DECK LOG BOOK & WAR DIARY

CONDENSED






USS DENVER

CL 58




JUNE 1, 1943

TO

JUNE 30, 1943

Tuesday, June 1, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides,

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5, in 35 fathoms of water with the starboard chain in use, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. The ship is darkened and in Modified Condition of Readiness III, with Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 1 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, MARYLAND (SOPA and Ready Duty), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, WALLER, PHILIP, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, BREESE, CHESTNUT, MEDUSA, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, YA-290, SC 514, APC 38.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed "Ready Duty". 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters, no absentees. 0830 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lieut. (jg) Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer, HAELING, J., ARM3c, U.S.N. and plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer, FRITZ, F .F. ARM3c, U.S.N. 1052 Hoisted in Plane No. 7. 1057 Hoisted in Plane No. 8. 1102 U.S.S. SC 700 standing in. 1130 - Inspected magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1710 - The temporary shore patrol with SUTTON, Boyd W., GM1c, USN, #3164863, in charge returned aboard.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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


Wednesday, June 2, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Latitude 17o 35.8' S.; Longitude 168o 14.1' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Latitude 17o 43.0' S.; Longitude 167o 52.2' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. No. 1 boiler is in use for auxiliary purposes; ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness III (Modified) with Condition "B" set through. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, PHILIP, SAUFLEY, LANG, RENSHAW, MEDUSA, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, and various other yard and district craft. U.S.S. MONTPELIER has the cruiser "Ready Duty".

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. The following Army observers came aboard: Captain O. C. EDWARDS, U.S. ARMY; CAPTAIN K. C. GRAY, U.S. ARMY; and First Lieutenant G. W. HERBERTSON, U.S. ARMY. 0445 Lighted off Boiler No. 4. 0630 SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 0720 RENSHAW underway and standing out. 0730 Underway from Berth No. 5 in company with U.S.S. COLUMBIA, SAUFLEY, and RENSHAW, the Executive Officer at the Conn, the Captain and Navigator on the bridge. Maneuvering at various courses and speeds to conform to the harbor and channel, standard speed 15 knots, (153 R.P.M.). 0755 Launched Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c for anti-submarine patrol. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 104.2.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on various courses, conforming to channel, at standard speed 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). 0800 - Mustered crew on station - no absentees. 0804 Passed U.S.S. ARCTIC abeam to starboard in channel. 0805 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 0812 Secured anchor and special sea details. 0815 Formed Cruising Formation I, base course 270o T. & P.G.C. 0821 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 16. 0850 Took station 2000 yds. astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA in preparation for firing runs. 0900 Commenced Exercise No. 1. 0932 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to course 270o T. & P.G.C. 0944 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10, speed 17 knots (173 R.P.M.). 1015 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course 270o T. & P.G.C. 1017 Commenced counter-march to the fight to course 090o T. & P.G.C. 1028 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1054 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed course 090o T. & P.G.C. 1100 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 16. 1112 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 090o T. & P.G.C. 1124 Took station 1000 yds. astern of COLUMBIA. 1129 Completed Exercise No. 1. 1130 Sounded flight quarters. 1132 Commenced Exercise No. 2. 1139 Commenced counter-march to the left to course 270o T. & P.G.C. 1154 Completed Exercise No. 2. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 181.9.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 210o T. & P.G.C., speed 17 knots (173 R.P.M.). 1200 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. Launched Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. B. K. English, U.S.N.R., observer DUCOTE, ARM2c. Ceased Exercise No. 2. 1200 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1204 Commenced scheduled Exercise No. 3. 1238 Sounded General Quarters for Exercise No. 4, changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1240 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 1247 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. 1249 Changed course to 200o T. & P.G.C. 1250 Changed speed to 17 knots (173 R.P.M.), changed course to 300o T. & P.G.C. 1251 Changed course to 275o T. & P.G.C. 1254 Changed speed to 16 knots (165 R.P.M.). 1259 Commenced firing to starboard. 1304 Shifted steering units from No. 1 to No. 2. 1315 Completed main battery firing. 1322 Commenced 5" battery firing. 1327 Ceased firing, completed exercise, No. 4. 1330 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1339 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 1340 COLUMBIA commenced firing. SAUFLEY commenced firing. 1412. Changed course to 023o T. & P.G.C. 1414 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 R.P.M.) and proceeded to rejoin COLUMBIA. On signal, ceased present exercises. 1415 On signal, formed cruising formation I. 1416 Changed course to 032o T. & P.G.C. 1428 Changed course to 041o T. & P.G.C. 1431 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.), changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1443 U.S.S. COLUMBIA took station astern of DENVER for Exercise No 5. 1445 Fired one round 5" to starboard. 1446 On Signal, changed course to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1450 On signal commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1520 On signal, ceased zig-zagging. 1529 Changed course to 100o T. & P.G.C., speed to 10 knots (102 R.P.M. to resume station astern of COLUMBIA, U.S.S. COLUMBIA remaining on course 080o T. & P.G.C. 1529½ Changed course to 080o T. & P.G.C. 1530 Stationed details for entering port. 1532½ Changed course to 060o T. & P.G.C. on signal. 1533 Changed speed to 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). 1534 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.), took station astern U.S.S. COLUMBIA. 1543 On signal to proceed independently, changed course to 070o T. & P.G.C. and speed to 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). 1555 Changed course to 060o T. & P.G.C. 1556 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 1558 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 188.2.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 20

Steaming as before on course 090o T. & P.G.C. at 20 knots (203 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.), proceeding independently into Havannah Harbor, Efate, New Hebrides Group. 1609 Changed speed to 15 knots (152 R.P.M.), entering channel. 1637 COLUMBIA moored port side to tanker, U.S.S. KASKASKIA, to fuel. 1643 Moored port side to tanker, U.S.S. LACKAWANNA, in Berth No. 7 to fuel. 1650 Commenced taking on fuel oil and aviation gasoline. 1700 The following Army observers left the ship: Captain K. C. Gray, U.S. Army, Captain J. H. Teunisson, U.S. Army, and First Lt. G. W. Herbertson, U.S. Army. 1724 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway, to proceed to berth. 1728 Underway from alongside tanker LACKAWANNA, on various courses at various speeds, proceeding to mooring. The Executive Officer at the Conn, the Captain and Navigator on the bridge. 1742 U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored. 1754 Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water, starboard anchor chain to buoy. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 123.6.

R. E. Magoffin,

Lt. Cdr., U. S. Navy.

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2105 Captain O. C. Edwards, U.S. Army left the ship.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 


Thursday, June 3, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides Group.

00 - 04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, in 35 fathoms of water in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 4 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, in Condition of Readiness III, modified, and in Material Condition "B". Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, LAND, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, WALKER, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, ARTIC, HEATH HEN (AMCG), INDUSTRY (AMCB6) SC700 PC476 and various yard and district craft. The U.S.S. CHENANGO has the ready duty.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0558 U.S.S. LANG underway. 0604 - Pursuant to the order of the Commanding Officer, YOUNG, LORNE Edward, BM2c, USN, #368 31 66, left the ship for temporary patrol duty at the trash disposal area. 0735 - The Marine landing party of 35 men, 2 officers, and 1 hospital corpsman left the ship with Captain ASH, USMC in charge. 0745 Set Condition 2.5 in the A.A. battery in preparation for assuming Cruiser "Ready Duty".

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 This ship assumed Cruiser "Ready Duty". 0801 U.S.S. STACK underway, going alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA. 0813 U.S.S. NESHANTIC standing in. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 0816 U.S.S. PRINGLE standing in. 0845 hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, passenger OBERWISE, AOM1c. 0924 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway from tanker, going to berth. 1110 Hoisted out one plane, No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger PEARCE, D. R., Aerm2c. 1120 Hoisted in Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, passenger, OBERWISE, AOM1c. 1140 - The relief trash working party (4 men) left the ship to proceed to trash disposal area. EHRINGER, E. F., BM2c, USN, #250 48 73, left the ship to patrol trash disposal area and supervise working party. 1145 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder tests. Conditions normal.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1210 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 8. 1214 - YOUNG, Lorne Edward, BM2c, USN, #368 31 66, returned to the ship, the temporary patrol duty having been completed.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1736 U.S.S. SAUFLEY and U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in to berths.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Moored as before.

