Thursday, July 1, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Latitude 13^o 31.3' S.; Longitude 163^o 04.0' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Latitude 13^o 53.8' S.; Longitude 163^o 26.7' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Latitude 13^o 56.3' S.; Longitude 162^o 22.7' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 173^o T. & PGC, at 22 knots (224 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), in Cruising Formation Two, with boilers 2 and 3 in use. Ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.5, Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has forward radar guard and this ship the after sector. This force is comprised of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) and (OTC), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER. The destroyers WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, SAUFLEY and PRINGLE form the anti-submarine screen. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 220.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 173^o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM). 0443 Sighted green flare bearing 090^o T., distance about 9,000. 0520 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0522 Sounded flight quarters. 0601 Commence zig-zagging with plan No. 10. 0621 Sighted tanker broad on starboard bow, hull down. 0630 Ceased zig-zagging, and resumed base course. 0630 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, watch "Cast". 0634 Commenced maneuvering to take position No. 5 in "Jig" Formation II. 0700 Launched Plane No. 7 for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0701 Took station on tanker fueling course, 130^o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging independently, maintaining approximate position on tanker. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 130^o T. & PGC at 10 knots (103 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). 0800 Cruising on various courses, patrolling on station. 0801 U.S.S. RENSHAW completed fueling. 0820 U.S.S. SAUFLEY commenced fueling. 0900 U.S.S. MONTPELIER completed fueling. 0907 U.S.S. SAUFLEY completed fueling. 0935 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced fueling. 0940 U.S.S. commenced fueling. 1030 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1036 U.S.S. PRINGLE completed fueling. 1045 U.S.S. PHILIP commenced fueling. 1045 As plane No. 7 was making its approach to land the depth charge became disengaged and detonated, the explosion following is thought to have damaged one of the plane's floats which upon landing, capsized. 1050 Made daily inspection of all smokeless powder and all magazines. Conditions normal. 1105 U.S.S. CONWAY recovered pilot and passenger of plane, neither of whom were injured. The plane was then destroyed completely by sinking by gun fire. 1132 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling. 1138 U.S.S. PHILIP completed fueling. 1142 First line was made fast to tanker for fueling this ship. 1150 First fuel hose across and secured on board. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 104.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 131^o T. & P.G.C., speed 9 knots (88 RPM). Fueling from tanker SABINE, starboard side to. 1252 The WALLER underway from alongside of tanker. 1325 Completed fueling. 1333 Cast off all lines and underway from alongside of tanker. 1355 CONWAY came alongside to starboard and transferred Lt. D. K. English, USNR and HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN by breeches buoy to the DENVER. 1403 The CONWAY cast off lines and underway from alongside. 1410 Sounded flight quarters. 1437 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR., observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1439 Resumed patrolling station, 1500 yds., bearing 150^o from tanker. 1534 Changed course to 271^o T. & PGC. Speed 15 knots, steaming in company with the CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW. 1542 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 103.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 271^o T. & PGC and zig-zagging on Plan No. 10 at 20 knots (203 RPM). 1755 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 200.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 271^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 1814 Commenced battle problem. 1838 Conning control shifted to Batt II; steering control shifted to steering aft. 1848 Completed battle problem exercise; shifted steering and engine control back to the pilot house. 1855 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1857 Secured from General Quarters and set 3.6 Condition of Readiness. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 271^o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

In accordance with directive of the Commander Third Fleet and ComTaskGroup 36.2 at 1534 the DENVER, CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW departed from ComTaskGroup 36.2 and proceeded toward a rendezvous in order to join the U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA Unit, and then to operate after rendezvous in the northern half of Area "G".

Friday, July 2, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 14^o 10.0' S.; Longitude 158^o 12.5' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 14^o 01.8' S.; Longitude 156^o 48.5' E.

Positionat 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 14^o 12.4' S.; Longitude 156^o 15.7' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 271^o T. & PGC, 262 PSC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Nos. 2 & 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Ships present: CLEVLAND, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY. This ship OTC with radar guard forward and CLEVELAND has radar guard aft. Steaming in column, CLEVELAND 1000 yds. Astern of DENVER and destroyers out on anti-submarine screen. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 271^o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0541 Secured plane on catapult in preparation for launching. 0652 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 0655 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0618 Cut in boiler No. 1 on line and let fires die out under No. 2 boiler. 0650 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 203.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 271^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 0820 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0822 Changed fleet course and axis to 275^o T. & PGC. 0825 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 0852 U.S.S. CLEVELAND directed to take station 1000 yds. on port beam of this ship. 1000 U.S.S. CLEVELAND resumed regular station 1000 yds. astern. 1030 Commenced 5" gunnery practice involving surprise periscope action simulated. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. 1130 Completed 5" gunnery exercise. 1135 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, preparing to receive destroyer on starboard side. 1136 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1145 Transferred sea mail to the U.S.S. SAUFLEY. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 197.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 275^o T. & PGC, speed 15 knots (151 RPM) standard speed. 1200 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12. 1224 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 275^o T. & PGC. 1231 Changed course to 181^o T. & PGC, having radar contact on some target, bearing 202^o T. distant 46,000 yds. 1233 Changed speed to 18 knots (181 RPM). 1241 Sighted two ships hull down bearing 203^o T. & PGC. 1244 Went to General Quarters. 1245 Cut in boiler No. 4, now have boilers Nos. 1, 3, 4 on line. 1248 Changed course to 240^o T. & PGC. 1253 Changed course to 270^o T. & PGC. 1257 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1259 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition 3.6, Watch "Cast". 1300 Task Unit 36.3.9 consisting of U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY, DYSON, CLAXTON joined forces with DENVER Detachment. DENVER is OTC and SOPA. 1300 Mustered crew at quarters. No absentees. 1342 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course to 270^o T. & PGC. 1422 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1425 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1433 Commenced scheduled Exercise No. 13. 1434 Commenced firing 5" battery. 1500 Ceased present exercise. Formed Cruising Formation No. 2. 1525 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course to 270^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 -18

Steaming as before on course 270^o T. & PGC. Speed 18 knots (183 RPM), zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 1701 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1704 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 1728 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1732 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. The following ammunition was expended during the night engagement, June 30, 1943: 6"/47 Cal. H. C. Projectiles Mk 34-1 L & F Exp. "D" 710. Point detonating fuzes Mk 18-2 40 Powder 230; Powder, smokeless SPDN 3135 Non-Flashless 422. Total projectiles expended 710. Total powder expended 718. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 -20

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), on zig-zag Plan No. 12. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1925 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B". 1930 Ceased zig-zagging on Plan 12, resumed course 090^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173...

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 2000 Changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T. & PGC. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. 2200 Lit fire under No. 2 boiler for a test. 2346 Completed test and secured No. 2 boiler; boiler No. 2 is now back in commission. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

OTC, Captain Robert B. Carney in DENVER. OTC Op-Plan Despatch 020500 of July, 1943 effective.

Saturday, July 3, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 15^o 12.8' S.; Longitude 159^o 00.0' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 14^o 40.1' S.; Longitude 158^o 10.1' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 14^o 41.9' S.; Longitude 156^o 27.8' E.

