicinity of Task Group 78, about 10 miles, bearing 100^o True. 1810 Changed course right to 210^oT(PGC). U.S.S. BOISE, COGHLAN and EDWARDS left the formation to join Task Force 79. 1815 Observed splashes of 3 "Vals" shot down by our Combat Air Patrol. Commenced maneuvering to form special Cruising Formation "V". 1816 Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 1819 U.S.S. DENVER designated formation guide. 1822 On station on circle 1.5. Changed course right to 350^oT(PGC). 1828 to 1855 Numerous bogies in vicinity south and southwest. 1830 Slowed to 12 knots. 1838 Changed axis to 000^oT(PGC), and assumed station in Cruising Formation "V" on circle .8; DENVER guide bearing 000^oT(PGC), PHOENIX bearing 240^oT(PGC) and MONTPELIER 120^oT(PGC). 1848 Changed course right to 030^oT(PGC). 1852 Went to 20 knots, took station on circle 1.5 in Cruising Formation "V"; U.S.S. PHOENIX and MONTPELIER bearing 210^oT and 150^oT(PGC), respectively, distance 2,600 yards. 1856 Commenced firing on enemy single engine plane in suicide glide on KITKUN BAY, range 14,400 yards, bearing 025^o relative, altitude 1000 feet. 1856 Observed "bogeys" being taken under fire over transport group. Commenced maneuvering to avoid being hit by enemy aircraft. Commenced firing the 5" battery intermittently at air targets. 1858 Checked fire to avoid firing on friendly ships. 1859 Plane crashed KITKUN BAY. 1900 to 2000 Numerous bogies in vicinity. One observed shot down by AA fire at 1904. 1900 Went to 25 knots. 1901 Observed enemy aircraft splash close aboard transport in transport group. Ceased firing 5" battery. 1913 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1914 Slowed to 15 knots. 1926 Slowed to 10 knots. 1939 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. Set modified Material Condition "B". 1940 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 090^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 2004 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 2010 Set Condition III. 2025 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship. 2035 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC), slowed to 8 knots. U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed formation guide; bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 2,600 yards. 2100 MARCUS ISLAND, KADASHAN BAY, ROWELL and BULL joined disposition. 2140 Task Unit 77.4.4, U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND and KADASHAN BAY joined the formation from astern. U.S.S. R.S. BULL and R.M. ROWELL also joined formation. Formed Cruising Disposition 5-LS; MARCUS ISLAND guide, bearing 139^oT(PGC), distance 1300 yards. 2202 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). 2211 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 2218 U.S.S. HOPEWELL and TAYOR left formation, proceeded north ahead of formation to pick up U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY and escort her back to join this formation. 2300 Went to 12 knots. 2344 Slowed to 6 knots.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Tuesday, 9 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and 77.4.3, on course 0000^oT(PGC), speed 6 knots; fleet axis 000^oT(PGC), in formation 5-LS. Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey, USN in U.S.S. PHOENIX is OTC. U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND is guide, bearing 139^oT, distance 1300 yards. These Task Groups consists of: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, KADSHAN BAY, O’BANNON, NICHOLAS, FLETCHER, RADFORD, R.S. BULL and R.M. ROWELL. Boilers NO. 2 and 3 are in use. The ship is darkened, with Condition of Readiness III and modified Material Condition "B" set throughout. The DENVER has short range radar guard. 0027 Went to 8 knots. 0037 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 0129 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0145 SHAMROCK BAY joined disposition. 0200 Set Condition 2AA. (1hour before moonrise). 0200 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0255 U.S.S.S. SHAMOCK BAY, TAYLOR and HOPEWELL joined this formation and took stations. 0300 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC) and went to 10 knots. 0310 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 270^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0438 Set Condition I in AA battery – bogies to southwest. These appeared to be snoopers and no attacks developed. 0438 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery to repel possible air attack. 0450 Ceased zig-zagging. 0500 Changed course to 045^oT(PGC). 0510 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7 on base course 045^oT(PGC). 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0630 ComCarDiv 27 in U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND assumed tactical command. 0635 Ceased zig-zagging. 0638 Went to 15 knots. 0649 Changed course to 355^oT(PGC). 0702 Slowed to 10 knots. 0715 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Special Material Condition "B". 0727 Changed course to 345^oT(PGC). 0740 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0745 Set Condition 2AA. 0752 Changed course to 205^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 270^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0832 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 0849 Commenced maneuvering at various courses and speeds conforming to flight operations. 0900 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0937 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). 1000 U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed guide. 1007 Formed Cruising Formation 5-R; guide bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 2,600 yards. 1024 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 1028 Changed course left to 190^oT(PGC). 1053 U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND, designated guide, bearing 120^oT(PGC), distance 1,500 yards. 1109 Commenced maneuvering at various courses in connection with scheduled carrier aircraft operations. 1153 Went to 15 knots. 1159 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 040^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1216 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 1224 Slowed to 10 knots. 1245 Went to 12 knots. 1258 Operations completed, changed course right to 050^oT(PGC). 1305 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1310 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC). 1318 Slowed to 10 knots. 1320 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). 1328 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1336 Went to 12 knots. 1400 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 1404 Changed course left to 190^oT(PGC). 1429 Changed course left to 170^oT(PGC). 1446 Changed course right to 210^oT(PGC). 1454 Changed course right to 310^oT(PGC). 1459 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC), for scheduled carrier flight operations. 1510 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1530 Operations completed, changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 1542 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1545 Slowed to 10 knots. 1651 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 1654 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 040^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. Maneuvering on various courses while engaged in carrier flight operations. 1650 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1656 Went to 12 knots and changed course right to 140^oT(PGC). 1708 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1729 Changed course right to 190^oT(PGC). 1741 Changed course right to 200^oT(PGC). 1746 Changed course right to 290^oT(PGC). 1750 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). 1752 Slowed to 10 knots. 1758 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC) and went to 12 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 280^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1803 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds while carriers conducted flight operations. 