E. E. Ball, Jr.,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Friday, June 4, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, in 35 fathoms of water, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island. Boiler No. 1 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened and in Condition 2.5 in anti-aircraft battery, Condition III throughout the rest of ship; Condition "B" is set. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SAUFLEY, RENSHAW, WALLER, PRINGLE, STACK, PHILIP, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, ARTIC, NESHANTIC, and various other yard and district craft. U.S.S. DENVER has the ready duty.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0600 U.S.S. PHILIP underway, shifted berths. 0607 U.S.S. LANG, SAUFLEY, WALLER and RENSHAW underway, stood out. 0634 U.S.S. CHENANGO and SUWANNEE underway, stood out.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 Set Modified Condition III. COLORADO assumed "Ready Duty". 0800 - Mustered crew on station - no absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 0815 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lieut. English, passenger DUCOTE, ARM2c; Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) ANDREWS, passenger FRITZ, RM3c, for routine flight. 1100 Hoisted in Planes Nos. 7 and 8.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - Temporary shore patrol left the ship with REA, R. W., #316 53 76, GM1c, USN, in charge. 1340 Lighted off No. 3 boiler. 1400 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway. 1550 Following ships standing in: U.S.S. WALLER, CHENANGO, SUWANNEEE. 1550 Secured No. 4 boiler.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. Temporary shore patrol returned aboard, upon completion of temporary duty. 1600 U.S.S. WALLER moored alongside the U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1601 U.S.S. RENSHAW standing in. 1610 U.S.S. SAUFLEY standing in. 1612 U.S.S. CHENANGO anchored. 1613 U.S.S. SUWANNEE moored. 1617 U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside LACKAWANNA. 1633 U.S.S. WALLER underway from tanker and assumed submarine listening buoy watch at the entrance to harbor. 1700 U.S.S. RENSHAW anchored in Berth No. 13. 1730 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, A-V(N), U.S.N.R., observer HAELING, W., ARM3c, U.S.N. 1735 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), U.S.N.R., observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, USN. 1750 Captain returned aboard.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2045 Hoisted Plane No. 7 aboard. 2050 Hoisted Plane No. 8 aboard.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 


Saturday, June 5, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5 in 35 fathoms of water, starboard chain to buoy, in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, and in Condition III of Readiness and Material Condition "B". U.S.S. COLORADO has "Ready Duty". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv TWELVE), DENVER, PHILIP, STERETT, ARTIC, MEDUSA, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO and various small base craft. Partially overcast with occasional light rain squalls.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0610 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway. 0640 U.S.S. MC CALL standing in. 0700 Following ships standing out: U.S.S. SAUFLEY, MC CALL, WALLER; 0730 Following ships standing out: U.S.S. SUWANNEE, CHENANGO.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. MARYLAND assumed "Ready Duty". 0819 U.S.S. ARCTIC underway and standing out. 0841 PC 476 underway and moored in assigned berth. 0930 - Mustered crew at quarters for Captain's inspection of personnel and upper and lower decks. 0935 U.S.S. STERETT underway. 0950 U.S.S. STERETT moored in assigned berth. 1037 PC 476 underway to moor alongside U.S.S. PHILIP.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. At 1520 U.S.S. LANG, WALLER, SUWANNEE, and CHENANGO stood in to anchor. At 1520 SC 654 stood out.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

 


Sunday, June 6, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 35 fathoms of water, starboard chain to buoy. No. 3 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened, in Readiness Condition III and in Material Condition "B". U.S.S. MARYLAND has the "Ready Duty". Ships present: MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (Comcrudiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MEDUSA, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, CHENANGO, SUWANNEE, WALLER, STERETT, PHILIP, SAUFLEY, and RENSHAW.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. At 0755 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Andrews, observer DUCCOTE, ARM2c. At 0758 Hoisted out Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, observer, HEALY, ARM2c.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 0923 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway. 1015 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1110 Hoisted both planes aboard.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1210 - Temporary shore patrol left ship. 1500 Hoisted in Plane No. 8.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 


Monday, June 7, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy in Berth No. 5, in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water. The ship is in a modified Condition III, Material Condition "B" is set throughout the ship, and the ship is darkened. Boiler No. 3 is in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. MONTPELIER has the cruiser "Ready Duty". Ships present are: MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, DENVER, CLEVELAND, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, PHILIP, RENSHAW, WALLER, LANG, STERETT, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, and MEDUSA.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0747 U.S.S. LASSEN standing in. 0758 U.S.S. WALLER underway and standing out.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. DM 18 stood in. 0815 U.S.S. LASSEN anchored in assigned berth. 0816 U.S.S. DM 18 moored alongside Tanker, U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 0837 Hoisted out Plane No. 7 and Plane No. 8 for navigational flights. 0841 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA underway. 0855 U.S.S. DM 18 underway from alongside tanker, U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 0859 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA moored alongside the U.S.S. CHENANGO. 0907 U.S.S. BREESE underway and shifting berths. 0948 U.S.S. PRINGLE standing in. 1000 U.S.S. PRINGLE moored alongside tanker U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1140 HOISTED IN Planes No. 7 and 8. 1147 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA underway from alongside U.S.S. CHENANGO.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1237 The PRINGLE underway and standing out to assume submarine listening duty. 1300 Hoisted out two planes, No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger, Lt. J. Lightburn; No. 8, pilot Lt. English, passenger, CERANAK, AMM3c. 1335 Pursuant to orders from Commander Task Force NINETEEN (ComSoPac of June 5, 1943), REMBERT, James, accredited representative of the Associated Press, reported aboard in connection with his duties as a war press correspondent, accredited to the Commander South Pacific. 1424 The WALLER and RENSHAW standing in. 1445 Hoisted aboard Planes No. 7 and 8. 1526 The RENSHAW moored alongside to port.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1710 - Temporary shore patrol returned aboard having completed its temporary shore patrol.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 


Tuesday, June 8, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Underway in Havannah Harbor, proceeding to Berth No 15 to Moor Alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15 alongside U.S.S.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( MEDUSA, in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, in 35 fathoms of water, starboard chain to buoy, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Modified Condition III set, and Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored starboard side to, to port. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, (Ready Duty), COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, MEDUSA, PHILIP, LANG, WALLER, RENSHAW, STERETT, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, LASSEN, and various district craft.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0500 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler. 0608 PHILIP underway and standing out. 0614 SAUFLEY standing in. 0646 RENSHAW underway from alongside. 0652 WALLER UNDERWAY. 0721 MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, and COLUMBIA underway and standing out. 0754 Underway from Berth No. 5, Captain at the Conn and Navigator on the bridge.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming on various courses and speeds going alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA. At 0817 moored starboard side to U.S.S. MEDUSA in Havannah Harbor in Berth No. 15 with 7 wire hawsers. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. 0830 - Mustered crew on stations - no absentees. At 0855 died out fires under No. 2 boiler. 0900 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer, PEARCE, D. R., AerM2c. At 0910 commenced taking on ammunition. At 0914 U.S.S. WALLER stood in. At 0930 U.S.S. SANGAMON stood in and anchored. At 1045 hoisted in Plane No. 7.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1204 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 1 from U.S.S. MONTPELIER for fueling. 1215 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 4 from CLEVELAND for fueling. 1220 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 5 from COLUMBIA for fueling. 1237 LANG underway standing out. 1244 CONWAY underway, standing out. 1246 EATON underway, standing out. 1250 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1300 CONVERSE moored alongside COLORADO. 1302 SUWANNEE underway, standing out. 1304 WALLER underway, standing out. 1330 Hoisted out Plane No. 4 from CLEVELAND. 1345 Hoisted out Plane No. 1 from MONTPELIER. 1400 Hoisted out Plane No. 5 from COLUMBIA. 1516 U.S.S. WILSON stood in, moored alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. Received aboard following ammunition: 264 rounds 6"/47 powder, SPD 3604, flashless pellets added; 650 rounds 5"/38 powder, SPDN3968, flashless pellets added; 10 catapult charges, no load. Transferred to U.S.S. LASSEN 540 rounds 5'/38 smokeless powder, various indexes. 1625 U.S.S. WILSON moored to port side.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Wednesday, June 9, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA, in Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

 

00 - 04

Moored starboard side to port side of U.S.S. MEDUSA in Berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water, with the following lines: Starboard chain to buoy, bow and stern lines, two crossed bow springs, one forward quarter spring and one quarter breast line. The U.S.S. WILSON is moored starboard side to our port side. The ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness is a modified Condition III and Material Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. The U.S.S. COLORADO has the "Ready Duty". Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, DENVER, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE, STACK, STERETT, WILSON, CONVERSE, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, PC 476, MEDUSA, and LASSEN.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

08 -12

Moored as before. U.S.S. MARYLAND assumed "Ready Duty". 0815 U.S.S. STACK underway, standing out. 0927 U.S.S. WALLER underway, standing out. 1031 U.S.S. STACK stood in to anchorage.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 -16

Moored as before. Made daily inspection of smokeless powder samples; conditions normal. The official accounts of the Assistant for Disbursing Officer, Lt., J. W. CARTEE, (SC), USN, were inspected by the Supply Officer, Lt. Commander C. FADEM, (SC), USN, and found in good order. 1235 MARYLAND and COLORADO underway. COLORADO standing out to sea. MARYLAND exercising in harbor. SANGAMON assumed ready duty. SOPA in SANGAMON. 1400 MARYLAND stood in; SOPA in MARYLAND. 1415 COLORADO stood in and assumed ready duty.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. 1652 Commenced receiving ammunition from lighter. 1940 Completed receiving ammunition and the lighter left from alongside.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

On this date commenced 8-day period of availability alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA for the controlling purpose of overhauling steering unit No. 1.

