DECK LOG BOOK & WAR DIARY

CONDENSED






USS DENVER

CL 58




MARCH 1, 1943

TO

MARCH 31, 1943

 

 

Wednesday, March 1, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 50.4' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 45.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 59.6' S.

00 - 04

Steaming on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. Standard speed 12 knots, steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). In company with Task Force 68, SOPA and OTC in WICHITA. Nos. 1 & 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Condition III and Material Condition "B". 0345 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.0.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & P.G.C. using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), keeping station on U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0655 Secured from General Quarters. 0700 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 0703 Changed course to 165o T. & P.G.C. 0704 Increase speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 0716 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0722 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. 0730 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0733 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. Steaming in patrol plan east of Solomon Islands. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 270o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0815 Quarters for muster. Made daily visual inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples. 0900 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 17, on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.), exercising at Radar Tracking Drill, Exercise No. "1-S". 0946 At range 30,000 yards from formation guide, changed base course 230o T. & P.G.C., commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 23, changed speed to 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 1052 Ceased present exercises. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds to regain station in formation "C-2". 1104 On station, commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1148 Changed formation course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C., maneuvering at various speeds, astern of MONTPELIER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 209.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (173 R.P.M.). 1202 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1253 Ship now cruising in "Cruising Formation 1", ceased zig-zagging. 1318 Commenced firing first run for machine gun practice. 1319 Commenced firing second run for machine gun practice. 1406 Commenced firing first run for machine gun practice. 1409 Commenced firing second run for machine gun practice. 1445 Ship now in "Cruising Formation 2". 1447 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. Speed17 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 330o T. & P.G.C., speed17 knots (175 R.P.M), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1920 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1936 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. Changed base course 285o T. & P.G.C. Maneuvering on various speeds and courses. 1946 Changed fleet course to 235o T. & P.G.C., speed to 17 knots (192 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on formation course and axis 235o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

Tuesday, March 2, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 48.6' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 21.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 04.8' S.

00 - 04

Steaming as before on base course 235o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M). Boilers 1 & 3 on the line. Ships present are U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, U.S.S. MONTPELIER, U.S.S. DENVER and U.S.S. CLEVELAND. Cruising in Formation "D-1", the U.S.S. WICHITA is formation guide. This ship is in condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0318 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. speed17 knots (175 R.P.M). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 235o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M). Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0600 Sounded General Quarters. 0707 Changed speed to 12 knots. 0715 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 0716 Changed course to 190o T. & P.G.C. 0725 Changed course to 125o T. & P.G.C. 0727 Changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0729 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 065o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 19 knots (192 R.P.M.). 0747 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 169.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 065o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), various R.P.M. to keep station. 0800 U.S.S. CLEVELAND left formation to our port in range finder and radar tracking maneuvers. 0800 Held Quarters for Muster. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0912 Shifted steering unit to port cable No. 2. 1000 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 065o T. & P.G.C. Assumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 6 on same base course as before. 1110 Ceased present exercises, resumed base course 065o T. & P.G.C. 1123 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1124 U.S.S. CLEVELAND returned to station in formation, increased speed to 22 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1126 Changed speed to 19 knots (194 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 192.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming on course 065o T. & P.G.C. at 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1202 Changed course and axis to 053o T. & P.G.C. 1206 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1245 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, various courses at various speeds. 1258 Steady on base course 065o T. & P.G.C., in column formation. 1300 Commenced exercising at Training Exercise No. 11, 5" A.A. Surprise Firing at bursts. 1321 Ceased present exercise, expended 51 rounds of service A.A. Common Ammunition. Formed cruising formation "C-2", various courses at various speeds. 1334 Changed to course 053o T. & P.G.C., resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1337 Set Condition III, Watch 3 in 5" A.A. Battery. 1524 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, maneuvering with division to recover MONTPELIER and CLEVELAND planes. 1547 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, division on station in Cruising Formation "C-2", planes recovered. 1559 Steady on base course 053o T. & P.G.C., speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 188.7.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 053o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1623 Shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 053o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Speed 19 knots (192 R.P.M.). 1910 Changed Fleet Speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1920 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1935 Ceased zig-zagging. Changed Fleet Course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 1945 Changed Fleet Course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1959 Secured from General Quarters. 2000 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 185o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 185o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2001 Changed speed to 22 knots (223 R.P.M.). 2009 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 2011 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 2016 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Light rain squalls during watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 172.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

Wednesday, March 3, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 43.3' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 00.8' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 32.5' S.

00 -04

Steaming in company with Task Force 68 less U.S.S. COLUMBIA. On course 185o T. & P.G.C., 178o T. P.S.C., standard speed 15 knots(151 R.P.M.). Steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use, split plant operation. Condition "B" set, ship darkened, Condition of Readiness III. In Cruising Formation "D-1". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 185o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0504 Changed Fleet Course & axis to 220o T. & P.G.C. 0522 Changed Fleet Course & axis to 270o T. & P.G.C. 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0652 Secured from General Quarters. 0705 Made rendezvous with U.S.S. NEOSHO and escort. 0711 Changed fleet course to 330o T. & P.G.C. 0730 Launched plane No. 9903 from starboard catapult. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.0.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C. Speed 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). Maneuvering to go alongside tanker. Made daily inspection of magazines and S.P. samples. Conditions normal. 0810 Received tow line from the tanker. Changed speed to 9 knots. 0817 Commenced fueling, forward and aft. 0912 Completed fueling, having received 125,322 gals of fuel oil. 0929 Cast off towing line from the NEOSHO. 0937 Took position abeam to starboard of the tanker, distance 1,000 yds. Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10 (Modified). 1045 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1117 Catapulted Plane No. 14, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, ARM3/c. 134 Recover Plane No. 13, pilot Ens. E. W. Andrews, passenger Rasmussen ARM1/c. 1151 Commenced zig-zagging. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 101.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C., speed 9 knots (94 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Modified Plan No. 10. 1225 U.S.S. MONTPELIER left tanker. 1232 Changed speed to 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1245 U.S.S. CLEVELAND went alongside port side of tanker. 1315 Held Fire and Collision Drills, simulated fire in Battle II. 1322 Secured from Fire Quarters. 1344 Secured from Collision Drill. 1352 Retreat from General Drills. 1355 Destroyer No. 449 came alongside port quarter with official mail. 1356 Received package from destroyer and destroyer left. Various courses and speeds stationing on starboard of tanker and zig-zagging. 1444 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling and left tanker. 1452 Increased speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), various courses. 1505 Took position in "J-1", base course 202o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1508 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1510 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1530 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course, reduced speed to 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). 1534 Recovered plane No. 14, pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, ARM3/c by "D" method. 1538 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), commenced zig-zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 117.4.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 202o T. & P.G.C., zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), steaming at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1608 Shifted steering unit to No. 2 port cable. 1703 Changed speed to 10 knots and ceased zig-zagging. CLEVELAND recovered plane. 1709 Resumed zig-zag Plan No. 10, and changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), plane on board CLEVELAND. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 202o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (170 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1915 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1930 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 176o T. & P.G.C. 1944 Commence Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1955 Ceased Zig-Zag, resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.8.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming on course 126o T. & P.G.C., Speed 22 knots. 2005 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 091o T. & P.G.C. Took station No. 1120 in "J-1" Formation. Changed speed to 17 knots. 2025 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Upon making rendezvous with NEOSHO, Rear Admiral R. C. Giffen in WICHITA, with LOUISVILLE, FRAZIER and EDWARDS, left the formation and Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER became SOP and Comtaskforce 68.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

 