1825 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1825 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1918 U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY left the formation to join Task Group 77.4.2. 1932 Secured from General Quarters. Set Special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 1945 SHAMROCK BAY escorted by HOWARD CLARK and EDMONDS left disposition. 1947 Set Condition III. 1954 Changed course left to 210^oT(PGC). 1955 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1948 Went to 12 knots.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 2019 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed duties of OTC. 2027 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Wednesday, 10 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and 77.4.3, Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey, USN in U.S.S. PHOENIX is OTC. This group consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, KADSHAN BAY, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, RADFORD, FLETCHER, HOPEWELL, O’BANNON, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising Disposition 5-LS; MARCUS ISLAND is formation guide, bearing 146^oT, distance 1,800 yards; fleet axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 1.5000. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and special Material Condition "B"; boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. On course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 0300 Set Condition 2AA. (One hour before moonrise). 0300 Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0630 Rear Admiral W.D. Sample, USN, in U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND designate as OTC. 0652 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC), for carrier flight operations. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds for flight operations. 0712 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC), and slowed to 12 knots. 0714 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery and modified Material Condition "B". 0735 Set Condition 2AA. 0735 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 0801 Changed course to 230^oT(PGC); went to 15 knots. 0830 Changed course to 290^oT(PGC). 0843 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC) and maneuvered on various courses at various speeds during flight operations. 0900 Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. 0910 Formed formation 5-V. 0916 Changed course to 190^oT(PGC). 0922 Formed disposition 5-R. 0926 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC). 0935 Task Group 77.4.5 joined Task Group. 0936 Went to 15 knots and commenced maneuvering at various speeds on various courses for carrier flight operations. 0955 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC). 1015 U.S.S. PETROF BAY, SAGINAW BAY, CONNER, and CHARRETTE joined this formation. 1112 Changed course to 230^oT(PGC). 1145 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 230^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1201 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds during carrier flight operations. 1303 U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY left the formation together with U.S.S. CHARRETTE and CONNER as anti-submarine screen. 1314 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1326 Went to 15 knots. 1335 Rear Admiral G.R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed duties of OTC. 1355 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 1414 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1425 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1556 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 230^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1602 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC) for scheduled carrier flight operations. 1609 Went to 18 knots. 1620 Slowed to 15 knots. 1635 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). 1647 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC); went to 18 knots. 1649 U.S.S. R.M. ROWELL reported casualty to one of main engines, speed reduced to a maximum of 10 knots. 1715 Changed course left to 015^oT(PGC). 1716 Manned the anti-aircraft battery to repel one enemy aircraft. 1726 No attack developed, set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 015^oT(PGC), speed 18 knots. Maneuvering on various courses while engaged in carrier flight operations. 1817 Changed course left to 015^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1825 Slowed to 16 knots. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. Unidentified aircraft reported bearing 130^oT(PGC), distance 24 miles. Enemy plane commenced attack from south. 1835 Commenced firing, range 11,000 yards, bearing 180^o relative, altitude 15,000 feet. Plane which was identified visually as VAL or TOJO, dropped two bombs which fell astern of SAGINAW BAY and escaped to west employing violent evasive maneuvers. 1837 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). Commenced firing anti-aircraft battery on Japanese aircraft. 1839 Went to 20 knots. Japanese aircraft retiring outside of range of anti-aircraft battery. Ceased firing. 1840˝ Ceased firing. Numerous bogies were screen to the east and southeast, but none approached closer than 10 miles. 1843 Slowed to 15 knots. 1844 Changed course left to 015^oT(PGC). 1906 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1920 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed duties of OTC. 1924 Changed course right to 170^oT(PGC). 1931 Slowed to 10 knots. 1932 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery and modified Material Condition "B". 1945 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1955 Screen clear – Set Condition III. 1956 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 2000 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 180^oT(PGC). 2000 Man overboard reported by Repair III. Ordered destroyers astern to make a search as they passed through our water. 2010 Made sight muster of crew and found no absentees. Upon investigation, decided that trash being thrown overboard was responsible for report.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Thursday, 11 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX is OTC. This Task Group and unit consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, MONTPELIER, DENVER, MARCUS ISLAND, PETROF BAY, SAGINAW BAY, COGHLAN, CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising formation 5-R; U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY is guide, bearing 240^oT(PGC), distance 1,500 yards; axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 1.5000; base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. The ship is darkened and special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III is set throughout the ship. Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use. 0150 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^oT(PGC). 0200 Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC). 0210 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 0345 Set Condition 2AA (One hour before moonrise). 0345 Set Condition or Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0350 Ceases zig-zagging and resumed base course.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 270^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0400 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0410 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0630 Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY designated OTC. 0654 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0715 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery and modified Material Condition "B". 0723 Changed course left to 320^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0730 Set Condition 2AA. 0742 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0738 Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. 0743 Went to 16 knots. 0747 Slowed to 10 knots. 0749 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC). 0754 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0808 Changed course right to 210^oT(PGC). 