00 - 04

Steaming as on base course 090^o T. & PGC at 17 knots (173 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM) in Cruising Formation Two. Ships in this detachment are: U.S.S. DENVER, OTC (SOPA), CLEVELAND, NORTH CAROLINA, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, CLAXTON, DYSON and STANLY. Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 are on line for cruising purposes. The U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA has radar guard on sector 90^o on both sides of the bow, CLEVELAND radar guard on sector 90^o on both sides of stern. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.6. Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots. 0400 Changed speed to 22 knots and changed course to 135^o T. & PGC. 04048 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0550 No. 2 boiler back in commission. 0600 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 0656 Secured from General Quarters. 0657 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 135^o T. 0700 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 0721 Changed course to 270^o T. 0752 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 174.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 270^o T. & PGC on zig-zag Plan No. 12, at 17 knots (173 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on stations, no absentees. 0823 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 270^o T. & PGC. 0825 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Five, at speed 22 knots (224 RPM). 0835 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0843 On signal, changed course and axis to 315^o T. & PGC. 0855 On signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0900 On signal, commenced Exercise No. 13, five-inch burst firing. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0920 U.S.S. RENSHAW reported possible periscope bearing 135^o T., lookout report, no sound contact. 0922 Executed Turn Nine at 22 knots (224 RPM). 0925 Changed speed to 19 knots (193 RPM). 0927 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0930 Executed Turn Nine, resumed course 315^o T. & PGC. 0934 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0947 On signal, ceased present exercise. 0950 Executed Turn Eighteen on signal to course 135^o T. & PGC. 0956 On signal, executed eighteen turn to 315^o T. & PGC. 1000 On signal formed Cruising Formation Five-A. 1024 Executed Thirty-Six Turn at 22 knots (224 RPM). 1048 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1050 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 1109 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, course 315^o T. & PGC. 1125 Assumed radar guard forward of beam. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before, zig-zagging with Plan No. 10, base course 315^o T. & PGC speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 1214 SG radar went out of commission due to blown fuse. 1233 SG radar back in commission. 1237 plane No. 8 back in commission. 1245 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1245 Commenced exercise No. 20. 1345 Exercise No. 20 completed. 1443 Formed "Cast" Formation One. 1500 Commenced Exercise No. 11. 1500 The following test and inspection have been made this date: Weekly inspection test of magazines, smokeless powder, magazine sprinkler, shell stowage sprinklers, hangar space sprinklers. Conditions normal. 1540 Completed Exercise No. 11. 1543 Commenced zig-zagging with plan No. 10. 1550 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1553 Changed fleet course and axis to 225^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 225^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1606 Commenced scheduled exercise of follow-the-leader tactics. 1607 Changed course to 000^o T. 1612 Changed course to 315^o T. 1615 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1616 Changed course to 225^o T. 1618 Changed course to 200^o T. 1622 Changed course to 225^o T. 1634 Changed speed to 17 knots; ceased present exercise. 1652 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 12 on base course 225^o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 225^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM), zig-zag Plan No. 12. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1907 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 225^o T. 1914 Secured from General Quarters. 1930 Commenced scheduled exercise (10SL). 1953 Commenced firing automatic weapons at smoke pots. 1956 Ceased firing automatic weapons. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 225^o T. & PGC at 17 knots (173 RPM). 2016 Ceased present exercises (10SL). 2017 Formed Cruising Formation Five. 2200 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T. & PGC. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 181.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Sunday, July 4, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. Latitude 14^o 06.1' S.; Longitude 157^o 03.2' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude 14^o 19.' S. ; Longitude 157^o 13' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. Latitude 14^o 33.3' S.; Longitude 158^o 13.9' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 045^o T. & PGC, speed at 17 knots (173 RPM) in company with U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA and CLEVELAND and screened by U.S.S. SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, DYSON, CLAXON and STENLY. This special detachment is the DENVER detachment with Captain Robt. B. Carney, OTC in U.S.S. DENVER, (SOPA). Cruising Formation Five. U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA is detachment guide; ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.6; Condition "B" is set throughout the ship; boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. NORTH CAROLINA has the radar guard forward and the U.S.S. DENVER has the radar guard aft. 177.8, Av. RPM; 600 lbs., Av. Steam.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 045^o T. & PGC, speed at 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0400 Changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T. & PGC. Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0408 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0545 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0640 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 000^o T. & PGC. 0653 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T. & PGC, changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0703 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 0706 Secured from General Quarters. 0716 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 180^o T. & PGC. 0731 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180^o T. & PGC. 0737 Changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T. & PGC. 0745 Changed fleet course and axis to 110^o T. & PGC. 0753 Changed speed to 9 knots (092 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 177.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 110^o T. & PGC, fleet speed 9 knots (092 RPM). Assumed station 2, 045^o from NORTH CAROLINA and commenced patrolling station. NORTH CAROLINA fueling destroyers. 0815 Mustered crew on station: No absentees. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 113.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 110^o T. & PGC, fleet speed 9 knots (092 RPM). U.S.S. DYSON underway from alongside U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA. 1224 U.S.S. CLAXTON went alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND for fueling. This ship using 30^o independent zig-zag plan. 1236 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced fueling U.S.S. CLAXTON. 1245 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples: Conditions normal. 1440 U.S.S. CLAXTON completed fueling, underway to resume station on screen. 1504 U.S.S. SAUFLEY went alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND to fuel. 1520 U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA commenced independent A.A. gunnery exercises. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 106.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 110^o T. & PGC, speed 11 knots (115 RPM), zig-zagging independently, maintaining station on fueling unit. 1634 Resumed base course preparatory to receiving destroyer along port side. 1636 Changed speed to 9 knots (92 RPM). 1640 Two-blocked "Affirm: for U.S.S. RENSHAW to come alongside. 1643 U.S.S. SAUFLEY completed fueling and away from alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND. 1650 Shot first line to U.S.S. RENSHAW. 1654 Tow line secured to destroyer. 1654 Started Unit No. 1 but did not switch units, using it in standby condition. 1702 Forward and after fueling hoses over. 1708 Commenced pumping fuel aft. 1709 Commenced pumping forward. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 94.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming on base course 110^o T. & PGC, speed 9 knots (92 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). The U.S.S. RENSHAW is fueling alongside to port. 1809 Completed fueling destroyer. 1826 Cast off all lines to destroyer. 1831 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1831 Secured No. 1 steering unit which was in standby condition while refueling the U.S.S. RENSHAW. 1840 Changed fleet course and axis to 290^o T. & PGC. 1846 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1930 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 290^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 157.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 290^o T. & PGC. Speed 17 knots (172 RPM). 2000 Changed course to 245^o T. & PGC, maintaining position 2, 045^o on guide. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 172.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Monday, July 5, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 15^o 29.4' S.; Longitude 158^o 42.8' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 15^o 24.3' S.; Longitude 158^o 01.0' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 13^o 20.0' S.; Longitude 157^o 31.0' E.

00 - 04

Steaming as before on course 200^o T. & PGC at speed 17 knots (173 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), in Cruising Formation Five, in a special task unit with Captain Robert B. Carney as OTC. Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use, boilers 1 & 4 standby. The ship is darkened and in condition of readiness 3.6, Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. The U.S.S. DENVER has forward radar guard and the U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the after sector. Course and axis is 200^o T. & PGC. This task unit is comprised of the following ships: U.S.S. DENVER (SOPA & OTC), CLEVELAND, NORTH CAROLINA (guide) with the U.S.S. STANLY, DYSON, RENSHAW, CLAXTON, SAUFLEY forming the anti-submarine screen. 0030 Changed course and axis to 155^o T. & PGC. 0100 Changed course and axis to 110^o T. & PGC. 0300 Changed course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 182.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). 0445 Blew tubes on steaming boilers. 0447 Shifted steering control to steering aft for drill. 0530 Shifted control to pilot house. 0530 Apple gadget reported bearing 118^o T. distance 50,000 yds. 0545 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 12, base course 090^o T. & PGC. 0652 Secured from General Quarters, set condition 3.6. 0656 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0700 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 270^o T. & PGC. 0735 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 280^o T. & PGC. 0755 Sounded and went to General Quarters for offset firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 179.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 280^o T. & PGC. Speed 17 knots (172 RPM). The various ships in this detachment are firing in carrying out exercise No. 16. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0915 Lost power in after gyro. 0920 Power regained in after gyro. 1036 Completed Exercise No. 16. 1040 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). Changed course to 225^o T. & PGC. 1042 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). Changed course to 290^o T. & PGC. 1047 Changed course to 277^o T. & PGC. 1057 Formation counter-marched to 090^o T. & PGC, changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1100 Changed speed to 17 knots. 1115 Changed speed to 12 knots (122 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 142.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 12 knots (122 RPM). 1202 The SAUFLEY came alongside, mail was transferred and the SAUFLEY cast off. 1213 Changed fleet course and axis to 270^o T. & PGC. Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1230 Commenced zig-zagging, plan No. 12. 1245 Went to General Quarters for scheduled exercise. 1300 Commenced scheduled exercise. 1318 Commenced firing 5" and 6" batteries. 1325 Ceased firing. 1327 Secured from General Quarters. 1425 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1435 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. 1453 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging, Plan 12. 1509 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 1510 Changed course to 215^o T. & PGC. 1515 Changed course to 120^o T. & PGC. 1517 Sighted three ships, bearing 140^o T., distance 10 miles. 1522 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 1525 Lighted fires under boilers 2 7 4. 15265 Changed speed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 1530 Ships identified as the U.S.S. MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, WALLER, PRINGLE, PHILIP. 1533 Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 cut in on the main steam line. 1535 Changed course to 125^o T. & PGC. 1538 Maneuvering to take position with Task Unit at various speeds. 1548 The NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY, DYSON and CLAXTON proceeding independently. Ammunition expended for training purposes this date:

6" Projectile AP, Mk. 35-2 38

6" Powder, Semi-fixed SPD 3135 16

2 Fixed SPD 3604 (flashless) 12

5" Projectiles AA Com. Mk. 18 (time fuze) 16

5" Powder Semi-fixed SPDN 3133 (smokeless) 16.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 180.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 355^o T. & PGC, in Cruising Formation Two, speed 28 knots (295 RPM). 1659 Changed speed, on signal, to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1710 Shifted steering units from one to two, starboard cable is in use. 1740 On signal, formed Cruising Formation One, U.S.S. MONTPELIER as guide, destroyer screen deploying three forward, 6000 yards and two astern 2000 yards. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 303.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 355^o T. & PGC, speed 29 knots (307 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1830 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6. 1912 Ran into very heavy rain storm coming from northeast. 1916 Passed out of rain storm. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 304.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 355^o T. & PGC, speed 29 knots (303 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 2132 Changed speed to 25 knots (258 RPM). 2203 Changed fleet course and axis to 056^o T. & PGC. 2215 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 2223 Ran into heavy rain squall. 2225 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4; boilers 1 and 3 are now on the line for cruising purpose. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 259.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 In accordance with Commander Third Fleet's instructions, at 1528 DENVER with CLEVELAND, SAUFLEY and RENSHAW left the NORTH CAROLINA Unit in order to join with Task Group 36.2. At 1540, joined ComTaskGroup 36.2 (Cruiser Division TWELVE, Destroyer Division 43 and U.S.S. PRINGLE) and took departure for an area 30 miles to the west of Rendova with expectations of intercepting a Japanese Task Unit. Commander Task Group 36.2 informed Commander Third Fleet that it was impossible to arrive at Rendova area until early in the morning of 6 July 1943. At 2200 Task Group 36.2 changed its destination to proceed toward Guadalcanal in order to refuel at Koki Point.

Tuesday, July 6, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 10^o 37.3' S.; Longitude 160^o 12.7' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 21.2' S.; Longitude 160^o 43.5' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08^o 55.9' S.; Longitude 159^o 30.1' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on course 056^o T. & PGC, 047.5^o PSC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Steaming with Task Force 36.2 in Cruising Formation No. 1. Ships present U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, PHILP, WALLER, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE. Destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA have radar guard. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 220.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 056^o T. & PGC at speed 22 knots (224 RPM) in Cruising Formation One. 0525 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0545 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan 12. 0638 Secured from General Quarters. 0638 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0640 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 0657 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12, on signal. 0701 Sighted Guadalcanal Island, bearing 010^o T., distance 30,000 yards. 0742 On Signal, increased speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0746 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0749 Executed signal to put all boilers on line. 0751 Changed speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 0756 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 224.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 056^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0801 Cut in boiler No. 4 on main steam line. 0806 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line. 0910 Changed speed to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1004 Changed fleet course and axis to 049^o T. & PGC. 1015 Sighted Malita Island bearing 037^o T., distance 28 miles. 1027 Changed fleet course and axis to 000^o T. & PGC. 1040 Changed fleet course and axis to 315^o T. & PGC. 1103 Sighted Nura Island bearing 296^o T. distance 15 miles. 1125 Sounded flight quarters. 1130 Nura Island passed abeam distance 4.8 miles. 1146 Changed fleet course and axis to 271^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 299.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 273^o T. & PGC at 31 knots (320 RPM). Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1223 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1226 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1 for entering Sea Lark Channel. 1230 Changed speed to 20 knots (204 RPM). 1242 Changed course to 250^o T. & PGC. 1257 Changed course to 270^o T. & PGC. 1321 Changed course to 225^o T. & PGC. 1324 Changed course to 180^o T. & PGC. 1330 Launched Plane No. 8, Lt. D. K. English, USNR, pilot, Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenger. 1332 Changed course to 110^o T. & PGC. 1341 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. 1345 Changed course to 135^o T. & PGC. 1346 Maneuvering at various speeds on various courses, coming alongside U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION to fuel. 1403 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in berth no. 86, north coast of Guadalcanal Island, in 14 fathoms of water. 1416 Commenced taking on fuel. 1530 No. 3 engine put out of commission for repairs. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1725 The CLEVELAND underway. 1727 Underway from alongside the U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, Berth No. 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island, from Tagoma Point to Berande Point in 14 fathoms of water, draft forward 24' 0", Aft 24' 3". Steaming on boilers Nos. 1 & 3, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds to clear anchorage. 1749 Steadied on course 290^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots. 1759 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 132.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 290^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1807 Went to 27 knots (279 RPM). At 1815 went to General Quarters for dusk alert and set Material Condition "A". Cut Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in on the main steam line. 1840 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition 3.6, watch "C". At 1855 Changed course to 302^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 278.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 302^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 2056 Went to General Quarters because of unidentified aircraft on radar screen. 2057 Secured from General Quarters because aircraft was identified as friendly. 2240 Ran into heavy rain squall from ahead; visibility reduced to about to 200 yards. 2300 Sounded General Quarters. 2315 Changed course to 272^o T. & PGC. 2321 Returned to base course 302^o T. & PGC. 2330 U.S.S. WALLER left the formation to attack a target broad on the starboard bow. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 280.6.

L. J. Tobin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This task group is headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia, with Commander Third Fleet's directive, "Sink Japs".

Wednesday, July 7, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 10.0' S.; Longitude 159^o 45.5' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Moored alongside U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in Berth 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08^o 40.2' S.; Longitude 159^o 09.5' E.

00 - 04

Underway with Task Group 36.2, base course 302^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM0. Boilers 1, 2, 3 & 4 in use. ComTaskGroup 36.2 in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group 36.2 consists of CruDiv TWELVE, DesDiv FORTY-THREE and CDS TWENTY-TWO in PRINGLE. This task group is headed up the "slot" to Kula Gulf area from Koli Point, Guadalcanal in order to intercept and destroy a Japanese Task Force (Tokyo Express). This task group is carrying out the despatch orders of the Commander of the Third Fleet. This ship at General Quarters and Condition "A" is set. 0030 Changed course to 332^o T. & PGC. 0045 Changed course to 282^o T. & PGC. 0110 Changed course to 302^o T. & PGC. 0119 Changed course to 122^o T. & PGC. 0128 Changed course to 102^o T. & PGC. 0139 Changed course to 122^o T. & PGC. 0324 U.S.S. WALLER Rejoined formation. 0340 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition "3.6" Watch "B". Intermittent rain squalls throughout the watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 281.8.