 


Thursday, June 10, 1943

 

Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside U.S.S.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) MEDUSA in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored in Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, starboard side to the U.S.S. MEDUSA in berth No. 15, 35 fathoms of water; the U.S.S. WILSON is moored to our port side; boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes; ship is darkened; modified Condition III and Condition "B" have been set. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO (Ready Duty), SANGAMON, CHENANGO, PRINGLE, STERETT, WILSON, MEDUSA, LASSEN, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, and various other yard and district craft.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

08 -12

Moored as before. The Chenango assumed the "Ready Duty". 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 0830 Hoisted out two planes, No. 7 Lt. English, U.S.N.R., passenger Captain Robt. B. Carney, U.S.N.; No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Lt. Cdr. Kurtz, U.S.N.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1300 - Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1407 Hoisted in Plane No. 7 pilot Lt. English, U.S.N.R., passenger Captain Robt. B. Carney, U.S.N. 1411 Hoisted in Plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger Lt. Cdr. Kurtz, U.S.N. 1420 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA underway from alongside U.S.S. SUWANNEE. 1453 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA anchored at berth No. 7. 1453 U.S.S. STACK underway standing out.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. 1700 - The shore patrol returned aboard from temporary duties ashore. 1703 U.S.S. MONTPELIER standing in; 1720 U.S.S. MONTPELIER moored to KASKASKIA. 1708 U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1717 U.S.S. CLEVELAND stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1720 Captain left the ship to call upon ComTaskForce NINETEEN. 1740 The following destroyers stood in: U.S.S SAUFLEY, PHILIP, PRINGLE. 1900 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway to assigned berth. 1915 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway to assigned berth.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 


Friday, June 11, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA in Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

00 - 04

Moored in Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, New Hebrides, starboard side to by seven wires to U.S.S. MEDUSA and by starboard chain in, 35 fathoms of water to buoy in berth No. 15. U.S.S. WILSON moored to port side. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in modified Condition of Readiness III. Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Ships present as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, PRINGLE, STERETT, PHILIP, WILSON, SAUFLEY, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, LASSEN, MEDUSA, CHESTNUT, HEATH HEN, PC476, SC 514, and various small base craft. Weather overcast.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0718 Captain left the ship to attend the funeral services for the late Captain Leighton Wood, U.S. Navy. 0742 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and standing out.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

08 -12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. SANAGMON assumed "Ready Duty". 0805 Commenced furnishing electric power to U.S.S. WILSON, moored alongside. 0809 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway, standing out. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 0925 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 0954 U.S.S. STACK stood in and anchored.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1315 - Commenced inspection of holds, lower decks and storerooms. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1400 Hoisted out Plane No 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, U.S.N.R. 1518 Hoisted in Plane No. 7.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

 

16 -20

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 


Saturday, June 12, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA in Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

 

00 - 04

Moored starboard side to U.S.S. MEDUSA with six wire hawsers and the starboard chain to buoy in berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water. U.S.S. WILSON moored to our port side, receiving steam, and electric power. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Condition of Readiness III, modified and material Condition "B". Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, PRINGLE, STERETT, PHILIP, WILSON, STACK, MEDUSA, CHESTNUT, LASSEN, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, PC 476, SC 514 and various district craft.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 - Held quarters for muster - absentees: none; Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 0825 CHENANGO and GULF STAR underway to shift berths. 0830 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) ANDREWS, U.S.N.R., passenger PEARCE, AerM2c for aerological flight. 1110 MONTPELIER stood in and moored. 1112 PHILIP stood in and moored alongside KASKASKIA.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1240 - Shore patrol left the ship for temporary duty ashore. 1525 GULF STAR shifted berths and moored alongside LACKAWANNA.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. 1620 - Temporary shore patrol returned to ship.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Sunday, June 13, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

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

 

00 - 04

Moored starboard side to U.S.S. MEDUSA in berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water, with six wire hawsers and starboard chain in use. The U.S.S. WILSON is moored alongside to port and is being supplied with steam and electricity by the U.S.S. DENVER. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship is darkened and in modified Condition III of Readiness and in Material Condition "B". Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA (Ready Duty), DENVER, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, MEDUSA, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, LASSEN, WILSON, STACK, PHILIP, PRINGLE, CHESTNUT, GULF STAR, and various small craft.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0617 U.S.S. GULF STAR underway and standing out.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed ready duty. 0914 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and standing out. 0940 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in and at 1020 anchored. 1140 P.C. 476 standing in. 1153 Secured steam connection to U.S.S. WILSON.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1243 - Pursuant to the Orders of the Commanding Officer, the temporary shore patrol left the ship with HOLLAND, I. W., GM1c, USN, #375 95 81, in charge. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples; conditions normal. 1315 PC 476 shifted berths. 1455 Ceased giving electrical power to U.S.S. WILSON.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1707 - The temporary shore patrol returned aboard and resumed their regular duties. 1850 Lit Off No. 1 boiler. 1910 Planes were degassed.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2035 Cut in Boiler No. 1 for auxiliary purposes. 2044 Secured boiler No. 3.

A. E. Gross,

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

 


Monday, June 14, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA ,Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored in berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor , Efate, starboard side to U.S.S. MEDUSA chain to buoy and forward and aft lines to the MEDUSA. WILSON moored alongside to. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III of and Material Condition "B". The CLEVELAND has the "Ready Duty". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SANGAMON, CHENANGO, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, LASSEN, WILSON, STACK, PHILIP, SAUFLEY, and PRINGLE. 0005 Commenced receiving ammunition form Lighter. 0140 Ammunition Lighter left from alongside. 0210 Completed stowage of ammunition.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0715 U.S.S. CHENANGO underway. 0756 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

08 -12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. WILSON underway. U.S.S. PRINGLE underway. 0800 - Firefighter school party left the ship, Lt. R. H. GOEBEL, in charge. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 0830 Hoisted out both planes. 0832 U.S.S. STACK underway. 0920 U.S.S. CHENANGO underway. 1045 - Firefighter school party returned to the ship. 1115 Hoisted both planes aboard; plane No. 7 Ens. Haseltine, pilot, DORSON, AMM2c, passenger; plane No. 8, Lt. English, pilot, KIRBY, S2c, passenger.

L. J. Tobin,

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

  

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, the temporary shore patrol left the ship with ANDREWS, R. E., #346 56 45, GM1c, USN, in charge. 1305 Following ships standing in: U.S.S. PRINGLE, SAUFLEY, PHILIP. 1325 Hoisted out plane No. 7, A. B. Haseltine, Ensign, U.S.N.R. pilot, MANDEVILLE, P., S2c, observer; and plane No. 8, W. R. Andrews, Lt. (jg), U.S.N.R., pilot, DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c, observer. 1350 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7 (same pilot and observer). 1423 Hoisted out plane No. 7 (same pilot and observer). 1500 Received from U.S.S. LASSEN 100 rounds 6"/47 cal. ammunition, SPD 3604. 1545 Hoisted aboard planes No. 7 and No. 8 (same pilots and observers).

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. 1640 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out. 1700 - Temporary shore patrol returned aboard and resumed their regular duties. 1730 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and standing out. 1733 U.S.S. SC700 underway.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Tuesday, June 15, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA, Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to U.S.S. MEDUSA, in berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water, with starboard chain to buoy and the following lines: Bow and stern lines, two crossed spring lines forward, forward quarter spring and quarter breast line; our starboard side to the U.S.S. MEDUSA. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III modified; Condition "B" set throughout the ship. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S MONTPELIER has the cruiser "Ready Duty". Ships present are: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SANGAMON, SAUFLEY, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, LASSEN, MEDUSA, HEATH HEN, SC 290, SC 700, PC 476.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed "Ready Duty". 0815 - Held quarters for muster - no absentees. 0825 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer STEVENS, W. G., AMM3c, USN and plane No. 8, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer NEIL, J.E., CAMM, USN. 0845 U.S.S. WOODWORTH standing in. 0926 U.S.S. WOODWORTH standing out. 1045 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7 and plane No. 8.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1325 Hoisted out two planes, No. 7 pilot Lt. English, U.S.N.R., passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM1c; No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger FRITZ, ARM3c. 1404 The LASSEN underway and standing out. 1522 Hoisted in Planes Nos. 7 and 8.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1700 - The temporary shore patrol returned from temporary duty. 1915 Sounded General Quarters for drill. At 1950 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition III modified and Material Condition "B".

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 


Wednesday, June 16, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T. ( Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 15, alongside

Position at 1200 L.C.T. ) U.S.S. MEDUSA, in Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. ( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

 

00 - 04

Moored alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA with bow and stern lines and crossed forward and after spring lines, starboard chain to buoy, 35 fathoms of water, in berth No. 15, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Modified Condition III and Condition "B". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), COLORADO (Ready Duty), MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SANGAMON, MEDUSA, SAUFLEY, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, and various district craft.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0724 The SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 0755 The MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA and CLEVELAND underway and standing out.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. MARYLAND assumed "Ready Duty". 0815 - Held quarters for muster and inspection, no absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. At 0834 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, U.S.N.R., Passenger HAELING, ARM3c. At 0837 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. English, U.S.N.R., passenger DUCOTE, ARM2c. At 1045 Hoisted in Plane No. 8. At 1048 Hoisted in Plane No. 7.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, the temporary shore patrol left the ship with: REA, R. W., #316 53 76, GM1c, USN, in charge. 1403 U.S.S. CONWAY standing in. 1410 U.S.S. SUWANNEE standing in. 1413 U.S.S. CONWAY moored to U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1425 U.S.S. EATON standing in. 1430 U.S.S. SUWANNEE moored to Buoy No. 14. 1435 U.S.S. EATON moored to U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1438 U.S.S. TALAMANCA standing in. 1505 U.S.S. TALAMANCA anchored. 1522 U.S.S. CONWAY underway from alongside tanker. 1532 U.S.S. TALAMANCA underway to shift berths. 1538 U.S.S. TALAMANCA anchored in berth.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1655 Following ships standing in: U.S.S. COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND. 1700 Following ships standing in: U.S.S. SAUFLEY, PRINGLE, PHILIP. 1700 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer, HAELING, W. J., ARM3c; and plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM1c. 1715 - Shore patrol returned to ship to resume regular duties. 1855 Hoisted aboard planes Nos. 7 & 8.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

At 2400 period of availability alongside tender terminated and this ship resumed its normal status of being in readiness to get underway on 12 hours' notice.