0813 Set condition I in AA battery. Bogies reported in vicinity. Twin engine enemy plane sighted at 30,000 feet, bearing 110^oT, range 20,000 yards, estimated. Plane apparently was on reconnaissance and retired to southeast. 0814 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery to repulse Japanese aircraft, bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 8 miles. 0820 Went to 15 knots. 0831 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 0832 Set Condition 2AA. 0837 Japanese aircraft withdrew from gun range. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0907 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0921 Went to 21 knots. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0930 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 1007 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^oT(PGC). 1008 Went to 15 knots. 1017 Changed course right to 025^oT(PGC) and commenced maneuvering on various courses for carrier flight operations. 1025 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1047 Slowed to 13 knots, changed course left to 040^oT(PGC), and commenced maneuvering on various courses for carrier flight operations. 1050 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1110 Changed course left to 320^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots, having completed flight operations.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 320^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1215 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1225 Went to 14 knots. 1227 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 180^oT(PGC). 1312 Ceased zig-zagging and commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds for carrier flight operations. 1438 Came to course 170^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots. 1447 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 170^oT(PGC). 1538 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on base course.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 170^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1603 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1612 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1615 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1618 Slowed to 10 knots. 1630 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1632 Went to 15 knots. 1649 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 1758 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. 1815 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1831 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1850 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC), commenced carrier flight operations. 1853 Slowed to 10 knots. 1910 Changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 1920 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1929 Completed flight operations, changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 1933 Went to 14 knots. 1935 Rear Admiral R.S. Berkey in PHOENIX designated OTC. 1941 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition III and modified Material Condition "B". 1946 Set Condition III.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 270^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots. 2000 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 2010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

Friday, 12 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, is OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This force consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY, and PETROF BAY, plus screening force: U.S.S. CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. Cruising Disposition 5-R, with guide in SAGINAW BAY; DENVER’s position 1.5000; guide bears 240^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. Course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. Ship is darkened, with Special Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III set throughout. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use. 0050 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 180^oT(PGC). 0100 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0110 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 000^oT(PGC), went to 14 knots.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 000^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots. 0500 Set Condition 2AA. (1/2 hour before moonrise). 0500 Set Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0622 Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 0630 Rear Admiral G.R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed duties of OTC. 0642 Slowed to 10 knots. 0715 Went to 14 knots. 0715 Lighted ship. 0728 Set Condition 2AA. 0728 Secured from General Quarters. Set Modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0740 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 000^oT(PGC), at speed 14 knots. 0802 U.S.S. CHARRETTE, CONNER and O’BANNON left formation on assigned duty. 0802 On "Flash Red" formed special Cruising Disposition to repel air attack. 0810 No attack developed. On "Flash White" reformed Cruising Disposition 5-R. 0815 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 180^oT(PGC). 0823 Slowed to 10 knots. 0832 Rear Admiral R.S. Riggs, USN, in U.S.S. DENVER designated OTC of fueling group, consisting of U.S.S. DENVER, MONPELIER, TAYLOR and HOPEWELL for fueling exercise. 0833 Commenced fueling exercise, changed course to the left, by turn movement to 090^oT(PGC); commenced maneuvering independently on various courses and at various speeds to take station on port side of U.S.S. SCHUYLKILL. 0856 On station abreast U.S.S. SCHUYLKILL, on course 030^oT(PGC), at speed 7 knots. 0900 Received forward tow line from U.S.S. SCHUYLKILL. 0915 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0917 Commenced fueling. 1007 Completed fueling, having received 183,949 gallons. 1022 Cast off, proceeded independently on various courses and at various speeds to retake station in Cruising Disposition 5-R. 1040 On station in 5-R, Rear Admiral G.R. Henderson, USN, OTC in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY; on course 030^oT(PGC), at speed 7 knots. 1045 U.S.S. PETROF BAY designated fleet guide, bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 3,000 yards. 1050 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1055 Commenced maneuvering on various courses, at various speeds conforming with flight operation. 1139 U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY designated fleet guide. bearing 240^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. 1145 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 020^oT(PGC), at speed 14 knots. 1205 Went to 10 knots. 1207 Changed course right to 050^oT(PGC) and slowed to 7 knots, having completed flight operations. 1217 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1224 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 1233 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1248 Changed course right to 025^oT(PGC), and went to 9 knots. Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds for carrier flight operations. 1311 Went to 10 knots. 1327 Changed course left to 115^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. Slowed to 7 knots. 1339 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC). 1340 Changed course right to 060^oT(PGC). 1357 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 1418 Changed course right to 025^oT(PGC), and went to 10 knots. 1420 Japanese twin-engine bomber sighted visually, bearing 130^oT(PGC), bearing 10.5 miles. 1423 Set Condition IAA. Twin engine enemy plane was sighted visually at 165^oT, position angle 30^o. This plane was not picked up by search radars of the formation and the MK. 4 radars of this ship showed no response. Plane made no attack and retired to the southeast. 1423 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1435 Set Condition 2AA. 1435 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery, Japanese plane having retired. 1435 Having completed fueling exercise, U.S.S. SCHUYLKILL and TALLULAH, escorted by U.S.S. CHARRETTE and CONNER left formation. 