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N. 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 123^o T. & PGC. Speed 29 knots (280 RPM0. 0530 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0610 Changed course to 119^o T. & PGC. 0614 Commenced steaming in special anti-aircraft formation, MONTPELIER is guide. 0620 Changed course to 089^o T. & PGC. 0624 Changed course to 119^o T. & PGC. 0637 Secured from General Quarters. 0643 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0650 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 0733 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0737 Formed Cruising Formation One on base course 119^o T. & PGC. 0746 Changed course to 140^o T. & PGC. Changed speed to speed to 20 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 236.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation One, on base course 140^o T. & PGC at 20 knots (203 RPM0. 0805 On signal, changed course to 110^o T. & PGC. 0815 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 4 from line and they are in standby condition. 0826 Commenced zig-zagging on signal, on Plan No. 10. 0835 Cut in No. 2 boiler on main line and secured No. 1 boiler. 0852 Ceased zig-zagging. 0858 Made all preparations for going alongside a ship to fuel. On signal, proceeded independently. Various courses and speeds. 0900 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0951 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION in berth No. 86 North Coast of Guadalcanal Island from Tagoma Point to Berande Point in 14 fathoms of water. 1000 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored starboard side to U.S.S. HUNTER LIGGETT. 1008 Commenced receiving fuel oil, secured special details, set regular sea watch. 1027 Shifted from No. 2 to No. 1 steering unit. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 146.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1502 Boiler No. 1 back in Commission. 1525 Station special sea details preparatory to getting underway. 1530 Completed taking on fuel; received 140,600 gals. 1534 Underway from alongside the U.S.S. AMERICAN LEGION, berth No. 86, North Coast of Guadalcanal Island from Koli Point Anchorage in fourteen (14) fathoms of water. Captain at the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on the bridge; standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM), underway with U.S.S. CLEVELAND, RENSHAW and PHILIP, enroute to Tulagi to rendezvous with the rest of Task Group 36.2. 1540 Steadied on base course 330^o T. & PGC, speed 10 knots (102 RPM). Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 116.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 330^o T. & PGC at standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1631 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1633 Changed course to 240^o T. & PGC. 1644 Changed course to 060^o T. & PGC. 1648 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 1703 Changed course to 330^o T. & PGC. 1709 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1709 Changed course to 340^o T. & PGC. 1714 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1715 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM) Joined formation with U.S.S. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA. Formed Cruising Disposition No. 2. U.S.S. MONTPELIER and DENVER comprising first section, section in normal order. 1722 Changed fleet course to 299^o T. & PGC. 1730 Changed speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 299^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1815 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1832 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1839 Secured from General Quarters. 1934 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on the main line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 254.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 299^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM) in Cruising Formation One with three destroyers deployed ahead and two astern. 2117 On TBS signal, went to General Quarters upon report of enemy planes. 2118 On signal, made 60^o turn to right to course 359^o T. & PGC. 2120 On signal, changed to course 269^o T. & PGC. 2122 On signal, resumed base course. 2130 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2135 On signal, reduced speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 2137 On signal, executed 60^o turn to right. 2145 Increased speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2157 Increased speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 245.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER 

Underway in company with TaskGroup 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. This task group is headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia, with Commander Third Fleet's directive, "Sink Japs".

Thursday, July 8, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 02.3' S.; Longitude 159^o 48.3' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.

00 - 04

Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral Merrill in MONTPELIER. Task Group consists of CruDiv TWELVE, DesDiv FORTY-THREE, and PRINGLE. This task group headed to a point north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia with Commander Third Fleet's directive to "Sink Japs". Course 299^o T. & PGC, 25 knots. Standard speed 15 knots. Boilers 1, 2, 3, and 4 in use. The ship is darkened, at General Quarters and Condition "A" set. At 0015 Changed course to 289^o T. At 0100 Changed course to 119^o T. at 0123 Slowed to 15 knots in order to reduce wake so that suspected Japanese planes could not locate this unit. At 0130 Changed course to 299^o T. At 0135 Went to 25 knots. At 0137 Changed course to 119^o T. At 0143 Went to 27 knots. At this time, the fact that an unidentified plane had been circling the formation was established. We were off Kula Gulf, now Japanese territory and the plane was assumed to be Japanese. At 0145 Changed course to 099^o T. Four (4) flares were dropped by this unidentified plane; two (2) red and two (2) green. They appeared to be about 1000 yards distant and at 1000 ft. altitude on the DENVER'S port quarter. The U.S.S. COLUMBIA fired on the plane. Result unobserved. Plane not destroyed. At 0158 Changed course to 119^o T. At 0215 Went to 28 knots. At 0224 Made 30 knots. At 0230 Slowed to 28 knots. At 0330 Slowed to 25 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 260.5.

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Comdr., U. S. Navy.

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 119^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), returning from Kula Gulf. 0514 U.S.S. SAUFLEY sent by CTG 36.2 to investigate surface target contact bearing 036^o T. & PGC distant 9 miles. 0535 Surface alarm to port. Observed firing of SAUFLEY off port beam. 0545 U.S.S. SAUFLEY reported surfaced enemy submarine was object of attack. 0610 Sighted land off starboard beam bearing 180^o T.-Russel Islands. 0620 Changed course to 209^o T., formed special cruising formation. 0622 Changed fleet course and axis to 119^o T. & PGC. 0628 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0640 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0701 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, Watch "A". 0702 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course to 119^o T. & PGC. 0707 Condition "B" set throughout the ship above 3^rd deck. 0715 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 255.3.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 111^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). Zig-Zagging on Plan No. 10. 0806 Passed Savo Island abeam to starboard, bearing 201^o T., distant 2 miles. 0816 Ceased zig-zagging. 0818 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1 on course 111^o T. & PGC. 0859 Changed course to 0606^o T. & PGC, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 0903 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 0908 Changed speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 0914 Changed speed to 5 knots (54 RPM). Commenced steaming on various courses conforming with channel. 0930 Manned all A.A. weapons and control stations. 0948 COLUMBIA anchored. 0950 MONTPELIER anchored. 0959 Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor on the following bearings: "L" 079^o T.; "I" 325.5^o T.; "N" 063^o T.; "J" 067^o T.; "M" 042.9^o T.; "H" 191.6^o T.; "F" 197.2^o T. 1039 Secured Nos. 1 & 4 boilers. 1151 Ammunition barge moored alongside aft, commenced receiving ammunition. Ship standing on a 15 minutes' notice for getting underway. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 160.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 - Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples, Conditions normal. 1430 Received aboard 300 6"/47 cal. HC projectiles and 300 bombardment point detonating fuzes Mk. 29. 1540 U.S.S. CLEVELAND stood into anchorage berth. 1542 LST 393 underway, stood out of harbor. 1555 Ammunition lighter cast off, moored alongside U.S.S. CLEVELAND.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G), USNR.

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1629 Shifted from No. 1 to No. 2 steering unit.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1800 U.S.S. BUCHANAN, RALPH TALBOT, MC CALLA and FARENHOLT underway and standing out.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

Friday, July 9, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 9, Port Purvis, Florida Is.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Moored to Y0 in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Port Purvis, Florida Is.

00 - 04

Anchored as before in Berth No. 9 with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor in 21 fathoms of water in Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomons Group, on the following bearings: "L" 079^o T.; "I" 325.5^o T.; "N" 063^o T.; "J" 106.7^o T.; "M" 042.9^o T.; "H" 191.6^o T.; "F" 197.2^o T. This ship is darkened and in Material Condition "B" and in Readiness Condition 3.6. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use with ship on one hour's notice for getting underway. Ships present: U.S.S. CLEVELAND, RALPH TALBOT, FARENHOLT, TAYLOR, WALLER, RENSHAW, HOPKINS, TREVOR, CLELENO, ZANE, ERSKINE M. PHELPS, HOWARD, and other small craft. U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) anchored in Tulagi Harbor.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0612 U.S.S. HOWARD underway and standing out of harbor. 0618 LST 307 underway and standing out of harbor. 0709 This ship is now on fifteen (15) minutes' notice for getting underway.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0815 Making all preparations for getting underway. 0840 Draft of ship on getting underway, Forward 23', Aft 23' 10". 0845 Underway from Berth No. 9, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group, Captain has the Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer are on the bridge. Steaming with boilers Nos. 1 & 4 at various courses and speeds clearing the anchorage. Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Proceeding to Tulagi Harbor to refuel on various courses and speeds in order to conform with entrance to channel. 0900 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1000 Anchored in Berth No. 9, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast, Solomon Islands Group, in 21 fathoms of water with 45 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. 1309 Underway from berth No. 9, maneuvering on various courses and speeds, to go alongside Y.O. for fueling. 1100 Moored starboard side to, to Y.O. in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast, Solomon Islands Group. 1129 Commenced taking on fuel forward. 1144 Commenced fueling aft.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1300 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer FRANLIN, ARM3C, USN. 1325 The BUCHANAN, RALPH TALBOT, FARENHOLT, MC CALLA stood in and anchored. 1445 Competed fueling, received 233,887 gallons. 1500 Underway from alongside Y.O. in Berth No. 7, Tulagi Harbor, Florida Island, South Coast Solomon Islands Group. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Steaming on various courses at various speeds conforming with channel, enroute to Port Purvis. 1557 All engines stopped. 1558 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Ship's Head 048.5^o T.; "L" 074.5^o T.; "I" 017^o T.; "K" 044.5^o T.; "J" 088.6^o T.; "H" 174.5^o T.; "M" 056.2^o T.; "F" 191^o T.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. Ship is on one hour's notice for getting underway, with regular sea watch set. Draft Forward 24' 6"; Aft 24' 3".

