START OF REEL JOB NO. Beis OPERATOR ~*~ i WS et = BATES 3-7 THIS MICROFILM IS THE PROPERTY OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT MICROFILMED BY NPPSO-NAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON MICROFILM SECTIONU. S. S. SPEARFISH DECEASSIFIED a. AER ARNOLD REPORT OF NO. 1 WAR PATROL, - SOUTH SOUTHSECRET parture from Cebra Island Li; carrier reported southwest of Corre: Proceedine to patrol s' Proceeding as before. 0566 changed course to 258°T. two distinct pings bearing 315° 0000 arrived on station Sout! Kudat and commenced patrol on observations every 15 minutes Patrolling as before, west! Patrolling as before, 2100 recei boundary limits and watch for ene! bound. Patrolled Hast and ilest. Patrolling as before. 0142 ste Could see nothin fix position, shift area 200 miles to due to danger of floodi Proceeding as before. Proceeding as before. Proceeding to area off Camr. structions received. 0450 sichte bearing 220°T, distant 3 miles. Off signal was white and I thous avoid as it might be the FI White Green was proper Asiatic F sound heard noises bearing 210°7 running. 0845 sound heard Og0°T and 190°T, Nothin: these noises vor about one ! Patrolling as before. 0022 distant about 1000 yards Unable to pick ship up by p fishing vessel or submari ines in irregular formation bearin 3 ae idor.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH (A) NARRATIVE (Continued) speed 14, Delivered attack, submarine distant 6,000 course 350, speed 15. Una to reach 1239 heard’ two muffled explosions thet s similar to boat engine cover had been dro fell over the side, strixing the pressure clang. No destroyer in sight. Th from plenes or detonation of our ow a hall perorty ava ie ave Seely heard before.> Ran deep ana site Still heavy and cannot see lend due Patrolline as befo. on Northerly course distant about 7 to 40 fathom curve. Sea, wind, end trolling as before. - Patrolling as before. enveloping Southern hel? Tonking Gulf. Latitudes 17° gas before. 1211 This should be Good 5) folinkin Bay, South Hainan. - Patrolling slowly acros: direction towerd Tolinkin See (3). = Continued toward South Heinon battery, auxiliary engine ce: Steered toward it. Patrolling South of S the FORPOISSECRET U.S. S. SPEARFISH DIVE (Continued) Clear of area inmedistely Sout: s estward and South of F fave bee Hast of Longitude 110° Hast. ordered to erea covering Same estward between Letit Patrolled in East West direction bet and 17° 30' East as fer West as 40 fetho Patrolling as before Southerly course and turn: firing range could be reached w located ship by periscope, It peed and he did not then a. moving in for attack. "vattle station to Southward. This 1 videnced Received instructions to proceeded on Southerly course Proceeding to new erea This course should eross t 1551 sichted masts of 15,000 yerds. Chengea speed, changing wurse to eller bn astern minutes, vhen it becene obvious the could not be obtained. Since I be ne good data (speed 5.5, ballast I decided to ?. The result wes tuo close mi after they hed pessed on been more ir fired a two torpedo Froceeding South es before. z as before, © about 60SECRET U, S, S. SPEARFISH A) NARRATIVE (Continued estimated position. a 1 knot Southe Orders to return to base vis irm the data of y< except overhead, Visibility about ¢ course to 145° om strength of sketchy course to 090°, Io contacts. islend" of sea weed about 3! Proceeding as before, course 060°T, 0751 passed submerged Submarine at es: This probably Jap. 50 miles from 3 Proceeding as before. Sichted Cor ight, Startling to see n and very comforting. Left above licht toward Bacaron Islend on course O76°T, Proceeding as before, course 157°T. Northwest Island of Fearl Reef Ieft it to port. Sound picked was sichted. Fassed throuch Sibitu North, Longitude 11 submarine possibly had I be: enemy. Arrived on stetion in Fatrolling in erea just off smoke bearing 349°T, “Cane to target at 7 knots. Was une 10,000 yerds on two unescorted cor7o ves: 2,600 tons headed for Ter: : Northern part of sector. Patrolling as before. 