 


Thursday, June 17, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 17o 33.2' S.; Longitude 168o 16.2' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude 17o 33.2' S.; Longitude 168o 16.2' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. Moored to Buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 15, starboard side to U.S.S. MEDUSA with the following lines in use: A manila bow line, a stern wire, two crossed spring wires forward, two crossed spring wires aft, lying in Havannah Harbor , Efate Island, New Hebrides in 35 fathoms of water. No. 1 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. Material Condition "B" is set throughout the ship. Modified Condition III is set. The ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), (Ready Duty), MONTPELIER, SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, EATON, PRINGLE, PHILLIP, CONWAY, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, TALAMANCA, PC476 various other small harbor craft.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0515 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 0600 Lighted fires under No. 2 boiler and No. 3 boiler. 0656 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in; YMS 209 stood out. 0658 U.S.S. PHILIP underway, standing out. 0706 U.S.S. HEATH HEN stood out. 0713 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway, stood out. 0729 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood out. 0730 Continued preparations for getting underway. 0743 Underway from alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA, Captain at Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on bridge. Boilers Nos. 1 and 4 in use, standard speed 15 knots, (153 R.P.M.) Various courses and speeds. 0745 U.S.S. ALDERARAN stood in. 0752 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway. 0754 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway. 0758 U.S.S. TALAMANCA underway. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 47.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

  

08 - 12

Steaming on various courses at various speeds while leaving port. Standard speed 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 0805 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA underway. 0820 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, USNR, passenger FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 0837 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., in Cruising Formation No. 1. 0845 Commenced scheduled exercise (Radar Calibration). 0846 Shifted steering units from No. 2 to No. 1, starboard cable. 0855 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). 0903 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 0938 Ceased present exercise (Radar Calibration). 0943 Commenced to execute Exercise No. 2 (5""Battery and machine gun firing). 0946 Changed fleet course and axis to 315o T. & P.G.C. 0959 Changed fleet course and axis to 315o T. & P.G.C. 1000 Commenced first run to starboard, 5" battery. 1077 Commenced first run to port, 5" battery. 1020 Changed fleet course and axis to 030o T. & P.G.C. 1024 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 030o T. & P.G.C. 1030 Commenced firing 5" battery to port. 1130 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 1140 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 1153 Commenced firing automatic weapons to starboard. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 170.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 030o T. & P.G.C. Speed 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). 1202 Changed fleet course and axis to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1208 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 10. 1224 Changed fleet course and axis to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1231 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 42. 1235 Changed speed to 20 knots. 203 R.P.M. 1245 Sounded Flight Quarters. 1315 Launched Plane No. 7, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, passenger DUCOTE, ARM2c. 1318 Sounded General Quarters for drill and exercise purposes. 1354 Ceased zig-zagging. 1402 Resumed zig-zagging, Plan No. 42. 1405 Ceased zig-zagging. 1411 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition "B". 1415 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 15, on base course 155o T. & P.G.C. 1428 Ceased zig-zagging. 1435 Changed fleet course and axis to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1440 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 15. 1445 Ceased zig-zagging. 1503 On signal, commenced proceeding independently, entering port. 1505 Changed speed to 15 knots proceeding into port, Captain at the Conn and Navigator on the bridge. 1548 All engines stopped. 1549 Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, in 35 fathoms of water. No. 4 boiler in use for auxiliary purposes. 1550 Secured main engines. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.3.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1618 SC 654 stood in. 1630 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway to anchorage berth.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 


Friday, June 18, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 17o 33' S.; Longitude 168o 16' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T. Latitude 17o 25' S.; Longitude 168o 03.3' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T. Moored in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in 35 fathoms of water, starboard chain to the buoy. Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III modified; Condition "B" is set throughout the ship; boiler No. 4 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, PRINGLE, CONWAY, EATON, PHILLIP, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, MEDUSA, ALDEBARAN, LASSEN, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, and various other yard and district craft. U.S.S. SUWANNEE has the "Ready Duty".

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0600 Lighted off boiler No. 1. 0649 Lighted off boiler No.3. 0700 Lighted off boiler No. 2. U.S.S. RENSHAW underway. 0716 PRINGLE underway. 0730 Set Condition III. 0752 CLEVELAND underway. 0753 COLUMBIA underway. 0754 MONTPELIER underway. 0756 Underway with Division. Steaming on boilers Nos. 1 and 4; boilers Nos. 2 and 3 as standby. Captain at the Conn, the Navigator on the bridge. Steaming on various courses and speeds to conform with the harbor and channel. Standard speed is 15 knots, (153 R.P.M.) Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 48.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming on various courses and speeds clearing anchorage. 0832 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR., passenger HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0840 Sounded main battery call for control and talker drill. 0847 Secured special sea detail. 0853 Formed "C" Formation 1, base course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 0914 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 12, changed base course to 330o T. & P.G.C. 0930 Manned anti-aircraft battery. 0939 Formed Cruising Formation No. 4. 0945 Commenced scheduled Exercise No. 1. 1003 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10, base course 000o T. & P.G.C. 1017 Submarine reported sighted by plane-investigation negative. 1028 Formed Cruising Formation No. 1. 1153 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 12, base course 180o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 154.2.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 180o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (202 R.P.M.), standard speed 15 knots (156 R.P.M.), zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12. Executing Exercise No. 1. Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1203 Ceased present exercise No. 1. 1205 Sighted seven L.S.T.'s bearing 115o T. & P.G.C. 1215 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. 1216 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C., Changed speed to 12 knots (122 R.P.M.) 1220 Recovered Plane No. 8 to port, "D" Method, pilot Lt. D. K. English, passenger HAELING, ARM3c, USN. 1222 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 1224 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1236 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. 1240 Launched plane No. 8 to starboard, pilot Ens. Andrews, U.S.N.R., observer DUCOTE, A. B., ARM1c. 1240 Changed speed to 25 knots (257 R.P.M.), Changed course to 350o T. & P.G.C. 1254 Changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course 000o T. & P.G.C. 1300 Launched plane No. 7 to port, Pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c. 1354 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 000o T. & P.G.C. 1355 Made emergency turn to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1355 Cruiser planes simulating torpedo attacks. 1407 Counter-marched to 180o T. & P.G.C. 1416 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 12 on base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1436 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course, 180o T. & P.G.C. 1507 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10 on base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1539 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 180o T. & P.G.C. 1544 Changed course to 190o T. & P.G.C. to form Cruising Disposition No. 2. 1555 Changed course to 180o T. & P.G.C., now steaming in cruising disposition No. 2 with sections reversed, changed speed to 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 218.8.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

16 - 20

Steaming as before. 1620 Changed speed to 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). Various courses and speeds proceeding into harbor. 1655 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored port side to U.S.S. KASKASKIA for fueling. 1658 U.S.S. MONTPELIER moored alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA for fueling. 1658 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. LACKAWANNA for fueling. Hoisted aboard Plane No. 8. 1700 Hoisted aboard Plane No. 7. 1704 Commenced fueling from tanker, draft Forward 23' 6", Aft 24' 4". 1712 U.S.S. COLUMBIA moored alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1745 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway to anchorage. 1751 Completed fueling. 1805 Underway. 1806 All engines ahead two-thirds, 1806 All engines stop. GAGNON, O. H., S2c, 607-88-09, USNR and KENNEDY, R. F., S1c, 321-54-24 USN, jumped and fell over the side when oiler's fender rode upward and moved lower platform of gangway, which was rigged on deck. Men were recovered aboard U.S.S. LACKAWANNA and treated by that ship's medical officer; no injuries were sustained and they were returned to this ship and instructed to report to our sick bay tomorrow morning for observation. 1807 Various courses and speeds to harbor berth. 1833 Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, with starboard chain in use, in 35 fathoms of water, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1918 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway from oiler. 1944 U.S.S. SAUFLEY moored alongside U.S.S. RENSHAW.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2030 Received radar target sled along port side.

J. H. Parker,

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

 


Saturday, June 19, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. New Hebrides Group.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, with starboard chain in 35 fathoms of water. Ship darkened, and in modified Condition of Readiness III. Condition "B" set throughout ship. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON (Ready Duty), KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, RENSHAW, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE, PHILLIP, EATON, CONWAY, MEDUSA, LASSEN, ALDEBARAN, and various small base craft. Weather clear. 0305 Completed provisioning ship.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0620 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, FRINK, L. A., BM2c V-6, USNR, #151 67 60, in charge of a detail to patrol the trash disposal area, left the ship.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 This ship assumed ready duty. 0805 U.S.S. FARENHOLT moored alongside U.S.S. ALDEBARAN port side to. 0815 - Held quarters for muster - no absentees. 0825 U.S.S. MC CALLA moored alongside U.S.S. ALDEBARAN starboard side to. 0850 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out to assume channel listening duty. 0902 PC 476 underway and standing out. 0903 U.S.S. PRINGLE standing in. 0920 U.S.S. PRINGLE moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1015 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway from alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1023 Plane No. 8 hoisted out, pilot lt. D. K. English, A-V(N), U.S.N.R., passenger Lt. Cdr. T. R. Kurtz, U.S.N. 1025 U.S.S. PRINGLE moored alongside U.S.S. PHILIP. 1057 Captain returned aboard. 1100 Captain A. G. Shepard, U.S. Navy, Commanding U.S.S. CLEVELAND, called on the Captain. 1140 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, ORTON, J. W., BM2c V-6, USNR, #360 22 93, left the ship in charge of a detail to patrol the trash disposal area. 1159 U.S.S. RENSHAW standing in.