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1912 Secured steering engines.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2024 LST 398 Underway and standing out.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Saturday, July 10, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay,

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Florida Island, Solomon Islands.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 08^o 46.3' S.; Longitude 159^o 24.6' E.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain out to the starboard anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Ship's Head 048.5^o T.; "J" 088.6^o T.; "H" 174.5^o T.; "L" 074.5^o T.; "I" 017^o T.; "K" 044.5^o T.; "M" 056.2^o T.; "F" 191^o T. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in a standby condition for getting underway on one hour's notice. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PRINGLE, WALLER, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, TAYLOR, GWINN, REVOR, HOPKINS, CELELNO, JAMESTOWN, LST 395, WOODWORTH, PAWNEE, ZANE, ERSKINE PHELPS, LIBRA, MAURY, LACKAWANNA.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Anchored a before. 0817 Commenced taking on ammunition. 0840 U.S.S. LCI 69 underway and standing out of harbor. 1023 U.S.S. McCALLA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1033 U.S.S. FARENHOLT stood in and moored alongside McCALLA. 1055 H.M.S. LEANDER stood in and anchored in assigned berth. Ammunition received as follows: 450 6"/47 cal. HC Projectiles; 750 semi-fixed cartridges.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1330 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway shifting berths. 1338 U.S.S. FARENHOLT underway shifting berths. 1345 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway shifting berths. Received 125 Mk. 29 Nose Detonating Fuzes. 1345 Received 125 Mk 29 Nose detonating fuses from U.S.S. COLUMBIA. 1350 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway and standing out. 1357 U.S.S. TAYLOR underway and standing out. 1400 U.S.S. WOODWORTH underway and standing out. 1403 U.S.S. GWINN underway and standing out. 1425 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1500 Lit off boiler No. 2. 1521 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and standing out. 1522 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 1528 U.S.S. WALLER underway and standing out. 1528 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out. 1530 Stationed all sea details and making preparations for getting underway.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1650 Set special sea details. 1708 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Steaming on various courses at various speeds standing out of the bay. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the bridge. Underway with Task Force 36.2. 1746 Steadied on course 250^o T. & PGC. Speed 15 knots. 1749 Changed speed to 20 knots, (202 RPM). 1756 Changed speed to 25 knots, (252 RPM).

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 250^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1802 By signal changed fleet course and axis to 300^o T. & PGC. In Cruising Formation One, screened by five destroyers. 1007 On signal, changed speed to 26 knots (265 RPM). 1810 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1820 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1830 On signal, changed speed to 24 knots (243 RPM). 1835 On signal, charged speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 1843 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6. 1930 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on main line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 256.9.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 300^o T. & PGC, speed 26 knots (270 RPM). 2045 Executed a turn to the left to 240^o T. & PGC. 2050 Resumed base course. 2058 Began making various changes of course on TBS signal from flagship after getting several radar contacts. 2107 Radar contacts previously reported are identified. 2134 Sighted two red flares dropped by plane dead ahead. 2144 Steadied on base course 300^o T. & PGC. Went to General Quarters. 2357 Shifted steering and engine control to the conning tower. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 268.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

Underway in company with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in U.S.S. MONPELIER in order to go to a point 20 miles north of Visu Visu Point, New Georgia Island, in order to intercept and destroy Japanese surface units.

 Sunday, July 11, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 02.2' S.; Longitude 159^o 45.2' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Is., Solomon Islands.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 30.9' S.; Longitude 158^o 56.5' E.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, which is comprise of Cruiser Division TWELVE and Destroyer Division FORTY-THREE and U.S.S. PRINGLE, CTG 36.2 Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC, in MONTPELIER. Enroute to a point 20 miles north of Visu Visu Point under directive from Commander Third Fleet to intercept and destroy Japanese Forces. Steaming with all four boilers in use, in Cruising Formation One, MONTPELIER, DENVER, CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA. Ship is at General Quarters, is darkened, and in Condition "A". Steaming on base course 300^o T. & PGC at 26 knots (270 RPM). 0040 Changed course to 290^o T. & PGC. 0056 Changed course to 280^o T. & PGC. 0117 Changed course to 300^o T. & PGC. 0129 Changed course to 120^o T. & PGC, retiring from mission, having contacted no enemy forces. 0234 Pilot house resumed steering and engine control. 0254 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6, Watch "C". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 267.3.

T. R. Kurtz, Jr.,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 120^o T. & PGC, speed 26 knots (268 RPM). 0610 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 0616 Changed speed to 27 knots (273 RPM). 0616 Changed course to 140^o T. & PGC. 0620 Changed speed to 24 knots (224 RPM. 0621 Changed speed to 21 knots (213 RPM). 0633 Let fires die out under No. 2 & No. 3 boilers. 0640 Secured from General Quarters. 0646 Changed speed to 25 knots (254 RPM). 0651 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. 0746 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0749 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 256.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 090^o T. & PGC, base course 120^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots (257 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0812 On signal, executed turn to 120^o T. & PGC. 0831 On signal, Formed Cruising Formation One. 0845 Made all preparations for entering port. 0854 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 0859 Changed course to 062^o T. & PGC. 0914 On signal changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Various courses and speeds entering harbor. 0938 U.S.S. MONTPELIER anchored. 0943.5 Anchored in berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomons Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Ship's Head 045.5^o T.; "J" 087.7^o T.; "G" 252.9^o T.; "L" 073.7^o T.; "I" 017.3^o T.; "H" 173.2^o T.; "K" 044.8^o T.; "N" 061^o T. "M" 056.2^o T. Draft Forward 24' 2", Aft 24' 4". Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0952 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored. 1045 U.S.S. WALLER stood into anchorage berth. 1048 U.S.S. PAWNEE shifted anchorage berths. 1140 Hoisted aboard plane No.8, pilot D. K. English, Lt., USNR, observer Ens. Haseltine, USNR. 1157 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood into anchorage. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1315 U.S.S. GWINN underway and standing out. 1352 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. English, USNR, passenger Ens. A. Haseltine, USNR. 1353 U.S.S. WALLER standing out. 1354 PRINGLE standing out. 1357 TAYLOR, WOODWORTH, SAUFLEY standing out. 1407 Stationed all special sea details. 1422 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island with Cruiser Division TWELVE, Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge; underway with Task Group 36.9 in accordance with Operation Plan 7-43, Cruiser Division TWELVE, Destroyer Division FORTY -THREE and U.S.S. PRINGLE, FARENHOLT, BUCHANAN, GWINN, RALPH TALBOT, MAURY. Steaming at various courses and speeds in conforming to channel. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes, standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM. 1450 Secured ship for sea. 1500 Steadied on base 250^o T. & PGC, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1507 Set regular sea detail. 1513 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 1522 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1523 Formed Special Formation No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 139.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 250^o T. & PGC., speed 17 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1600 Changed course to 160^o T. & PGC. 1605 Changed speed to 23 knots (235 RPM). Executed 360^o turn. 1618 Changed course to 225^o T. & PGC. 1621 Changed course to 290^o T. & PGC. 1629 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1631 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 1635 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 290^o T. & PGC. 1636 Formed Cruising Formation Two. 1650 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed radar guard forward sector; U.S.S. DENVER assumed radar guard after sector. 1702 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1703 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1721 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 290^o T. & PGC. 1737 Changed fleet course and axis to 240^o T. & PGC. 1800 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 240^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1813 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 240^o T. & PGC. 1816 Changed formation to Cruising Formation One. 1817 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1825 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 1935 Secured from General Quarters. 1955 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 240^o T. & PGC. 2000 Changed course to 295^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 198.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 295^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2015 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 12. 2200 Cut in boilers Nos. 2 & 3 on main line. 2400 Went to General Quarters as per plan. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 199.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 Underway with Task Group 36.9, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER, in order to bombard enemy positions in the Munda Area in order to further its capture and destruction; operating in accordance with ComTaskGroup 36.9 Operation Plan 7-43 of July 10, 1943.