Thursday, March 4, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 53' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force on course 091o T. & P.G.C. 082o T. P.S.C., at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.) using boilers Nos. 1 & 3, in Formation "J-1". Maintaining stations with U.S.S. MONTPELIER bearing 061o T. and distance 1800 yds; U.S.S. CLEVELAND on port beam, five destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. Comtaskfor 68 in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. Ship in darkened condition, material condition "B" and Readiness Condition III. 0030 Radar reports land 091o T., distant 80,000 yds. 0247 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 116o T. & P.G.C. 0249 Changed speed to 13 knots (131 R.P.M.). 0253 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), and 22 knots (223 R.P.M.), changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C. 0259 Changed course to 116o T. & P.G.C., and formation to Cruising Formation 1, preparatory to entering channel Espiritu Island harbor. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 125o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0408 Lost steering control on bridge, shifted to steering aft. 0414 Shifted steering control to Pilot House, casualty corrected. Casualty caused by inadvertently opening power switch, personnel error. 0435 Changed formation course and axis to 090o T. & P.G.C. 0540 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0542 Flight Quarters for bringing up, gassing and arming both planes. 0611 Changed formation course and axis to 045o T. & P.G.C. 0618 Changed formation course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0640 Changed formation course and axis to 315o T. & P.G.C. 0642 Changed formation speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), standard speed. 0645 Stationed all special sea details for entering port. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, conforming to movements of MONTPELIER entering port. 0730 Set all clocks back 1 hour to -11 Time Zone. 0634 proceeded independently to anchor in berth assigned. 0644 Anchored in Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in Berth No. 13 in 25 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following anchorage bearings: Beacon "C" 024o T., Beacon "D" 143o T., Beacon "G" 278o T., Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.1.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. 0907 U.S. Navy Yard Oiler No. 20 came alongside our port side. 0935 The following destroyers got underway and stood out: U.S.S. AARON WARD, U.S.S. RADFORD, U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. MAHAN, U.S.S. ELLETT, U.S.S. FLETCHER, U.S.S. NICHOLAS, and U.S.S. CONWAY. 0947 Commenced fueling ship. 0953 U.S.S. ANDERSON stood in. 1026 Completed fueling ship, received 915 barrels (37340 gallons). 1035 Yard Oiler cast off from our port side. 1112 Lowered Plane No. 14 over the side, pilot Ens. Andrews, passenger Ducote, ARM2/c, for removal to base.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. 1208 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 14. 1245 Lighted fires under No. 1 boiler. 1409 Underway from Berth No. 13, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo. Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the Bridge. Steaming at various courses following movements of MONTPELIER. 1531 Changed course to 280o T. & P.G.C. Speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 1535 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 139.9.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 280o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1648 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1656 Changed Fleet Course to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1705 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1711 Turret No. 1 fired 1 round HC to port in accordance with fleet test plans. 1721 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 320o T. and "C" Formation No. 3 was formed. 1720 Changed speed to conform to position, 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1735 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, changed fleet speed to 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 129.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1805 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1815 Shifted steering control to Conn. 1900 Darkened ship. Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1929 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B". 1930 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 242.5.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 241.6.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

Friday, March 5, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 15.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 02.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 8o 46' S.

 

00 - 04

Steaming on course 320o T. & P.G.C. Speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.) on boilers Nos. 1, 2, 3. Steaming with Task Force 68 in Cruising Formation 3, MONTPELIER, guide. Seven destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. Ship darkened and Material Condition "B" set. In Readiness Condition III. SOPA and OTC in the MONTPELIER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 243.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before in Formation "C-3", course 320o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 0500 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0507 Shifted steering and instrument control to Conn and held Bombardment Rehearsal. 0508 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0521 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0605 Secured form General Quarters, set Condition 2.5 in Gunnery Department, Condition III elsewhere in ship. 0617 Shifted steering and instrument control to Pilot House. 0729 Sighted Santa Catalina Island bearing 302o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 243.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0804 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 0830 Held Quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0847 Ceased zig-zagging. 0854 Changed formation course and axis to 320o T. & P.G.C. 0855 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10, on base course 327o T. & P.G.C. 0919 Passed left tangent of Santa Catalina Island abeam to port bearing 237o T, distance 6 miles. Changed formation course and axis to 290o T. & P.G.C. 1120 Reduced speed to 15 knots, steering various courses to take new station. 1124 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 253.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12- 16

Steaming as before on base course 290o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M.) zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1235 Sighted Guadalcanal Island bearing 237o T. 1245 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1311 Changed Fleet course to 301o T. & P.G.C. 1348 Sighted two ships 2 points on starboard bow. 1408 Ships identified as tanker and Destroyer DD-607. 1436 Sighted 7 Navy "Corsair" fighter planes. 1514 Changed course to 281o T. & P.G.C. 1529 Changed course to 277o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 256.6.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 277o T. & P.G.C. Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). In column astern of the CLEVELAND. 1641 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 295o T. & P.G.C. 1701 Launched Plane No. 13 Pilot Ens. B. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c and Plane No. 14 Pilot W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger Ducote, B. A. ARM2/c, which departed for seaplane base, Tulagi. 1752 Changed speed to 25 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 266.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 295o T. & P.G.C., speed 22 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1820 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 1841 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert and in preparation for entering enemy waters for bombardment of Vila. 1929 Shifted steering and instrument control to Conn. 1948 Following motions of column leader, changed course to 302o P.G.C. and True. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 254.0.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Proceeding with Task Force Sixty-eight to Kula Gulf, New Georgia Group, for bombardment of Vila, Kolombangara Island, and Munda, New Georgia. At 2000 Munda detachment, consisting of FLETCHER, O'BANNON, RADFORD and NICHOLAS left the formation and proceeded independently toward Munda in accordance with Comtaskforce 68 Operations Plan 2-43. Vila detachment, consisting of MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, CONEY and CONWAY steaming on course 302o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Ship in Battle Condition. Cruisers in column, order MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, destroyers disposed as screen ahead on three thousand yard circle. 2145 Began serving battle rations to ship's company on station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 249.5.

N. D. Brantly,

Comdr., U.S.N.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Details of preparation for Bombardment of Vila and of information as to enemy movements received enroute are contained in action report, copy attached to Operational Log and War Dairy for March 6, 1943.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Saturday, March 6, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. (Latitude 9o 05.4' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. (Latitude Anchored at Port Purvis,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 10o 20.4' S.