0055 si Easterly course. As I was near could not identify the shi fire torpedoes but avoidedSECRET U.S. S. SPEARFISH NARRATIVE (Continued Teraken Lightship by morning. 1031 337°T, distance 7 miles, on course a high Speed for over an hour at whic that I could not head him off, ghted a destroyer of the Ait between me and the ca hip semi-circle around the ship at the South. I was then in rathe spot that if hit. During this time en tiest. Received orders to proceed to Ba: sigited. nroute Balik Fepen. Nothin: Froceeding as before. At 1 may have sighted me as he flew over z flew over me. ‘hat is this? antennae. At 1836 surfaced « Took pilot on board end entered 2125 because of extrenely low vi Cleared port at dayli accordence with instruct Froceeding to Sourab turn to Belix Pepan and occupy miles. Reversed course and Proceeding as before. Arri ved commenced patrolling East en: Nothing si gited. At 0503 subserged. Low cloud ben! looks like lend cloud and chee! Belik Fopan and up coast at Soerenba. visibile off nd on ell nicht intermittently bed ell “surfaced - obteined mediocre sti set of .7 knots. This was f E.P, Moved South to charge. out enormous sparks at all loads. On oc back to our point 25 miles Zast received information eryU. S. S. SPEARFISH NARRATIVE (Continued - Patrolling on station. rain. At 0445 contact r still on 210°T at 2500 last ni East-liest courses reversing every hour. bearing 081°T that turned out to be bur 1906 and moved South to charge returni! Evening stars showed us to be 16 miles 5 estimated position. This was first coo ‘At 2355 reported "no contact" to Com Fleet. Jan. 24 Patrolling as before. At 0344 while heard pinging on port tow. Subnerce Sound picked up four destroyers on tru 310° end 280°. Changed course to 210° destroyers eventually appeared to be » ment head, and stopped again slightly to the richt I changed course they got togetler on « school of fish four or five charges at en estimated yards. They did not again p ui tinued for about two hours at which ti ceeded in generally Northeast directior 1614 a loud detonation heard to depth charge. 1914 surfaced an least started. Changed course to into same destroyer outfit who as fully. Evaded then to Southeast by s 2345 and changed course to 240°T to c around left end toward position 15 Lightship where force is reported. Patrolling as before. At 0105 chang 0123 Officer of the Deck saw gun fire flash (lay have been lichtening). At 245°. Changed course to S00°R. At 0. Conmeicing at about 0900 sound heard v: three bearings on bow, a crackline nois seems improbable but the Japs may have s that they drop. ‘These noises were lo: serews as I circled all around then «nc sight. At 0951 sighted SO plene bear of bombs dropped, none near but ell d like marbles dropping on the floor. distant 8,000 yards, patrolling end blobs of Smoke bearing about S00°T the inshore. I was then about 12 n: sighted destroyer beerinSECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH WE (Continued) smoke bearing 342° and S40°T, At 16: ing 250°T on course 095°, ensle on bo lade tubes ready. On next look th come out at high speed and fanned out t: formation along a line Northeast - to Eastward, done out. 1909 surfac At 2030 received instructions to proc! Proceeding to base at Sou! “auring day. No contact. Trensited passage to westward of speed surface. Bncountered = 2 knot Sibalds Bank. No contacts. Froceeding as before. Entered Sourabaya-SECRE U. S. S. SPEARFISH = Weather moderate witt - ‘find end seas from Northeast ver: with intermittent squalls - Visibility and weather mostly Northeast. - dan. 5 - Visibility good except for horizon glassy and new moon bright. Rainy and overcast. No goo Visibility good except Visibility excellent. See smooth. Intermittent rain squalls. Clear and calm. Sea glassy. Heavy rainfall over Balik = Surface haze. Calm seas. Clear and calm except towerd Beli eavy smoke. Visibility feir except to North Visibility good, calm sea. Clear and calm except for ocU.S. S. SPEARFISH Tides and currents encountered were dicted in the coast pilot with the follow (a) Near the Indo China coast of! knots which was in general 1 knot was about 200°T. (bp) 4n