July 12, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 17.9' S.; Longitude 158^o 32.8' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 13.8' S.; Longitude 160^o 06.7' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 10^o 02.8' S.; Longitude 162^o 09.4' E.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.9 (Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, U.S. Navy, OTC) making approach for bombardment of Munda Point, New Georgia, in accordance with OTC Operation Plan 7-43, dated July 10, 1043 Task Group deployed with cruisers in column, order MONTPELIER (OTC), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, distance 1000 yds., three (3) destroyers of screening unit in column 5,000 yds. ahead and two (2), 2000 yds. astern. Base course 295^o PGC and True. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Base speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Ship's company at battle stations, Condition "A" set. At 1205 ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 295^o PGC and True. 1224 Reduced to 18 knots (183 RPM) and changed to course 349^o PGC and True. 1231 Increased to 20 knots (210 RPM). At 0114 Changed to course 322^o PGC and True. At 0230 Changed to course 280^o PGC and True. At 0250, on TBS signal, reduced speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). At 0255 Changed course to bombardment course 247^o PGC and True. 0257 MONTPELIER opened fire to starboard. 0300 Commenced firing ranging salvos with main battery to starboard, according to plan, followed by ranging salvos for 5" battery, and bombardment firing by both batteries on designated objectives. 0306 Observed explosions on target area believed to be an ammunition dump. 0315 Observed a white airplane or illuminating projectile parachute flare on port bow. 0327 Observed fires on Munda Point area. 0334 Observed two more flares on starboard bow. 0330 Ceased firing, having expended 743 rounds of 6" High Capacity ammunition and 1007 rounds 5", A.A. ammunition. All guns were unloaded except center gun of Turret No. 4 which was cooled by water inside and outside the barrel, to unloaded by daylight when clear of bombardment area. 0340 Following movements of MONTPELIER, changed to retirement course 220^o PGC and True. At 0347 increased speed to 20 knots (257 RPM). No material or personnel casualties received from enemy fire. No positive evidence of enemy fire was observed other than apparent whistling of a few projectiles overhead. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 185.5

W. I. Leahy,

Commander, U.S.N.

 04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 220^o T. & PGC. 0415 Changed course to 180^o T. & PGC. 0423 Went to 27 knots (280 RPM). 0445 Changed course to 110^o T. & PGC. 0620 Changed course to 130^o T. & PGC and went to Cruising Formation Four. 0625 Changed course to 110^o T. & PGC. 0645 MONTPELIER unloaded one gun through gun muzzle. 0650 Unloaded one gun in No. 4 Turret through muzzle. 0654 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, base course 110^o T. & PGC. 0735 Slowed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0742 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 0742 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 110^o T. & PGC. 0745 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. 0747 Let fires die out under boiler No. 3. 0747 Changed course to 095^o T. & PGC; changed speed to 25 knots (252 RPM). 0748 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 0757 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course to 090^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 276.8.

W. I. Leahy,

Commander, U.S.N.

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 090^o T. & PGC, speed 25 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0846 Went to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0933 Ceased zig-zagging and remained on base course. 0934 Changed course to 060^o T. & PGC. 1000 Cut in Nos. 2 & 3 boilers on the main line. 1003 Changed course to 020^o T. & PGC. 1007 Changed course to 060^o T. & PGC. 1013 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 1024 Slowed to 22 knots. 1032 Let fires die under Nos. 2 & 3 boilers. 1034 Changed course to 120^o T. & PGC. 1057 Changed course to 090^o T. & PGC. 1103 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1136 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1150 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). Ceased zig-zagging. 1552 Changed course to 120^o T. & PGC. 1157 Changed speed to 12 knots (122 RPM). 1159 Recovered Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, observer FRANKLIN, ARM3c, USN. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 246.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 120^o T. & PGC in Cruising Formation One at 12 knots (122 RPM). 1206 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (153 RPM) and course to 180^o T. & PGC. 1211 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1238 Slowed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1243 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC, entering Lengo Channel. 1244 Signal, reduced speed to 10 knots (098 RPM). 1253 Signal, all engines stopped. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1303 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1312 On signal, changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1342 Destroyers deployed ahead for anti-submarine screen. 1358 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two. 1413 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 38. 1438 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090^o T. & PGC. 1441 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 121^o T. & PGC. 1447 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 173.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 121^o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1610 Ran into heavy rain squall. 1613 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1619 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1730 Ceased zig-zagging. 1734 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 101^o T. & PGC. 1740 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 199.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 101^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1806 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1907 Secured from General Quarters. 1930 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 RPM). 1931 Changed fleet course and axis to 135^o T. & PGC. 1945 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 186.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 135^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (173 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2225 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2248 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on course 135^o T. & PGC. 2255 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 2300 Changed fleet course and axis to 150^o T. & PGC. 2318 Went to 22 knots (224 RPM). 2320 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 178.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

July 13, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 10^o 48.9' S.; Longitude 162^o 49.7' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 59.7' S.; Longitude 161^o 27.1' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 13.3' S.; Longitude 158^o 28.5' E.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 150^o T. & PGC, 141^o PSC, on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, at 22 knots (224 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). This unit is part of Task Group 36.2, composed of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (OTC), DENVER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, and the destroyers WALLER, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, PHILIP, and PRINGLE, forming anti-submarine screen. Formation is in Cruising Formation Two. COLUMBIA has radar guard forward and CLEVELAND has radar guard aft. Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6, and Material Condition "B" is set. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 are in use. 0145 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 150^o T. & PGC, decreased speed to 17 knots (172 RPM), subsequent to moonset. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 192.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 150^o T. & PGC, speed 17 knots (172 RPM). 0432 U.S.S. MONTPELIER fell out of formation and reported a steering casualty. 0423 Changed course to 330^o T. & PGC in execution of TBS signal to counter-march to the right. 0424 Changed speed to 10 knots (102 RPM). 0435 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed guide of formation. 0445 Changed speed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 0450 Formed Cruising Formation One with U.S.S. MONTPELIER as guide. 0451 Increased speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0500 Increased speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0515 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert and set Material Condition of Readiness "A". 0535 Put boiler No. 3 on the line. 0541 Sounded flight quarters. 0627 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 247.2.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 330^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 0809 Sighted Santa Ana Island bearing 280^o T., distance 23 miles. 0815 Mustered crew on station. Absentees none. 0831 Changed fleet course and axis to 315^o T. & PGC. 0944 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0945 Fleet disposition is now Cruising Formation Two. 0958 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 1030 Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1041 Changed speed to 29 knots (307 RPM). 1042 Changed fleet course and axis to 276^o T. & PGC. 1100 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 1146 Changed fleet course and axis to 315^o T. & PGC, and slowed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1154 Changed fleet course and axis to 310^o T. & PGC. 1159 Changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 278.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 310^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 1326 Changed course to 340^o T. & PGC. 1332 Changed course to 310^o T. & PGC. 1342 Changed fleet course and axis to 292^o T. & PGC. 1410 Cut in No. 3 boiler on the main steam line, all boilers now in use. 1434 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1442 Changed speed to 25 knots (254 RPM). 1446 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1452 Changed course to 249^o T. & PGC. Following movements of guide conforming to channel. 1506 Changed course to 270^o T. & PGC. 1521 Changed course to 292^o T. & PGC. 1528 Changed course to 202^o T. & PGC. 1530 Catapulted Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 1532 Changed course to 292^o T. & PGC. 1540 The PRINGLE left the formation for assigned duty. 1548 Changed speed to 25 knots. 1558 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 258.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 290^o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1605 U.S.S. MONTPELIER assumed radar guard forward, U.S.S. COLUMBIA aft. 1640 Cut in boilers 2 & 3 on main line. 1652 Sighted two (2) small ships hull down bearing 265^o T. 1654 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 290^o T. 1700 By signal, changed course to 250^o T. & PGC. 1705 On signal, changed speed to 24 knots (246 RPM). 1709 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1746 Ceased zig-zagging. 1753 On signal, changed course to 270^o T. & PGC. 1758 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 252.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 270^o T. & PGC, speed 24 knots (246 RPM). 1814 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1900 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1901 Changed course and axis to 285^o T. & PGC. 1907 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1910 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 243.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 285^o T. & PGC, speed 24 knots (246 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2228 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2232 Formed Cruising Formation No. One. 2251 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 285^o T. & PGC. 2300 Went to General Quarters. 2324 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 285^o T. & PGC. 2335 Changed fleet course and axis to 320^o T. & PGC. 2345 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 2351 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 320^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 2408.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER 