00 - 04

Proceeding in company with Comtaskforce 68 in MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, CONWAY, CONY and WALLER to Kula Gulf for bombardment of Vila, Kolombangara Island, New Georgia Group, in accordance with Comtaskforce 68 Operation Plan 2-43 of March 3, 1943. Base course 302o P.G.C. & T. Speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Boilers 1,2,3, & 4 in use. Ship's company at battle stations, and ship in Battle Condition. Cruisers in column, the MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, distance 1000 yards; destroyers disposed ahead as screen on 3,000 yard circle. At 0000 destroyers proceeded as directed in operation plan to bombardment approach stations. At 0015 reduced speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) and changed course to 240o P.G.C. & T., rounding Visuvisu Point, New Georgia, heading into Kula Gulf. At 0021 Condition "A", which had been partially relaxed for battle messing, was restored. At 0027 Radar operators reported getting curious interference effects. At 0030 All stations were alerted. At 0100 unidentified surface target reported by MONTPELIER and Taskforce was ordered to stand alerted. At 0100 unidentified surface target reported by MONTPELIER and Taskforce was ordered to stand by to commence firing. 0101 MONTPELIER opened fire to starboard on enemy surface target followed immediately by CLEVELAND and DENVER, and then the order to commence firing was received. Details of ensuing action in which two (2) Japanese cruisers were sunk by cruiser main battery gunfire and destroyer torpedoes, and shore batteries and surface targets were engaged by 5" battery, are contained in DENVER Action Report, copy attached to this log. 0113 1/2; Checked fire. 0113 Shifted control of steering to after steering station, Conning Tower having lost control. 0115 Increased speed to 25 knots to maintain station. 0116 During lull in firing it was reported that one man was injured at 20 MM Mount No. 17; man was removed to main deck battle dressing station and at 0125 pronounced dead by the Medical Officer as a result of blast of turret guns. Identity of man was later established as Thompson, James William, S2/c, 560-09-06, V-6, U.S.N.R. At 0124 began changing to planned bombardment course 000o P.G.C., speed 15 knots, adjusting course and speed to maintain position. 0127 Opened fire and 0136 ceased firing with main battery on shore objective. At 0139 began changing course to the right to retirement course, 045o P.G.C. & True. At 0140 Opened fire with starboard 5" battery on surface target and changed to flank speed 25 knots. At 0143 Ceased fire. At 0145 increased speed to 31 knots (330 R.P.M.) and sighted flares on starboard quarter. 0151 Shifted control of steering back to Conning Tower. 0215 Changed course to 090o P.G.C. & T. 0217 began working up to full power. 0231 Changed course to 115o P.G.C. & T. 0240 Reduced speed to 31.5 knots (340 R.P.M.). 0300 Reduced speed to 31 knots (330 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 273.3.

N. D. Brantly,

Comdr., U.S.N.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, retiring from action at Vila, heading toward Guadalcanal at Flank Speed, (330 R.P.M.) on course 115o P.G.C. & T. 0614 Changed course to 123o T. & P.G.C., steaming in column, MONTPELIER being the guide. 0630 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0655 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 115o T. & P.G.C., forming Cruising Formation No. 3, DENVER position No. 3. 0652 Secured from General Quarters and set Readiness Condition III in accordance with signal of OTC to set Condition III at discretion. 0711 Changed base course to 120o T. & P.G.C. and speed to 26 knots (269 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0715 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 07333 Secured Nos. 1 & 3 boilers. 0754 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 140o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 305.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 140o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (256 R.P.M.), zig-zagging on Plan No. 10, in Cruising Formation No. 3. 0823 Stationed special sea details. 0825 Cease zig-zagging, resumed base course and changed fleet course to 070o T. & P.G.C. 0831 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), formed Cruising Formation 1, to enter Port Purvis. 0834 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds to anchorage. 0914 Anchored in Berth No. 20 in Port Purvis, Florida Island in 19 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "K" 061o T., "J" 119o T., "N" 057o T., ships head 051o T. 0915 Secured main engines. 0926 Sounded Flight Quarters. Draft upon anchoring, Forward 23' 5", Aft 24' 7". 0951 Destroyer U.S.S. CONY came alongside for fueling. 1000 Recovered plane No. 13, Pilot Ensign D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger J. M. Rasmussen, ARM1/c. 1010 Commenced fueling destroyer. 1020 Recovered plane No. 14, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger B. A. Ducote, ARM2/c. 1111 U.S.S. CONY completed fueling and cast off. 1130 Stationed special sea details, prepared to get underway. 1155 Lieut. (jg) Philip G. Taylor, E-V(G) U.S.N.R., reported aboard for further transportation to first available hospital, from U.S.S. TREVER. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 085.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1204 Underway from Berth No. 20, Port Purvis, Florida Island, Captain Conning, Executive Officer and Navigator on the Bridge. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) with boilers nos. 2 & 4 in use. Steaming on various courses at various speeds to clear harbor, in company with MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv 12), CLEVELAND, and destroyer screen, 7 destroyers: FLETCHER, CONWAY, O'BANNON, CONY, RADFORD, NICHOLAS, AND WALLER. 1238 Formed cruising formation No. 1. Changed speed to formation speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 1300 Quarters for muster. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1316 Changed course to 070o T. & P.G.C. 1320 Fire reported in B-204-M; sounded Fire Quarters. Faulty operation of fire warning apparatus. 1334 Secured from fire quarters. 1335 Changed formation speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). 1338 Went to General Quarters in obediance to signal. Condition "Red" in Guadalcanal Island. 1347 Cut all boilers in on line. 1355 Formed Special Disposition "J-3". 1357 Commenced zig-zagging according to Plan No. 10, base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 1429 Secured from General Quarters. Turned to course to 130o T, new formation course. 1500 Set clocks ahead 1 hour to zone time -12. Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, formation axis 110o T., base course 130o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 251.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming on base course 130o T. & P.G.C. at 25 knots (256 R.P.M. on zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1600 Commenced burial services for James William Thompson, S2/c, 560-09-06, V-6, U.S.N.R., killed by gun blast during action on March 6, 1943. 1602 DENVER and ships in company half-masted colors. 1608 The body of James William Thompson was committed to the deep with appropriate ceremonies. 1609 Two blocked colors. 1621 Changed Fleet Course to 107.5o T. & P.G.C. 1721 Changed Fleet Course to 110o T. & P.G.C. 1749 Sounded General Quarters in readiness for possible air attack. 1756 All boilers lit off and on the line. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 252.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 110o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Speed 26 knots (269 R.P.M.). 1828 Secured from General Quarters. 1908 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. 1910 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 118o to P.G.C. 1912 Commended Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1935 Sounded General Quarters. 1947 Changed speed to 24 knots (243 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 253.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 118o T. & P.G.C., speed 24 knots (243 R.P.M.). Various speeds in position-keeping. 2355 Changed course to 078o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 240.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

ADDITONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER. 

As noted in log for the mid-watch, details of action are contained in Action Report, copy attached hereto.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

 

Sunday, March 7, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 17' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16.5' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 11o 53.5' S.

00 -04

Steaming on course 078o T. & P.G.C., 071o T. & P.S.C., at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers No. 2 & 4 in use. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set, Condition II in anti-aircraft battery, and condition III in rest of ship. In company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER, O.T.C., CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONY, RADFORD, O'BANNON, NICHOLAS, CONWAY, and WALLER, in Cruising Formation "C-3", DENVER on station No. 2. 0020 Formation changed course to 118o T. & P.G.C., by turn signal. Formation changed course to 078o T. & P.G.C., by turn signal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 241.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

04 -08

Steaming as before on base course 118o T. & P.G.C. at 24 knots (245 R.P.M.). 0555 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0659 Secured from General Quarters. 0735 Making preparations for fueling destroyer to port. 0740 Made rendezvous with Tanker SABINE and escort. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 235.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on course 225o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0817 Changed course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 0823 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. Speed 10 knots. On station, 1000 yds. on the starboard beam of tanker. 0853 U.S.S. WALLER alongside to port for fueling. 0908 Commenced fueling WALLER. 1020 Completed fueling, transferred 39,793 gals. fuel oil. WALLER left from alongside. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 115.8.