M. F. Yerger,

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

 

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1210 PC 476 standing in to anchorage. Net tender drew torpedo net around U.S.S. MONTPELIER. 1225 U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA for fueling. 1310 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway to anchorage. 1320 U.S.S. FARENHOLT stood out. 1345 U.S.S. PHILIP underway. 1422 U.S.S. TALAMANCA and U.S.S. CASE stood in to anchorage berths. Dutch S.S. SOMMELSDYK stood in to anchorage berth. 1545 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

16 - 18

Moored as before. 1600 The U.S.S. MC KEEN, destroyer transport, stood in. 1635 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Office, GILLESPIE, G. D., GM1c, USN, #223 32 66, returned aboard with men in his charge upon completion of temporary shore patrol duty. 1745 - ORTON, J. W., BM2c V-6, USNR, #360 22 93, returned aboard with men in charge upon completion of temporary patrol duty at trash disposal area.

L. A. Bird,

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

 

18 - 20

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Yerger,

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

 


Sunday, June 20, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T. Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T. Efate Island, New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water with starboard chain in use. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ship has "Ready Duty" and is in Condition 2.5. Condition "B" set and ship is darkened. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND, (SOPA), COLORADO, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, DENVER, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, MEDUSA, LASSEN, ALDEBARAN, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, RENSHAW, PHILLIP, CONWAY, EATON, SAUFLEY, (listening buoy watch), CASE, McKEEN, PRINGLE, McCALLA, S.S. SOMMELSDYK (Dutch), and district craft.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0740 U.S.S. HEATH HEN stood in.

L. A. Bird,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed "Ready Duty". Set modified Condition III. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - no absentees. 1125 U.S.S. CASE underway and standing out. 1202 The SOMMELSDYK (Dutch) underway.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1707 U.S.S. ALDEBARAN underway and standing out. 1731 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out. 1736 U.S.S. SOMMELSDYK standing in. 1743 U.S.S. CASE standing in. 1930 U.S.S. RENSHAW standing out.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Monday, June 21, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T.) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T.( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water, starboard chain in use. Ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III modified, and in Material Condition "B". Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. COLUMBIA has "Ready Duty". Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, DENVER, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, MEDUSA, LASSEN, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, PHILLIP, CONWAY, EATON, SAUFLEY, (listening buoy watch), CASE, McKEAN, S.S. SOMMELSDYK (Dutch), and other district craft.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0725 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway to go alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA. 0727 U.S.S. RENSHAW Stood in. 0730 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out. 0730 U.S.S. PHILIP stood in and anchored. U.S.S. PRINGLE stood in and moored alongside the COLUMBIA. 0740 U.S.S. CONWAY underway and stood out. 0748 U.S.S. SAUFLEY stood in. 0752 U.S.S. EATON underway and stood out.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: None. 0850 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Ensign A. B. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., observer PEARCE, D. R., AerM2c, USN. 1000 Made daily, weekly, and fortnightly inspection of magazines, smokeless powder, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers, and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions: Normal. 1035 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1118 U.S.S. MARYLAND underway and standing out. 1140 S.S. SOMMELSDYK (Dutch) underway and stood out. 1158 U.S.S. CASE underway and stood out.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1232 The French Courvette CHEVREVIL stood in. 1245 Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, temporary shore patrol left the ship for the recreation landing with: Cavalcante, M. E., TC1c, #250 31 05, in charge. 1300 At 0900 this date Commander W. I. Leahy, U.S.N., relieved Captain N. D. Brantly, U.S.N. as Executive Officer, U.S.S. DENVER. 1330 Hoisted out plane No. 7, Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., pilot, HAELING, W. H. ARM2c, observer. Hoisted out plane No. 8, Ens. A. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., pilot, FRITZ, F., ARM2c, observer. 1520 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1550 U.S.S. BUCHANAN and FARENHOLT stood in. 1552 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT and U.S.S. McCALLA stood in.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1610 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1645 U.S.S. MARYLAND stood in. 1710 Shore patrol returned aboard.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

K. P. Houlihan,

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


Tuesday, June 22, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T.) Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T.( Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides, in berth No. 5 in 35 fathoms of water with starboard chain in use. Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III modified. Boiler No. 2 in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present are as follows: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, MEDUSA, LASSEN, KASKASKIA, ALDEBARAN, EATON, SAUFLEY, PHILLIP, FARENHOLT, McCALL, RALPH TALBOT, BUCHANAN, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, YMS 519, YN6, the French courvette CHEUREVIL and various district craft. The U.S.S. CLEVELAND has the "Ready Duty".

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0655 The French CHEUREVIL underway and stood out. 0657 U.S.S. LASSEN underway and stood out. 0708 U.S.S. BUCHANAN underway and standing out. 0710 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT underway and stood out. 0715 U.S.S. QUEBEC standing in and moored at assigned berth.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0803 U.S.S. ZANE stood in and moored alongside KASKASKIA. 0815 Held quarters for muster, Absentees: None. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples: Conditions: Normal. 0830 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, USNR., passenger OVERWISE, F.L., AOM1c. 1025 LACKAWANNA stood in and anchored. 1032 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard. 1034 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot and passenger same. 1100 Hoisted in plane No. 7. Tested amount and direction of flow of current in the degaussing system; results correct.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1500 Following ships underway and standing out: U.S.S. CASE, FARENHOLT, BUCHANAN, and McCALL.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1655 U.S.S. PATHFINDER stood in and moored in assigned berth. 1847 S.S. QUEBEC underway and moored alongside tanker.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 


Tuesday, June 23, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T.) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T.( New Hebrides Group.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5, with starboard chain in Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. The ship is darkened and modified Condition III and Condition "B" are set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, CLEVELAND, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, RALPH TALBOT, SAUFLEY, PHILLIP, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, PATHFINDER, ZANE, and S.S. QUEBEC, SC 654 and PC 476.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters - absentees, none. 0830 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, passenger Lt. (jg) K. H. Brooks, USNR; and plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrew, USNR, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., 274-64-37, ARM2c, USN. 0840 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out of harbor. 0910 U.S.S. RENSHAW stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1035 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7 and plane No. 8.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1245 - The temporary shore patrol left the ship with SUTTON, B. W., GM1c, USN, #316 48 63, in charge. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1246 PC 476 stood out. 1347 U.S.S. FARENHOLT stood in and anchored in berth No. 13. 1348 U.S.S. BUCHANAN stood in and moored alongside FARENHOLT. 1350 U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT stood in and anchored. 1355 U.S.S. McCALLA stood in and moored alongside RALPH TALBOT.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1700 - The temporary shore patrol, with SUTTON, B. W., GM1c, USN, #316 48 63, in charge, returned aboard ship and resumed their regular duties.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

A. E. Gross,

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

 


Thursday, June 24, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5,

Position at 1200 L.C.T.) Havannah Harbor, Efate Island,

Position at 2000 L.C.T.( New Hebrides Group.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island in 35 fathoms of water. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "B". Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, SANGAMON, MONTPELIER (ComCruDiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PRINGLE, PHILLIP, SAUFLEY, FARENHOLT, RENSHAW, MC CALLA, RALPH TALBOT, ZANE, BUCHANAN, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, MEDUSA, QUEBEC, PATHFINDER, HEATH HEN, PC 476, YMS 96.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0723 U.S.S. ANTARES stood in and anchored.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters: no absentees. 0840 Hoisted out Plane No. 7, pilot Lt. English, observer, HAELING, W. J., ARM3c; hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Ens. Haseltine, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c. 0948 - Made weekly inspection of magazine sprinkling valves, and tested operating gear; conditions satisfactory. 1140 Hoisted in both planes.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. 1305 U.S.S. GAMBLE stood into harbor and moored port side to U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1310 U.S.S. BREESE and U.S.S. PREBLE stood into the harbor and moored starboard side to the U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1455 U.S.S. MC CALLA, U.S.S. BUCHANAN, U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT, U.S.S. FARENHOLT underway and standing out of harbor. 1500 U.S.S. GAMBLE underway from alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA and moored in assigned berth; U.S.S. BREESE and U.S.S. PREBLE underway from alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA and moored in assigned berths.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 


Friday, June 25, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 17o 47.0' S.; Longitude 168o 58.0' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides.

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides in 35 fathoms of water with starboard chain in use. The ship is darkened and in Readiness Condition III, modified, with Condition "B" set throughout. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO (Ready Duty), MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE, SANGAMON, PHILLIP, SAUFLEY, BREESE, PREBLE, GAMBLE, RENSHAW, PRINGLE, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, HEATH HEN, ANTARES, MEDUSA, PATHFINDER, PC 476, YMS 96. U.S.S. PHILIP has listening buoy duty.