unpredictable basin exists current generally Zesterly of about mostly tidular as the water near © that it is necessary t (c) About a 2 knot Northeast current rienced South of Borneo and maces the ming of transit important. P tSECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH NAVIGATIONAL AIDS: 8 = Cabra Island Light. Fixes were usually obteined dur ini Some of th Kuleo Rai Islend in sight most of Sighted lendmerks around Tolinkin 5 lo - Star sights except for four d Coast. Sighted Belabac Island at about Light (unwatched) et midni. Sighted Western Island Island at 2100 Evening stars. Evening [sters Evening sters. Evening stars and lien Balik Paps rain wit! ar in sit all dey. Poor evening end night sists. Poor sights. At 1530 sighted Secela Isle Made len@fall on Jave coast sn! Light at 0230.U. S. S. SPEARFISH connacr: Dec. 19 Sighted white and/or green Ve Dec. 20 1030 - 3 submarines on su: 320°, speed 14, These submerines rese had Gable cutters. At least 8 lookouts miles Southeast of entrance to Camran marine, class unknown, on course 350°, place. Dec. 22 Tramp steamer of 2,000 tons on Northe coast, speed about 8 knots. Dec, 26 1052 sighted two masts with similar c North, Longitude 109°-30' East. two trawlers either tending nets They were sister ships, steam 4 Destroyer or trawler in s Southerly course, speed about Two merchantmen of 4,000 a: 6, at 1550 L,C.7, Position abo ifude 110-15" Hast. Submerged submarine on o: 260°T from Balabac Straits Sighted 10' of submarine r at latitude 2248-15 North, Longitude’1 probably North - no speed count. tons, Latitude 5-16-45 North, 235°, speed about 10 knots. One cargo ship, 4,000 tons, two m: aft entering Tarakan and destroyer Burning tenker 50 miles due joved 20 miles East to im ship burned for two days with occas At 0345 four destroyers 25 miles Zast of Balik Papan Lic depth charges. 1614 loud detonation shoo picked up by Asdics of seme destroyers ast of lightship.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH ) CONTACTS (Continued) Sound heard directional noises discuss: bombs dropped around me commencing about ¢ $0 plene who flew over me. At 1005 destroy distant 7,000 yerds, and pine 13 toward beach. 1544 destroy patrolli: yards.SECRET (F) Tan. Ten. Jan. U. S. S. SPEARFISH One SO off Taraken Li patrolling entrance. Netherlends PBY scouting over Balik } SO planes about 10 miles Hest ofSECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH almost dead ahead that thorough periscope searc rudder to see if ine. Settled on course 270°, true bearing. I then cane to 58" arg) Bt 1050 sighted an enemy sub: on course 310°, angle on the abou 7,500 yards. Ordered hard right rudd ordered the tubes rade ready. When a minute or so later battle stat was ready I made enother observation have changed course to ti nt warines astern of first in an i the Assistant Approec ‘icer t cular course ordered "all ahead leading target 6 ir My mind then shifted to t the targets to sound latter that I would f about a target length at intended to swing the th amore favorable firing position. who unfortunately happened to be first trip, received the rudder over. But vhen shortly thereafter he, had better come back to which he did. This course vas relief instead of 058° - the fod of atout 8 minute thought I was closing t! inereasing the distance to t nixup was obvious targets on 5 Upon matching with T 150° relative, 025°T, ranges about 5,000 yards. pedoes set Slow st targets I decided to f wo torpedoes between t te last two between the seco:U. S. S. SPEARFISH (Continued) they would reach, 1 reasonably accurate, range 6,500 yards at of torpedo indicate that they had si Time of firing No. of torpedoes fired of firing of ain Results = Fired 1 torpedo fron firing ainSECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH (z) i a ACTICS: Four patrolling destroyers were twice ev: about 45° away and running silent at deep sul to go around the end of the line of destroye ne their positions through sound bearin, screws. lMeenwhile the destroyers lost their @epth charges at least 800 yards Single destroyers were evaded by silent run: interval between destroyers on inshore be about two miles. lien destroyers were encou for submarines at night at Balik Pepan their i: three miles.