J. G. Lightburn

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R 

 

12 -16

Steaming as before on base course 265o T. & P.G.C. at 10 knots (101 R.P.M.). Made daily, weekly, and fortnightly tests of magazines smokeless powder samples, magazine sprinklers, shell storage and hangar spaces sprinklers; conditions normal. 1330 Destroyer DD 449 completed fueling, left tanker, Destroyer DD 445 went alongside to fuel. 1429 Destroyer 445 completed fueling, left for station in screen. 1443 Changed course to 220o T. & P.G.C. 1445 Changed course to 205o T. & P.G.C. 1450 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. to take position preparatory to going alongside tanker for fueling. 1454 U.S.S. CLEVELAND completed fueling and left tanker's side. 1517 DENVER went alongside, received first line from U.S.S. SABINE. 1542 Commenced pumping after hose. 1544 Commenced pumping forward hose. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 100.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before at 10 knots (100 R.P.M.), with tanker U.S.S. SABINE alongside to starboard, on course 265o T. & P.G.C., receiving fuel. Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1700 Completed fueling form tanker. Received 267,463 gals. of fuel oil from tanker, oil on hand 660,675 gal. 1719 Cast off all lines, steering various courses at various speeds, taking station in Formation "C-3". U.S.S. SABINE and destroyer escort, U.S.S. MAHAN proceeded on duty assigned, all fueling of this force completed. 1720 Changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C. 1725 Changed course to 265o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 22 knots to take station. 1727 Changed speed to 18 knots, on station. 1742 Changed speed to 16 knots, formation speed. 1744 Changed formation course to 278o T. & P.G.C. 1748 Changed formation course to 300o T. & P.G.C., steering various courses at various speeds to take station. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 122.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on base course 340o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (158 R.P.M.). 1820 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.5.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 -24

Steaming as before on course 305o T. & P.G.C. Speed 21 knots. 2020 Changed speed to 16 knots. 2027 Changed course to 310o T. & P.G.C. 2100 Changed Fleet course and axis to 020o T. & P.G.C. 2130 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 70o T. & P.G.C. 2200 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 110o T. & P.G.C. Steadied on this course in Cruising Formation No. 3. Speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Monday, March 8, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 23.5' S.

(Longitude 166o 56.0' E.

 

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 12.0' S.

(Longitude 167o 34.0' E.

 

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 26.4' S.

(Longitude 166o 16.8' E.

 

00 -04

Steaming on course 110o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), fleet speed, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), boilers No. 2 and 4 in use, in cruising formation 3, in company with Task Force 68, SOPA U.S.S. MONTPELIER is guide. Ship in darkened condition and Material Condition "Baker" and Readiness Condition 2.5. 0238 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft. 0243 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 0246 Shifted steering control to Pilot House. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 157.6.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 -08

Steaming on course 110o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0520 "SG" radar picked up land bearing 055o T., distance 22 miles, identified as Vanikuro Island. 0600 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0615 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0626 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft, casualty drill. 0626 Shifted steering control to Central, casualty drill. 0650 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0703 Secured from General Quarters. 0709 Shifted steering control to Bridge. 0730 Formed astern of MONTPELIER on base course 110o T. CLEVELAND left the formation to take station as Radar Target. 0746 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0751 Changed speed to 20.5 knots (204 R.P.M.), commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 41 on base course 110o T. & P.G.C., exercising at Radar Tracking Drill, Training Exercise "2-P", CLEVELAND acting as target. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 164.4.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

  

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 41, speed 20 knots (204 R.P.M.). 0830 Held Quarters for muster. 0845 Sighted land bearing 341o T. & P.G.C. 0850 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 110o T. & P.G.C. 0900 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 110o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots. 1045 Fleet changed course and axis to 028o T. & P.G.C. 1105 Fleet changed course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 -16

Steaming as before on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 330o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1259 Fleet course and axis changed to 240o T. & P.G.C. 1330 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1541 Ceased Zig-zagging, and changed Fleet course and axis to 216o T. & P.G.C. 1454 Resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.6.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 216o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1702 Sighted land (North Island, Torres Group) bearing 189o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on course 216o T. & P.G.C., at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1835 Formation changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.), while U.S.S. FLETCHER went alongside U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1840 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1853 Changed formation course and axis to 194o T. & P.G.C., changed formation speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1906 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 194o T. & P.G.C. 1915 General Quarters for dusk alert. 2000 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 163.0.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

20 -24

Steaming as before on base course 194o T. & P.G.C., at 16 knots (161 R.P.M.). 2043 U.S.S. CONWAY reported a target bearing 126o T. distance 7 miles. 2050 Radar reported two targets bearing 140o T. and 125o T. respectively. 2052 U.S.S. NICHOLAS despatched to investigate targets. 2105 Targets identified as two friendly ships. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 156.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

Tuesday, March 9, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 16o 9.8' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 05.9' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Moored to Tanker U.S.S. KANKAKEE

In Berth No. 1, Havannah Harbor,

(Longitude Efate, New Hebrides.

00 -04

Steaming on Fleet Course 190o T. & P.G.C. at fleet speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 in use for steaming purposes. Ship in Readiness Condition II (A.A. Battery), other departments Condition III. Steaming in company with Task Force 68. MONTPELIER guide and SOPA. Cruising Formation No. 3, DENVER in position 1.5-220. 0219 Fleet Course changed to 149o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 154.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 149o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots (162 R.P.M.), Cruising Formation 3, speed to maintain position. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. Sounded Flight Quarters. 0607 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0614 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0642 Made emergency turn to course 066.5o T. & P.G.C. 0646 Made turn right to course 126.5o T. & P.G.C. 0650 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 0658 Secured from General Quarters. 0715 Changed speed of fleet to 20 knots (202 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 -12

Steaming as before on formation course, and axis, 149o T. & P.G.C., at 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0813 Sighted ship and plane bearing 275o T., distance 9 miles, believed to be U.S.S. NAUTILUS. 0830 Mustered crew at Quarters. Made daily inspection of magazine temperatures and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0952 Passed Malikula Island abeam to port, distant 6 miles. 1057 Shifted steering control to Steering Aft, for drill. 1126 Shifted steering control to Central Station. 1140 Shifted steering control to the Bridge. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 197.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 149o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots. Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1403 Signal to commence scheduled exercise was executed. Exercise consisted of A.A. firing at towed sleeve, simulating high level bomber, dive bomber, and torpedo plane. 1406 Ceased Zig-Zag, resumed base course 149o T. & P.G.C. 1410 Cruisers formed column in obedience to signal. 1512 Commenced firing 5" battery, Mounts 1 & 6. 1513 Ceased firing, "H" runs. 1535 Sounded Flight Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 -20

Steaming as before, Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, base course 000o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Commenced firing "T" runs. 1612 Ceased firing, completed exercise. 1614 Ceased Zig-Zag. 1620 Changed course to 112.5o T. & P.G.C. 1626 Catapulted Plane No. 9928, Pilot Ens. D. Allison, passenger Haeling, W. U., ARM3/c. 1628 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1632 Changed course to 050o T. & P.G.C. 1637 Changed course to 110o T. & P.G.C. 1650 Changed speed to 15 knots, commenced steaming on various courses enroute to harbor. Captain at the Conn. 1710 Moored port side to the U.S.S. KANKAKEE in Berth No. 1, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. 1728 Commenced fueling. 1757 Completed fueling, having received 70,162 gals. of fuel oil. Secured main engines. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Wednesday, March 10, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 -04

