The U.S.S. DENVER is part of Cruiser Division TWELVE consisting of CLEVELAND, COLUMBIA, MONTPELIER, and DENVER, Rear Admiral R. W. Hayler, USN, commanding in DENVER. DENVER is assigned to the Third Fleet. Zone description –9.

Sunday, 1 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth 206, Seeadler harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands. Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, except for necessary lights, in Material Condition "B" and in modified Condition of Readiness III. Boiler No. 4 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: USS ARGONNE (SOPA), PENNSYLVANIA, MISSISSIPPI, IDAHO, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, INDIANA, DENVER, BOSTON, CANBERRA, MINNEAPOLIS, WICHITA, COLUMBIA, PHOENIX, BOISE, NASHVILLE, YORKTOWN, WASP, HORNET, COWPENS, SITKOH BAY, SUWANNEE; H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA, ARUNTA, WARRAMUNGA, also present are various destroyers, other units of the Pacific Fleet and various yard and district craft.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Condition of Readiness III in the antiaircraft battery. U.S.S. ESCAMBIA and CHISKAKIA stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 0600 Set modified Condition of Readiness III. 0615 Carrier Task Force, including U.S.S. SANGAMON, SANTEE, KITKUN BAY and GAMBIER BAY stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 0700 U.S.S. HARRIS, BOOTH, BARNSTABLE and HEARLD OF THE MORNING stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 0750 U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA underway. 0754 U.S.S. JOHNSTON and HAGGARD stood in and anchored in berths assigned.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. Made weekly inspection of magazines, smokeless, powder, bombs, pyrotechnics, sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions: normal. 1145 Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, following named officers left ship to report to Senior Patrol Officer, Lorengau Recreation Landing, for temporary duty as shore patrol: Lt.(jg) J. M. Gallagher, USN, and Machinist H. M. Kimble, USN.

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

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1352 U.S.S. HONOLULU stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1403 U.S.S. CLEVELAND, INDIANAPOLIS, PORTLAND, ROSS, ROBINSON, BENNION, EDWARD HEYWOOD, RICHARD P. LEARY, ALBERT W. CRONE and NEWCOMB stood in and anchored in berths assigned.

W. T. Kuhlmey, Captain, USMC

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1715 Lit fires under No. 2 boiler. 1730 Received from Navy Supply Depot 15,000 Lily cup containers.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before. 2010 Pursuant to orders of Commanding Officer, Lt.(jg) J. M. Gallagher, USN, and Machinist H. M. Kimble, USN returned aboard from temporary duty ashore as beach guard. 2152 Cut in No. 2 boiler for auxiliary purposes. 2201 Secured boiler No. 4.

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

Monday, 2 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, with Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III set throughout. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include: USS ARGONNE (SOPA) and various units of the Pacific Fleet, cargo ships, yard and district craft.

L. M. King, Jr., Lt.(jg), USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0555 U.S.S. PORTLAND underway to shift berth. U.S.S. LEOPARD stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0825 H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE underway and stood out of harbor. 1000 The following ships underway and stood out of harbor: U.S.S. BOYD, COWELL, MC CALLA, GRAYSON, CONNER, BELL. 1015 The following ships underway and stood out of harbor: U.S.S. HALL, CUSHING, CHARRETTE, LONG. 1045 The following ships underway and stood out of harbor: U.S.S. HONOLULU, WICHITA, CANBERRA, BOSTON. 1115 The following ships underway and stood out of harbor: U.S.S. HORNET, WASP, MONTEREY, COWPENS, WINTLE. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

W. T. Kuhlmey, Captain, USMC.

Tuesday, 3 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Island, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, with Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III set; boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include: USS ARGONNE (SOPA), various units of the Pacific Fleet, yard, patrol, merchant, auxiliary, escort and district craft.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0550 U.S.S. DALY underway and stood out. 0600 Set modified Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 0600 U.S.S. BOISE underway and stood out. 0635 U.S.S. KILLEN underway and stood out. 0640 U.S.S. BUSH underway and stood out. 0700 U.S.S. PHOENIX underway and stood out. 0717 U.S.S. CAVALIER stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

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

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0806 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE underway and shifted berth. 0810 U.S.S. LAMAR, HEYWOOD, ALSKRIN, DOYEN, J.F. BELL and FELAND stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0820 Made all preparations to receive LCI 606 on starboard quarter. 0825 Observed U.S.S. MINNEAPOLIS exercising general drills. 0826 LCI 606 moored alongside starboard quarter. 0845 LCI 606 underway from starboard quarter with recreation party for Pityilu Island. 0915 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and shifted berths. 0917 U.S.S. JAMES E. CRAIG, CHARA, RIXEY, GAR and CLYMER stood into harbor and anchored in assigned berths. 0920 U.S.S. PRESIDENT HAYES and MERCURY stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 0930 Held casualty power trial with forward 60 KW Diesel Generator. 0945 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and went alongside U.S.S. MOUNT HOOD. 1000 U.S.S. SEVERN, MANILA BAY, NATOMA BAY, WADSWORTH and ERBEN stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1015 U.S.S. BRAINE, BLOCK, CHAUNCEY, HALE and TALBOT stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1110 U.S.S. CAMBRIA, ALCYONE, WALKER stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1140 U.S.S. ABBOTT, DU PAGE and CLAY stood in and anchored in assigned berths.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. BAXTER stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1415 U.S.S. ALMAACK, LAWRENCE GIANELLA and LAPWING stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1450 U.S.S. CLAXTON stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1455 U.S.S. KIDD underway.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1605 U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE, BUSH, MULLANEY and CHAUNCEY and DALY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1710 U.S.S. HENRY DODGE stood in, and anchored in berth assigned. 1818 A board of investigation of which Commander J. A. Coppola, USN, in senior member, convened to investigate the circumstances attending the gun shot wound received by Mardigian, D.A., AMM1c, 201 93 74, USN, and adjourned at 1830 this date to await action of the convening authority.

L. M. King, Jr., Lt.(jg), USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

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

Wednesday, 4 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, with Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), PENNSYLVANIA, MISSISSIPPI, IDAHO, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, INDIANA, H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA, H,M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, U.S.S. PORTLAND, INDIANAPOLIS, MINNEAPOLIS, NASHVILLE, PHOENIX, BOISE, HONOLULU, CLEVLAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, WADSWORTH, ERBEN, WALKER, ABBOT, BLAINE, BLACK, CHAUNCEY, HALE, TALBOT, BACHE, GUEST, BENNETT, FULLAM, HUDSON, HALFORD, LEUTZE, DALY, REID, FRANKS, BENNION, MC KEE, NEWCOMB, ROBINSON, BRYANT, MC DERMUT, FARENHOLT, MULLANY, BUSH, KILLEN, BEALE, and various other ships, yard and district craft.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0545 Following ships got underway and stood out: U.S.S. KILLEN, BUSH, and S.S. ESCALANTE. 0550 U.S.S. PHOENIX underway and stood out. 0650 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA underway and stood out.

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

08 – 12 Watch Anchored as before. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 1015 U.S.S. INDIANA underway and stood out. 1025 U.S.S. IDAHO underway and stood out. 1045 U.S.S. CLEVELAND underway and stood out. 1100 U.S.S. NEHENTA BAY underway and stood out. 1105 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch Anchored as before. 1225 The following ships underway and stood out: U.S.S. HALE, COLHOUN, NASSAU, SITKOH BAY, STEAMER BAY, NEHENTA BAY.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

16 – 20 Watch Anchored as before. 1600 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1630 U.S.S. DALY stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

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

Thursday, 5 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and modified Condition of Readiness III are set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include U.S.S ARGONNE (SOPA), various units of the Pacific Fleet, escort and landing craft, oilers, merchantmen, patrol and district craft. 0215 Diogenes, L.S., S2c, 204 77 10, USNR, reported to sick bay, having received bad cuts on the left hand; fourth and fifth fingers has to be amputated, but third finger saved. General condition good.

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0607 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, BOISE, TWIGGS, WICKES, TUTTLE and HALLIGAN underway and stood out of harbor.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0806 U.S.S. BRYANT underway and stood out. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0900 U.S.S. WEST VIRGINIA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0900 U.S.S. EDWARDS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0901 U.S.S. TRINITY underway and shifted berth. 0903 Hoisted out both aircraft for routine flight. Pilot plane No. 7: Ensign P.R. Anderson, A-V(N), 315108, USNR; observer: Carter, J.L., 607 75 88, S1c, USNR. Pilot plane No. 8; Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer: Talley, J.W., S2c, 878 26 89, USNR. 0905 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 0908 U.S.S. DALY underway and shifted berth. 0950 U.S.S. BRYANT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1023 U.S.S. MC DOUNOUGH underway. 1030 U.S.S. CHERRY VALLEY underway and shifted berth. 1045 Hoisted in plane No. 7. 1110 Hoisted in plane No. 8. 1120 U.S.S. LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN underway and stood out. 1127 U.S.S. BUSH underway. 1200 U.S.S. WINDAHAM BAY stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1240 U.S.S. MISSION SAN DIEGO stood out. 1320 U.S.S. DOMINION VICTORY underway and stood out. 1322 U.S.S. BOUGAINVILLE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1435 U.S.S. OCCIDENTAL stood out. 1558 U.S.S. BOISE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

J. B. Heifner, Lt.(jg), USNR.
 
 

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before.

L. M. King, Jr., Lt.(jg), USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

Friday, 6 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. Ship is darkened, modified Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" are set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), MISSISSIPPI, TENNESSEE, PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, LOUISVILLE, PHOENIX, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, BOISE, HONOLULU, COLUMBIA, NASHVILLE, AUSTRALIA, BOUGAINVILLE, WHITE PLAINS, SANGAMON, SUWANEE, CHENANGO, SANTEE, GAMBIER BAY, NEHENTA BAY PETROF BAY, various destroyers, escort and landing craft, merchantmen, oilers, yard and district craft.

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

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Condition of Readiness III in the antiaircraft battery. 0515 LST 669 underway to shift berth. 0531 U.S.S. HOEL underway to shift berth. 0536 U.S.S. HERMAN underway to shift berth. 0600 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery. 0614 U.S.S. COLUMBIA underway to shift berth. 0618 U.S.S. EMMONS stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0639 U.S.S. KILLEN underway to shift berth. 0650 U.S.S. BANGUST, HULBERT and MUSTIN stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 0701 U.S.S. NASHVILLE underway and stood out. 0718 H.M.A.S. WARRAMUNGA underway and stood out. 0722 Following ships underway and stood out: U.S.S. JOHNSTON, HAILEY. Following ships stood in and anchored in assigned berths: J.B. ROBERTS, R.W. SUESSENS, W.C. WANN, ARS PRESERVER and HAGGARD. 0725 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA underway and stood out. 0731 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE underway and stood out. 0736 U.S.S. PORTLAND and ERBEN underway and stood out.

J. R. Hatcher, Ensign, USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 0905 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0950 U.S.S. PORTLAND stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1025 U.S.S. HONOLULU underway to shift berth. 1025 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1230 U.S.S. CHARLESTON, CHERRY VALLEY, CHARLES LIEZ, WILSON TERAM underway and stood out. 1300 Held inspection of lower decks. 1315 H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1400 Completed lower decks inspection. 1420 U.S.S. HOVEY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1500 Held test of smoke screen generator and completed same at 1512.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 Set Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery. 1620 U.S.S. NASHVILLE stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1620 H.M.A.S. WARRAMUNGA underway and shifted berth. 1759 U.S.S. ABNER REED stood in and moored alongside U.S.S. MEDUSA. 1817 U.S.S. BEALE stood in and moored in berth assigned. 1800 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery.

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

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

Saturday, 7 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III modified set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), various units of the Pacific Fleet, escorts, tenders, merchant ships, landing craft, and various patrol, yard and district craft; H.M.A.S. ARUNTA, AUSTRALIA, SHROPSHIRE, WARRAMUNGA.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0710 H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE underway and stood out of harbor.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0810 Held quarters for muster, followed by Captain’s inspection of the crew and upper decks. Absentees: none. 0845 U.S.S. BOUGAINVILLE underway and stood out of harbor. 0900 Secured from Captain’s inspection. 0920 U.S.S. TOMAHAWK and WEAVER stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 1000 U.S.S. HAZELWOOD stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1005 U.S.S. FANSHAW BAY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1040 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1045 Hoisted out plane No. 7 for routine flight. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer; Kilpatrick, C.I., CAMM, 268 44 23, USN. 1042 U.S.S. SWAN underway and stood out of harbor. 1105 Made weekly inspection and tests of the following: magazines, smokeless powder, bombs, pyrotechnics, magazine sprinklers, shell stowage sprinklers and hangar space sprinklers. Conditions satisfactory.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. WINDHAM BAY underway and stood out. 1216 U.S.S. AMMEN underway and stood out. 1246 U.S.S. BEALE underway and stood out. 1247 U.S.S. DUFFY underway and stood out. 1320 S.S. HINTON R. HELPER and LAWRENCE GIANELLA underway and stood out. 1320 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1354 U.S.S. JENKINS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1400 S.S. AUGUSTINE DALY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1450 Hoisted out plane No. 7. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N), 315108; observer: Wood, S.S., AMM1c, 406 84 13, USNR. 1452 Hoisted out plane No. 8. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer: Kilpatrick, C.I., 268 44 23, ACMM, USN. 1520 H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE and ARUNT stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1525 U.S.S. HAZELWOOD underway and shifted berth.

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

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 1630 U.S.S. MAZAMA stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1715 U.S.S. AMMEN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1745 Set modified Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery.