1439 Changed course right to 200^oT(PGC). 1440 Went to 18 knots. 1454 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC), for carrier flight operations. 1455 Slowed to 10 knots. 1501 Changed course right to 200^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots, having completed flight operations. 1523 SK Radar went out of commission. 1539 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC), and slowed to 12 knots for carrier flight operations. 1551 Changed course left to 200^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1555 Went to 18 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 200^oT(PGC), at speed 18 knots. 1609 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots. 1622 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1647 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots. 1700 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC). 1702 Went to 15 knots. 1747 Changed course to 000^oT(PGC), slowed to 12 knots. 1755 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC). 1800 SK Radar back in commission.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 010^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1807 Changed course left to 230^oT(PGC). 1809 Went to 15 knots. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. Numerous bogies appeared on screen to the eastward, but none closed the task group. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1838 Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 1840 Went to 18 knots. 1842 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1847 Observed anti-aircraft fire off starboard quarter. 1850 Slowed to 15 knots. 1853 Slowed to 10 knots. 1905 Changed course right to 005^oT(PGC). 1910 Observed bomb splash off starboard bow, bomb believed to have been dropped by friendly plane. 1913 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to avoid torpedo wake sighted off port bow of U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY. 1925 Resumed base course 005^oT(PGC) and speed 10 knots. 1930 Set Condition III. 1930 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery. 1945 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1950 Turned on forward red truck light for night flying.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 005^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots. 2005 Lit fires under boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. 2007 Carrier flight operations having been completed, secured red light on fore truck. 2012 Changed course to the right, by turn movement, to 180^oT(PGC). 2021 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed duties of OTC. 2022 Changed course to the right, by turn movement, to 270^oT(PGC). 2105 Changed course to the left to 240^oT(PGC)by turn movement, went to 15 knots. 2110 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 210^oT(PGC). 2124 Slowed to 10 knots. 2130 Secured fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 2150 U.S.S. CONNER and CHARRETTE returned from assigned duty and took assigned stations in formation screen. 2200 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No.7.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Saturday, 13 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This Task Group consists of U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY, PETROF BAY, CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising Disposition 5-R, U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY guide; bearing 240^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. DENVER station 1.5000; axis 000^oT(PGC). Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" modified, and Readiness Condition III. Boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. On course 210^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0250 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 210^oT(PGC). 0300 Changed course left to 110^oT(PGC). 0310 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 110^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0630 Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, CTU 77.4.6, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed tactical command of this group. 0631 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0712 Changed course to 315^oT(PGC). 0718 Secured from General Quarters, and set modified Material Condition "B", Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0725 Went to 14 knots and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 315^oT(PGC).0734 Set Condition 2AA. 0735 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 315^oT(PGC), at speed 14 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0806 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 315^oT(PGC). 0809 Changed course right to 045^oT(PGC). 0810 Slowed to 12 knots. 0820 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 0822 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0830 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^oT(PGC). 0832 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds during flight operations. 1038 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 1042 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 270^oT(PGC). 1043 Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder, bombs, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, hangar space sprinklers. Conditions normal. 1137 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270^oT(PGC). 1145 Changed course left to 120^oT(PGC)and went to 16 knots. 1152 Changed course left to 105^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 105^oT(PGC), at speed 16 knots, conducting flight operations. 1204 Changed course right to 225^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots, flight operations completed. 1226 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 225^oT(PGC). 1329 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225^oT(PGC). 1243 Changed course left to 095^oT(PGC), went to 16 knots for flight operations. 1250 Slowed to 8 knots. 1300 Went to 12 knots. 1311 Went to 18 knots. 1330 Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC), slowed to 15 knots, flight operations completed. 1344 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC) and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1411 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 180^oT(PGC). 1415 Changed course left to 080^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1429 Slowed to 12 knots. 1436 Changed course right to 225^oT(PGC). 1520 Changed course left to 080^oT(PGC), went to 18 knots for flight operations. 1544 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC), slowed to 12 knots, flight operations completed.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 270^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1603 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1643 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 270^oT(PGC). 1644 U.S.S. R.S. BULL left formation to investigate submarine, reported by anti-submarine patrol, bearing 160^oT(PGC), distance 9 miles. 1646 Changed course right to 080^oT(PGC), for carrier flight operations. 1647 Went to 18 knots. 1703 Slowed to 12 knots. 1705 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1711 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1720 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^oT(PGC). 1724 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 1743 Changed course left to 080^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots for carrier flight operations. 1754 Changed course left to 070^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 070^oT(PGC), at speed 18 knots. 1809 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds while carriers conducted flight operations. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1911 Steadied on course 270^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1914 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, CTG 77.3 assumed tactical command. 1942 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. 1943 Set Condition III. 1956 Changed course to the right by turn movement to 315^oT(PGC), and slowed to 10 knots.