Moored port side to tanker U.S.S. KANKAKEE in Berth No. 1 in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. No. 4 boiler in use for auxillary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, EONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUAWANNEE, SANGAMON.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0415 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0555 Draft of ship, Forward 24' 1", Aft 24' 5". 0558 Underway enroute to Berth No. 4, Captain at the Conn, Navigator on the Bridge. 0613 Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor. Bearing: Beacon "K" 041.7o T., "B"-"Z" 305o T., "B"-"F" 102.2o T. Ship's head 071o T. 0625 Secured No. 2 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at Quarters. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 The following named men left the ship on temporary shore patrol duty: GIBSON, A. E., CWT; VAN SICKLE, L. W., CM2c; DEBEVIC, M. F., MM2c; DELLAPA, F. S., EM1c; SCHENUNEMANN, L., MoMM2c; MATHESON, P.C., MM2c; HIESTER, A. J., SK2c; MULLINS, J. B., CTC; FRINK, L. A., BM2c; ORTON, J. W. BM2c; EHRINGER, E. BM2c; BENSON, H. R., BM2c; MCLEOD, J. W., BM2c. 1410 Hoisted out Plane No. 13, Pilot Ens. Haseltine, Passenger Lt. (jg) Peery, for routine local flight.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. The following men returned aboard, temporary duty as Shore Patrol having been completed: GIBSON, A. E., CWT; VAN SICKLE, L. W., CM2c; DEBEVIC, M. F., MM2c; DELLAPA, F. S., EM1c; SCHENUNEMANN, L., MoMM2c; MATHESON, P.C., MM2c; HIESTER, A. J., SK2c; MULLINS, J. B., CTC; FRINK, L. A., BM2c; ORTON, J. W. BM2c; EHRINGER, E. BM2c; BENSON, H. R., BM2c; MCLEOD, J. W., BM2c. 1633 Set Modified Condition III on A.A. Battery. 1700 Hoisted aboard No. 13 plane.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before, ship in Readiness Condition III, Modified. Ship darkened.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

Thursday, March 11, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate,

00 - 04

Anchored at Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, Berth No. 4 in 34 fathoms of water, with 75 fathoms of chain on the port anchor. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes. Ship in Readiness Condition III, Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0450 Manned A.A. Battery for dawn alert.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0838 Hoisted out plane No. 13, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, A-V(N) U.S.N.R., passenger Milton S. Doane 628 97 66, Y3/c, V-6, U.S.N.R. 0843 U.S.S. PHILLIPS got underway and stood out. 0855 U.S.S. MC CALLA standing in. 0910 U.S.S. NICHOLAS stood out. 0920 Pursuant to orders of the commanding officer, the following named men left the ship with recreation party as shore patrol: TEN BRINK, Eugene "T". "R". no. 632 12 34, MM1c, V-6 USNR; KNAPP, Walter Burton, no. 393 61 71, EM2c, USN; STONE, John J., PhM1c, to render first aid if necessary. 0937 Fired one no-load shot on starboard catapult. 0940 S.S. GULF BIRD stood in and moored to starboard side of U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 0957 U.S.S. FRAZIER stood in. 1130 Hoisted in Plane No. 13. 1133 Recreation party and above-named men returned aboard.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1300 Pursuant to orders of the commanding officer, the following named men left the ship with recreation party, to act as temporary shore patrol: PIERCE, C. B., GM2c; BROWN, O. D., GM2c, SEAMANS, D. B., GM2c; FINNIN, R., FC2c; TIGHE, T. M., BM2c; JONES, F. K., SC2c, WILSON, E. R., WT1c; PROFITT, S. H., WT1c; GULAS, J. P., MM2c; CHAIDO, P. C., MM2c; McCARTHY, J. R., MM2c; NORTH, O. O., BM1c (in charge). 1145 PETRE, K. W., S2c, 628 65 24 USNR (V-6) received cuts and bruises due to a fall from air aft - first aid was administered in the sick bay. 1315 Fired one no-load shot on port catapult.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

16- 20

Anchored as before. 1730 The shore patrol returned to the ship.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Friday, March 12, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, with bearings on the following beacons: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes. The ship is in Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, WICHITA, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, LOUISVILLE, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, EATON, MEADE, FRAZIER, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, and SANGAMON.

L. J. Tobin

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0450 Manned the 5" Battery for dawn alert. 0700 U.S.S. CONWAY, U.S.S. CONY, U.S.S. WALLER, and U.S.S. EATON standing out.

G. C. Wilson

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

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1303 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 1357 Cut in boiler No. 3 on main line, and let fires die out under No. 4. 1415 S.S. GULF BIRD got underway and stood out. 1421 U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood into harbor and moored alongside U.S.S. KANKAKEE. 1451 U.S.S. CONWAY, CONY, and WALLER stood in and anchored. 1520 U.S.S. PHILLIPS stood in and anchored. 1522 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in and anchored. 1550 Prepared to receive U.S.S. WALLER alongside to port. 1559 U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

16 - 20

Anchored as before with U.S.S. WALLER tied up on our port side.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

R. M. Ash,

Capt. U.S.M.C.

Saturday, March 13, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of cable to the port anchor, on the following bearings of Beacons: "F" 102.3o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship in darkened condition and Readiness Condition III. U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside to port. Ships present: U.S.S. WICHITA (SOPA), COLORADO, MARYLAND, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, DENVER, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, and SANGAMON.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Made weekly test of magazine sprinkling systems. Conditions satisfactory. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0800 Assumed Cruiser Ready Duty. 0817 Hoisted Plane No. 13 over the stern. Pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Stevens, W. G., AM2/c, U.S.N. 0855 WALLER left from alongside. 0905 Hoisted in Plane No. 13. 0920 Hoisted out Plane No. 14, Pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Stevens, W. G., AM2/c, U.S.N. 1050 Hoisted in Plane No. 14.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before, ship with "Ready Duty.". 1208 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE got underway. 1230 Lowered Plane No. 13 overboard, pilot Ens. Allison, passenger Ducote, ARM2/c. 1248 U.S.S. CONY underway, shifted anchorage berth. 1415 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE stood in, berthed starboard side to alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA to fuel. 1546 U.S.S. shifted berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1600 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE got underway from alongside of tanker and proceeded to anchorage. 1615 LOUISVILLE anchored in Berth No. 10. 1631 CONY moored to port side of LOUISVILLE. 1651 The Shore Patrol unit consisting of one officer and two C.P.O.'s returned to the ship, temporary shore patrol duty completed.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

18 - 20

Anchored as before.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Sunday, March 14, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 4, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of cable to the port anchor on the following bearings: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. Ship darkened, in Readiness Condition 2.5. A.A. Battery with "Ready Duty," Condition "B" set. Ships present: U.S.S. COLORADO, MARYLAND, WICHITA (SOPA), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, RIGEL, LACKAWANA, CHENANGO, EDWARDS, LANG, WALLER, PHILLIPS, RENSHAW, CONWAY, CONY, KANKAKEE, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, DENVER. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

0800 Anchored as before. This ship released from Cruiser Ready Duty. U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed Ready Cruiser Duty. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 1000 Daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples made - conditions normal.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. MARYLAND and COLORADO underway and standing out. 1215 DONA-NOTI standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before.

L. J. Tobin

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

20 - 24

Anchored as before.

G. C. Wilson

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

Monday, March 15, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth No. 4

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Efate Island

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18o 03' S.

00 - 04

Anchored in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island in Berth No. 4 in 38 fathoms of water with 75 fathoms of chain out to the port anchor. Bearings of beacons: "F" 102.2o T., "K" 041.7o T., "Z" 305o T. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Material Condition "B" set. Modified Condition No. 3 set. SOPA in the WICHITA. The WALLER alongside to port.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) USNR.

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0637 U.S.S. CONY underway. 0700 U.S.S. WICHITA underway. 0720 Lit off No. 1 and No. 2 boilers.

L. J. Tobin

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

08 -12

Anchored as before. 0805 U.S.S. CONWAY underway. 0815 Held quarters for muster. 0845 U.S.S. PHILLIPS and RENSHAW standing in. 1112 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1120 Let fires die out under No. 1 boiler.