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Sunday, 8 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III modified are set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), various units of the Pacific Fleet, escort, landing craft, oilers, tenders, merchant ships, various yard, district and patrol craft; H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, AUSTRALIA, ARUNTA, WARRAMUNGA.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0658 U.S.S. CALDWELL stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0700 U.S.S. HUNT, MC NAIR, and HAILEY stood out. 0710 U.S.S. LAVALLETTE, CRAIG and RICHARD P. LEARY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0730 U.S.S. MC DERMUT, HALE, ORCA underway and stood out. 0745 U.S.S. WELLES and BACHE underway and shifted berths.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 0900 U.S.S. COUGHLAN underway and stood out. 0910 U.S.S. ANDERSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0940 U.S.S. SARGEANT BAY stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 1040 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1140 U.S.S. BENNION underway and stood out of harbor. 1140 U.S.S. ESSO SPRINGFIELD underway and stood out of harbor. 1145 U.S.S. BEAVER DAM stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1155 U.S.S. NEWCOMB underway and stood out of harbor.

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

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1210 U.S.S. BUSH stood in and anchored in assigned berth. U.S.S. FULLAM, JAMES E. CRAIG, and VAN HUETSZ underway and stood out of harbor. 1333 U.S.S. M.C. DEADY and MULLANEY underway and shifted berths. 1401 U.S.S. REIGN and ZEAL underway and shifted berth. 1505 U.S.S. CARRIBBEAN stood in and anchored in assigned berth. U.S.S. HENRY DODGE underway and stood out.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1600 U.S.S. HALFORD and TWIGGS stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1700 U.S.S. OSTERHAUS and ISHERWOOD underway and stood out of harbor.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

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

Monday, 9 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Manus Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, except for necessary lights, in Material Condition "B" and in Modified Condition of Readiness III are set. Boiler No. 2 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, TENNESSEE, PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, WHITE PLAINS, SANGAMON, SUWANEE, CHENANGO, SANTEE, KITKUN BAY, NEHENTA BAY, PETROF BAY, SARGEANT BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, LOUISVILLE, PHOENIX, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, BOISE, HONOLULU, COLUMBIA, NASHVILLE, H.M.A.S AUSTRALIA, SHROPSHIRE; also present are various destroyers, other units of the Pacific Fleet and various yard and district craft.

J. R. Hatcher, Ensign, USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0425 U.S.S. ANDERSON underway and stood out of harbor. 0430 U.S.S. LAVALLETTE underway and stood out of harbor. 0440 U.S.S. JENKINS underway and stood out of harbor. 0505 U.S.S. FREMONT underway and stood out of harbor. 0510 U.S.S. LEONARD WOOD and HARRIS underway and stood out of harbor. 0520 U.S.S. O’HARA underway and stood out of harbor. 0525 U.S.S. PIERCE underway and stood out of harbor. 0530 U.S.S. BARNSTABLE underway and stood out of harbor. 0545 U.S.S. HERALD OF THE MORNING underway and stood out of harbor. 0550 U.S.S. NATCHEZ underway and stood out of harbor. 0555 U.S.S. LACKAWANNA and LA SALLE underway and stood out of harbor. 0600 U.S.S. LEEDSTOWN and ELECTRA underway and stood out of harbor. 0630 U.S.S. ARNEB underway and stood out of harbor. Various amphibious craft underway and stood out of harbor. 0700 U.S.S. WICKES stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0710 U.S.S. MAC DONOUGH, SPROSTON and PIEKING underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. BARNES stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0710 U.S.S. SANGAY stood out. 0725 U.S.S. SWANSON stood in and anchored in assigned berth. 0730 U.S.S. NORMAN HAPWOOD underway and stood out of harbor.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees: none. 0850 U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA underway and anchored in assigned berth. 1000 Fired blank charges in port and starboard catapults. Test satisfactory. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

W. H. Frey, 1^st. Lt., USMC.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1255 U.S.S. REQUISITE, REVENGE and SAGE stood in and anchored in berths assigned. 1330 U.S.S. STEELE and SEID stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1350 Dreistadt, N. T., F2c, 251 12 19, USNR, was returned aboard, via LCI 605, when stricken ill while on liberty at Pityili Island. Diagnosis: kidney trouble. Condition good. 1430 Lit fires under No. 4 boiler. 1555 U.S.S. ABARENDA stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1555 HU.S.S. HAGGATT BAY stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 1558 U.S.S. ENOREE underway and stood in and anchored in berth assigned.

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

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1610 Hauled fires under No. 2 boiler. 1615 U.S.S. FREMONT and WICKES stood in and anchored in assigned berths. 1625 Cut in No. 4 boiler on main steam line.

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

W. M. Foster, Lt., USNR.

Tuesday, 10 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Modified Condition of Readiness III are set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 4 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), BatDiv 2, BatDiv4 less U.S.S. COLORADO plus U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI, CruDiv 4 less INDIANAPOLIS plus MINNEAPOLIS, U.S.S. BOISE, COLUMBIA, HONOLULU, NASHVILLE, and PHOENIX, CarDiv 22, 24, 25, 26; Carrier Transport Squadron Pacific; DesRon 14, 24, 47, 48, 49, 54, 56; DesDiv 44, 92, 101; H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, and various train units of the fleet, yard and district craft.

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0515 U.S.S. AUGUSTINE BAY underway and stood out of harbor. 0620 U.S.S. FLECTHER stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0700 U.S.S. MAC DONOUGH underway and stood out of harbor. U.S.S. LEUTZE underway and stood out of harbor. 0707 U.S.S. MC GOWAN underway and stood out of harbor. 0720 U.S.S. CHAUNCEY underway and stood out of harbor. 0730 U.S.S. BRAINE underway and stood out of harbor.

J. S. Sewall, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0800 U.S.S. ABBOT stood in and anchored in berth assigned. 0810 U.S.S. ORERTON underway and stood out. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0825 U.S.S. CHANDLER underway and stood out. 0835 U.S.S. PARKS and SANDS underway and stood out. 0842 U.S.S. SWERVE and TIDE underway and stood out. 1000 U.S.S. MORRISON underway and stood out. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1030 The following named officers of "Headquarters Far East Army Air Forces" reported aboard for temporary duty: 1^st Lt.(AC) Wilfred F. Jones, Jr., 0-861823, U.S.A.; 2^ND Lt.(AC) James O. Porter, 0-873995, U.S.A.; 1^ST Lt. Harry B. Richman, 0-569931, U.S.A. 1100 U.S.S. MASCOMA and BARNES underway and stood out. U.S.S. HOLLANDIA BAY and LUCE stood in and anchored in assigned berth.

C. L. Joslin, Jr., Lt.(jg), USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Anchored as before. 1200 U.S.S. BUSH, PARKS and TUMULT underway and stood out. U.S.S. SHABONEE and ABBOT stood in. U.S.S. WHITLE underway and stood out. 1400 U.S.S. FARENHOLT and STANVAC CAPE TOWN stood out. U.S.S. FELAND and GEORGE CLYMER stood in and anchored in assigned berths.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1714 Following ships stood in and anchored in berths assigned: U.S.S. WICKES and JOHN ROGERS. 1745 Following ships stood in and anchored in berths assigned: U.S.S. TWIGGS, HARADEN and MAC DONOUGH.

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

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

J. R. Hatcher, Ensign, USN.

Wednesday, 11 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 106, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 18 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III modified set. No. 4 is steaming for auxiliary purposes. Ships present include: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), BatDiv 2, BatDiv4 less COLORADO plus MISSISSIPPI, CruDiv 4 less INDIANAPOLIS, plus MINNEAPOLIS, U.S.S. BOISE, COLUMBIA, HONOLULU, NASHVILLE, and PHOENIX, CarDivs 22, 24, 25, 26, and CarTransRonPac, DesRons 14, 24, 47, 48, 49, 54, 56, DesDivs 44, 92, 101; H.M.A.S. AUSTRALIA, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, and various train units of the Pacific Fleet, yard and patrol craft.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before.

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

08 – 12 Watch

Anchored as before. 0815 Held quarters for muster. No absentees. 0845 Lighted fires under boiler No. 2. 0900 U.S.S. LEARY and STACK underway and stood out. 1040 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No. 7. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR observer: Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 1045 Cut boiler No. 2 in on main steam line. 1045 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No. 8. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, 315108, A-V(N), USNR; observer: Mendez, A., S2c, 357 37 71, USNR. Underway at 1142, proceeding to go alongside tanker for fuel, and at 1213 moored port side to U.S.S. ABARENDA in Berth 337, Seeadler Harbor. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1142 underway, proceeding on various courses and at various speeds to go alongside tanker. Executive Officer at the Conn, Captain and Navigator on the bridge. Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, proceeding at various speeds on various courses. 1213 Moored port side to U.S.S. ABARENDA in Berth No. 337, Seeadler Harbor. Following lines are in use: bow line, stern line, crossed springs forward and crossed springs aft. All lines are doubled, except for forward bow spring. Ships draft forward 22’ 8", aft 26’ 3". 1240 Commenced receiving fuel oil aft. 1250 Commenced receiving fuel oil forward. 1307 Secured from receiving fuel oil aft. 1320 Secured from receiving fuel oil forward. 1324 Disconnected hoses forward and aft. Completed fueling, having received 65,520 gallons of fuel oil. Ship’s draft forward 23’ 5", aft 26’ 5". At 1350 got underway and proceeded to Berth 105. 1350 Having made all preparations, underway from alongside U.S.S. ABARENDA. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Maneuvering on various courses at various speeds to assigned berth. 1427 Anchored in Berth No. 105, Seeadler Harbor, in 11 fathoms of water, with 60 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings as follows: Beacon "D" 006^o-30’ T(PGC); Beacon "F" 088^o-24’ T(PGC); Beacon "C" 229^o-00’ T(PGC); Beacon No. 4 212^o-00’ T(PGC); Beacon "E" 195^o-00’ T(PGC); Beacon "H" 146^o-30’ T(PGC). 1435 Secured main and steering engines. 1449 Hauled fires under boiler No. 2. Boiler No. 4 on the line for auxiliary purposes.

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

16 – 20 Watch

Anchored as before. 1610 HMAS AUSTRALIA, SHROPSHIRE, WARRAMUNGA, ARUNTA and FELIX underway and stood out. 1613 U.S.S. NASHVILLE, BOISE, PHOENIX, and HUTCHINS underway and stood out. 1650 U.S.S. BACHE and BEALE underway and stood out. 1730 U.S.S. AMMEN underway and stood out. 1815 U.S.S. CASSING YOUNG underway and stood out.

J. R. Hatcher, Ensign, USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Anchored as before.

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Thursday, 12 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Anchored in Berth No. 105, Seeadler Harbor, Admiralty Islands, in 11 fathoms of water with 60 fathoms of chain to starboard anchor. The ship is darkened, except for necessary lights, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III modified are set throughout the ship. Boiler No. 4 is in use for auxiliary purposes. Ships present: U.S.S. ARGONNE (SOPA), CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, MISSISSIPPI, PENNSYLVANIA, TENNESSEE, WEST VIRGINIA, HONOLULU, LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA, GAMBIER BAY, KADASHAN BAY, KALININ BAY, KITKUN BAY, MANILA BAY, MARCUS ISLAND, MIDWAY, NATOMA BAY, PETROF BAY, SAGINAW BAY, SAVO ISLAND, SANTEE, SANGAMON, SUWANEE, WHITE PLAINS, SARGEANT BAY, BARNES, FANSHAW BAY, CHENANGO, destroyers, and various other units of the train, yard and district craft of the Pacific Fleet.

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

04 – 08 Watch

Anchored as before. 0400 Lighted fires under boiler No. 1. 0515 Lighted fires under boiler Nos. 2 and 3. 0530 Following ships underway and stood out: U.S.S. FANSHAW BAY, JOHNSTON, CHENANGO, SANGAMON, SANTEE, SUWANNEE, OBERRENDEN, WICKES, HAGGARD, TWIGGS and HERMAN. 0545 Commenced making preparations for getting underway. Set Condition of Readiness III. Ship’s draft forward 24’; aft 26’ 4". Underway at 0658 for the Philippine Islands to carry out orders contained in Commander Task Group 77.2 Operation Plan 2-44 and subsequent directions. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 0658 underway from Berth No. 105, Seeadler Harbor. Captain at the Conn, Executive Officer and Navigator on the bridge. Proceeding on various courses at various speeds conforming with channel. Boilers No.2 and 4 are in use for steaming. 0740 passed through entrance nets, to take departure from Seeadler Harbor, on course 000^oT(PG), speed 10 knots (100 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 77

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 000^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). At 0805 Commenced forming Cruising Formation 1-C0-2 with Task Group 77.2. This task group, with Admiral OLDENDORF in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE as O.T.C., consists of the following ships: U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI, CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, HONOLULU, MINNEAPOLIS, COLUMBIA, DENVER, DesRon 56, SAN CARLOS, CLAXTON, THORN, and WELLES. 0805 Commenced forming Cruising Formation 1-CO-2 with Task Group 77.2. Changed course and axis to 292^oT(PGC). 0827 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). On station in Cruising Formation 1-CO-2, guide in U.S.S. HONOLULU, DENVER third ship in column. 0920 Changed course and axis to 313^oT(PG). 0921 Set Condition of Readiness One in anti-aircraft battery, for scheduled firing at sleeve. From 0937 to 1140 fired anti-aircraft battery in scheduled sleeve firing exercise. The following ammunition was expended: 61 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles and Smokeless powder, 152 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers, 164 rounds 20mm H.E. Incendiaries, and 84 rounds 20mm H.E. Tracers. 0937 Commenced firing 5" battery to port. 1100 Commenced firing automatic weapons at sleeve. 1140 Completed scheduled anti-aircraft firing practice. Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 1140 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1152 Commenced maneuvering to form Cruising Formation 5R0, slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1152 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE assumed fleet guide. 1159 Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 270^oT(PGC); maneuvering on various courses and speeds to form Cruising Formation "5-R0". 1205 On station 3300 in formation "5-R0", guide in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE (OTC), fleet course and axis 313^oT(PGC). At 1217 Task Group 77.4 was sighted on the horizon and at 1520 Cruising Formation 5-V0 was formed. 1217 Sighted large group of ships, hull down bearing 313^oT(PGC), identified as Task Group 77.4. 1232 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 6. 1515 Ceased zig-zagging, returned to base course. 1520 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to form Cruising Formation "5-R0". 1528 On station 5300 in Cruising Formation "5-R0", fleet course and axis 313^oT(PGC). 1539 Formation commenced exercising at tactical maneuvers.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 151