J. T. Flis,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0530 Lighted fires under No. 3 boiler. 0623 Lighted fires under No. 4 boiler. 0655 U.S.S. CHENANGO stood in, followed by escort destroyers WILSON, STACK, LANG, and STERETT. 0659 U.S.S. RENSHAW and U.S.S. PRINGLE underway, standing out. 0715 - The following named officers reported aboard as observers, being attached to a ship present: Lieut. R. G. BYWATER, USN; Lt., C. W. BURDY, USN, Ens. N. L. RADMER, USNR. 0724 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway standing out. 0730 U.S.S. PRINGLE, RENSHAW, and PATHFINDER stood out. Set Condition III and Material Condition "B", continued preparations for getting underway. 0745 U.S.S. SANGAMON underway. 0759 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway, standing out.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0810 Underway from Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides group; Captain at the Conn; boilers Nos. 2 and 3 on the line; steaming at various courses and speeds clearing anchorage and conforming to the channel; standard speed 15 knots (153 R.P.M.). 0815 - Mustered crew at quarters for getting underway - no absentees. 0835 U.S.S. CLEVELAND launched one aircraft to port. 0836 U.S.S. COLUMBIA launched one aircraft to port. 0847 Launched plane No. 7 to port, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. 0856 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 0858 Secured all special sea detail. 0908 Formed Cruising Formation I. 0945 Sounded General Quarters. 1014 Formed "Jig Formation I", U.S.S. DENVER taking station 180o relative from the guide, distance 3,000 yds. in preparation for anti-aircraft firing; course and axis 315o T. & P.G.C. 1021 Commenced firing 5" battery. 1031 Sounded secure from General Quarters; set Condition 3.6 except Gunnery Department. 1055 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10, base course 135o T. & P.G.C. 1108 Ceased zig-zagging. 1111 Commenced maneuvering for firing runs. 1136 Set Condition 3.6 in Gunnery Dept. except for the automatic weapons. 1145 Sounded flight quarters. 1149 Changed course to 060o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (257 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 215.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 060o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots (257 R.P.M.). 1203 Commenced firing automatic weapons to port. 1205 Changed course to 150o T. & P.G.C. 1210 Commenced firing automatic weapons to starboard. 1214 Launched plane No. 8 to starboard, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c. 1230 Formed Cruising Disposition "Jig I". 1235 Fired automatic weapons to port. 1245 Fired automatic weapons to starboard. 1246 Ceased Exercise No. 2. 1300 - Made daily inspection of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1329 This ship operating independently on entering channel. 1331 Changed course to 090o T. & P.G.C. 1337 Changed course to 030o T. & P.G.C. 1350 Proceeding on various courses at various speeds while maneuvering to go alongside tanker. 1405 U.S.S. CLEVELAND moored alongside U.S.S. LACKAWANNA. 1410 U.S.S. MONTPELIER moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1412 U.S.S. COLUMBIA moored alongside U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1417 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. LACKAWANNA in Berth NO. 7, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group. 1422 Commenced taking on fuel oil. 1425 - The officer observers, having completed their duty, left the ship. 1428 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, observer DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c. 1447 Completed taking on fuel. 1454 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway from alongside tanker. 1456 Underway from alongside tanker, Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds proceeding to assigned berth. 1505 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway from alongside tanker. 1510 U.S.S. COLUMBIA anchored in assigned berth. 1515 - Pursuant to the orders of the Commanding Officer, BAGWELL, Roy Ernell, #261 92 55, FC1c, USN, left the ship on temporary duty as shore patrol. 1518 Moored to buoy with starboard chain in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group in 35 fathoms of water. Boiler No. 3 in use for auxiliary purposes. 1529 U.S.S. PRINGLE and SAUFLEY stood in and moored alongside tanker U.S.S. KASKASKIA. 1530 Secured fire under No. 2 boiler. 1530 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, observer HAELING, ARM3c. 1531 U.S.S. WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP stood in and moored alongside tanker U.S.S. KASKASKIA. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 199.9.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

16 - 20

Moored as before. 1655 U.S.S. SAUFLEY anchored in outer harbor. 1715 U.S.S PHILIP moored to U.S.S. CLEVELAND. 1731 U.S.S. RENSHAW moored starboard side to our port. 1800 Completed receiving from U.S.S. MEDUSA 120 6" HC projectiles. 1802 U.S.S. WALLER moored to U.S.S. PRINGLE. 1805 Pursuant to orders of ComTaskForce NINETEEN R. H. Baist, Lt. (jg), USNR reported aboard for temporary duty. 1933 - BAGWELL, Roy Ernell, #261 92 55, FC1c, USN, returned aboard having completed temporary duty as shore patrol.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

Underway in accordance with CTF NINETEEN despatch 0430 of June 20, 1943. In Task Force NINETEEN, Task Group 19.1 and Task Unit 19.1.2.

 


June 26, 1943

Position at 0800 L.C.T.( Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5

Position at 1200 L.C.T.) Havannah Harbor,

Position at 2000 L.C.T.( Efate Island, New Hebrides.

 

00 - 04

Moored with starboard chain to buoy, 35 fathoms of water, in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Boiler No. 3 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Modified Condition III and "B" set. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, SUWANNEE (Ready Duty), SANGAMON, CHENANGO, STACK, STERETT, WILSON, WALLER, PHILLIP, SAUFLEY, PRINGLE, RENSHAW, BREESE, PREBLE, GAMBLE, LACKAWANNA, KASKASKIA, MEDUSA, ANTARES, S.S. QUEBEC, and various district craft.

A. E. Gross,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before. 0650 The WILSON and STERETT underway and standing out.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. 0800 U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed Ready Duty. 0825 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, U.S.N.R., passenger, PEARCE, D. R., AerM2c, USN. 0930 U.S.S. LANG and U.S.S. STACK got underway and stood out. 0934 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1045 U.S.S. SANGAMON got underway and stood out. 1045 - Held quarters for muster and inspection; no absentees. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal.

H. M. Brinser,

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

 

12 - 16

Moored as before. Made weekly inspection tests of magazines, smokeless powder samples, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers and hangar space sprinkler --conditions normal.1310 U.S.S. ZANE underway, standing out. 1315 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, passenger DUCOTE, B. A., ARM2c. 1320 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger HAELING, ARM3c. 1350 - Pursuant to Commanding Officer's orders, GILLESPIE, G. C., GM1c, #223 32 66, USN left the ship in charge of the temporary shore patrol. 1407 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, passenger DUCOTE, ARM2c. 1415 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, U.S.N.R., passenger, HAELING, ARM3c.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

16 -20

Moored as before. Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, shore patrol under charge of GILLESPIE, G. C., GM1c, #223 32 66, USN returned aboard.

M. F. Healy, Jr.

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

 

20 - 24

Moored as before. 2045 - Pursuant to the authority contained in BuPers Circular letter #73-74, STENSLAND, Willard Conrad, CSK(PA), USN, #392 78 52, was appointed to the rank of Acting Pay Clerk, U. S. Navy; John Francis FREW, Ship's Clerk, USN, #257 59 39, to Chief Ship's Clerk, U.S.N.; Charles Hector MAJOR, CPhM(PA), USN, #359 54 30 to Pharmacist, U.S.N.; Michael Peter GOGGIN, CFC(PA), USN, #393 03 32, to Gunner, USN.

J. T. Flis,

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

 


Sunday, June 27, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Moored to buoy in Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 17o 36.7' S.; Longitude 168o 07.8' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 15o 54.3' S.; Longitude 166o 30.8' E.

 

00 - 04

Moored to buoy in berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides Group, in 35 fathoms of water with starboard chain in use. The U.S.S. RENSHAW is moored alongside on our port side. Boiler No. 3 is in use for auxiliary purposes. U.S.S. COLUMBIA has the Ready Duty. Ship is darkened and in Modified Condition III of Readiness, with Condition "B" set throughout the ship. Ships present: U.S.S. MARYLAND (SOPA), COLORADO, MONTPELIER, COLUMBIA, CLEVELAND, DENVER, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, MEDUSA, KASKASKIA, LACKAWANNA, ANTARES, PRINGLE, WALLER (listening buoy), RENSHAW, PHILLIP, PREBLE, GAMBLE, BREESE, SAUFLEY, STACK, S.S. QUEBEC and various district craft.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

04 - 08

Moored as before with U.S.S. RENSHAW moored to the port side. 0650 U.S.S. GAMBLE, PREBLE and BREESE underway and standing out. 0656 U.S.S. PRINGLE underway and standing out. 0715 Both planes hoisted out. 0728 U.S.S. KASKASKIA underway. 0745 Ran wire to mooring buoy.

J. H. Parker,

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

 

08 - 12

Moored as before. U.S.S. RENSHAW moored alongside our port side. 0800 U.S.S. COLORADO assumed Ready Duty. Hoisted Plane No. 8 aboard, pilot Ens. Haseltine, passenger DUCOTE, ARM2c. 0805 U.S.S. KASKASKIA went alongside U.S.S. CHENANGO. 0815 Lit fires under boiler No. 2. 0850 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, passenger HAELING, ARM3c. 0930 Lit fires under boiler No. 1 and No. 4. 0930 Made daily inspections of all magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1000 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway and standing out. 1007 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 1037 U.S.S. WALLER standing in and anchored. 1045 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and standing out. 1053 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway and standing out. 1056 U.S.S. MONTPELIER underway and standing out. 1058 Underway in accordance with CTG-OB Plan No. 5-43 of June 15, 1943 in Task Force 36. Task Group 36.2 and Task Unit 36.2.1. Task group 36.2 consists of Cruiser Division TWELVE, Destroyer Division FORTY-THREE, Pringle, Preble, Gamble, Breese. From Berth No. 5, Havannah Harbor, Efate Island, New Hebrides. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 in use for steaming purposes. Standard speed 15 knots (152 R.P.M.0. 1059 Steaming at various courses and speeds clearing anchorage and conforming to channel. 1118 U.S.S. MONTPELIER launched 1 aircraft to port. 1121 U.S.S. CLEVELAND launched 1 aircraft to port. 1124 U.S.S. COLUMBIA launched 1 aircraft to port. 1127 Launched plane No. 8 to port, pilot Lt. D. K. English, passenger FRITZ, F. 243 84 58 ARM3c, USN. 1143 Steadied on course 270o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). 1153 Changed fleet course and axis to 313o T. & P.G.C., speed 20 knots (203 R.P.M.). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 126.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course 313o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). 1203 Changed speed to 20 knots (202 R.P.M), zig-zag Plan No. 10. 1203 Sighted Erradaka Island bearing 136.5o T., distance 2 ¾ Miles. 1244 Manned automatic weapons for sleeve firing. 1301 Commenced firing automatic weapons. 1425 Ceased firing, exercise completed. 1427 Ceased zig-zagging. 1428 Formed "Cast" Formation No. 2, base course 313o T. 1444 Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. 1520 Sighted Malekula Island bearing 020o T., distance 21 miles. 1530 Ceased zig-zagging. 1535 Changed course to 030o T. & P.G.C. 1539 Changed course to 120o T. & P.G.C., changed speed to 10 knots. 1543 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c. U.S.S. COLUMBIA lost plane. The WALLER recovered pilot and observer and sank plane. 1553 Changed course to 313o T. & P.G.C. Commenced zig-zagging, Plan No. 12. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 198.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 313o T. & P.G.C., and zig-zag Plan No. 12. 1710 Sounded General Quarters for dusk alert and battle problem. 1730 Commenced scheduled exercises. 1737 Shifted steering and engine control to Conning Tower. 1755 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 313o T. & P.G.C. 1803 Changed course to 330o T. & P.G.C. 1809 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 R.P.M.). 1810 Shifted steering control to steering aft. 1823 Completed scheduled exercises. 1824 Shifted steering control to conning tower. 1830 Shifted steering control to the pilot house. 1830 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition 3.6. 1856 Changed course to 333o T. & P.G.C. 1929 Flashed recognition lights, test. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 180.8.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on base course 333o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). Av Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.1.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 