G. C. Wilson

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before with the U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside our port side. 1228 Lighted off boiler No. 1. 1230 Secured boiler No. 2. 1300 Commenced preparations for getting underway. 1330 U.S.S. WALLER got underway. 1402 This ship underway. 1447 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, base course 270o T. & P.G.C., in company with CruDiv 12. Formed column in order MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER and stood out of harbor at various speeds and courses, conforming with channel, Captain and Navigator on the bridge. 1505 Changed course to 225o T. & P.G.C. 1506 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1513 Sounded General Quarters to carry out exercise "1-S", destroyers and then cruisers each in turn firing on towed sleeve simulating high level bombing attack. 1514 Changed speed to 25 knots (256 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 128.6.

J. G. Lightburn

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

16 - 18

At 1600 clocks were set ahead one hour to -12 Zone Time. Steaming as before on course 225o T. & P.G.C. Speed 20 knots, 202 R.P.M. 1600- Clocks were set ahead one hour to zone 12 time. 1728 Changed speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1810 Changed fleet course and axis to 280o T. & P.G.C. 1818 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 218.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 280o T. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1905 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1910 Heavy rain squall, 2000 yd. visibility. 1939 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 280o T., increased visibility. 1945 Commenced scheduled exercises. 1949 Commenced firing 5' and automatic weapons at floating flares. 1952 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced firing. 1953 U.S.S. CLEVELAND ceased firing. 1954 Commenced firing. 1955 Ceased present exercise. 1957 No. 4 mount unloaded through muzzle. Overcast and squally. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lt., D-V(G) USNR.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 280o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (171 R.P.M.). 2003 Secured from General Quarters. 2008 Changed formation course and axis to 330o T. & P.G.C., changed formation speed to 22 knots. 2103 Shifted to No. 2 steering unit, port cable. 2120 Entered very heavy rain squall and electrical storm, visibility 500 yards. 2140 Visibility increased to 1500 yards. 2150 Changed formation speed to 17 knots (171 R.P.M.). 2200 Changed formation course and axis to 270o T. & P.G.C. Formed cruising disposition No. 2. Steering at various courses at various speeds astern of CLEVELAND to take station. 2128 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C. and speed 17 knots (171 R.P.M.), on station. 2330 Changed formation course and axis to 215o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 191.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

Tuesday, March 16, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 01.3' S.

 Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 18o 57.0' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 57.8' S.

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2 in company with Cruiser Division No. 12 and destroyers WALLER, EATON, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW, on base course 215o T. & P.G.C. at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 on the line. Ship darkened, Condition of Readiness 2.5 and Material Condition "B". Fleet guide and SOPA in U.S.S. MONTPELIER. U.S.S. CLEVELAND is our unit guide. 0002 Changed fleet course and axis to 157o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 168.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 157o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0616 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0700 Secured from General Quarters. 0704 Ceased zig-zagging. 0704 Sighted six (6) ships bearing 130o T. & P.G.C. 0705 Changed course to 095o T. & P.G.C. 0717 Changed speed to 22 knots. Commenced steaming on various courses at various speeds to join up with the SARATOGA and accompanying ships of Task Force 14, ComTaskForce 14 in SARATOGA, SOPA and OTC. 0748 In position in formation "1 L" and commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19 on base course 325o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, 202 R.P.M. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 325o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0804 Changed ship's speed to 19 knots. 0810 Set all ship's clocks back one hour to -11 Zone time. 0711 Changed ship's speed to 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 0712 Changed ship's speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 0857 Signal ceased zig-zag and resume base course. 0900 On Signal, changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 0913 On signal, changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 0920 On signal changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 0931 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19, base course 235o T. & P.G.C. 0943 U.S.S. SARATOGA commenced launching aircraft, on course 120o T. & P.G.C., this ship conforming and ceasing zig-zag. 0955 Resumed base course 235o T. & P.G.C., resumed Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Various speeds for station-keeping. 1020 According to plan, U.S.S. SARATOGA dropped bomb into sea. 1026 Changed course to 325o T. & P.G.C. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1034 Formed Cruising Formation I. 1035 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1040 Changed course to 325o T. & P.G.C. 1104 Changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 1110 Changed course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1125 Formed Cruising Formation 1-V. 1137 Changed course to 235o T. & P.G.C. 1146 Changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 1156 Made 360o turn from original head of 055o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 055o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (183 R.P.M.) formation axis 325o T. 1246 Changed formation course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 1256 Shifted to No. 1 steering unit, starboard cable. 1300 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds, exercising at tactical maneuvers with ComTaskForce 14, OTC in SARATOGA. 1335 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1443 Formed Cruising Formation 1-V. 1555 Ceased present exercises. 1559 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1, steadied on course 325o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.9.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation No. 1 on base course 290o T. & P.G.C. at 16 knots (162 R.P.M.) 1616 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 173.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on course 325o T. & P.G.C., Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. Speed 18 knots. 1800 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1857 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 340o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 19, at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 2235 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 340o T. & P.G.C. 2240 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 2250 Resumed zig-zagging on Plan number 19, on base course 250o T. & P.G.C., speed to maintain position in formation 1-L. Light rain squalls during watch. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

At 0000 (Zone Description -12) (1200 March 15, G.C.T.), U.S.S. DENVER (together with CruDiv 12 and ships in company) became part of Task Force 19, Pacific Fleet, attached to the Command of Commander, South Pacific Force (Commander, Third Fleet). At 0717 CruDiv 12 and destroyers in company under Command of Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill, U.S.N., (all ships being regularly assigned to Task Force 19, Sopacfor), in accordance with orders from Comsopacfor, made rendezvous with a detachment of Task Force 14, consisting of U.S.S. SARATOGA, SAN JUAN, FANNING, DUNLAP, CASE, CUMMINGS, McCALL under command of ComTaskForce 14, Rear Admiral D. C. Ramsey, U.S.N., for tactical exercises and indoctrination in carrier task force operations.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Wednesday, March 17, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 01.1' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 19o 10.1' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 17o 35.7' S.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Force 14 and 19, on fleet course 250o T. & P.G.C., fleet axis 325o T. & P.G.C., at fleet speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots, with U.S.S. SARATOGA (O.T.C.), Comtaskfor 19, at fleet center, in formation "1-L". Boilers Nos. 1 & 3 in use. Ship darkened, Condition "B" set, Condition of Readiness III. Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0100 Changed course and fleet course to 160o T. & P.G.C. 0135 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.4.

R. E. MAGOFFIN,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 160o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.) in cruising formation "1-L". 0450 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0500 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0554 Secured from General Quarters. 0609 Ceased zig-zagging, changed fleet course to 135o T. & P.G.C. 0615 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 0657 Ceased zig-zagging. 0712 Changed fleet course to 145o T. & P.G.C. 0712 Changed speed to 14 knots (141 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 171.4.

J. G. LIGHTBURN

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 135o T. & P.G.C. Speed 15 knots, Zig-Zag Plan No. 19. 0947 Ceased zig-zagging. 1000 CruDiv 12 proceeding independently and steaming on various courses to take position in Cruiser Formation No. 2. 1036 In formation, Section No. 2, astern of the CLEVELAND. 1037 Changed to -12 Zone Time. 1140 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10 on base course 335o T. & P.G.C., Speed 17 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 159.4.

K. P. HOULIHAN,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 335o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, at 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1250, Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powders samples, conditions normal. 1253 Shifted to No. 2 unit and port cable. 1458 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 335o T. & P.G.C. 1500 Commenced scheduled exercise 1-L, changed course to 260o T. & P.G.C., speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.), U.S.S. CLEVELAND section leader and guide, U.S.S. CONWAY and U.S.S. EATON escorting. 1511 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, on course 260o T. & P.G.C. as base. 1554 Ceased Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1558 Changed course to 342o T. & P.G.C., speed 21 knots (212 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 11. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.