Underway with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER, to proceed to a point southwest of the island of Rendova in order to intercept Japanese forces and destroy them.

July 14, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 18.1' S.; Longitude 159^o 17.7' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Shifting Berths in Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, Admiral A. S. Merrill, OTC, in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Task Group 36.2 is composed of CruDiv TWELVE and DesDiv FORTY-THREE. Steaming in Cruising Formation One, all four (4) boilers in use. The ship is darkened, in Condition "A" and at General Quarters. Steaming on base course 320^o T. & PGC, (313 PSC), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 at 20 knots (202 RPM). 0056 Changed course and axis to 140^o T. & PGC. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0115 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0120 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 140^o T. & PGC. 0124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0200 I relieved Lt. K. P. Houlihan, USNR, as Officer of the Deck. 0216 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed 140^o T. & PGC. 0225 On signal, executed ships left 180^o to course 320^o T. & PGC. 0232 On signal, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0246 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 0256 On signal, changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0314 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 105^o T. & PGC. 0320 On signal, changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0342 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness 3.6, Material Condition "B" with third deck closures. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 105^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0455 U.S.S. COLUMBIA reported target bearing 056^o T., 9000 yards. U.S.S. RENSHAW investigated and found LCI, Div. 25, friendly. 0535 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0555 Changed speed, on signal, to 25 knots (235 RPM). 0614 Formed, on signal, Cruising Formation Four. 0624 On signal, changed speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0630 On signal, changed course to 090^o T. & PGC and speed to 27 knots (283 RPM). 0635 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0636 Sighted small craft bearing 020^o T., identified as friendly APC. 0640 Secured from dawn alert, set Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B" with all third deck closures. 0752 Ceased zig-zagging. 0759 On signal, changed course and axis to 060^o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 060^o T. & PGC, speed 27 knots (283 RPM). 0800 Mustered crew on station. No absentees. 0811 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0832 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0840 Changed fleet course and axis to 105^o T. & PGC. 0852 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0858 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0913 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 0920 Changed fleet course and axis to 085^o T. & PGC. 0928 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0937 Secured boilers Nos. 2 & 3 from main steam line and put them in stand-by condition-boilers Nos. 1 & 4 are in use. 0957 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0958 Changed fleet speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1000 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1001 Stationed special sea details. 1018 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 1028 Commenced steaming on various courses at various speeds, conforming with channel and making the approach to the anchorage. 1053 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. 1100 Secured special sea details and set regular sea detail. 1104 Stationed special sea details. 1115 Underway to shift position of ship in berth No. 8, Captain at the Conn. 1123 Anchored in Berth No. 8; ship's head 077^o T; bearings: "J" 091^o T.; "K" 042^o T.; "L" 074^o T.; "I" 010^o T. 1130 U.S.S. CLEVELAND anchored. 1136 U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored. 1140 Underway from Berth No. 8, Captain at the Conn; steaming at various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 190.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on various courses and speeds, maneuvering to go alongside tanker. 1210 Moored port side to, to tanker ERSKINE PHELPS in Berth No. 5, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group. The ship is on one hour's notice for getting underway. 1225 Commenced taking on fuel. 1500 U.S.S. CACHE stood in and anchored. 1520 The ship is now on 15 minutes notice for getting underway. 1527 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway from alongside tanker to shift berths. 1548 U.S.S. CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA underway to go alongside tanker to fuel. 1551 Cut in Boiler No. 1 on line.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1622 Completed fueling, having received 265,662 gals. of fuel oil. 1638 Underway from alongside of tanker ERSKINE PHELPS to assigned berth. 1649 Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor on the following bearings: Ship's head 058.5^o T.; "N" 059.2^o T.; "J" 078.2^o T.; "K" 045.7^o T.; "L" 070^o T.; "M" 055^o T.; "F" 182^o T.; "H" 140^o T.; "I" 029^o T. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 on the line. Ship on one hour's notice for getting underway.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1902 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway from fueling to anchorage berth. 1924 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway from fueling to anchorage berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER. 

Under way with Task Group 36.2, OTC Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER. Operating in an area southwest of the island of Rendova in order to intercept Japanese forces and to destroy them. 

At 0250 Reversed course and commenced retirement to Purvis Bay. No enemy forces were contacted.

Thursday, July 15, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.) Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida

Position at 1200 L.C.T.( Island, Solomon Islands Group.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09^o 34.1' S.; Longitude 161^o 05.2' E.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened and Condition "B" is set. Condition of Readiness 3.5, Watch "A" is set. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), SOPA, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CLEVELAND, MAURY, HOPKINS, TALBOT, ELLET, GRIDLEY, ZANE, VIREO, LST 343 and 398.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0710 A.T. 144 (VIREO) standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0800 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0808 U.S.S. ZANE underway in tow by U.S.S. VIREO. 0815 U.S.S. PAWNEE stood in to anchorage. 0900 This ship assumed radar guard. 1005 U.S.S. TAYLOR underway, standing out of harbor. 1007 U.S.S. WALLER, PRINGLE, and PHILIP stood into harbor to fueling berths, the WALLER and PRINGLE alongside U.S.S. CACHE and PHILIP alongside U.S.S. ERSKINE PHELPS. 1024 U.S.S. ELLET stood out of harbor. 1030 U.S.S. GRIDLEY stood out of harbor. 1112 U.S.S. MARY stood out of harbor. 1134 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in to fuel, moored alongside U.S.S. ERSKINE PHELPS. 1142 U.S.S. PHILIP shifted to anchorage berth. 1145 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in to anchorage, U.S.S. WALLER shifted to anchorage berth. 1145 U.S.S. PAWNEE underway, shifting berths.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1212 U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside tanker U.S.S. CACHE. 1217 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway to berth from alongside tanker. 1231 U.S.S. PHILIP stood in and anchored. 1237 U.S.S. PRINGLE anchored. 1309 U.S.S. PAWNEE underway and stood out of harbor. 1320 U.S.S. McKEEN moored alongside tanker ERSKINE PHELPS. 1402 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway from alongside tanker to berth and anchored. 1438 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) W. Andrews, USNR, passenger HAELING, ARM3c, USN. 1530 Set Condition "A" on third deck and below; Condition "B" throughout the rest of the ship. Making all preparations for getting underway. 1530 U.S.S. PHILIP and RENSHAW underway and standing out. 1546 Having made all preparations for getting underway, commenced having short. 1552 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway. 1555 Underway from Berth No. 8, Purvis Bay, Florida Island, Solomon Islands Group for Espiritu Santos in accordance with Commander Third Fleet's directive for logistics. Task Unit 36.2.2, Captain Robt. B. Carney in DENVER, OTC, was formed by order of CTG 36.2. Task Unit 36.2.2 consists of DENVER, CLEVELAND, PHILIP and RENSHAW. Captain has the Conn, the Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use for steaming purposes.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before standing out of Purvis By on various courses and speeds. 1624 Steadied on course 240^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (202 RPM). 1628 Formed Cruising Formation One. 1631 Changed fleet course and axis to 180^o T. & PGC. 1654 Changed fleet course and axis to 104^o T. & PGC. 1715 Changed course to 071^o T. & PGC. 1719 Changed course to 074^o T. & PGC. 1723 Passed Para Pile abeam to starboard, bearing 164^o T., distance 2500 yds. 1745 Changed course to 112^o T. & PGC. 1751 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 187.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 112^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Boilers Nos. 1 & 4 in use. 1810 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1824 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1826 Changed fleet course and axis to 090^o T. & PGC. 1830 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1851 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 090^o T. & PGC. 1853 Changed fleet course and axis to 122^o T. & PGC. 1915 Sighted ship bearing 120^o T. & PGC which was determined to be friendly. 1916 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1921 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 122^o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 20 knots (203 RPM). 2006 Ceased zig-zagging. 2008 Went to fleet speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 2030 Slowed to 20 knots (203 RPM), commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 2116 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 2119 Changed fleet course and axis to 097^o T. & PGC. 2124 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10. 2227 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 097^o T. & PGC. 2256 Changed fleet course and axis to 118^o T. & PGC. 2300 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 208.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