Monday, June 28, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 12o 57' S.; Longitude 164o 54' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 11o 59.7' S.; Longitude 164o 35.2' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 10o 28.6' S.; Longitude 163o 03.2' E.

 

00 - 04

Steaming on course 333o T. & P.G.C., 323.50 P.S.C., speed 18 knots (183 RPM), Nos. 2 & 3 boilers in use for steaming purposes. Ship darkened and in Readiness Condition 3.6 and Material Condition "B". Task Force steaming in "Cast" Formation No. 2. Ships present: U.S.S. MONTPELIER (CTG 36.2 and ComCruDiv TWELVE), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, SAUFLEY. 0320 Commenced zig-zagging, plan No. 12. 0320 The WALLER left formation to take position for Tracking Drill. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on base course 333o T. & P.G.C. on zig-zag Plan No. 12. 0515 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0624 Secured from General Quarters. 0625 Condition "B" set throughout the ship. 0655 U.S.S. COLUMBIA and U.S.S. CLEVELAND assumed radar guard. 0745 Mustered crew on stations, no absentees. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 178.1.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on base course 333o T. & P.G.C. on Zig-Zag Plan No. 12, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples - conditions normal. 1143 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 1143 Surface radar contact bearing 004o T. distance 39,000 yards. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 179.5.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on base course 333o T. & P.G.C., speed 18 knots (183 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). 1207 Changed course to 000o T. & P.G.C. Now cruising in Cruising Formation 4 at 23 knots (235 RPM). 1215 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 and 4. 1222 Changed speed to 22 knots (223 RPM). 1225 Having intercepted information that air raid in south east Solomon Islands was probable, went to General Quarters. 1237 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1242 Sighted nine (9) ships on starboard beam identified as SANGAMON, escorts and convoy. 1302 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 000o T. & P.G.C. 1320 Operating on various courses maintaining station astern of convoy. 1400 Shifted steering control and engine control to conning tower. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 202.5.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on course 340o T. & P.G.C., speed 25 knots. 1635 Changed speed to 20 knots, 203 R.P.M. 1657 Changed course to 350o T. 1647 Changed course to 230o T. & P.G.C. 1652 Secured from General Quarters. 1700 Changed course to 340o T. & P.G.C. 1701 Set Condition "B". 1718 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 1733 Changed course to 310o T. & P.G.C. 1742 Changed course to 340o T. & P.G.C. 1748 Formed "Cast" Formation No. 1 on base course 296o T. & P.G.C. 1753 Changed speed to 23 knots. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 198.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before in "Cast" Formation No. 1, speed 18 knots (183 RPM). 1800 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1806 Changed course to 296o T. & P.G.C. 1810 Commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1835 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 296o T. & P.G.C. 1900 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition "B". 1925 Changed speed to 16 knots (163 R.P.M.). 1930 On signal, changed course and axis to 292o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 174.9.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 292o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots (163 RPM). 2307 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 274o T. & P.G.C. 2350 Changed fleet course and axis to the left to 270o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 183.6.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 


Tuesday, June 29, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 9o 22.4' S.; Longitude 160o 15' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Anchored in Berth No. 6, Port Purvis, Florida Island, Solomon Islands.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 8o 05.1' S.; Longitude 158o 59.7' E.

 

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2 consisting of U.S.S. MONTPELIER (CTG 36.2, CTU 36.2.1), CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, WALLER, RENSHAW, PHILIP, SAUFLEY on base course 270o T. & P.G.C., 260o 40'. P.S.C. at 16 knots (163 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). In Cruising Formation No. 1. Boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use. The ship is darkened and in Condition of Readiness 3.6, Condition "B" is set throughout the ship 0158 Changed fleet course and axis to 310o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 159.2.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before on course 310o T. & P.G.C., speed 16 knots, (163 RPM). 0452 Changed Fleet Course and axis to 294o T. & P.G.C. 0500 Changed course to 314o T. & P.G.C. 0516 Changed course to 294o T. & P.G.C. 0521 Commenced Zig-Zag Plan No. 10. 0520 Went to General Quarters for dawn alert. 0600 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0600 Sighted land bearing 240o T. 0625 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0627 Changed course to 144o T. & P.G.C. 0630 Launched aircraft, plane No. 7, pilot Ensign Haseltine, USNR, observer HAELING, ARM3c; plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) Andrews, USNR., observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c. 0634 Changed course to 294o T. & P.G.C. 0635 Secured from General Quarters. 0707 Changed speed to 18 knots (183 RPM). 0720 Changed course to 250o T. & P.G.C. 0735 Changed course to 270o T. & P.G.C. Changed course to 315o T. & P.G.C. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 165.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

08 - 12

Steaming as before on course 315o T. & PGC., speed 18 knots, (183 RPM) in Cruising Formation No. 1. 0812 On signal, changed course to 000o T. & PGC. Made preparations for entering port. 0829 On signal, changed course to 270o T. & PGC. 0834 On signal, changed speed to 15 knots (152 RPM). 0835 On signal, executed countermarch to 090o T. & PGC. 0901 On signal, changed course to 055o T. & PGC. 0912 On signal, executed speed 10 knots (101 RPM). 0914 On signal, changed speed to 5 knots (54 RPM). 0929 On signal, commenced proceeding into channel independently. Various courses and speeds to anchorage berth. 1013 Anchored in berth No. 6, Port Purvis, Florida Island with 60 fathoms of chain to the port anchor in 24 fathoms of water, on the following bearings, ship's head 070o T. & P.G.C.: Beacon "E" 055o T.; Beacon "F" 160o T.; Beacon "G" 013o T.; Beacon "H" 100o T.; Beacon "J" 071o T.; Beacon "I" 037o T. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples, conditions normal. 1020 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7, pilot Ens. A. B. Haseltine, USNR, observer HAELING, ARM3c, USN. 1030 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR., observer FRITZ, F., ARM3c, USN. 1032 U.S.S. RENSHAW came alongside to port for fueling. 1040 Destroyer moored to our port side, commenced fueling. 1130 Hoisted out plane No. 8, pilot D. K. English, USNR, observer DUCOTE, D. A., ARM2c, USN. 1135 Hoisted out plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, observer HAELING, W. J., ARM3c, USN. Draft of ship before commencing fueling of destroyer, Forward 24' 0", Aft 24' 6". 1145 Shifted steering units, unit tow to unit one. By signal, this ship has A.A. responsibility at anchorage from 270o T. to 000o T. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 77.5.

E. F. Baldwin,

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

 

12 - 16

Anchored as before. 1229 U.S.S. RENSHAW underway from alongside and standing out. 1230 U.S.S. PHILIP underway and standing out. 1235 U.S.S. WALLER underway and standing out. 1236 U.S.S. SAUFLEY underway and standing out. 1250 Stationed all special sea details. 1323 Underway from Berth No. 6, Port Purvis, Florida Island with Cruiser Division TWELVE; Captain at the conn, navigator and executive officer on the bridge; boilers Nos. 2 & 3 are in use; standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM); steaming at various courses and speeds clearing anchorage and conforming with channel. 1352 Secured all special sea details, set regular sea details, set Watch "Cast", Condition 3.6. 1401 Cut in boilers Nos. 1 and 4. 1405 Steadied on course 300o T. & PGC, forming "Cast" Formation I. 1415 Changed speed to 23 knots (235 RPM) 1416 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10, base course to 300o T. & PGC. 1445 U.S.S. MONTPELIER and COLUMBIA have the radar guard. 1500 Made rendezvous with Task Units 36.2.2, PRINGLE, PREBLE, BREESE and GAMBLE. 1504 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1506 Changed fleet course and axis to 281o T. & PGC. 1516 Commenced zig-zagging with Plan No. 10. 1525 Sighted Russell Islands bearing 250o T., distance 21 miles. 1533 Changed fleet speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 1534 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 204.3.