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, exercising at tactical maneuvers. At 1616 went to Cruising Formation 3-L0. 1616 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to take station with Task Group 77.2 and 77.4, in formation "3-L0". 1626 Assumed station in formation"3-L0", DENVER station 3300, base course 313^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1705 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23, base course 313^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 151

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 313^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. Formation "3-L0". 1813 On signal ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 313^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

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

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, course 313^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 2010 Changed fleet course to the left to 300^oT(PGC). 2117 Crossed Equator from South to North at Longitude 144^o58.2’ E. 2257 Radar contact indicated surface target, bearing 281^oT, distance 16 miles; identified friendly.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 01^o 54.1’ S

147^o 18.9’ E

1200 01^o 21.6’ S

146^o 36.8’ E

2000 00^o 10.2’ S

145^o 14.2’ E

Friday, 13 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming as part of Task Group 77.2 and accompanied by Task Group 77.4. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE OTC. This Task Group consists of the following : U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI, CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE; COLUMBIA, LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, HONOLULU, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER; Destroyer Division 111, Destroyer Division 112; plus SAN CARLOS, CLAXTON, THORN, WELLES; with Task Group 77.4, consisting of U.S.S. SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANTEE, NATOMA BAY, FANSHAW BAY, MANILA BAY, SAVO ISLAND, MARCUS ISLAND, KALININ BAY, MIDWAY, WHITE PLAINS and Transport Divisions 12, 14 and 16 less U.S.S. SANDS; plus AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY. In Cruising Formation "3-L0", U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is guide, bearing 073^oT(PGC), distance 3,000 yards. Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. Boilers No. 2 and 4 in use; on course 300^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM); fleet axis 313^oT(PGC). 0013 Changed course right to 310^oT(PGC). 0130 Changed course left to 290^oT(PGC). 0348 Changed course right to 300^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 300^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0415 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0420 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23, base course 300^oT(PGC). 0500 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III. 0555 Changed course to 260^oT(PGC), ceased zig-zagging. 0604 Changed course to 300^oT(PGC). 0613 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23, base course 300^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 300^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), fleet axis 313^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 0815 Held quarters for muster. Absentees:none. 0918 On signal ceased zig-zagging, resumed base course 300^oT(PGC). 0928 On signal, changed fleet axis to 300^oT(PGC). 0954 On signal, went to 16 knots (160 RPM). On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1005 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1135 Sighted unidentified ship, hull down, bearing 175^oT(PGC), distance 15 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 157

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

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. Picket No. 3 reported small craft bearing 040^oT, distance 10 miles at 1532.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1708 Received U.S.S. HALFORD along starboard quarter to transfer radar crystal. 1710 U.S.S. HALFORD cast off and proceeded independently to resume station.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1813 Ceased zig-zagging, resumed on base course 300^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM), fleet axis 300^oT(PGC). Cruising Formation "3-L0".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

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

Positions: 0800 01^o 16.3’ S

142^o 50.0’ E

1200 01^o 49.0’ N

142^o 01.3’ E

2000 02^o 47.8’ N

140^o 18.8’ E

Saturday, 14 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming as part of Task Group 77.2 accompanied by Task Group 77.4. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2 and 77.4, which consist of the following : U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI, CALIFORNIA, MARYLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, TENNESSEE, WEST VIRGINIA; COLUMBIA, LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, HONOLULU, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER; SANGAMON, SUWANNEE, CHENANGO, SANTEE, NATOMA BAY, MANILA BAY, FANSHAW BAY, SAVO ISLAND, MARCUS ISLAND, MIDWAY, WHITE PLAINS, KALININ BAY; AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY; Destroyer Division 111, Destroyer Division 112, SAN CARLOS, CLAXTON, THORN, WELLES; Transport Divisions 12, 14 and 16 less the SANDS. Steaming in Cruising Formation "3-L0", with U.S.S. LOUISVILLE fleet guide. Base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM); fleet axis 300^oT(PGC). Rear Admiral Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III is set throughout the ship. Steaming on boilers No. 2 and 4. 0310 Held steering casualty drill; steering aft took steering control. 0313 Steering control shifted to pilot house.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, in Cruising Formation "3-L0", base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots (160 RPM). 0430 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 0433 U.S.S. BENNION reported surface contact bearing 315^oT(PGC), distance 29 miles from fleet center and left formation to investigate. 0550 Strange surface craft identified as Task Group 79.12.1, BENNION proceeding to return to station in formation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 163

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0857 Shifted steering units and cables to No. 1 unit, starboard cable. 1100 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 162

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 16 knots, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1227 Entered heavy squall. Visibility reduced to 4,000 yards. 1249 Passed through squall. Visibility improved to 10,000 yards. 1303 U.S.S. HONOLULU designated fleet guide. 1328 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE resumed fleet guide. 1355 On signal ceased zig-zagging. Resumed base course 300^oT(PGC). 1400 On signal changed fleet course and axis to 197^oT(PGC). On signal changed fleet speed to 16.5 knots (165 RPM0. 1403 Sounded anti-aircraft call for simulated air attack. 1420 On signal commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z". 1532 Secured from simulated air attack. Set Condition of Readiness III in anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 166

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

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z". 1830 Ceased zig-zagging, returned to base course 297^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 167

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 166

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 04^o 25.0’ N

137^o 46.0’ E

1200 04^o 52.7’ N

137^o 08.9’ E

2000 05^o 48.0 N

135^o 22.5’ E

Sunday, 15 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming as part of Task Group 77.2 accompanied by Task Group 77.4 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, (guide), CALIFORNIA, TENNESSEE, PENNSYLVANIA, MISSISSIPPI, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND; PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, HONOLULU, COLUMBIA, and DENVER; Destroyer Division 111, Destroyer Division 112; CLAXTON, THORN, WELLES. Cruising disposition "3-L0". Fleet course and axis 297^oT(PGC), fleet speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM). Guide bears 057^oT(PGC), distance 3,000 yards. Carrier Task Group 77.4 is present. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" are set. 0105 Made radar landfall on Angaur Island, Palau Group, bearing 342^oT(PGC), distance 27 miles. 0130 Entered squall area; light driving rain and reduced visibility.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

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

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM). 0430 Commenced scheduled tracking exercise. 0500 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z". 0620 Secured from tracking exercise.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z". 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0830 Held Divine Services. 0955 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 10 "Z". 1352 Ceased zig-zagging, changed fleet course to 240^oT(PGC). 1513 U.S.S. ROSS came alongside starboard. 1516 U.S.S. ROSS cast off.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 168

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 240^oT(PGC), speed 16.5 knots (165 RPM), fleet axis 297^oT(PGC), formation "3-L0". 1600 On signal slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1609 On signal changed course left to 120^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

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

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 120^oT(PGC), at speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1900 Slowed to 14 knots (140 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 154

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 120^oT(PGC), at speed 14 knots (140 RPM). 2100 Changed fleet course left to 032^oT(PGC). 2330 Changed fleet course left to 296^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 144

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 07^o 15.0’ N

132^o 37.8’ E

1200 07^o 42.9’ N

131^o 43.4’ E

2000 07^o 06.3 N

131^o 34.6’ E

Monday, 16 October, 1944.

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Groups 77.2 and 77.4 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral Oldendorf, OTC in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE. Steaming in formation "3-L0", DENVER position 3300. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, (guide), fleet course 296^oT(PGC), axis 297^oT(PGC), and speed 14 knots (140 RPM). The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" set throughout the ship and Condition of Readiness III. Boilers No. 2 and 4 are in use for steaming purposes. Condition V Radar silence is set.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 296^oT(PGC), speed 14 knots (140 RPM), fleet axis 297^oT(PGC), Cruising Formation "3-L0". 0505 Made radar contact with tanker group, bearing 268^oT(PGC), distance 31.5 miles. 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0532 On signal went to 16 knots (160 RPM). 0603 Secured from General Quarters, set and Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0607 On signal changed course left to 250^oT(PGC) and slowed to 7 knots (070 RPM). 0617 On signal changed fleet course and fleet axis to left to 270^oT(PGC). On signal went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0640 On signal went to 15 knots (150 RPM). On signal changed course left to 218^oT(PGC). 0652 On signal commenced maneuvering independently on various courses at various speeds while proceeding to fueling station. 0700 Captain took the Conn. At 0733 went alongside starboard to U.S.S. SARANAC for underway fueling. 0733 Having made all preparations, went alongside U.S.S. SARANAC starboard side to for fuel oil and gasoline. Received first line from U.S.S. SARANAC. Fueling course and speed 237^oT(PGC), 5.7 knots (059 RPM). 0735 Tow lines secured to U.S.S. SARANAC. 0745 Executive Officer took the Conn. 0748 Commenced receiving fuel oil through forward fueling connection. Ship’s draft forward 22’ 11", aft 25’ 0". 0759 Commenced receiving fuel oil through after fueling connection.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

M. F. Healy, Jr., Lt., USNR
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, alongside U.S.S. SARANAC on course 237^oT(PGC), speed 5.7 knots (059 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 0815 Commenced receiving gasoline through after connection. 0827 Completed receiving gasoline, having received 500 gallons. 0833 Completed receiving fuel forward. 0844 Completed receiving fuel aft, having received 142,747 gallons. Ship’s draft forward 23’ 8", aft 25’ 6". 0854 U.S.S. SARANAC hauled in both hoses, fueling completed. At 0905 cast off all lines and proceeded to station 1500 yards ahead of U.S.S. SARANAC. 0905 Let go all lines from U.S.S. SARANAC. 0906 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0907 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0913 Slowed to 6.5 knots (065 RPM). 0925 Commenced steaming on course 240^oT(PGC) speed 7.5 knots (075 RPM), on station 1500 yards ahead of U.S.S. SARANAC. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1040 Fired line to U.S.S. SAN CARLOS being received on starboard quarter. 1045 U.S.S. SAN CARLOS underway from alongside starboard quarter.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 66

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 240^oT(PGC), at 7.5 knots (075 RPM). 1245 U.S.S. RICHARD P. LEARY came alongside starboard quarter and delivered official mail. 1247 U.S.S. RICHARD P. LEARY cast off and stood clear. At 1250 commenced forming Task Unit 78.4.3, Rear Admiral R. W. HAYLER, O.T.C. in DENVER with COLUMBIA and DesDiv 112. 1250 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to form Task Group 78.4.3. At 1312 this unti departed from the main body and proceeded toward Saluan Island of the Philippine group. DENVER and COLUMBIA steamed in column with DesDiv 112 forming anti-submarine screen. 1312 Having completed fueling exercises, took departure from main body, with U.S.S. DENVER(OTC) and COLUMBIA in column formation and Destroyer Division 112 forming anti-submarine screen. Rear Admiral R. W. Hayler is OTC in DENVER. DENVER is guide, on course 306^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (205 RPM). 1450 Entered heavy rain squall, visibility reduced.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 173

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 306^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 1638 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1731 Increased fleet speed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1845 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 181

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 306^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM), fleet axis 306^oT(PGC). 1830 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 1905 Made surface radar contact, bearing 269^oT(PGC), distance 12 miles. 1915 On signal U.S.S. ROSS left formation to investigate surface contact. 1936 U.S.S. ROSS identified surface craft as friendly and ordered to rejoin formation.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 204

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

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 306^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM), fleet axis 306^oT(PGC). 2010 U.S.S. ROSS rejoined formation. 2113 Went to 21 knots (212 RPM). 2155 Made Radar contact with friendly surface craft, bearing 313^oT(PGC), distance 15 miles. 2235 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2341 Cut boiler No. 1 in on main steam line. 2345 Cut boiler No. 3 in on mail steam line.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 189

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 07^o 53.7’ N

130^o 27.5’ E

1200 07^o 41.3’ N

130^o 07.0’ E

2000 08^o 55.0 N

128^o 12.0’ E

Tuesday, 17 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Unit 78.4.3 making approach for shore bombardment of Saluan Island. Steaming with Task Group 78.4.3, in company with U.S.S. COLUMBIA and Destroyer Division 112, in column formation, destroyers forming anti-submarine screen. Base course and axis 306^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). Rear Admiral R. W. Hayler is OTC in DENVER. DENVER is guide. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" and Readiness Condition III are set. Boilers No. 1,2, 3 and 4 are steaming. 0035 Increased speed to full, 20 knots (200 RPM). 0043 Changed course right to 006^oT(PGC). 0109 Changed course left to 336^oT(PGC). 0125 Changed course left to 310^oT(PGC). 1040 Changed course left to 300^oT(PGC). 0224 Changed course right to 310^oT(PGC). 0257 Increased speed to flank, 24 knots (245 RPM). 0310 Changed course left to 300^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 210

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 24 knots (240 RPM). 0410 Increased speed to 26 knots (269 RPM). 0454 Changed fleet course to 330^oT(PGC), slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0500 Went to General Quarters for shore bombardment of Philippine Islands. 0600 U.S.S. COLUMBIA, BRYANT, ROSS and ROBINSON left the formation on duty assigned. 0635 Maneuvered on various courses, at various speeds astern of minesweepers. 0649 Sighted Suluan Island, bearing 310^oT(PGC). Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds to take firing station. 0715 Set Condition of Readiness II in Main Battery, C & R and Engineering Departments. Set Material Condition "B" above the third deck.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 135