E. F. BALDWIN,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 342o T. & P.G.C. at speed 21 knots (212 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zaggging in accordance with Plan No. 1, exercise at Radar Tracking Drill, exercise "1-S". 1705 Ceased present exercises. Commenced reforming Cruising Disposition No. 2. Steering various courses at various speeds, steering astern of CLEVELAND. 1726 In position in Cruising Formation No. 2, on fleet course and axis 305o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.). 1730 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 201.

R. E. MAGOFFIN,

Lieutenant Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 305o T. & P.G.C. at speed 17 knots (172 R.P.M.) in cruising formation No. 2. 1833 Changed speed to 16 knots (162 R.P.M.). 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. Changed fleet course and axis to 335o T. & P.G.C. 1911 Commenced to zig-zag in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1926 Ceased zig-zagging. Resumed base course 335o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 166.7.

J. G. LIGHTBURN

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming on course 335o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots. Commencing firing runs, practice "9-L" and "9-S". 2055 Completed exercise. 2058 Secured from General Quarters. 2106 Fleet course and axis changed to 055o T. & P.G.C. Speed 17 knots. 2122 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 2207 Changed speed to 18 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.0.

K. P. HOULIHAN,

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

Thursday, March 18, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 38.9' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in Berth

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude Santos,

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2, base course 055o T. & P.G.C., 045o T. P.S.C., on Zig-Zag Plan No. 10, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.) at speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), using boilers Nos. 1 & 3. Ship in company with U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA) (ComCruDiv 12), U.S.S. COLUMBIA, U.S.S. CLEVELAND, U.S.S. WALLER, U.S.S. PHILLIPS, U.S.S. RENSHAW, U.S.S. CONWAY and U.S.S. EATON. Ship darkened, in Readiness Condition III, and Material Condition "B". 0217 Heavy rain squall of short duration. 0323 Entered heavy rain squall. 0330 TBS signal of radar contact bearing 105o T., changed course to 355o T. & P.G.C., ceased zig-zag on Plan No. 10. 0335 TBS signal, changed course to 015o T. & P.G.C. 0345 changed course to 055o T. & P.G.C. 0349 Changed speed to conform to position to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0351 U.S.S. RENSHAW reported "Contact negat". Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 175.7.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on formation course 055o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 0448 Radar contact of land bearing 020o T. to 028o T., distant 22.5 miles. 0528 Radar bearing on nearest point of land 007o T., distant 23000 yds. 0545 General Quarters for dawn alert. 0551 Changed formation course to 065o T. & P.G.C. 0603 Flight Quarters to bring up one plane. 0614 Changed speed to 10 knots to form Cruising Formation No. 1, steering various courses. 0639 On course 090o T. & P.G.C. in Cruising Formation No. 1, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0645 Secured from General Quarters. 0700 Changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. by section column. 0717 Changed formation course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0720 Launched Plane No. 14 to port from Port Catapult, for anti-submarine patrol, pilot Ensign D. Allison, passenger Rasmussen, A. F. RM3/c, U.S.N.R. 0722 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, on base course 000o T. 0729 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0730 Set special sea details and anchoring detail. Made all preparations for entering port. 0733 Formed Division column formation. 0739 Commenced following motions of column leader conforming to channel, entering Pekoa Channel at Esirpitu Santo Island, New Hebrides. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 155.8.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before steering various courses to conform with the channel, Captain conning, Navigator on the bridge. 0900 Set all clocks back 1 hour to -11 time zone. 0825 Moored port side to U.S.S. KANAWHA in Berth No. 34. 0855 Commenced fueling from U.S.S. KANAWHA. 1004 Completed fueling (123984 gal.). 1017 Got underway shifting to Berth No. 15. 1102 Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santos, New Hebrides with 60 fathoms of chain to port anchor in 21 fathoms of water. Ship's head 319o T., bearings as follows: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., and "F" 183o T. 1107 Secured main engines. 1102 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1 to be used for auxiliary purposes. 1116 Secured boiler No. 2. 1125 Secured boiler No. 3. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 50.7.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Anchored as before. 1612 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 1645 Provision barge YF247 moored alongside on starboard quarter. 1725 U.S.S. JOHN PENN, U.S.S. TANSER, U.S.S. CLYMER, U.S.S. ALGORAB stood into harbor and anchored. 1745 U.S.S. FLUSSER, U.S.S. PREBLE, U.S.S. SC747 and SC745 and H75 stood in and anchored. 1800 Received 20 catapult charges.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Anchored as before. 1820 Received 20 catapult charges from the U.S.S. DIXIE.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2140 Tug came alongside of lighter YF247. 2212 Launch came alongside with 6" H.C. projectiles and commenced unloading same. 2240 Second launch came alongside with 6" H.C. projectiles from U.S.S. RANIER and commenced unloading. 2244 Lighter YF247 left from alongside. 2340 Launch arrived alongside with 6" powder from U.S.S. RAINIER and commenced unloading.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

Friday, March 19, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude Anchored in

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude Espiritu

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude New

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in 21 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor, on the following bearings: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., and "F" 183o T. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONWAY, WALLER, EATON, PHILLIPS, DENVER, GANSEVOORT, AARON WARD, RENSHAW, MAURY, DIXIE, CURTIS, TANGIER, and various other transports, oilers, and supply ships and small craft. Receiving dry stores from YF247 lighter aft, and ammunition from U.S.S. RAINIER forward and aft. Rain squalls throughout watch. 0230 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0255 Let fires die out under No. 2 boiler.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0525 Set Condition I in A.A. Battery. 0620 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2 to boost steam pressure. 0643 Let fires die out under boiler No. 2. 0632 U.S.S. TALAMANCA stood out. 0653 U.S.S. PREBLE stood out. 0707 U.S.S. FLUSSER stood out. 0725 U.S.S. LAMSON stood out.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

08 - 12

Anchored as before. Mustered crew on station. 0855 Set Condition III in A.A. Battery. 1105 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1315 U.S.S. ROAMER standing in.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Anchored as before. 1612 Mine Layer U.S.S. SALEM stood in to anchorage. Received balance 6" ammunition.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Anchored as before. 2310 Commenced receiving provisions aboard from the U.S.S. ROAMER.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

Saturday, March 20, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 15o 26.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 14o 37' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 13o 21.4' S.