L. J. Tobin,

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

 

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 281o T. & PGC at 26 knots, (270 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (152 RPM). 1622 Changed fleet course and axis to 303o T. & PGC. 1633 Fire Under Mount 46-Sounded Fire Quarters. 1638 Fire put out-no damage. 1747 Changed course to 213o T. & PGC. 1750 Changed course to 303o T. & PGC. Cruisers are now in Cruising Formation No. 1. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 258.0.

J. G. Lightburn,

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

 

18 - 20

Steaming on course 303o T. & PGC., speed 26 knots(270 RPM), cruisers in column, order MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER; destroyers RENSHAW and WALLER 2000 yds. astern, SAUFLEY and PHILIP 2000 yds. ahead; Task Unit 36.2.2 (PRINGLE, PREBLE, BREESE and GAMBLE) 6000 yds. ahead of MONTPELIER. 1800 Set Battle Condition One and Material Condition "A". At 1821 RENSHAW and WALLER left formation for bombardment of Vila. 1833 All hands except those at communications stations were permitted to stand easy. 1930 Commenced and 1939 completed blowing tubes. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 265.5.

K. P. Houlihan,

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

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before, in company with Task Group 36.2. Ship's company standing easy at battle stations. 2100 to 2200 Served battle rations to crew at stations. 2108 Changed course to 293o PGC. & T. At 2119 observed bombardment of Vila, Kolumbangara by RENSHAW and WALLER and at 2123 return fire by Japanese. At 2128 firing cease. 2155 Picked up RENSHAW AND WALLER on radar screen bearing 166o T., distance 31,000 yds., returning to rejoin the formation astern of cruisers. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 254.2.

W. I. Leahy,

Commander, U. S. Navy.

 


Wednesday, June 30, 1943

 Position at 0800 L.C.T.: Latitude 08o 53.1' S.; Longitude 157o 17.4' E.

Position at 1200 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 17.9' S.; Longitude 159o 02.4' E.

Position at 2000 L.C.T.: Latitude 09o 51.8' S.; Longitude 161o 47.3' E.

00 - 04

Steaming in company with Task Group 36.2, Rear Admiral A. S. Merrill in MONTPELIER in command, enroute for bombardment of Japanese positions and mining operations in Shortland area, south of Bougainville Island in Solomon Islands Group. Composition of group: Cruisers, MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER in column, distance 1000 yds. in that order; destroyers, PHILIP and SAUFLEY 2000 yds. ahead, RENSHAW and WALLER 2000 yds. astern of cruiser column; mine laying group, PRINGLE, PREBLE, BREESE and GAMBLE 6000 yds ahead. PRINGLE guide. Base course 311o PGC. & T. Base speed 26 knots (270 RPM), making speed as necessary to maintain station and bombardment approach time schedule. At 0041 Changed course to 270o PGC and reduces base speed to 14 knots in accordance with plan. About 0045 mine laying group was observed on radar screen to be increasing distance from main body (making 18 knots, according to plan). At 0053 shifted control of engines and steering to conning tower. 0055 Rain began. 0113 Heavy downpour of rain. 0125 Mine laying group was observed on radar screen to be turning to northward, according to plan, for mining operations. 0154 Loaded main battery. 0155 Leading cruiser, MONTPELIER commenced firing to starboard. 0156 Commenced changing course to left, attempting to follow in column to planned base course 220o, for bombardment. Due to poor visibility all cruisers turned outside. 0155 DENVER opened fire with main battery with full radar control on selected targets on Ballale Island at range of 16,400 yards and true bearing 316o T. At 0200 steadied on course 207o to sheer into column. At 0204 reduced to 10 knots (102 RPM). At 0205 steadied on course 202o PGC. & T., in column. At 0208 resumed 14 knots (140 RPM). At 0210 ordered cease firing and at 0212 ceased firing by unloading through the muzzle all loaded guns except right and center gun Turret 2 and right gun of Turret 3. At 0214 increased speed to 30 knots and at 0216 began changing base course to 125o PGC & T., for retirement according to plan. Made various courses and speeds to maintain station, using radar information, due to extremely poor visibility. At 0234 began changing to base course 183o PGC & T. in accordance with TBS signal of OTC. 0231 Made 31 knots (331 RPM). 0240 Reduced speed to 30 knots (319 RPM). 0248 Reduced speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 0254 Shifted steering and engine control to pilot house. 0255 Increased speed to 32 knots (348 RPM). 0307 Rain abated and permitted visual observation of wake of next ship ahead. 0315 Heavy rain set in again. 0324 Reduced speed to 30 knots (315 RPM). 0326 Reduced speed to 29 knots (307 RPM). 0358 Reduced speed to 28 knots (290 RPM). Ammunition expended 709 rounds 6". No personnel casualties. No enemy gunfire was observed. No casualties of material other than jamming of projectiles, and temporary failure of FH radar after opening fire, which will be covered in action report. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. R.P.M. 230.1.

W. I. Leahy,

Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

04 - 08

Steaming as before, retiring from action on base course 183o PGC & T., speed 28 knots (290 RPM). Ship's company at battle stations. At 0412 Changed course to 147o PGC. & T. 0510 reduced speed to 25 knots (252 RPM). 0520 Changed course to 064o PGC & T. 0525 Reduced speed to 20 knots (203 RPM). 0531 Changed course to 106o PGC & T. 0535 Increased speed to 24 knots (247 RPM). 0600 Changed course to 112o PGC & T. in obedience to TBS signal. 0612 Increased speed to 26 knots (270 RPM). 0645 Sighted two flights of friendly planes. 0645 Increased speed to 27 knots (278 RPM). 0704 Changed course to 092o PGC & T. 0712 Changed course to 112o PGC & T. 0733 Increased speed to 28 knots (285 RPM). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 270.8

W. I. Leahy,

Commander, U. S. Navy.

 

08 -12

Steaming as before course 112o T. & PGC, speed 28 knots (285 RPM). Changed fleet course and axis to 103o T. & PGC. 0819 Secured from General Quarters. 0900 Went to General Quarters, Air Raid. 0935 Secured from General Quarters. 0954 Went to General Quarters, Air Raid. 1009 Secured from General Quarters. 1022 Changed course to 099o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 281.1.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, U.S.N.R.

 

 

12 - 16

Steaming as before on course and axis 099o T. & P.G.C., speed 28 knots (295 RPM). 1200 Changed course to 089o T. & PGC. 1230 Changed course to 060o T. & PGC. 1259 Changed course to 094o T. & PGC. 1310 On Signal, changed course to 085o T. & P.G.C. 1324 On signal, executed "Turn Two" to 105o T. 1330 On signal, executed "Two Turn" to 085o T. U.S.S. COLUMBIA reported unidentified aircraft which later proved friendly. 1336 On signal, changed speed to 25 knots (257 RPM). 1339 ON signal, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 1340 On signal, formed Cruising Formation Two, own ship's speed 25 knots (257 RPM). 1345 On signal, changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 1350 On signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1355 On Signal, changed speed to 20 knots (202 RPM). 1420 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, sounded flight quarters to recover aircraft "Dog" method. 1425 On signal, commenced zig-zagging on Plan No. 10. 1444 Secured boilers Nos. 1 & 4, used as standby. 1448 On signal, ceased zig-zagging, resumed course 110o T. & PGC. 1449 On signal, changed course to 060o T. & PGC., speed to 15 knots (153 RPM). 1450 On signal, changed speed to 12 knots (122 RPM). 1451 U.S.S. MONTPELIER, CLEVELAND and COLUMBIA commenced recovering aircraft. 1455 Recovered plane No. 7, pilot Lt. (jg) W. R. Andrews, USNR, observer HAELING, W. R., ARM2c, USN. 1501 Recovered plane No. 8, pilot Lt. D. K. English, USNR, observer DUCOTE, D. A., ARM3c, USN. On signal, changed course to 110o T. & PGC and increased speed to 18 knots (183 RPM) 1505 On signal formed Cruising Formation One. 1510 On signal, changed course to 103o T. & PGC, and on signal, followed movements of column leader. 1540 On signal, changed course to 110o T. & PGC. 1550 On signal, formed Cruising Formation No. 2. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 229.

E. F. Baldwin,

Lieutenant, U.S.N.R.

 

16 - 18

Steaming as before on base course 110o T. & PGC, speed 23 knots (235 RPM). 1603 Changed speed to 24 knots (246 RPM). 1607 Commenced zig-zagging with plan No. 10. 1636 Shifted from No. 1 to No. 2 steering unit (port cable). 1730 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 1733 Changed fleet course and axis to the right to 122o T. & PGC. 1736 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 245.5.

L. J. Tobin,

Lieutenant, U.S.N.R.

 

 

18 - 20

Steaming as before on base course 122o T. & PGC, speed 24 knots (245 RPM), standard speed 15 knots (151 RPM). Zig-zagging in accordance with Plan No. 10. 1800 Went to General Quarters for dusk alert. 1800 Changed speed to 22 knots (224 RPM). 1840 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 122o T. & PGC. 1910 Secured from General Quarters. 1918 Changed course to 099o T. & PGC. Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 222.

J. G. Lightburn,

Lieutenant, U.S.N.R.

 

20 - 24

Steaming as before on course 099o T. & PGC, speed 22 knots (223 RPM). 2040 Changed course to 145o T. & PGC (TBS signal). 2340 Changed course to 173o T. & PGC (TBS signal). Av. Steam 600 lbs. Av. RPM 224.2.

K. P. Houlihan,

Lieutenant, U.S.N.R.

 

ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER.

 

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


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