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 315^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 2000 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 315^oT(PGC). 2205 U.S.S. R.S. BULL rejoined formation and took position in station No. 10. Results of search negative.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Sunday, 14 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY, PETROF BAY, plus screening force consisting of U.S.S. CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising Disposition 5-R, axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 1.5000; U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY guide, bearing 240^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. Ship is darkened, in modified Material Condition "B", and Readiness Condition III. Boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. On course 315^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0050 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 315^oT(PGC). 0100 Changed course left to 225^oT(PGC). 0110 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0150 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225^oT(PGC). 0200 Changed course left to 135^oT(PGC). 0210 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 135^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. Zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0630 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 135^oT(PGC). 0630 Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY designated OTC. 0630 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC) for carrier flight operations. 0636 Went to 15 knots. 0712 Slowed to 12 knots, having completed flight operations. 0717 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery, and modified Material Condition "B". 0720 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0729 Set Condition 2AA. 0730 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0730 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^oT(PGC). 0732 Changed course left to 300^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 300^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 0810 Went to 15 knots. 0828 Changed course left, by turn movement to 180^oT(PGC). 0830 Slowed to 12 knots. 0859 Slowed to 10 knots. 0900 Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. 0900 U.S.S. PETROF BAY maneuvered independently to conduct flight operations. 0911 Slowed to 8 knots. 0919 Changed course left, by turn movement to 055^oT(PGC). Went to 17 knots. 0920 U.S.S. PETROF BAY resumed station in formation. 0928 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 045^oT(PGC). 0931 Went to 12 knots. 0933 Changed course right, by turn movement, to 180^oT(PGC). 0946 Commenced zig-zagging on base course 180^oT(PGC), in accordance with plan No. 7. 1018 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course left, by turn movement, to 050^oT(PGC). Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds while carriers conducted flight operations. 1042 Steadied on course 170^oT(PGC) at 12 knots. 1045 U.S.S. DENVER assumed new station 2340, in Cruising Formation 5-R. Guide is SAGINAW BAY, bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. While cleaning, one gun on 40 mm mount No. 25, was accidentally discharged. There was no damage to material or personnel injury. 1046 Changed course left by turn movement, to 040^oT(PGC). Went to 18 knots. 1056 U.S.S. BOISE, EDWARDS and COGHLAN joined this formation and took assigned stations in this formation. 1104 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds while carriers conducted flight operations. 1155 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless power samples. Conditions; normal. Steadied on course 010^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 010^oT(PGC), at speed 18 knots. 1202 Changed course left to 200^oT(PGC). 1205 Slowed to 16 knots. 1244 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds while carriers conducted flight operations. 1345 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC), and slowed to 15 knots. 1352 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1405 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 1406 U.S.S. FLETCHER left formation to investigate possible submarine contact. 1411 U.S.S. FLETCHER rejoined formation, results of investigation negative. 1415 Changed course left to 330^oT(PGC) and went to 18 knots. 1424 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots. 1433 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1438 Went to 16 knots. 1509 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^oT(PGC). 1515 Changed course right to 350^oT(PGC), and went to 18 knots. 1523 Changed course right to 350^oT(PGC). 1540 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC) and slowed to 16 knots. 1546 Slowed to 12 knots.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1608 Went to 16 knots. 1610 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1637 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on present course 200^oT(PGC). 1645 Changed course right to 340^oT(PGC). 1646 Went to 18 knots. 1656 Changed course left to 170^oT(PGC). 1702 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1736 Ceased zig-zagging, remained on present course 170^oT(PGC). 1743 Changed course right to 350^oT(PGC) conforming with carrier flight operations.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20

Steaming as before on base course 350^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots. 1801 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots, having completed flight operations. 1810 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 1828 Ceased zig-zagging, remained on course 155^oT(PGC). 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1834 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC), and went to 16 knots, for carrier flight operations. Maneuvering on various courses during flight operations. 1905 Slowed to 10 knot, having completed flight operation. 1907 Resumed zig-zagging plan No. 7, base course 350^oT(PGC). 1910 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX resumed duties of OTC. 1924 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 350^oT(PGC). 1932 Changed course left to 225^oT(PGC). 1935 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III and Modified Material Condition "B". Set Condition III. 1940 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 225^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 2350 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

Monday, 15 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This Task Group and unit consists of: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, MONTPELIER, BOISE, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY, PETROF BAY, CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, EDWARDS, COGHLAN, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising Disposition 5-R modified, axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 2340; U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY guide, bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. Ship is darkened, in modified Material Condition "B", and Readiness Condition III. Boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. On course 315^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0000 Changed course left to 135^oT(PGC). 0010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0050 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0100 Changed course left to 040^oT(PGC). 0110 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7, on base course 040^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on course 040^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. Set Material Condition "A". 0630 Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed OTC. 0630 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on present leg of zig-zag plan 015^oT(PGC). 0710 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). 