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH io 9 unit, No. 4 main engine. on piston melted away. No damage to si 1600 on aber 1 Tine delsye a4 a 16 D wiliary encine with jec teined (1) broken circuleting water line to miselignnent of generator flexible couplir Temporery repairs were made by thread: line of c ceed 1/16 inci erator to prevent fan rubbing on hous water line on 17 Decenber 1941 at 170 port clutch fill by silver nusry 1942, 2100: ulatine water drain valve on No. 2 uickly flooded bilges to a depth of atout dup water and threw it into No. 2 auxili leted in Sourabaya. January 1942, 1000: No. 1 main engine fresh water system bec to overheat. The engine had to be seared. one cylinder head is cracked. This is the occur oh the SFZARFI e st si in Sourabaya if po:SECRET (a) U. S. S. SPEARFISH re gradually shifted to turn ni to utilize about 80 gellons of ¢ daily. This may be used for when sights ere not available end fa as mine was all of trip navigation i Balabac Strait could be well guarded e patrol vessel was not at po: wes at point "0", This necessitate suitable for enemy subiicine operatio.. failed to make the most of ny opportuniti patrol through over cautionsness « tory at night that I micht have. 1 pan and ab Taraken is that our best c! ercept the enemy in deep water while reens can be mch mo transit, Destroyers ere t. e must shoot down some destr algo can best be done on movi ng nshore destroyers on patrol to get reasonably good setup Navigation is all in inshore, I had been over c up 17 miles out of position due encountered in the same area befor: cht _binocu! ie should have more srare be obtained. There were only use after the first month of s made to protect and rep 10. No difficulty was experienced wit! all bathing and leundry was done ditioning. 11, Time ticks were hard to get due to i hile in the South China Sea radio commencing about midnieht.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH RBLARKS (Continued) Local sound noises require th superstructure be removed. has not had an @ the Navy Yard in Jur over 1200 enzine hours since ov. be expected jn the near future due particulU. S. S. SPEARFISHFRENCH /NDO- CHINA ‘PATROLLED AREA Si8oan 15/6 TAN, ‘SEE CHART E USS SPEARFISH TRACK CHART 8 December 1941 69 January 1942 fosoo, 2O0AN, FeSO Re So SEA105-30 @v0%00. CHART A 0800 £2 December 194/ 2000 16 December 194/CHAZ: 2000 /8 December /94/ £000 25 December /94/ Contacts ur Hed200s wee a ; Bat RN ic Mey | Lye CHART C~- Sheet / 0600 26 December /94/ 2400 30 December 1944 Contacts tn Red Yop tek _jog-gok _/09-40E _foP-S0E __1/0.0E——jypjog_‘Ihe-20EOf.80/ papf U7 $7020 26) huvnunp % 00/0 [46/129 2229 I@ O00 gz 7924S - DF LYVHDCHART & 19/4 13 January 1942 1907 15 January 1942 Contacts in Fed 1820/0! 20!SAG AAvIPUOL BE VPA (Pr2pblid ip 52 A212 fA tll pep pO? [2% POY U1 Sf Pf 4 OD BAb/ Frerec on 8% 8/6 SAL/ AAO OL (2 Sho UML en PEMA OARS / a ooh JAILOF 56/7 (OF LM CLI wal Ut) 9prvp 407 ene) Aieniop GE 1E6/ x pbs Aen Uor fx S/b/ 2 42°45 -A LYVHI NUOS2 gk /4 1261 NVC 42 XIP 8161U. S. S. SPEARFISH REPORT OF SECOND WAR PATROL PERIOD FROM: 7 February 1942 to 1 March 1942 2) Poolase Strait. Enroute Tjilatjep, Java. 4) North of latitude 7° South, on Dewaking Islond - Lombok Strait line. ts) 20 miles bearing 246° from De Bril Rock. 6) Enroute Tjilatjep, Java. AREA: fh Latitude 7-15 South, longitude 116-30 East ZONE TIME KEPT: minus seven and one half (-7 1/2).U.S.8. SFEAKFISH a B G D z F e E NAVIGATIONAL AIDS. ‘ENEMY SHIPS SIGHTED. ENEMY AIRCRAFT SIGHTED. ATTACKS MADE. ENEMY ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND ‘ACTION TAKEN TO AVOID. MAJOR DEFECTS AND CASUALTIES- ‘REMARKS.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH (a) NARRATIVE - SECOND WAR PATROL TYob. - At shout, 1850 cleared Souzebara Western entrance and commenced patrol on Easterly course (076°), speed 14. 8 Feb. Proceeding as before. 