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, maneuvering on various courses at various speeds on station for shore bombardment. At 0801 the secondary battery opened fire on that island and fired intermittenly until 0900 the following ammunition having been expended: 44 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles with Smokeless powder. 0801 Commenced firing 5" battery intermittently to port in shore bombardment of Suluan Island. 0900 Ceased firing 5" battery. Set Condition of Readiness II in anti-aircraft battery. 1030 Secured Main Battery. 1130 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1145 Set Condition of Readiness III throughout ship. Continued to maneuver independently on various courses at various speeds.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 72

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

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 250^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1203 Slowed to 5 knots (50 RPM). 1209 Went to 7 knots (70 RPM). 1215 Changed course to 240^oT(PGC). 1314 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC). 1422 Changed course to 020^oT(PGC). 1543 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 65

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 200^oT(PGC), speed 7 knots (070 RPM). 1558 Changed course left to 160^oT(PGC). 1647 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1712 Went to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1719 Changed course right to 180^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 96

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 180^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM). 1807 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds to join Task Group 77.2. Heavy storm which had been steadily increasing in intensity now dictated courses and speeds to a large extent, but at 1914 Task Unit 78.4.3 rejoined Task Group 77.2 in formation 5-R0. 1914 Assumed station in company with Task Group 77.2, in formation "5-R0", base course 120^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM), axis 307^oT(PGC). DENVER station 3300. U.S.S. LOUISVILLE OTC and guide.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 142

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, base course 120^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM). Formation "5-R0", fleet axis 307^oT(PGC). 2340 On signal changed course to right to 298^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 120

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

Positions: 0800 10^o 10.9’ N

125^o 59.8’ E

1200 10^o 40.8’ N

126^o 04.6’ E

2000 10^o 12.0 N

126^o 20.8’ E

Wednesday, 18 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2 in formation 5-R0. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, consisting of the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE OTC and guide, U.S.S. TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, PENNSYLVANIA, MISSISSIPPI, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, DENVER, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, HONOLULU, AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY, NEWCOMB, LEUTZE, BENNION, H.L. EDWARDS, R.P. LEARY, ROBINSON, ROSS, A.W. GRANT, BRYANT, HALFORD, CLAXTON and THORN. Fleet course is 298^oT(PGC), fleet axis 307^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM), in Cruising Formation "5-R0". Steaming with boilers No. 2 and 4. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" are set.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 123

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 298^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM), Cruising Formation "5-R0". 0430 Changed course left to 293^oT(PGC). 0456 Slowed to 7 knots (070 RPM). 0500 Went to General Quarters. 0505 Material Condition "A" set. 0527 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0535 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 0605 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" above first platform and Readiness Condition III, except in anti-aircraft battery. 0622 Set Condition of Readiness II in anti-aircraft battery. 0655 Countermarched to left to course 170^oT(PGC). 0728 Changed course left to 297^oT(PGC). 0730 Changed course right to 345^oT(PGC), slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0744 Stopped engines. 0746 Went ahead at 5 knots (050 RPM). 0750 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0753 Changed course right to 310^oT(PGC). 0755 Changed course right to 330^oT(PGC). 0759 Changed course left to 297^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 104

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 297^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0810 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds to conform with swept channel. 0822 Streamed paravanes on signal. 0927 Catapulted plane No. 7 to port. Pilot Lt.(jg) E. G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer Ivy, T.R., ARM2c. 617 93 30, USNR. At 0932 in assigned fire support station commenced scheduled bombardment of Leyte Island, Philippine Islands Group. 0932 Went to General Quarters for scheduled bombardment of Leyte Island, Philippine Islands Group. 0940 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. At 1115 ceased firing and maneuvered on various courses and speeds until 1413 when firing was resumed and continued unit 1734. 1115 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness II, except for damage control repair parties which remained in Condition I. Material Condition "A" set throughout the ship. 1148 Changed fleet course to 309^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 90

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 309^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), paravanes are streamed. 1245 Sounded flight quarters. 1306 Changed fleet course and axis to 280^oT(PGC), slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1322 Recovered plane No. 7 to port. 1357 Went to General Quarters for shore bombardment of Leyte Island, Philippine Islands Group. 1400 Maneuvered on various courses at various speeds to take station. 1407 Catapulted plane No. 7 to port. Pilot Ens. D. G. Hartlaub, A-V(N), 346932, USNR; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, 357 41 75, USNR. 1413 Commenced firing 5" and 6" batteries.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 106

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 020^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM), maneuvering on various courses, at various speeds to remain on station for shore bombardment of Leyte Island. The ship is at General Quarters. 1653 Set Condition of Readiness II in the Engineering Department. 1655 Having completed temporary duty aboard this vessel, the following listed Army officer left the ship for assigned duties: 1^st Lt. (A.C.) Wilfred F. Jones, Jr., 0-861823, USA; 2^nd Lt. (A.C.) James V. Porter, 0-873895, USA; 1^st Lt. Harry B. Richman, 0-569931, USA. 1720 Ceased firing 6" battery. 1734 Ceased firing 5" battery. 1738 Sounded flight quarters. 1750 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1759 Set Condition of Readiness II.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 60

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 070^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 1805 Increased speed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1815 Changed course to 280^oT(PGC). 1827 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 1834 Increased speed to 15 knots (150 RPM), commenced maneuvering to form Cruising Formation "C". 1835 Observed anti-aircraft fire to port beam, 5 miles distant. 1840 Went to General Quarters. At 1900 formed special cruising disposition with U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PENNSYLVANIA, DENVER, and screening vessels. 1900 Formed Cruising Disposition on LOUISVILLE, ships on circle equally spaced, in following order clockwise: LOUISVILLE in 1000, MINNEAPOLIS, PENNSYLVANIA, DENVER, destroyers and APD’s on circle, forming screen, course and axis 122^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, except in C & R Department. 1930 Changed course right to 298^oT(PGC). 1937 Slowed to 8 knots (080 RPM). 1944 Changed course left to 265^oT(PGC). 1946 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM), changed course right to 273^oT(PGC). At 1949 rejoined remainder of Task Group 77.2 excepting vessels assigned night harassing duty and maneuvered with Leyte Gulf throughout the night. 1949 Commenced maneuvers to form Cruising Disposition "5-R0".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 125

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, maneuvering on various courses and speeds to form Cruising Formation "5-R0". 0800 On station, steaming on base course 298^oT(PGC), speed 4 knots (040 RPM). 2100 Changed course to 118^oT(PGC), speed increased to 6 knots (060 RPM). 2105 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship, Material Condition "B" above second deck. 2130 Recovered both paravanes. 2157 Increased fleet speed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 2215 Changed fleet course to 164^oT(PGC). 2327 Changed course to 322^oT(PGC). 2355 Changed fleet course to 326^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 80

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended this date: 239 rounds 6"/47 H.C. projectiles, 129 rounds 6"/47 Flashless cartridges. 110 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges; 289 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 1 5"/38 W.P. projectile, and 290 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges.
 
 

Positions: 0800 10^o 30.8’ N

125^o 52.9’ E

1200 10^o 44.0’ N

125^o 33.0’ E

2000 10^o 51.8’ N

125^o 12.8’ E

Thursday, 19 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral J.B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, PENNSYLVANIA, MISSISSIPPI, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, LOUISVILLE, DENVER, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, HONOLULU, AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY, NEWCOMB, LEUTZE, BENNION, H.L. EDWARDS, R.P. LEARY, ROBINSON, ROSS, A.W. GRANT, BRYANT, HALFORD, CLAXTON and THORN. Steaming on course 326^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). Fleet axis 298^oT(PGC); U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is guide, bearing 058^oT(PGC), distance 3,000 yards. Cruising Formation "5-R0". Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use for steaming. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "A" are set. 0115 Sound contact reported bearing 322^oT(PGC), distance 9,000 yards. 0117 On signal made emergency change of course to right to 026^oT(PGC). 0125 Results of sound contact reported negative. 0131 On signal changed course to right to 148^oT(PGC). 0135 U.S.S. ROSS operating independently struck mine. U.S.S. CHICKASAW ordered to her assistance. U.S.S. ROSS ordered to beach ship if necessary. 0205 U.S.S. ROSS struck second mine. List developed to 14^o. 0316 On signal changed course to right to 148^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 102

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

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 322^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0517 Changed course to 142^oT(PGC). 0532 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0546 Changed course to 097^oT(PGC). 0555 Observed anti-aircraft fire off port quarter. 0605 Set Condition of Readiness II in the Main Battery, Engineering and Communication Departments. 0608 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0618 Changed course to 345^oT(PGC). 0625 Formed column formation as follows: DENVER (Guide), MINNEAPOLIS, LOUISVILLE and PENNSYLVANIA, in that order. 0653 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0709 Changed course to 255^oT(PGC). 0757 Changed course to 345^oT(PGC). 0758 Launched plane No.7. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058, USNR; observer Jones, E.V., S2c, 609 11, USNR.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 72

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 345^oT(PGC), maneuvering for fire support mission in Leyte Gulf. At 0823 on fire support station resumed shore bombardment of Leyte Island until 1100, continuing in the afternoon from 1322 to 1613. 0823 Commenced firing shore bombardment. 1100 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No.7.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 72

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 190^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 1302 Catapulted plane No. 8 to port. Pilot Ensign P.R. Anderson, 315108, USNR; observer Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 1303 Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to take station for shore bombardment of Leyte Island. 1322 Commenced firing 5" and 6" batteries, at targets of opportunity. 1327 Catapulted plane No. 7 to starboard. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, 251058, USNR; observer Tucker, A.D.,Jr.,ARM3c, 357 41 75, USNR. 1332 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 34

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to remain on firing station. 1602 Stopped all engines. 1608 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1613 Secured from General Quarters; set Readiness Condition III in Engineering, Communication and Main Battery; set Readiness Condition II in C & R Department, Navigation Department and anti-aircraft battery. 1630 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM) and changed course to 030^oT(PGC). 1654 Changed course to the right to 180^oT(PGC). 1703 Changed course to the left to 140^oT(PGC). 1735 Commenced maneuvering to take station in formation "5-RO". At 1748 formed Cruising Formation 5-R0. 1748 On station and stopped all engines; new formation axis 120^oT(PGC), course 142^oT(PGC); guide in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 54

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Lying to as before, in formation "5-RO". 1807 Went to 5 knots (050 RPM). 1821 Set Condition of Readiness I in anti-aircraft battery, for Dusk Alert. 1825 Lit fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 1850 Hauled fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. At 1902 the 5" battery opened fire on enemy aircraft. 1902 Commenced firing 5" battery at enemy aircraft. 1906 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). At 1909 ceased firing, planes having withdrawn. 1909 Ceased firing. 1940 Slowed to 10 Knots (100 RPM). Maneuvered within Leyte Gulf during remainder of the night.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 88

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 145^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM), ship is in Leyte Gulf with anti-aircraft battery in Condition of Readiness I; C & R Department in Condition II and the remainder of ship in Condition III. 2010 Changed fleet course right to 322^oT(PGC). 2015 Set Condition of Readiness I throughout the Gunnery Department. 2016 Went to 12 knots (120 RPM). 2119 Changed fleet course to 330^oT(PGC). 2150 Changed flee course right to 142^oT(PGC). 2326 Changed course left to 325^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 120

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

Ammunition expended this date: 410 rounds 6"/47 H.C. projectiles, 406 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges, 4 rounds 6"/47 Flashless cartridges; 590 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 3 rounds 5"/38 W.P. projectiles, 584 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges, 9 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges; 3105 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers.

Positions: 0800 10^o 53.6’ N

125^o 07.4’ E

1200 10^o 58.5’ N

125^o 06.9’ E

2000 10^o 40.7’ N

125^o 20.9’ E

Friday, 20 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral Oldendorf OTC in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE. In Formation "5-R0", DENVER station 3300; LOUISVILLE fleet guide. Steaming on course 325^oT(PGC), axis 120^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM). Boilers No. 2 and 3 in use for steaming purposes. Ship is darkened, Material Condition "A", Condition of Readiness II is set in the Gunnery Department and Damage Control repair parties. Condition of Readiness III is set throughout the rest of the ship. 0106 On signal changed course right to 142^oT(PGC). 0250 On signal changed course right to 322^oT(PGC). 0356 Changed fleet speed to 6 knots (060 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 121

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 322^oT(PGC), speed 6 knots (060 RPM). 0405 Task Unit 77.2.1 left the formation. 0428 U.S.S. CALIFORNIA, PORTLAND and COLUMBIA left the formation. 0437 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to take fire-support station. 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert and shore bombardment. At 0556 on station for bombardment in support of landing on Leyte Island. 0556 On station for shore bombardment of Leyte Island, Philippine Islands. 0600 Catapulted plane no. 7. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, A-V(N), 315 108, USNR; observer Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. At 0623 U.S.S. DENVER attacked by twin engine bomber flying at low altitude. Anti-aircraft battery opened fire, plane dropped two bombs in the water about 200 yards off starboard bow and escaped. 0623 Attacked by enemy twin engine bomber at low altitude. Anti-aircraft battery opened fire. Observed two bombs hit water about 200 yards off starboard bow. Plane escaped. 0624 Went to full speed, 20 knots (200 RPM). 0625 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM), and regained fire-support station. At 0626, maneuvering independently, shore bombardment was begun with main and secondary battery firing intermittently to port and starboard. 0626 Commenced firing 6" battery intermittently to port and starboard, maneuvering independently. 0720 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "A".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 72

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Maneuvering as before, to maintain position of fire-support station for landings on Leyte Island. 0959 Recovered plane No. 7. 1004 Observed U.S. 6^th Army landing on East shore of Leyte Island, at Dulag Town area. 1020 Catapulted plane No. 7. Pilot Ensign D. G. Hartlaub, USNR, 346932; observer Jones, E.W., S2c, V-6, 609 09 11. The plane bounced off water after catapulting. 1029 Recovered plane No.7 which returned because of injury to observer during catapulting. Injury was diagnosed as "scalp wound, simple. Condition good". 1041 Catapulted plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, USNR, 251058; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, V-6 357 41 75. 1100 Mustered crew on station. No absentees.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 120