0714 Secured from General Quarters, set modified Material Condition "B", Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0715 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0730 Set Condition 2AA. 0730 Set Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 340^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0830 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 350^oT(PGC). 0835 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0841 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 0900 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees; none. 0911 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery to repel unidentified aircraft bearing 130^oT(PGC), distance 18 miles. 0912 Set Condition I in AA Battery. Bogie bearing 110^oT, distance 35 miles, closing. 0917 Bogie identified as B-24 by CAP. Set Condition 2AA. 0918 Plane identified as friendly. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0940 U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND designated as formation guide, bearing 120^oT(PGC), distance 2300 yards. 0949 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^oT(PGC). 0958 Received U.S.S. O’BANNON on port side for transfer of appendicitis patient. Received Apodada, R.B., 842 95 44, S1c, USNR, accompanied by bag, hammock, records and accounts aboard for appendectomy. 1016 Cast off all line of U.S.S. O’BANNON. 1019 Changed course right to 010^oT(PGC). 1026 Changed course left to 345^oT(PGC). 1044 Maneuvering on various courses for carrier flight operations. 1045 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1049 U.S.S. MONTPELIER designated formation guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1300 yards. 1104 Changed course left to 340^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1109 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 1136 Ceased zig-zagging, remaining on present course 340^oT(PGC). 1139 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC). 1150 U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 193^oT(PGC), distance 2700 yards. 1158 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 1200 Performed appendectomy on Apodaca, R.B., 842 95 44, S1c, USNR. Condition: good.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1302 Ceased zig-zagging and steadied on course 160^oT(PGC). 1318 Changed course left by turn movement to 015^oT(PGC). 1325 Changed course right by turn movement to 180^oT(PGC). 1340 Changed course right by turn movement to 170^oT(PGC). 1414 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 170^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 170^oT(PGC). 1604 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on course 180^oT(PGC). 1611 Maneuvering on various courses for flight operations. 1702 Ceased carrier flight operations and resumed course 180^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots. 1707 Went to 16 knots. 1718 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 180^oT(PGC).

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT)PGC), at speed 16 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. Set Material Condition "A". 1835 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on present course 200^oT(PGC). 1840 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 1905 U.S.S. DENVER designated formation guide. 1917 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1920 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed OTC. 1930 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B", Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery.1937 Set Condition III. 1937 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1950 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 000^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 000^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 2001 Changed course left to 225^oT(PGC). U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 193^oT(PGC), distance 2700 yards. 2010 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

Tuesday, 16 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, OTC is Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, DENVER, BOISE, MONTPELIER, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY, PETROF BAY; screening force U.S.S. CONNER, NICHOLAS, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, RADFORD, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, HOPEWELL, EDWARDS, COGHLAN, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. In Cruising Formation 5-R modified, axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 2340, with guide U.S.S. PHOENIX, bearing 193^oT(PGC), 2700 yards. Ship is darkened, in modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. speed 10 knots, course 225^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. Boilers Nos. 2 and 3 in use. 0050 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 225^oT(PGC). 0100 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC). BOISE assumed guide, bearing 143^oT(PGC), 3300 yards. 0110 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0250 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090^oT(PGC). 0300 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). MONTPELIER assumed guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), 1350 yards. 0310 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0350 SAGINAW BAY assumed guide, bearing 210^oT(PGC), 1400 yards.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 010^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0535 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance1400 yards. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, in U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed tactical command of this Task Group. 0630 Ceased zig-zagging, and remained on course 345^oT(PGC). 0730 Set Condition 2AA. 0730 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III, except in the anti-aircraft battery where Condition II was set, and modified Material Condition "B". 0745 Changed course left to 190^oT(PGC). 0747 Went to 15 knots.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 190^oT(PGC), at speed 15 knots. 0803 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0900 U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 193^oT(PGC), distance 2700 yards. 0900 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0904 Ceased zig-zagging, and remained on course being steered, 170^oT(PGC). 0910 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). 0917 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1004 Ceased zig-zagging, and remained on course being steered, 190^oT(PGC). 1012 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots, for flight operations. 1035 Changed course left to 345^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots. 1043 U.S.S. MONTPELIER designated formation guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1350 yards. 1047 Changed course right to 015^oT(PGC). 1053 Slowed to 9 knots. 1055 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1116 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots, flight operations completed. 1122 U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 193^oT(PGC), distance 2700 yards. 1143 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC) and slowed to 12 knots for flight operations. 1159 Changed course right to 015^oT(PGC), flight operations completed.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1248 Changed course left to 030^oT(PGC), for carrier aircraft operations. 1255 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds for flight operations. 1305 Changed course left to 225^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1317 Commenced zig-zagging, plan No. 7, base course 225^oT(PGC). 1403 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on course being steered, 235^oT(PGC). 1410 Changed course right to 020^oT(PGC). Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds conforming with carrier flight operations. 1535 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC), having completed flight operations. 1536 Went to 12 knots. 1547 Resumed zig-zagging, plan No. 7. 1553 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^oT(PGC).