0500 changed course to 090°T and submerged. At 1854 surfaced and went ahead, speed 15 kmots. At 2034 received instructions to proceed to Latitude 7¢-15' South, Longitude 116°-30' East. Changed course to 177°T. Proceeding as before. 0200 arrived on station and comenced patrolling Hest and West, reversing course every hour. 0457 sub- merged. 1901 surfaced. "2100 received instructions to proceed to Eastward, South of de Bril Bank and Kaloa Islend. Chenged course to 066°T, speed 13 knots. Proceeding as before. 0302 changed course to 077°T. 0454 sub- merged. 1041 sighted de Bril Bank bearing O24°T, distant 9 miles. 1048 changed course to 090°T, 1508 changed course to 157°T. 1604 conducted emergency drills and exercised at battle stations. This repeated every three days when circumstences permit. 1639 surfaced, ahead 13 knots. 2139 received instructions to patrol main channel South of Poelasi and to Westward. Tyeeerutscre-reported~Gemtzes- NowehmaaiePttrtewereey- Changed course to 092°T. 2400 arrived om station and commenced patrolling East and West between islands end outer reefs to Westward. Patrolling as before. 0435 submerged. 0535 sighted Poelasi Islan end Tana Jempea Island, 1642 surfaced and continued patrol on #1 euxiliary engine. Patrolling as before. 0430 sighted what is believed to have been a plane on fire and falling on bearing 020°, distant about 20 mi. Sound heard detonation at same time object hit water sending up large reddish orange flare. 0438 sutmerged. 1340 while on cour: 280°? sighted 2 light cruisers bearing 284°T, distent about 7 miles, zig zageing on generally Easterly base course. Delivered 4 torpedo attack unsuccessfully. See (G) for details. 1405 fired 4 torpedoes: 1419 changed course to 160°T to entercept and attack second cruiser which hed turned around end headed back from Westward and appeared to be trying to move out of strait to Southard. Ordered reload of forward tubes depth 100". 1424 came to periscope depth for ob- servation but before periscope was raised the above mentioned CL @elivered a depth charge attack of 8 charges. It is believed the charges were dropped on port quarter distent about 150 - 200 yards. Went to depth charge stations and to 260'. Damage sustained as follows; #2 periscope cable parted at both anchors, allowing scope to drop and demaging lower limit switch end knocking off lower sh gyro repeater fuses blown and bridge steering repeater er pressure gauge broken on #7 torpedo tube; torpedo and exploder -1- W447SECRET (A) ARRATIVE (Continue) 17 Feb. U. S. S. SPEARFISH flooded in one tube. The outer doors were open aft when first charges fell. It is possible that a successful attack could have been delivered on this CL coming in had I counted on his purpose end speed, Sound did not hear his high speed screws céming in because of the noise of the reload in the forward room. Ran silent end deep for about 1 hour at which time came to periscope depth. Tie Cle had disappeared, probably to Hastward. Contimied patrol 1842 surfaced. 1930 reported attack ani danege sustained to the Commander Submarines, Asiatic Fleet. 2000 received orders to shift to new station East of Mindanao, passing South of Kulao. 0100 received orders to proceed to HOLLIND at Tjilitjap, Changed course to 240°T and went shead on 4 engines. 0230 changed course to 0428 sutmerged. 1838 surfaced. 2112 changed course to 0454 submerged. 0510 changed course to 281°T. 1519 made landfall, bearing 289°T (Zambuis Light). 1545 changed course to 160°. 1505 changed course to 225°T. 1842 surfaced. 2017 stopped and proceeded with caution toward entrance Alas Strait on battery, 2221 made landfall, visibility poor but was able identify right entrance island, "2333 ahead on all engines course 210 and transited Alas Strait. 0130 Point Ringit abesm to starboard. 0218 changed course to 270°T, 0504 submerged. 1855 surfaced and went ahead on all engines as they were secured from charge. 0514 submerged. 1258 chenged course to 295°T, 503 psc. 1901 surfaced and went chead on all engines as they were secured from charge. 0021 sighted small unidentified ship broad on port bow and altered course to avoid as it was presumed to be friendly. 0330 changed course to 288. 