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Lying to as before, maneuvering intermittently to remain on fire-support station, with intermittent firing of the 6" battery. At 1300 ceased firing. 1300 Ceased firing and set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 1435 Recovered plane No. 7. 1440 Set Condition of Readiness II. 1505 Catapulted plane No. 7 to starboard. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, USNR, 251058; observer, Ivy, T.R., 617 93 30, ARM2c, USNR. Resumed bombardment at 1525 and continued until 1730. 1525 Commenced scheduled bombardment.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 19

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Lying to as before. 1605 Went to General Quarters. 1713 Sounded flight quarters. 1726 Hoisted plane No. 7 aboard. 1730 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness II, Material Condition "A".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 10

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Lying to as before off Leyte Island, maneuvering to remain in fire-support station. Laid smoke screen from 1815 until 1907 while maneuvering to avoid enemy air attack. 1815 On signal commenced laying smoke screen. Sounded anti-aircraft call, at 1825 for Dusk Alert. Went to General Quarters. Changed course to 090^oT(PGC) at 1833. 1840 Went to standard speed and changed course to 130^oT(PGC); commenced maneuvering to avoid enemy air attack. 1907 Came to course 000^oT(PGC). Ceased laying smoke screen. At 1917 6" battery opened fire on Leyte Island and at 1922 automatic weapons opened fire on enemy aircraft. 1917 All engines stopped while 6" battery commenced firing on Leyte Island. 1922 Automatic weapons opened fire on enemy aircraft. Flare dropped by enemy plane bearing 130^oT. More smoke was made from 1930 to 2000 and from 2143 to 2225. U.S.S. DENVER remained on call fire throughout the night. 1930 Commenced laying smoke screen and completed at 2000.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 68

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Lying to as before in Leyte Bay for fire-support mission. The ship is at General Quarters, Material Condition "A" set. 2045 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness II. 2143 Commenced making smoke. 22225 Ceased making smoke.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 6

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended this date: 686 rounds 6"/37 H.C. projectiles, 455 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges, 231 rounds 6"/47 Flashless cartridges; 81 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 68 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common Special projectiles, 46 rounds 5"/38 Illuminating projectiles, 2 rounds 5"/38 W.P. projectiles, 167 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges, 30 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges.

Positions: 0800 10^o 48.0’ N

125^o 03.0’ E

1200 10^o 52.0’ N

125^o 02.8’ E

2000 10^o 52.7’ N

125^o 04.0’ E

Saturday, 21 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Lying to off the coast of Leyte Island with Task Group 77.2, ship maneuvering to stay on fire support station and firing intermittently with 5" and 6" batteries. Lying to with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral J.B. Oldendorf OTC in LOUISVILLE, in Leyte Bay, bombarding Leyte Island, Philippine Group. The ship is maneuvering intermittently to remain on fire support station, with intermittent firing of 6" and secondary batteries. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "A" and Condition of Readiness II is set throughout. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use. 0000 On signal commenced making smoke. 0020 Ceased making smoke. 0155 Lighted fires under boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. 0200 On signal commenced making smoke. 0215 Secured fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 0220 Ceased making smoke. 0300 On signal commenced making smoke. 0320 On signal from OTC ceased making smoke.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 15

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Lying to as before off Leyte Island, firing intermittently the 5" and 6" batteries. 0515 Went to General Quarters. 0632 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery. 0647 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0720 Maneuvered to maintain station for fire support. 0755 Stopped all engines, lying to.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 13

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Lying to as before. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions Normal. 1100 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees: none. 1156 Hoisted plane No. 8 out. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), USNR, 251058; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, 357 41 75.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 5

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Lying to as before. 1251 Hoisted aboard plane No. 8, pilot and observer as noted above.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 4

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Lying to as before. 1640 Went to General Quarters for air-raid alert. 1747 Secured from General Quarters; set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery; set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 8

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Lying to as before in Leyte Gulf. 1858 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1955 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Lying to as before in Leyte Gulf. 2005 Set Condition of Readiness II throughout the ship. 2010 Opened fire with 5" battery to port for bombardment of Leyte Island. 2024 Anchored in Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands Group, in 18 fathoms of water with 30 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor; Tangbo Point bearing 180^oT, distance 17,800 yards. Ship is on station for night fire support of troops on East shore of Leyte Island. At 2210 under orders of CTG 77.2 proceeded to join Task Unit 77.2.2 on station 4 miles east of Taytay Point. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 2210 underway in accordance with directive of Commander Task Group 77.2 to join Task Unit 77.2.2., on station 4 miles east to Taytay Point. 2215 Ceased firing. Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to join main body. 2323 Lighted fires under boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. 2350 Let fires die out under boilers No. 1 and 4. At 2357 joined Task Unit 77.2.2, O.T.C. Rear Admiral OLDENDOR in LOUISVILLE, with PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA, and DesRon 56. 2357 Joined up with Task Unit 77.2.2, Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf OTC in U.S.S. LOUISVIILLE. This unit consists of the following : U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA plus Destroyer Squadron 56.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 105

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended this date: 135 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 12 round 5"/38 Illuminating projectiles, 120 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges, and 27 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges.

Positions: 0800 10^o 53.8’ N

125^o 03.8’ E

1200 10^o 53.5’ N

125^o 03.0’ E

2000 10^o 51.8’ N

125^o 01.8’ E

Sunday, 22 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Unit 77.2.2 in Leyte Gulf. Steaming in Leyte Gulf, rendezvousing with Task Unit 77.2.2, Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in LOUISVILLE OTC. This unit consists of the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER and COLUMBIA plus Destroyer Squadron 56. Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "A" and Readiness Condition II; boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use. Maneuvering at slow speed on various courses. At 0022 came close astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA and U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, avoiding collision by backing down full and sounding three blasts. 0022 Came dangerously close astern of U.S.S. COLUMBIA and LOUISVILLE, avoided collision by backing down full; sounded three blasts. 0052 Steadied on course 290^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0200 Changed course left to 260^oT(PGC). 0235 Changed course left to 095^oT(PGC). 0248 Again averted collision by backing down with right full rudder; resumed course 095^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0347 Changed fleet course by turns of station units to 300^oT(PGC). 0354 Maneuvered to avoid U.S.S. PORTLAND.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 49

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 300^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. At 0531 proceeded independently to take station for scheduled bombardment and at 0745 commenced firing. 0531 Proceeding independently on various courses and speeds to take station for scheduled bombardment. 0540 Commenced making smoke screen. 0551 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0635 Ceased laying smoke screen. 0654 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II. 0745 Commenced scheduled bombardment. 0745 Secured from Flight Quarters. 0750 Lying to in firing station.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 63

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Lying to as before, maneuvering to stay in firing position in Leyte Gulf, Philippine Group, firing shore bombardment. 0801 Anchored in 16 fathoms of water with 30 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: 299^oT Catmon Hill; 332^oT Old Fort. 0822 Made all preparations for getting underway. 0825 Shifted steering units and No. 1 unit, starboard cable now in use. At 0827 ceased firing and got underway for new fire support position south of transport area. 0827 Underway and maneuvering on various courses and at various speeds to new position, south of transport area. At 0913 anchored 3500 yard offshore south of Dulag. 0913 Anchored in 16 fathoms of water in Leyte Gulf with 30 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: 355^oT Catmon Hill; 351^oT Old Fort; 207.5^oT Bito Peak. 0933 Sounded Flight Quarters. 0935 Lighted off boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. At 0940 underway and maneuvering to take station for scheduled bombardment. 0940 Underway and maneuvering to take station for scheduled bombardment. 0951 Catapulted plane No. 7 to starboard. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, A-V(N), 251058; USNR, observer Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 0955 Let fires die out under boilers No. 1 and 4. At 1005 commenced firing and remained in call fire support until 1730 when ship got underway to join Task Unit 72.2.2. 1005 Commenced firing 5" battery intermittently to port.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 25

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Lying to as before. 1243 Anchored in Leyte Gulf in 15 fathoms of water with 30 fathoms of chain to the starboard anchor. Anchorage bearings: Old Fort 353.5^oT; Catmon Hill 338.5^oT. Ship is on call for fire-support of troops on East shore of Leyte Island. 1340 Recovered plane No. 7. 1350 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1408 Lowered plane No. 7 into the water. Pilot Ensign P.R. Anderson, 351108, USNR; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, USNR, 357 41 75. 1413 Recovered plane No. 7 after failing to take off from water. 1426 Underway to launch aircraft, maneuvered on various courses at various speeds. 1435 Catapulted plane No. 7. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, 351108, USNR; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, 357 41 75, USNR. 1454 Recovered plane No. 7. 1505 Catapulted plane No. 7. Pilot Ensign P. R. Anderson, 351108, USNR; observer Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, 357 41 75, USNR. 1520 All engines stopped, hove to on firing station, resumed firing 5" battery to port.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 65

H. M. Brinser, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Lying to as before. 1720 Sounded Flight Quarters. Lighted fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 1730 Having made all preparations for getting underway, underway to join Task Group 77.2.2, in special Cruising Formation. Maneuvering on various courses and speeds to new station. 1731 Sounded anti-aircraft call. 1733 Set Condition of Readiness III in Main Battery. 1732 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1745 Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship except Condition I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1747 Secured from Fight Quarters.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 21

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Maneuvering as before, on various courses at various speeds in order to join Task Unit 77.2.2 in special Cruising Formation. This Task Unit consists of the LOUISVILLE (OTC), PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA and Destroyer Squadron 56. At 1841 anti-aircraft fire was observed astern, plane was observed bursting into flames, and 1848 opened fire on an enemy plane which U.S.S. DENVER shot down with 5" battery at 1840. 1841 Observed anti-aircraft fire astern. Enemy plane burst into flames. 1845 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1848 Commenced firing on enemy plane with anti-aircraft battery. 1850 Shot enemy plane down with 5" fire. At 1900 joined Task Unit 77.2.2 steaming in the gulf at various courses and speeds throughout the rest of the night. 1900 In formation with Task Unit 77.2.2, steadied on course 090^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots, (050 RPM). 1938 Set Readiness Condition III throughout the ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 90

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 090^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 2048 Changed course to 070^oT(PGC). 2121 Changed course to 285^oT(PGC). 2232 Changed course to 295^oT(PGC). 2345 Changed course to 078^oT(PGC). 2355 Let fires die out under boilers No. 1 and 4.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 50

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended: 660 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 10 round 5"/38 W.P. projectiles, 534 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges, and 176 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges.
 
 

Positions: 0800 10^o 59.2’ N

125^o 04.9’ E

1200 10^o 56.0’ N

125^o 03.3’ E

2000 10^o 42.1’ N

125^o 16.0’ E

Monday, 23 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Unit 77.2.2. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2.2, OTC and guide in LOUISVILLE with Rear Admiral J.B. Oldendorf. This Task Group consists of: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA and DENVER; 7 destroyers of Destroyer Squadron 56 as screen. Special Cruising Disposition. DENVER’s position 1.216; axis 090^oT; course 078^oT(PGC); speed 5 knots. Ship is darkened, modified Material Condition "A" and Readiness Condition III. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use for steaming purposes. 0155 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC). 0229 Changed course right to 262^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 49

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 262^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0500 Changed course to 335^oT(PGC). 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. At 0557 5" battery opened fire on enemy aircraft with no observed results. 0557 Opened fire with 5" battery at enemy aircraft. 0558 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0623 Changed course to 305^oT(PGC). At 0625 proceeded independently to assigned fire support station and at 0701 the main battery commenced firing and continued until 0730. 0625 Proceeded independently to assigned firing station. 0626 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 0628 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0629 Launched plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, 251058; USNR, observer Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 0630 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0634 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness II in the Main Battery, Condition of Readiness III in rest of the ship. 0653 Commenced maneuvering on station for call fire. 0701 Commenced firing Main Battery to port on call fire. 0730 Ceased firing.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 47

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Lying to as before on fire-support station for call fire. 1000 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1031 Underway on course 180^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM) to launch aircraft. 1036 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 1043 Catapulted plane No. 8. Pilot: Ensign D.G. Hartlaub, 346932, USNR; observer: Tucker, A.D., Jr., ARM3c, 357 41 74, USNR, on spotting mission. Went to 10 knots (100 RPM); changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 1052 Having returned to fire support station, stopped all engines and hove to. 1057 Recovered plane No. 7.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 14

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Lying to as before in assigned position. 1404 Catapulted plane No. 7 to starboard. Pilot: Ensign P. R. Anderson, 315108, USNR; observer: Ivy, T.R., ARM2c, 617 93 30, USNR. 1410 Hoisted plane No. 8 aboard.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 9

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Lying to as before in assigned position. 1649 Hoisted in and secured to catapult plane No. 7. 1715 Sounded anti-aircraft call. At 1745 proceeded to rendezvous position 4 miles from Taytay Point and was on station at 1810. 1745 Proceeding on various courses and speeds to rendezvous point 4 miles from Taytay Point.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 10

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 085^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 1804 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). Maneuvering to take station in special Cruising Formation with U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND and COLUMBIA. 1810 On station in formation, course 152^oT(PGC), axis 090^oT. DENVER station 2,000 yards; guide bearing 108^oT. OTC and guide in LOUISVILLE. Maneuvered within the gulf for the rest of the night with Task Unit 77.2.2. 1815 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1853 Changed course to 090^oT(PGC). 1905 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 1952 Changed course to 280^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 280^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 2015 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). 2050 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC). 2100 Slowed to 7.5 knots (075 RPM). 2258 Changed course left to 275^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 81

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Ammunition expended: 40 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles

Positions: 0800 10^o 58.6’ N

125^o 03.5’ E

1200 10^o 54.6’ N

125^o 03.7’ E

2000 10^o 54.8’ N

125^o 19.1’ E

Tuesday, 24 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Unit 77.2.2. Steaming in Special Cruising Formation with Task Group 77.2.2, Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. This group consists of the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA plus Destroyer Squadron 56. U.S.S. LOUISVILLE guide bearing 108^oT, distance 2,000 yards. Ship is darkened, Readiness Condition III and Material Condition "A" set. Boilers No. 2 and 3 are in use; base course 270^oT(PGC); axis 090^oT; speed 7 knots (075 RPM). 0300 Changed fleet course to 270^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 74

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 270^oT(PGC), speed 7 knots (070 RPM). 0420 Lit fires under boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. 0755 Secured fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 0500 Changed course right to 342^oT(PGC). 0515 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0530 Changed course right to 353^oT(PGC). 0615 Slowed to one third speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0621 Secured from General Quarters. Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship. 0628 On signal changed course right to 085^oT(PGC). 0626 On signal changed course left to 353^oT(PGC). 0700 Changed course left to 263^oT(PGC). 0730 Lit off boilers No. 1 and 4 to boost steam. 0744 Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0755 Went to General Quarters for flash "Red". Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 61

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 270^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM) ship is at General Quarters. 0804 Changed course right to 210^oT(PGC). 0816 Changed course to 190^oT(PGC). At 0822 opened fire with 5" battery on one enemy aircraft. 0822 Opened fire with 5" battery at one enemy aircraft. 0825 Commenced laying smoke screen. 0826 Stopped all engines. 0915 Stopped making smoke. 0932 Set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery, which remained in Condition I. 0950 Went to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0954 Changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1000 Changed course to 210^oT(PGC). 1040 Set Condition of Readiness II in the Main and anti-aircraft battery. 1045 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1053 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM), changed course to 180^oT(PGC). 1057 Changed course to 000^oT(PGC). 1058 Launched plane No. 7. Pilot Lt.(jg) E.G. Yesko, 251058; USNR, observer Ivy, T.R., 617 93 30, ARM2c, USNR. 1106 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1109 Changed course to 300^oT(PGC). At 1112 went at general quarters to repel air attack, a bomb landed about 200 yards astern. 1112 Went to General Quarters to repel enemy air attack. 1124 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1125 Commenced making smoke. 1126 Changed course to 120^oT(PGC). 1127 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). Changed course to 020^oT(PGC). 1137 Bomb landed about 100 yards astern. Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1140 Changed course to 040^oT(PGC), slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). At 1144 on fire support station and at 1320 commenced firing 6" battery. 1144 Stopped all engines. 1156 Changed course to 293^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 36

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Lying to as before. 1203 Ceased making smoke. 1255 Commenced making smoke. 1243 Ceased making smoke. 1247 Commenced making smoke. 1255 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness II, except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition I. Ceased making smoke. Maneuvering intermittently to remain on fire support station. 1313 Lighted fires under boilers No. 1 and 4. 1320 Commenced firing 6" battery to starboard. 1335 Let fires die out under boilers No. 1 and 4. Ceased firing at 1452 and at 1505 commenced intermittent firing of 5" battery. 1452 Ceased firing. 1505 Commenced intermittent firing of 5" battery to starboard. Ceased firing at 1530 and at 1551 commenced maneuvering to join Task Unit 77.2.2. 1530 Ceased firing. 1537 Hoisted aboard plane No. 7. 1551 Went to 10 knots on course 045^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 27

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 045^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1704 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1705 Went to General Quarters, unidentified planes approaching from 270^oT(PGC). 1758 Changed course to 185^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 86

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 185^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM) with ship at General Quarters. Cruising at various speeds on various courses to form Special Cruising Formation for the night. At 1815 on station in a special cruising formation comprising the light forces of the left flank of a battle disposition. The battle line consists of WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, MISSISSIPPI, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, and PENNSYLVANIA, and forces of the right flank composed of cruisers U.S.S. PHOENIX, BOISE, and H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE plus screening destroyers. O.T.C. Rear Admiral OLDENDORF in LOUISVILLE, is steaming toward Surigao Strait to intercept Japanese surface forces which are reported to be moving toward Leyte Gulf through this entrance with a view to obstructing further progress in and around Leyte Island. 1815 On station in Special Cruising Formation, with guide bearing 108^oT, distant 2,000 yards in LOUISVILLE. Other ships in formation are PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, COLUMBIA screened by destroyers of Destroyer Squadron 56 in a circular screen on circle 4. Heavy ships on circle 1, axis 090^oT(PGC), course 160^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots. This group composes the light forces of the left flank of a battle disposition. The battle line consists of WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, MISSISSIPPPI, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA and PENNSYLVANIA in column in that order. The light forces of the right flank are composed of the cruisers PHOENIX, BOISE and H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE and screening destroyers. OTC Read Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in LOUISVILLE. Force is steaming to Surigao Strait to intercept Japanese surface forces which have been reported in that vicinity. 1940 Changed course left to 090^oT(PGC), fleet change on signal. 1942 Slowed to one third (050 RPM), on signal.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 140

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 090^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 2003 Changed course left to 085^oT(PGC). 2014 Changed course left to 075^oT(PGC). 2055 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 2112 Observed anti-aircraft fire off starboard bow. Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 2125 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 2133 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC). 2230 Changed course left to 000^oT(PGC). 2245 Changed course left to 270^oT(PGC). At 2349 this ship went to general quarters in anticipation of a surface action. 2349 Went to General Quarters for surface engagement.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 51

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Ammunition expended: 55 rounds 6"/47 H.C. projectiles and Smokeless powder, 35ounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 2 rounds 5"/38 W.P. projectiles, 37 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges.

Positions: 0800 10^o 56.3’ N

125^o 05.6’ E

1200 10^o 55.5’ N

125^o 05.0’ E

2000 10^o 34.4’ N

125^o 22.0’ E

Wednesday, 25^th October, 1944.

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2 toward Surigao Strait in hopes of finding a large Japanese surface force. Radio reports indicated that a large group of twelve enemy ships was proceeding up the strait bent on forcing entrance into Leyte Gulf, the force consisting of two battleships, three cruisers, and seven destroyers. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, which consists of the following: U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PHOENIX, BOISE, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE and Destroyer Squadron 56. Rear Admiral J.B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. The ship is at General Quarters, darkened and in Material Condition "A". Cruising in Battle Disposition "2-A" on course 270^oT(PGC) and axis 090^oT; speed 5 knots. All four (4) boilers on the line. The light forces of the left flank, consisting of LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER and COLUMBIA are steaming in column in that order, distance 700 yards between ships, 900 yards between sections. 0020 Changed course to 090^oT(PGC). 0100 Changed course to 070^oT(PGC). 0118 Changed course to 045(PGC). 0130 Changed course to 075(PGC). PT boats were already attacking with torpedoes at 0145. Destroyers of this force were ordered to proceed and attack with torpedoes. 0145 Changed course to 050^oT(PGC). Radio reports from PT boats in Surigao Strait indicate that a Japanese force consisting of about twelve (12) ships, two (2) battleships, three (3) cruisers and seven (7) destroyers is coming up the Strait in two groups. Destroyers of this force have been ordered to proceed down the Strait and attack with torpedoes. 0214 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0215 Changed course to 280^oT(PGC) and at 0224 slowed to 5 knots. 0234 Course changed to 270^oT(PGC). 0303 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0305 Changed course to 090^oT(PGC). 0308 Observed flares off starboard bow. At 0310 screening ships of this group were observed opening fire. 0310 Slowed to 5 knots and observed screening ships of this group firing at enemy surface craft. 0333 Went to 10 knots. 0338 Slowed to 5 knots. 0339 All engines were stopped. 0340 Changed course to 077^oT(PGC). 0341 Changed course to 090^oT(PGC). 0342 Went to 5 knots. 0346 Slowed to 4 knots. At 0350 on course 090^oT (PGC) and at four knots six inch battery opened fire on the enemy. 0350 Six inch battery opened fire on enemy surface craft. 0353 Changed speed to 5 knots. Enemy shell splashes were seen straddling the ship at 0355. 0355 Observed enemy shell splashes straddling this ship.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 54

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 090^oT(PGC), at 5 knots, with the ship at General Quarters for a surface engagement with Japanese forces. The 5" battery opened fire at 0400 and fired rapidly until 0408 when the ship ceased firing altogether as the formation was maneuvered into better position. 0400 Five inch battery opened fire. 0407 Went to standard speed. 0408 Ceased firing on signal. 0414 Changed course to 270^oT(PGC). 0423 Slowed to two-thirds speed. 0433 Changed course to 190^oT(PGC). 0436 Commenced maneuvering to form Battle Formation "2-A" on U.S.S. LOUISVILLE. Resumed firing at 0532 and continued until 0557. Upon orders of the O.T.C. U.S.S. DENVER, COLUMBIA, BRYANT, HALFORD, and ROBINSON proceeded on a southerly course to sink enemy cripples seen burning in the water. Maneuvered on various courses and at various speeds until 0532 when firing was resumed at full speed and on course 250^oT(PGC). 0538 Changed course to 300^oT(PGC). Slowed to two thirds. 0557 Upon completion of firing commenced forming special cruising formation. 0610 Set Condition of Readiness II in Engineering and Communication Departments and Main Battery. 0647 U.S.S. DENVER and COLUMBIA, accompanied by destroyers U.S.S. BRYANT, HALFORD and ROBINSON proceeded on course 170^oT(PGC) at 20 knots to sink enemy cripples, on order of OTC. 0653 Went to General Quarters. At 0707 the 5" battery opened fire on one of the burning wrecks of which four others were observed nearby, sinking rapidly. 0705 Came to course 210^oT(PGC) and at 0707 Went to standard speed. Commenced firing 5" battery at burning Japanese ship. Observed four other ships burning, all of which sank during the next twenty minutes. At 0721 this ship sunk the enemy vessel which by this time had been identified as a cruiser of the Katori class. 0721 Sank Japanese destroyer bearing 130^oT, distant 4 miles. 0723 Went to full speed and came to course 015^oT(PGC). By 0725 all burning wreckage in the vicinity had disappeared under the waves. U.S.S. DENVER, COLUMBIA, and accompanying destroyers now turned north and went to flank speed for a short time in order to rejoin as soon as possible. 0734 Ship shook badly, possibly due to striking wreckage. 0738 Went to flank speed 25 knots and course 005^oT(PGC). 0739 Changed course to 355^oT(PGC). 0745 No. 4 boiler was cut in on main line. 0748 Slowed to 20 knots and No. 1 boiler was cut in on the line.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 355^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots, ship at General Quarters. 0802 Set Condition of Readiness II throughout the ship, except in anti-aircraft battery which remained at battle stations. 0854 Changed course to 100^oT(PGC). 0952 Stopped all engines. The O.T.C. was now intent on steaming out of the strait and meeting another Japanese surface force, but at 1030 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, WEST VIRGINIA, PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, H.M.S. SHROPSHIRE plus DesDivs 51 and 52 left the formation and proceeded on this mission while remaining ships were to replenish fuel and ammunition. 1030 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, U.S.S. PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, WEST VIRGINIA, PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND plus Destroyer Divisions 51 and 52 left this formation and proceeded on duty assigned. This formation now includes U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI (guide and OTC, Rear Admiral W. R. Weaver) U.S.S. CALIFORNIA, TENNESSEE, BOISE, PHOENIX, COLUMBIA, DENVER plus destroyer screen. 1110 Sounded anti-aircraft call to repel reported "bogies". At 1115 U.S.S. DENVER and COLUMBIA commenced proceeding independently toward assigned area. 1115 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM) and changed course to 300^oT(PGC); U.S.S. DENVER and COLUMBIA now proceeding independently toward assigned area. 1120 Went to General Quarters. 1139 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM) and course 340^oT(PGC). 1140 Changed course to 315^oT(PGC). 1150 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II in Main Battery and Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 120

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 315^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 1251 Sounded anti-aircraft call to repel reported bogies. 1307 Changed course to 030^oT(PGC). 1358 Slowed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1342 Changed course to 075^oT(PGC), proceeded independently to go alongside ammunition ship. At 1424 this ship went alongside, port side to S.S. DURHAM VICTORY for ammunition. 1442 Moored alongside, starboard side of S.S. DURHAM VICTORY. 1437 Commenced receiving ammunition from S.S. DURHAM VICTORY. 1520 LST 610 moored alongside starboard side to receive empty ammunition containers.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 179

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Moored as before. 1622 Manned the anti-aircraft battery. 1624 LST 610 underway from alongside. 1624 Made all preparation to get underway. Underway at 1627 having received the following ammunition: 472 rounds 6"/47 A.P. projectiles, 117 rounds 6"/47 Flashless cartridges, 80 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges, and 426 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles. 1627 Underway from alongside S.S. DURHAM VICTORY, maneuvering on various courses and speeds to stand clear. 1641 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1705 Commenced maneuvering to form Cruising Formation "6-RW", base course and axis 140^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM); guide and OTC in U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI. Maneuvered to rejoin Task Group 77.2 and at 1734 was in station in formation 6RW. 1734 Arrived on station in Cruising Formation "6-RW"; guide bears 350^oT(PGC), distance 2,000 yards.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 95

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 140^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1823 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1831 Changed course left to 110^oT(PGC). 1846 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 1854 Changed course right to 225^oT(PGC). 1902 Increased speed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1915 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to take station in Battle Formation "2-A", with Task Group 77.2; Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf OTC in LOUISVILLE. 1930 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1958 Changed course to 210^oT(PGC), at speed 10 knots (100 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 108

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 210^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. The ship is maneuvering on various courses at slow speeds to assume battle formation. Battle Formation 2-A was assumed at 2025. 2025 Completed maneuvering and assumed Battle Formation "2-A". 2045 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 2056 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM), changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 2152 Changed course left to 020^oT(PGC). 2213 Changed course left to 010^oT(PGC). 2227 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 2315 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery, because of "Red Alert". 2340 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery, screen all clear.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 60

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

The following ammunition was expended this date: 1088 rounds 6"/47 A.P. projectiles, 37 rounds 6"/47 H.C. projectiles, 1060 rounds Flashless cartridges, 65 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges; 187 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 304 rounds 5"/38 Common projectiles, 371 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges, and 120 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges.