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1646 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 030^oT(PGC). 1653 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 010^oT(PGC). U.S.S. DENVER designated formation guide. 1658 Slowed to 10 knots. 1703 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 000^oT(PGC). 1707 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 000^oT(PGC). 1738 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1740 Slowed to 9 knots. 1756 Went to 10 knots. 1757 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 000^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 000^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1835 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1837 Slowed to 9 knots. 1902 Went to 10 knots, and zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 1905 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed tactical command of this Task Group. 1923 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1926 Changed course to 010^oT(PGC) and went to 13 knots. 1927 U.S.S. MONTPELIER designated formation guide. 1930 Set Condition III. 1930 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III and special Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 1955 Lit fires under boiler No. 1.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 010^oT(PGC), at speed 13 knots. 2000 Lit fires under boiler No. 4. 2036 Slowed to 10 knots. 2041 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 000^oT(PGC). 2045 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 2143 Cut in No. 4 boiler on main steam line. 2145 U.S.S. HOPEWELL left the formation to investigate surface contact. 2153 Secured fires under boiler No. 3. 2153 Ceased zig-zagging and changed course to the left, by turn movement, to 030^oT(PGC). 2204 Cut in No. 1 boiler on main steam line. 2205 Changed course to the left, by turn movement to 000^oT(PGC). 2207 Secured fires under boiler No. 2. 2216 U.S.S. HOPEWELL reports previously reported surface craft to be damaged friendly aircraft (PBM) and is proceeding to rescue survivors. 2239 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 2338 U.S.S. HOPEWELL reports all survivors from PBM on board and is ordered to sink plane by gun fire.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Wednesday, 17 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3 and Task Unit 77.4.6, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX is OTC. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE, DENVER, MONTPELIER, PETROF BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, SAGINAW BAY; screening force: U.S.S. CONNER, NICHOLAS, RADFORD, TAYLOR, CHARRETTE, FLETCHER, O’BANNON, EDWARDS, COGHLAN, R.S. BULL, and R.M. ROWELL. Cruising Disposition5-R modified; axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER station 2340; U.S.S. MONTPELIER guide bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1350 yards. Ship is darkened, modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III set throughout. Boilers Nos. 1 and 4 in use; course 010^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, base course 000^oT(PGC). U.S.S. HOPEWELL is temporary detached from the formation on assigned duty. 0130 U.S.S. HOPEWELL rejoined formation and took assigned station.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 000^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7. 0450 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0501 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 270^oT(PGC). Slowed to 8 knots. U.S.S. DENVER assumed formation guide. 0510 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7 on base course 270^oT(PGC). 0550 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0600 Changed course right, by turn movement, to 000^oT(PGC). 0610 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 7, on base course 270^oT(PGC). 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0616 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0617 Rear Admiral G. R. Henderson, USN, in the U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY assumed tactical command. 0656 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in the U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed tactical command. 0658 Went to 12 knots. 0659 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III, except in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Readiness Condition II(AA) in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Condition 2AA. 0732 Slowed to 10 knots. 0745 Changed course right, by turn movement, to 180^oT(PGC). 0745 Task Unit 77.4.6, including escorts was detached from this Task Group to report to Commander Task Group 77.4 for duty.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots. 0801 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 030^oT(PGC). Formed Cruising Disposition "V" on axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 1315. 0808 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed formation guide bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1440 yards. 0827 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 020^oT(PGC) and slowed to 7 knots. 0900 U.S.S. O’BANNON came alongside port quarter for transfer of mail. Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0910 U.S.S. O’BANNON cast off from alongside. 0943 Changed course right, by turn movement, to 200^oT(PGC) and went to 12 knots. 0934 U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed guide, bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. 1010 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 020^oT(PGC). 1013 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed guide, bearing 090^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards.. 1021 Changed course left, by turn movement, to 010^oT(PGC) and slowed to 8 knots. 1029 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal. 1123 Changed course right by turn movement, to 050^oT(PGC). 1145 U.S.S. O’BANNON left formation to proceed on detached duty.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 050^oT(PGC), at speed 8 knots. 1203 U.S.S. TAYLOR left formation to rescue personnel of crashed aircraft. 1215 Changed course to the left, by turn movement to 040^oT(PGC). 1313 Changed course to the right by turn movement to 060^oT(PGC). 1338 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 040^oT(PGC). 1406 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 030^oT(PGC). 1416 U.S.S. TAYLOR returned to formation after completing assigned mission, and was ordered to leave formation to deliver rescued personnel to U.S.S. MANILA BAY. 1429 Changed course to the right by turn movement to 040^oT(PGC). 