00 - 04

Steaming on course 118^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10; steaming with Task Unit 36.2.2 which includes U.S.S. CLEVELAND, PHILIP and RENSHAW. Robt. B. Carney, Captain, U.S.S. Navy, in U.S.S. DENVER, OTC. In Cruising Formation One with destroyers forming anti-submarine screen for Task Unit. Ship is darkened and Material Condition "B" is set, with Condition "A" set third deck and below; boilers Nos. 1 and 4 in use. Guide in DENVER. 0255 Blew tubes on all four boilers. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 202.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 118^o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM). Standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0510 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0623 Secured fro m General Quarters. 0633 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0642 Changed fleet course and axis to 155^o T. & PGC. 0645 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0658 Sighted three (3) ships hull down bearing 245 ^o T., distant 16 miles. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 155^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0800 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 0800 Held quarters for muster of crew. No absentees. 090 0 Commenced burst firing exercise. 0917 Commenced firing 5"/38 & 40 mm. at bursts. 1000 Ceased exercise. 1030 Commenced burst firing exercise (burst representing a periscope). 1056 Ceased exercise. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM. 183.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 155^o T. & PGC at speed 18 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Entered rain squall. 1308 Emerged from rain squall. 1309 Incre ased speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). In accordance with Commander Third Fleet directive, changed destination of Task Unit 36.2.2. to Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, for logistics. 1440 Fired five-inch and 40 mm. at burst to port. 1542 S hifted steering control from pilot house to conning tower. 1543 Shifted engine order telegraph control to conning tower with remainder of pilot house watch. Ammunition expended: 52 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common; 52 5"/38 semi-fixed cartridges; 295 40 mm. A.A. Cartridges Lot No. 132. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 155^o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (224 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1605 Lit fires under boiler No. 3. 1610 Lit fires under boiler No. 2. 1645 Cut in boiler No. 2. 1650 Se cured boiler No. 1. 1655 Cut in boiler No. 3. 1700 Secured boiler No. 4. 1710 Changed fleet speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 1748 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 216.

L. J. Tobin,

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

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 155^o T. & PGC. Speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 1848 Secured from General Quarters (Dusk Alert). Av. Steam 600 l bs. Av. RPM 203.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 155^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 2025 PHILIP left the formation to investigate reported ship (radar contact), bearing 239^o T., distance 7 miles. 2050 PHILIP ordered to rejoin formation, no contact made. 2253 PHILIP reported sound contact. 2254 Changed course to 035^o T. & PGC. Went to 25 knots (257 RPM) on emergency turn signal. 2300 Changed course to 125^oT. & PGC, and resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, on base course to 155 T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 204.

^{K. P. Houlihan,}

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

Saturday, July 17, 1943

00 - 04

Steaming as before on base course 155^o T. & PGC, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use. Steaming in company with Task Unit 36.2.2 composed of U.S.S. DENVER, CLEVELAND, RESHAW, PHILIP. OTC is Captain Robt. B. Carney in DENVER. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the radar guard. This ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition Three and with Material Condition "B" set. 0205 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0210 Changed fleet course and axis to 131^o T. & PGC. 0225 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 203.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 131^o T. & PGC, speed 20 knots (203 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. 0430 Sighted six (6) ships on port bow; identified as friendly. 0431 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0442 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan 10. 0451 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0452 Radar contact on ship bearing 123^o T. & PGC, distance 17,000 yds. 0510 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0513 Comm enced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0550 Sighted Metasa Island bearing 055^o T. 0555 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 0600 Launched plane No. 8, pilot A. B. Haseltine, USNR, passenger, DUCOTE, B. A. ARM2c, USN. 0608 Sec ured from General Quarters. 0610 Commenced steaming on various courses and speeds preparing to enter channel. 0633 Stationed special sea details. 0718 Moored port side to tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS in berth No. 2, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. 0725 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored starboard side to tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0745 Hoisted in plane No. 8. 0746 Secured special sea details. 0752 Commenced fueling ship. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 155.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before and refueling from tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0837 Completed fueling; received 92,706 gals. 0902 Underway from alongside tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS in Berth No. 2, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. Executive Officer has the Conn. Navigator is on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds, shifting berths. 0926 Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0935 Secured main engines and steering engine. 0938 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway to go alongside ESSO ANNAPOLIS. 0942 U.S.S. PHILIP underway to go alongside ESSO ANNAPOL IS. 1133 U.S.S. PHILIP underway from tanker and went alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1205 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway from alongside tanker ESSO ANNAPOLIS and moored port side to U.S.S. MEDUSA. 1300 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1400 Ammunition ligh ter YF-259 moored alongside starboard side of forecastle. Continued taking stores throughout watch.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1719 Following ships underway, and standing out of harbor: U.S.S. FOOTE, STERETT. 1725 Following ships underway, and standing out of harbor: U.S.S. MARYLAND, U.S.S. COLORADO. 1730 Received aboard following ammunitio n: 490 6"/47 cal. H. C. projectiles; 81 6"/47 cal. semi-fixed cartridges i.v. 2500 f.s.; 3008 40 mm. A.A. cartridges. 1835 Ammunition Lighter 0-28 moored alongside port quarter. 1907 U.S.S. CHESTNUT towed ammunition lighter YF-259 away from st arboard bow.

M. F. Healy, Jr.,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. H. Parker,

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

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water with the starboard chain. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. The ship is darkened, except for lights necessary for the loading of stores and provisions aboard, and in Condition III modified. Condition "B" is set. Ships present: U.S.S. DENVER, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE (SOPA and Ready Duty), SANGAMON, CHENANGO, RENSHAW, PHILIP, WILSON, MEDUSA, BOREAS, KANKAKEE, RELIEF, S.S. ESSO ANNAPOLIS, CHARLES AUSBURNE, U.S.S.C. 654, U.S.S. PLUCK (AMC 94) and U.S.S. POWER (AMC 96).

J. T. Flis,

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

04 - 08

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 The YM 6 (U.S.S. CHESTNUT) came alongside to port and took in tow barge moored alongside. 1105 Ammunition lighter No. 26 was moored alongside forward on the starboard side. Continued taking stores and ammunitio n during watch. Ammunition received: 609 6"/47 semi-fixed cartridges i.v. 2500 f.s.; 200 6" A.P. projectiles.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1500 Made daily inspection of magazine and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

Monday, July 19, 1943

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 35 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition &quo t;B". Ships present: ComCarDiv TWENTY-TWO in U.S.S. SUWANNEE (SOPA), CHENANGO, SANGAMON, DENVER, CLEVELAND, RENSHAW, PHILIP, WILSON, CHARLES AUSBOURNE, MEDUSA, RELIEF, BOREAS, KANKAKEE, S.S. ESSO ANNAPOLIS and various district craft. 0315 Lighted f ires under No. 3 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08