Positions: 0800 10^o 16.0’ N

125^o 21.0’ E

1200 10^o 38.7’ N

125^o 29.4’ E

2000 10^o 40.0’ N

125^o 29.7’ E

Thursday, 26 October, 1944.

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, consisting of: U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PHOENIX, BOISE, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, Destroyer Division 112, Destroyer Squadron 51, 52, 56 and 2, plus U.S.S. HARADEN, HALLIGAN, WICKES. Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is OTC. Steaming in Battle Formation "2-A", on course 035^oT(PGC), fleet axis 135^oT; speed 5 knots (050 RPM). All four (4) boilers are in use. The ship is darkened and Material Condition "A" set throughout. Condition of Readiness III is set except in the anti-aircraft battery, which is in Condition of Readiness II. 0030 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC). 0053 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0157 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0245 Changed course to 035^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 63

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 035^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0441 Went to General Quarters for air raid alert. At 0539 special anti-aircraft disposition was assumed. 0539 Commenced forming special cruising disposition "AA". 0540 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM) and changed course right to 070^oT(PGC). 0541 Slowed to 7 knots (070 RPM). 0547 On station in new disposition, changed course left to 035^oT(PGC) and slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 0608 On signal went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0621 Changed course left to 215^oT(PGC). U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is guide, bearing 022^oT, distance 2,000 yards; axis 040^oT. 0630 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery and Condition III throughout the rest of the ship. 0643 Let fires die out under boilers No. 2 and 4. 0650 Set Material Condition "B" above the first platform deck. 0709 Set Readiness Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. At 0742 U.S.S. DENVER and COLUMBIA left the formation to fuel and at 1126 went alongside U.S.S. SARANAC and commenced receiving fuel and aviation gasoline. 0742 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to form with Cruiser Division 12, left Cruising Disposition "AA". 0756 In formation on course 337^oT(PGC), speed 20 knots (200 RPM). 0758 Slowed to 15 knots.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 79

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 337^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0812 Changed course left to 245^oT(PGC). 0839 Sounded anti-aircraft call. 0903 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM) and changed course right to 005^oT(PGC). 0912 Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to repel air attack. 1109 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1116 Commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to go alongside tanker U.S.S. SARANAC for fuel; the Executive Officer at the Conn. 1122 Fired first line to tanker. 1126 Moored starboard side to U.S.S. SARANAC. Ship’s draft forward 21’ 6", aft 25’ 0". Commenced receiving fuel from both hoses. 1156 Commenced receiving aviation gasoline.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 99

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Moored as before. 1214 Completed receiving aviation gasoline, having received 2270 gallons. 1214 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1240 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1300 Completed receiving fuel oil, having received 231,785 gallons. Ship’s draft forward 23’ 2", aft 25’ 6". Underway from U.S.S. SARANAC at 1306 to rejoin other ships. Having made all preparations for getting underway, at 1306 underway from U.S.S. SARANAC and proceeded on various courses and speeds, lying off from other fueling ships. 1349 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1504 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 19

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Lying to as before. 1615 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1650 Received LST 703 along starboard quarter to receive empty ammunition containers. 1742 Underway from alongside LST 703. 1751 Formed column formation with U.S.S. COLUMBIA; guide in DENVER. Changed course to 135^oT(PGC), went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1753 Went to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1755 Went to 25 knots (245 RPM). 1757 Set Condition I in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 20

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 135^oT(PGC), speed 25 knots. 1802 Changed course right to 145^oT(PGC). 1815 Changed course right to 150^oT(PGC). 1817 Went to General Quarters. Two enemy aircraft were observed shot down, one at 1840 and another at 1859. 1840 Observed enemy aircraft (Val) shot down bearing 310^oT distance 5 miles. 1847 Changed course left to 130^oT(PGC). 1848 Changed course left to 115^oT(PGC) and slowed to 20 knots (200 RPM). 1851 Changed course left to 070^oT(PGC). 1859 Observed enemy aircraft (Val) shot down bearing 300^oT, 5 miles. 1904 Stopped all engines. 1906 Went ahead at 5 knots (050 RPM). 1909 Stopped all engines. 1910 Went ahead at 5 knots (050 RPM). 1912 Sighted burning aircraft, bearing 310^oT, 8 miles. 1913 Backed engines one third. 1914 Stopped all engines. 1915 Went ahead at 10 knots (100 RPM). 1916 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 1921 Changed course left to 180^oT(PGC), stopped all engines. At 1922 formed anti-aircraft cruising formation, O.T.C. Rear Admiral OLDENDORF in LOUISVILLE with U.S.S. COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, and DENVER with screening destroyers. 1922 Commenced forming Cruising Disposition "AA" with U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, plus screening destroyers, base course 215^oT(PGC) axis 035^oT. At 1958 opened fire with 5" battery at enemy aircraft. 1958 Opened fire with 5" battery at enemy aircraft.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 143

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM), ship is at General Quarters. 2006 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2009 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition I. Set Material Condition "B" above the second deck. 2035 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 2039 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2045 Set Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery. 2115 Changed course left to 350^oT(PGC). 2124 Went to 18 knots (180 RPM) and changed course right to 030^oT(PGC). 2154 Slowed speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2217 Lighted fires under boilers No. 2 and 4 to boost steam. 2228 Slowed speed to 10 knots (100 RPM), and changed course left to 215^oT(PGC). 2255 Let fires die out under boilers No. 2 and 4. 2341 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 122

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

The following ammunition expended this date: 26 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles and Flashless powder.
 
 

Positions: 0800 10^o 41.7’ N

125^o 25.9’ E

1200 Moored

2000 10^o 43.0’ N

125^o 41.4’ E

Friday, 27 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, and DENVER with screening destroyers, O.T.C. Rear Admiral OLDENDORF in LOUISVILLE. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2. OTC is Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in LOUISVILLE. This group consists of: U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER, PHOENIX, BOISE, H.M.A.S. SHROPSHIRE, Destroyer Squadron 51, 52, 56 and 2, plus U.S.S. HARADEN, HALLIGAN, WICKES and Destroyer Division 112. Steaming in Battle Formation "2-A", on base course 035^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots. Fleet axis is 035^oT. The ship is darkened, Material Condition "B" set above the first platform, Condition of Readiness III is set throughout the ship except in the anti-aircraft battery which is in Condition II. Boilers No. 1 and 3 are on the line for steaming purposes. 0045 Changed course left to 215^oT(PGC). 0211 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 0344 Changed course right to 215^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0408 Changed course to 200^oT(PGC), went to 11 knots (110 RPM). 0452 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC), slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 0501 Changed course to 035^oT(PGC). 0540 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 0554 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0615 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 035^oT(PGC). 0618 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery, Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0620 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC). At 0655 U.S.S. COLUMBIA left formation to proceed on duty assigned and at 0818 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE also left on another mission. Rear Admiral HAYLER in U.S.S. DENVER became O.T.C. 0655 U.S.S. COLUMBIA left the formation to proceed on duty assigned. 0700 Set Condition of Readiness III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0714 Commenced maneuvering to change to station 1180 in formation. 0718 On new station in formation bearing 180^oT distance 1,000 yards from fleet center. 0724 Changed course to 320^oT(PGC). 0750 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 103

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 320^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0803 Manned the anti-aircraft battery for air raid alert. 0818 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE left formation on assigned duty. U.S.S. DENVER assumed formation guide; Rear Admiral Hayler in U.S.S. DENVER is OTC. 0831 Changed course right to 140^oT(PGC). 0907 Set Condition III in the anti-aircraft battery. 0908 Mustered crew on station. Absentees: none. 0913 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, on base course 140^oT(PGC). 0943 Ceased zig-zagging. 0948 Changed course right to 320^oT(PGC). 1002 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1021 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1122 Ceased zig-zagging. 1123 Changed course right to 140^oT(PGC). 1135 1002 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 99

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 140^oT(PGC), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1202 Ceased zig-zagging. 1203 Changed course right to 320^oT(PGC). 1234 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC). 1241 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, base course 090^oT(PGC). 1245 Ceased zig-zagging. 1310 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, base course 090^oT(PGC). 1336 Ceased zig-zagging. 1337 Changed course right to 270^oT(PGC). At 1410 U.S.S. COLUMBIA rejoined formation. 1410 U.S.S. COLUMBIA stood in and took position in this formation. 1441 Changed course left to 140^oT(PGC). 1450 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, base. course 140^oT(PGC). 1514 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1521 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1532 Ceased zig-zagging, changed course to 000^oT(PGC). 1540 Resumed zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24, base course 000^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 000^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 1634 Sounded anti-aircraft call and set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery, "bogeys" reported approaching this area. 1641 Ceased zig-zagging and returned to base course. 1645 Ships left to 270^oT(PGC). 1653 Ships left to 090^oT(PGC). 1703 Ships right to 150^oT(PGC) and went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1727 Ships right to 225^oT(PGC). 1729 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1753 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 109

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 225^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 1812 Changed course to 125^oT(PGC). 1814 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1816 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1818 Changed course to 035^oT(PGC). 1820 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. Observed enemy aircraft shot down by U.S.S. CALIFORNIA at 1820. 1820 Observed enemy aircraft shot down by U.S.S. CALIFORNIA. 1830 Commenced maneuvering to form special Cruising Formation. Formed special cruising formation with other ships of Task Unit 77.2.2 at 1845, O.T.C., Rear Admiral WEYLER in MISSISSIPPI. 1845 On station in new disposition, guide in MISSISSIPPI in center, other heavy ships equally spaced on Circle 2, with PORTLAND in station 2000 with others in order clockwise: WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, DENVER, COLUMBIA, PENNSYLVANIA, CALIFORNIA, TENNESSEE, MINNEAPOLIS; axis 120^oT; destroyers equally spaced on circle 4.5; fleet speed is 10 knots (100 RPM). DENVER on station 2144. Screen assignments as follows: CLAXTON on axis, others equally spaced on 45^o interval on circle 4.5; HALFORD, CONY, THORN, SIGOURNEY, WELLES, BEALE, BOCHE. 1921 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC). 1940 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition I; set Material Condition "B" above the first platform.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 97

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 2013 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 2045 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 2119 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM). 2130 U.S.S. AULICK joined formation and took screening station. 2151 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 2155 Changed course left to 255^oT(PGC). 2201 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 2245 Changed course right to 215^oT(PGC)

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 94

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 10^o 51.9’ N

125^o 24.4’ E

1200 10^o 54.2’ N

125^o 23.4’ E

2000 10^o 40.6’ N

125^o 22.2’ E

Saturday, 28 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2 Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf USN, SOPA in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE; Rear Admiral Wheeler, USN, OTC in MISSISSIPPI as guide in special circular cruising disposition; MISSISSIPPI in center. Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, PORTLAND, COLUMBIA, DENVER and destroyers U.S.S. CONY, HALFORD, THORN, SIGOURNEY, CLAXTON, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, and AULICK. This ships station is 2144, with guide bearing 084^oT, distance 2,000 yards, axis 120^oT; course 215^oT(PGC); speed 10 knots (100 RPM); steaming on boilers No. 1 and 3. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III except in the anti-aircraft battery which is in Condition II and Material Condition "B" is set above the first platform. 0020 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 0217 Changed course left to 215^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 101

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 0415 Changed course left to 035^oT(PGC). 0609 Changed course left to 215^oT(PGC). 0613 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. At 0620 commenced firing at a single Japanese plane which, when partially destroyed by gunfire, suddenly went into a suicide dive, narrowly missing this ship’s superstructure and landing in the water about 50 yard to starboard of turret #4. Plane released bomb shortly before striking water and in resulting explosion damage was sustained. 0620 Commenced firing at single Jap plane which, when partially destroyed by gunfire, went into a suicide dive on this ship, landing in the water approximately fifty (50) feet from the ship abreast of turret #4; the resulting explosion caused the following damage: C-407-L and c-411-L were flooded and ship took a three (3) degree list to starboard; bursted seams in fuel tanks C-1, C-3. C-5 and C-903 with the resulting loss of approximately 50,000 gallons of fuel oil. 0640 Flooded compartments were reported under control although they could not be pumped out; there were no personnel casualties. 0645 Changed course right to 330^oT(PGC). 0658 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). At 0725 starboard list had been corrected and at 0810 ship left formation and at 0840 moored alongside S.S. DURHAM VICTORY. 0725 Starboard list has been corrected, the ship now being on an even keel. 0725 Magazine C-505-M reported to have small water leak; magazine was sealed, there being no powder in at the time. 0755 Changed course right to 090^oT(PGC) and slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 111

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, course 090^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0807 Changed course left to 060^oT(PGC). 0810 Left formation and commenced maneuvering on various courses and speeds to go alongside S.S. DURHAM VICTORY. 0840 Moored alongside S.S.S DURHAM VICTORY, portside to. While receiving ammunition diving operations were conducted to ascertain the extent of damage to the hull. 0902 Commenced receiving ammunition. 0905 Commenced diving operations to investigate battle damage to hull; the following men were engaged in these operations: Tate, C.T., SF3c, 376 42 70, USN, and Carpenter J. V. Peutz, 416078, USN. 0913 Transferred 50,000 gallons fresh water to S.S. DURHAM VICTORY. 1000 Completed diving operations. 1137 Discontinued receiving ammunition, prepared to get underway. 1025 By permission of the Commanding Officer, the following named man was placed on the binnacle list: Feldman, I., S1c, 706-66 50, USNR; diagnosis: contusion left foot. At 1144 got underway from S.S. DURHAM VICTORY following ammunition having been received: 330 rounds 6"/47 Flashless cartridges, 270 rounds 6"/47 Smokeless cartridges; 690 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 88 rounds 5"/38 Common projectiles, 63 rounds 5"/38 Illuminating projectiles, 600 rounds 5"/38 Smokeless cartridges, 400 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges, 4032 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers, and 180 rounds 20mm H.E. Tracers. 1144 Underway, maneuvering on various courses and speeds to stand clear of S.S. DURHAM VICTORY.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 85