00 - 04

Anchored in Berth No. 15, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, in 20 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor. Bearings: Beacon "E" 002.5o T., "G" 294o T., "F" 183o T. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (SOPA), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, FLETCHER, CONWAY, EATON, WALLER, PHILLIPS, CANSEVOORT, AARON WARD, TANGIER, RENSHAW, MAURY, DIXIE, CURTIS, and various other transports, tankers and supply ships. 0055 Completed receiving provisions. 0102 Three launches left the ship to be returned to boat pool. 0315 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Anchored as before. 0510 Made preparations for getting underway. 0530 Tested main engines. 0600 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0609 Got underway from Berth No. 15, Pekoa Channel, Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides in company with CruDiv 12, and destroyers EATON, CONWAY, WLLER, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW; Captain at Conn, Navigator and Executive Officer on bridge, standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds. 0627 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 0645 Let fires die out under No. 3 boiler. Standing out on course 163o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). 0645.5 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0653 Changed course to 152o T. & P.G.C. 0656 Changed course to 085o T. & P.G.C. 0657 Changed speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0700 Secured special sea details. 0703 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two, speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.). 0705 Changed speed to 13 knots (131 R.P.M.). 0706 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 0711 Changed course and axis to 060o T. & P.G.C. 0714 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 10. 0724 Secured from Flight Quarters, one plane 30 minutes readiness and on plane 90 minutes readiness. 0742 Ceased zig-zag, resumed base course 060o T. & P.G.C. 0745 On signal, changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 0756 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 10, course 000o T. & P.G.C. as base, speed 18 knots (181 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

08 - 12

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation No. 2, zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 000o T. & P.G.C. at 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0810 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0812 Formed anti-aircraft disposition "J-1". 0815 Sounded General Quarters to exercise at repelling aircraft attack. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. 0822 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 0830 Commenced steering various courses at various speeds using avoiding tactics and exercising anti-aircraft battery. Approximately 28 fighter planes exercising, using ships in formation as dive bombing and strafing targets. 0925 Commended zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course and axis 000o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.). Fighter planes proceeded back to base. 0937 Secured from General Quarters except for anti-aircraft battery, and set condition III. Anti-Aircraft battery standing by to fire high level bombing practice and torpedo practice using sleeve towed by PBY plane. 1000 Set all clocks ahead one hour to Zone -12 Time. 1115 PBY Plane with sleeve target sighted. 1120 Destroyers in screen commenced firing. Sleeve shot down. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 207.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots using Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 1200.5 Destroyer ceased firing. 1239 Set Condition III, Watch 4 in the A.A. Battery. Due to plane having engine trouble scheduled firing exercises were cancelled. 1241 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 310o T. & P.G.C. 1246 Changed speed to 23 knots, changed course to 285o T. & P.G.C., maneuvering to take station in Cruising Formation 2. 1303 Resumed base course 310o T. & P.G.C. and commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 5 and speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). MONTPELIER (SOPA) guide of detachment and also of first section: U.S.S. CLEVELAND guide of second section. 1330 Made daily inspection of magazines & smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 184.9.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 -20

Steaming as before on base course 310o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) on Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. 1900 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert. 1956 Secured from General Quarters. On signal at 2000, changed course to 355o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.3.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 355o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 5. 2100 Shifted steering unit to port cable, Unit No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.2.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

This detachment of Task Force 19 having fueled, provisioned and rearmed to maximum practicable extent at Espiritu Santo put to sea under command of Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill (ComCruDiv 12) for exercises and indoctrination and operations as directed from time to time by Commander, Third Fleet.

ROBT. B. CARNEY,

Captain, U.S.N.,

Commanding.

Sunday, March 21, 1943 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 20.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 54.1' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16.1' S.

00 -04

Steaming in Cruising Formation No. 2 with CruDiv 12 and destroyers EATON, WALLER, CONWAY, PHILLIPS and RENSHAW. Fleet course 355o T. & P.G.C., fleet speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). Standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). U.S.S. MONTPELIER is fleet guide (SOPA) and first section guide, U.S.S. COLUMBIA second ship in column in first section; U.S.S. CLEVELAND guide of second section, U.S.S. DENVER second in column maintaining station on unit guide, distance 1000 yds. Interval between units 2000 yds. Boilers Nos. 2 & 4 are on the line. Ship darkened, Material Condition "B" set. Ship in Condition of Readiness III. 0000 Changed fleet course & axis to 045o T. & P.G.C. 0001 Changed speed 23 knots (232 R.P.M.). 0011 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0012 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 5. 0025 Ceased zig-zagging. 0030 Changed fleet course & axis to 095o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0040 Reduced speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0040 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 095o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots, Zig-Zag Plan No. 5. 0545 Sounded General Quarters for dawn alert. 0700 Launched Plane No. 7, Pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger Ducote, ARM/2c. 0702 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.7.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lt. D-V(G) U.S.N.R. 

08 -12

Steaming as before in Cruising Formation Two on base course 095o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 5, speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0804 Changed course to 135o T. & P.G.C., speed to 23 knots (234 R.P.M.). 0810 Manned all automatic weapons and A.A. Batteries. Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 19. 0812 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 0836 Commenced firing 40 MM. and 20 MM. at sleeve. 0920 Ceased zig-zag, returned to base course 135o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Signal, changed course to 315o T. & P.G.C. from run by station units. 0948 Set Condition III in machine gun battery. 0950 Shifted steering to No. 2 unit, port cable. 1000 Held divine services. 1006 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 19, base course 135o T. & P.G.C. 1015 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1045 Launched one plane from port catapult, pilot Ens. D. Allison, U.S.N.R., passenger, Healing, W. J., ARM3/c, U.S.N.R., No. 646-40-23. 1107 Signal, ceased zig-zag, resumed base course 135o T. & P.G.C. Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1112 Changed course to 045o T. & P.G.C. 1113 Changed speed to 12 knots (121 R.P.M.). 1117 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 7. 1118 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), changed course to 135o T. & P.G.C. 1130 Changed speed to 23 knots(234 R.P.M.) and course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1138 Commenced zig-zag Plan No. 19, base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1150 changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.). 1158 Ceased zig-zag, resumed course 180o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & P.G.C. at formation speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1203 Changed formation course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1213 Changed formation course to 240o T. & P.G.C. Steaming at various speeds. 1240 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19 on base course 240o T. & P.G.C. at speed 18 knots. 1259 Ceased zig-zag and resumed base course. 1308 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 19. 1338 Formed column astern of U.S.S. MONTPELIER, preparatory to conduction Exercise No. 16. 1338 Changed speed to 15 knots (151 R.P.M.). 1351 Changed speed to 18 knots (182 R.P.M.) 1400 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1410 Commenced scheduled exercise, Exercise No. 16, Radar Calibration exercise for 6" and 5" battery. 1414 U.S.S. RENSHAW commenced firing. 1431 Launched Plane No. 7 to port from port catapult, pilot Ens. W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer Rasmussen, W. J., ARM1/c. Commenced steering various courses at various speeds maintaining station in column. 1509 Recovered Plane No. 8 to port by "C" method, pilot Ens. A. Allison, U.S.N.R., observer Healing, W. J. ARM3/c. 1525 U.S.S. EATON commenced firing. 1527 All hands to General Quarters to conduct 6" and 5" firing. 1544 U.S.S. PHILLIPS commenced firing. 1558 U.S.S. MONTPELIER commenced firing. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U.S.N.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 280o T. & P.G.C. at formation speed 18 knots. Engaged in Exercise No. 16. 1634 Changed course to 320o T. & P.G.C. 1650 U.S.S. CLEVELAND commenced and 1711 ceased firing. 1718 This ship commenced firing 6" battery. 1720 This ship commenced firing 5" battery. 1738 This ship ceased firing. 1740 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III.

Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 189.1.

J. G. Lightburn

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 320o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M). 1822 Ceased present exercises. 1848 Recovered plane No. 7, "C" method. 1900 Sounded General Quarters. 2000 Secured from General Quarters. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 176.4.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Change course to 330o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (182 R.P.M), on signal. 2010 Resumed zig-zag on Plan No. 19 on base course 330o T. & P.G.C. 2025 Ceased zig-zag, resumed base course. 2030 Signalled change, changed course and axis to 295o T. & P.G.C. 2040 Commenced zig-zag on Plan No. 19. 2300 U.S.S. COLUMBIA developed engine trouble and fell astern out of formation with U.S.S. RENSHAW designated as escort. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 177.8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

Monday, March 22, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 04.5' S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 16' S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. - (Latitude 12o 31.4' S.