1518 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 020^oT(PGC). 1552 Changed course to the right by turn movement to 040^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 050^oT(PGC), at speed 8 knots. 1701 Changed course right to 150^oT(PGC). U.S.S. BOISE designated formation guide, bearing 135^oT(PGC), distance 2000 yards. 1706 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC). U.S.S. PHOENIX designated formation guide, bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. 1742 Changed course right to 220^oT(PGC). 1746 Went to 12 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 220^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1805 Slowed to 10 knots. U.S.S. TAYLOR returned to formation and took assigned station. 1826 Changed course left by turn movement to 200^oT(PGC). 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1930 Secured from General Quarters. Set modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness condition III. 1945 Set Condition III.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 200^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots. 2012 Went to 12 knots. 2030 Changed course left by column movement to 160^oT(PGC). 2031 U.S.S. BOISE assumed formation guide, bearing 135^oT(PGC), distance 2000 yards. 2115 Changed course right by column movement to 210^oT(PGC). 2116 U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed formation guide, bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. 2122 Slowed to 10 knots.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Thursday, 18 January, 1945

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with Task Groups 77.3, Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, OTC in U.S.S. PHOENIX. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE, MONTPELIER, DENVER; with screening force of U.S.S. EDWARDS, TAYLOR, NICHOLAS, COGHLAN, RADFORD, FLETCHER, and HOPEWELL. In Cruising Disposition "V", axis 000^oT(PGC); DENVER’s station 1315; U.S.S. PHOENIX guide, bearing 180^oT(PGC), distance 1400 yards. Ship is darkened, in modified Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. Boilers No. 1 and 4 in use. On course 210^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots. 0253 U.S.S. O’BANNON rejoined formation and took assigned station in screen. 0330 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 180^oT(PGC).

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 - 08 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. 0435 Lighted fires under boilers Nos. 2 and 3 to boost steam pressure. 0535 Hauled fires under boilers Nos. 2 and 3. 0615 Set Condition I for dawn alert. 0615 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0752 Went to 14 knots. 0730 Set Condition 2AA. 0730 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery; Condition of Readiness III throughout rest of ship and Modified Material Condition "B". 0734 Changed course left to 170^oT(PGC). U.S.S. BOISE designated formation guide, bearing 135^oT(PGC), distance 2000 yards. 0737 Slowed to 12 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before on course 170^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 0806 Went to 14 knots. 0845 Mustered crew on stations. No absentees. 0936 Changed course right by turn movement to 200^oT(PGC). Slowed to 12 knots. 1031 Changed course left by turn movement to 180^oT(PGC). 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions: normal.

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before on course 180^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots. 1330 Changed course left by turn movement to 150^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots. 1407 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to join formation with Task Unit 77.4. 1437 On station in Cruising Disposition 5-R; course 180^oT(PGC); axis 000^oT; speed 10 knots; guide is in U.S.S. SAVO ISLAND. Rear Admiral F. B. Stump USN assumed tactical command in U.S.S. NATOMA BAY. DENVER station No. 8, 2.5330. 1430 Went to 12 knots. 1437 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1449 U.S.S. PETROF BAY designated formation guide. 1500 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1503 Changed course by turn movement to 160^oT(PGC). 1515 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1559 U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND designated formation guide, bearing 163^oT(PGC), distance 4300 yards.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before on course 160^oT(PGC), at speed 12 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1617 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 160^oT(PGC). 1644 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 062^oT(PGC) and slowed to 10 knots for flight operations. 1649 Commenced maneuvering conforming with carrier flight operations, on various courses at speed 10 knots. 1726 Changed course to the left by turn movement to 290^oT(PGC), flight operations completed. 1739 Went to 12 knots.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 290^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots. 1830 Set Condition I for dusk alert. 1830 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1841 Changed course right to 070^oT(PGC). 1843 Slowed to 10 knots. 1855 Changed course right to 110^oT)PGC), and went to 12 knots. 1900 Rear Admiral R. S. Berkey, USN, in U.S.S. PHOENIX assumed tactical command. 1906 Slowed to 8 knots. 1910 Task Unit 77.3.1 departed for MINDORO. 1930 Task Unit 77.3.1, consisting of U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE left formation. Task Unit 77.4.1, consisting of U.S.S. NATOMA BAY and SAVO ISLAND, together with screening vessels left formation. 1933 Rear Admiral R. S. Riggs, USN, in U.S.S. DENVER assumed tactical command of Task UNITS 77.3.2 AND 77.4.2, which consists of the following: U.S.S. DENVER, MONTPELIER, TULAGI, PETROF BAY, STEAMER BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, and eleven screening destroyers and destroyer escorts. 1935 Formed Cruising Disposition 5-R. U.S.S. DENVER is guide in station No. 7 - 2045. 1942 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III and modified Material Condition "B". 1945 Set Condition III. 1954 Changed course left to 060^oT(PGC), and went to 10 knots.

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before on course 060^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots. 2003 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 2100 Changed course left to 250^oT(PGC). U.S.S. MONTPELIER designated formation guide, bearing 225^oT(PGC), distance 4000 yards. 2111 Commenced zig-zagging, plan No. 7, base course 250^oT(PGC).

R. E. Call, Lt., USNR.