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, course 095^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 1203 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1216 Sounded Fire Quarters. Fire reported in B-0204-M. 1212 Secured from Fire Quarters. 1219 Stopped all engines. 1415 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1526 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. Set Material Condition "A" throughout the ship. 1543 Went to General Quarters to repel air attack. At 1546 fired at one enemy plane. 1546 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). Commenced firing 5" battery at one enemy plane. 1547 Ceased firing. 1548 Changed course to 360^oT(PGC). 1550 Slowed to 5 knots (050 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 10

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, course 360^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). The ship is at General Quarters. 1700 Maneuvered on various courses and speeds to take station in formation. 1724 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness II, except in the anti-aircraft battery, which remained in Condition I. 1732 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. Took station in special cruising formation with Task Group 77.2 at 1748, O.T.C., Rear Admiral RUDDOCK. 1748 Took station in Special Cruising Disposition with Task Group 77.2. Fleet course 150^oT(PGC); speed 10 knots (100 RPM); fleet axis 120^oT. DENVER station 2144. Rear Admiral J.B. Oldendorf SOPA in LOUISVILLE. Rear Admiral Ruddick OTC in WEST VIRGINIA; U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI is guide bearing 085^oT(PGC), distance 2,000 yards.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 77

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on course 150^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 1842 Manned the anti-aircraft battery for Dusk Alert. 1857 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC). 1900 Observed anti-aircraft firing on starboard beam, approximately 4 miles distant. 1902 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1918 Changed course left to 125^oT(PGC). 1922 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1946 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1927 Changed course left to 005^oT(PGC). 1942 Slowed to 11 knots (110 RPM). 1952 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 1953 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 116

S. D. Cornish, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 2010 Changed course to 125^oT(PGC). 2020 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 2029 Changed course to 225^oT(PGC). 2115 Changed course to 330^oT(PGC). 2120 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 2152 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2210 Changed course to 000^oT(PGC). 2220 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 2224 Changed course to 050^oT(PGC). 2229 Changed course to 085^oT(PGC). 2245 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 24. 2327 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery, unidentified plane reported bearing 030^oT, distance six miles. 2325 Observed anti-aircraft fire off port beam. 2330 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2332 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 2347 Changed course to 215^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 110

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

The following ammunition was expended this date: 87 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Common projectiles, 14 rounds 5"/38 A.A. Special projectiles, 60 rounds 5"/38 Flashless cartridges, 40 rounds 5"/38. Smokeless cartridges; 344 rounds 40mm H.E. Tracers, 158 rounds 20mm H.E. Incendiaries, 78 rounds 20mm H.E. Tracers.

Positions: 0800 10^o 58.8’ N

125^o 17.5’ E

1200 10^o 00.0’ N

125^o 20.0’ E

2000 10^o 45.0’ N

125^o 24.0’ E

Sunday, 29 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming with Task Group 77.2. Steaming in company with Task Group 77.2, which consists of the following: U.S.S. PENNSYLVANIA, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, TENNESSEE, CALIFORNIA, MISSISSIPPI, LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA, CONY, HALFORD, THORN, SIGOURNEY, CLAXTON, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, and AULICK. Rear Admiral Ruddick in WEST VIRGINIA is OTC (ComBatDiv 4); Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE is SOPA. In special anti-aircraft cruising formation, U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI Is guide in formation center; bearing 084^oT, distance 2,000 yards, axis is 120^oT(PGC). The ship is darkened, in Material Condition "A" and Readiness Condition III except in the anti-aircraft battery which is in Readiness Condition I for air-raid alert. Boilers No. 1 and 3 are in use; on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0035 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). Set Readiness Condition II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0050 Changed course right to 035^oT(PGC). 0250 Changed course left to 215^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 108

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 215^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). Changed course right to 000^oT(PGC). 0543 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0618 Secured from General Quarters, set Readiness Condition II, except in the anti-aircraft battery which remained in Condition I. 0652 Changed course left to 280^oT(PGC). 0657 Set Condition of Readiness III throughout the ship, except in the anti-aircraft battery in which Condition II is set. At 0709 Rear Admiral OLDENDORF in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE assumed tactical command. 0709 Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf, USN, in LOUISVILLE assumed tactical command of this group. 0722 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 0746 Stopped all engines. 0753 Went to 5 knots (050 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 97

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 280^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM). 0803 Stopped all engines. At 0813 received orders to maneuver at discretion and at 1020 this ship commenced diving operations in an effort to repair damaged portion of hull 0813 Received orders to maneuver at discretion. Proceeded on various courses, at slow speeds to compensate for ships set. Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 0815 Mustered crew on stations. Absentees:none. 1020 Commenced diving operations in connection with damaged section of starboard quarter. The following named men were engaged in this operation: Carpenter J.V. Peutz, 416078, USN; Lewis, P.H., BM2c, 380 83 40, USN; Tate, C.L., SF3c, 376 42 70, USN. At 1130 completed diving operations and at 1510 formed Cruising Formation 5-R0 with the following ships: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, TENNESSEE, HALFORD, THORN, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, MULLANE, AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY, and H.M.S. ARUNTA. O.T.C. in LOUISVILLE. 1130 Completed diving operations. Note: Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal.

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, lying to on various headings. 1225 "Bogey" reported bearing 106^oT, distance 36 miles. 1301 Set Condition of Readiness I in the anti-aircraft battery. 1500 Commenced maneuvering to take station in Cruising Formation "5-R0". Proceeded out of Leyte Gulf, destination Manus Island, Admiralty Islands, on course 110^o T (PGC) and speed 5 knots. 1510 On station, in Cruising Formation "5-R0"; course 110^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM); axis 120^oT. OTC and guide in LOUISVILLE. Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf is OTC. DENVER station on circle 1.5; guide bearing 052.5^oT, distance 1150 yards. This force consists of the following ships: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, TENNESSEE, HALFORD, THORN, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, MULLANY, AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY, H.M.A.S. ARUNTA.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 19

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 110^oT(PGC), speed 5 knots (050 RPM), standing out of Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands. 1603 Went to 8 knots (080 RPM). 1607 Streamed paravanes. 1608 Set Condition of Readiness II in the anti-aircraft battery. 1612 Changed course right to 150^oT(PGC). 1615 Went to 10 knots (100 RPM). 1645 Lit fires under No. 2 boiler. 1650 Lit fires under boiler No. 4. 1720 Let fires die out under No. 2 and 4 boilers. 1746 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert. 1750 Changed course left to 100^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 96

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before on base course 100^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). The ship is at General Quarters. At 1800 the following ships joined the formation: U.S.S. WASATCH, HURXHINA, and DALY. S.O.P.A., Vice Admiral KINKAID in WASATCH; Rear Admiral OLDENDORF was assigned tactical command. 1800 Changed fleet speed to 15 knots (150 RPM). The following ships joined formation: U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS and DALY. Vice Admiral Kinkaid is SOPA in WASATCH; Rear Admiral Oldendorf in LOUISVILLE OTC. WASATCH assumed fleet guide, bearing 345^oT(PGC), distance 1500 yards. 1840 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III, Material Condition "B" above the second deck. 1910 Took departure from Leyte Gulf. Changed course to 095^oT(PGC). 1955 Changed course to 105^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM), to hoist in paravanes.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 126

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 105^oT(PGC), speed 10 knots (100 RPM). 2033 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM). 2110 Slowed to 10 knots (100 RPM). 2124 Changed course to the right to 124^oT(PGC). 2324 Went to 12 knots (120 RPM). 2357 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 94

L. J. Tobin, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 10^o 56.6’ N

125^o 07.5’ E

1200 10^o 56.9’ N

125^o 08.1’ E

2000 10^o 31.8’ N

125^o 48.0’ E

Monday, 30 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with units of Task Group 77.2 plus U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS, and DALY. Steaming in company with units of Task Group 77.2, which includes the following: U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, COLUMBIA, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, WEST VIRGINIA, MARYLAND, TENNESSEE, HALFORD, THORN, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, MULLANY, CONY, SIGOURNEY, H.M.A.S. ARUNTA; also included in this formation are: U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS and DALY. Vice Admiral Kincaid SOPA and guide in WASATCH. OTC and Commander Task Group 77.2 is Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE. Cruising Disposition "5-R0"; fleet axis 120^oT(PGC), DENVER station on circle 1.5045, with guide bearing 345^oT; distance 1,500 yards; speed 15 knots (150 RPM), on course 124^oT(PGC). Ship is darkened, in Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III; steaming on boilers No. 1 and 3. 0035 Changed course to the right to 128^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 128^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0530 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0615 Secured from General Quarters, set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B". 0639 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 128^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 0802 This ship assumed radar guard for this sector. 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 0847 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course 128^oT(PGC). 0900 Changed course to the left to 122^oT(PGC). At 1025 Task Group 77.4 joined the formation and took assigned stations. 1025 Task Group 77.4 joined the formation and took assigned stations. 1030 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1045 Changed course to the left to 112^oT(PGC).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 151

K. H. Brooks, Lt., USNR.
 
 

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM); fleet axis 120^oT(PGC). Cruising Formation "5-R0". 1330 Sighted Task Group 78.2, hull down bearing 098^oT(PGC), distance 13.5 miles.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

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

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1757 Went to General Quarters for Dusk Alert.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 151

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1820 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1851 Secured from General Quarters, set Material Condition "B" and Condition of Readiness III.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 152

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

Positions: 0800 09^o 16.0’ N

127^o 42.8’ E

1200 08^o 44.4’ N

128^o 27.6’ E

2000 08^o 03.3’ N

130^o 28.7’ E

Tuesday, 31 October, 1944

00 – 04 Watch

Steaming in company with units of Task Group 77.2 plus Task Group 77.4 and U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS, and DALY. Steaming in company with units of Task Group 77.2. Senior Officer Present is Vice Admiral T. C. Kincaid in U.S.S. WASATCH; Rear Admiral J. B. Oldendorf is OTC in U.S.S. LOUISVILLE. This Task Group consists of the following: U.S.S. TENNESSEE, MARYLAND, WEST VIRGINIA, LOUISVILLE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, DENVER, COLUMBIA, plus Task Group 77.4 and U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS and DALY. Screening force consists of U.S.S. HALFORD, THORN, WELLES, BEALE, BACHE, MULLANY, AULICK, CONY, SIGOURNEY and H.M.A.S. ARUNTA. Cruising Formation "5-R0" modified. Guide in U.S.S. WASATCH, bearing 345^oT; distance 1,500 yards. Base course 124^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM), fleet axis 120^oT(PGC); zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. Ship is darkened, Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" are set. Boilers No. 1 and 3 are in use.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

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

04 – 08 Watch

Steaming as before, zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23; base course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0540 Went to General Quarters for Dawn Alert. 0604 Secured from General Quarters and set Condition of Readiness III and Material Condition "B" throughout the ship. 0659 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 0730 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE assumed fleet guide. At 0740 U.S.S. WASATCH, HUTCHINS, and DALY left formation. 0740 U.S.S. WASATCH left formation with screen.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.
 
 

08 – 12 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 112^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 0815 Mustered crew at quarters. Absentees: none. 1025 Made daily inspection of magazines and smokeless powder samples. Conditions normal. 1100 National Ensign half-masted for burial services in U.S.S. SANGAMON. 1115 Burial services completed two-blocked Ensign. At 1140 U.S.S. LOUISVILLE, TENNESSEE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS, and screening vessels left the formation to proceed independently and Rear Admiral RUDDOCK in WEST VIRGINIA assumed tactical command of remaining ships. 1140 Following ships left formation to proceed independently: LOUISVILLE, TENNESSEE, PORTLAND, MINNEAPOLIS and screen. ComBatDiv 4, Rear Admiral Ruddick in WEST VIRGINIA assumed duties of OTC of this force; fleet guide designated U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY. 1141 Commenced maneuvering on various courses at various speeds to form Cruising Formation "5-R"; U.S.S. SAGINAW BAY designated fleet guide; fleet course and axis 120^oT(PGC); fleet speed 15 knots (150 RPM); DENVER station 2.5340. 1157 On station in Formation "5-R".

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

12 – 16 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 120^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 1322 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 153

G. C. Wilson, Lt., USNR.

16 – 18 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 120^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM); fleet axis 120^oT(PGC); zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1638 On signal slowed to 12 knots (120 RPM). 1750 On signal, U.S.S. COLUMBIA assumed guide bearing 210^oT(PGC), distance 1700 yards.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 132

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

18 – 20 Watch

Steaming as before, on base course 120^oT(PGC), speed 12 knots (120 RPM); fleet axis 120^oT(PGC); zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 1855 Lit fires under boilers No. 2 and 4 to boost steam. 1903 Ceased zig-zagging and resumed base course. 1926 Went to 15 knots (150 RPM).

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 133

L. A. Bird, Lt., USN.

20 – 24 Watch

Steaming as before, on course 120^oT(PGC), speed 15 knots (150 RPM). 2005 Commenced zig-zagging in accordance with plan No. 23. 2040 Cut in boiler No. 4 on main steam line. 2050 Held steering casualty drill. 2052 Cut in boiler No. 2 on main steam line; cut out boilers No. 1 and 3.

Av. Steam 600

Av. RPM 150

G. K. Dress, Lt., USN.

Positions: 0800 07^o 05.4’ N

133^o 02.7’ E

1200 06^o 32.3’ N

133^o 58.8’ E

2000 05^o 39.2’ N

135^o 30.2’ E