0538 submerged. 0800 succeeded in raising #2 per- scope and effecting temporary repair, optics are apparently un- @amaged. 1832 changed course to 505°, 1910 surfaced and changed course to 520°T, 1949 changed course to 500°T. 2000 arrived at rendezvous, point "J", and took pilot aboard. Heavy reinfall made entry inadvisable... 2045 anchored. 0019 underway to enter harbor of Tjilitjap. 0200 anchored in lower harbor. 0637 underway. 0744 moored to USS PECOS and took 16,550 gallons of fuel. 0825 received 8 torpedoes from HOLLAND and transferred 6. 1150 underway. 1236 moored to port side of HOLLAND, and commenced emergency repairs to periscope cables, main motor ciroulating water system, gyro repeaters, end instailation of wet exhast for #1 end #2 main engines. wei u4dSECRET (a) NARRATIVE (Continued) 19 Feb. - Moored as before. 1700 underway end proceeded out of harbor on War Patrol after dusk. 1940 set course 086°T. 2039 sighted un- identified ship thet might have been USS SHARK. Avoided by turning to South, 2102 changed course to 115°T. U. S. S. SPEARFISH Proceeding as before. 0512 submerged. 1500 changed course to 150°T. 1919 surfaced and proceeded speed 15 knots. 2036 changed course to 095°T on Latitude 09° South line. Proceeding as before. 0459 submerged. 0549 sighted N.E-I. S-engined bomber on port bow, 1155 changed course to o45eT. | 1759 changed course to 090°. 1900 surfaced. 2206 sighted Misa Besar sland bearing 050°T. 2515 changed course to 060°T. Proceeding as before. 0015 chenged course to 02007 and transited Lomboe Strait piloting. 0444 changed course to 027°T. 0447 sub- merged. 1209 sighted periscope bearing 070°T. As this might have’ tees ow submarine avoided it. 1440 sighted PSY plene bearing 500°R 1903 surfaced. 1918 changed course to 052°T. 0000 changed course to 040°T. 0451 submerged and commenced patrolling on station, course 220 and reverse. 1852 surfaced. 2015 petelved orders to proceed to new area Southwest of de Bril Bank in 40 mile lene. Changed course to O75°T. 2154 changed course to OseeT and proceeded up designated track with sound heads lowered, speed 6 knots. 0130 sound reported screws bearing 145 relative that sounded Ike submarine screws. As I was in SEAL area, went ehead 15 knots. 0322 sighted two ships on opposite course distant about 4000 yards, Sbe on starboard tow. Stopped engines want:to battle stations and Bae tubes ready. Changed course to the right sharply. 0527 sound Teported screws on starboard quarter making hich speed. Went ehead Etendard. I could not see ship on sterboard quarter due to rain Sidud thabe but as sound reported that they were close aboard nd Speeding up I presumed that I had been sighted by screen- 0550 subs q hea now lost my targets and went deep. No depth charges were ‘aropped but a sip passed close aboard astern, then stopped and Searched. 0451 sent out contact report to Commander Submarines, settle Picet. 0521 sighted two destroyers proceeding in my direc- tion at high speed from 070°T. As no large ships were in sight T Ment to deep submergence, 260', and depth charge stations when DDe Teached renge 5000 yards, Shortly after this the DDs, who were Zeactaeliy joined by 4 others, searched my area for a period of ieee hours. Many times they seemed to be on me as evidenced by. tMfenatic Keying and double and triple pinging. They were all Sutomgound evenvuelly picked up a heavy screw and at 0600 I started fo periscope depth only to have a high speed DD go over the ship. -3- We4U.S. S. SPEARFISH (a) NARRATIVE (Continued) Remained at depth charge stations and proceeded on course 060 for 1 hour, I then ceme to periscope depth and sighted 3 DD distent about 6000 yards bearing generally to Westward, pinging heartily. They either had out me in from my radio broadcast or were clearing the path forsome gajor body. 1500 changed course to 054°T. 1900 sur- faced. 2112 changed course to 090°T and commenced patrolling across the 066° line reversing course every hour. 0445 submerged. 1150 while at periscope depth, sound reported hearing 3 air noises and shortly afterwards heard torpedoes running. Nothing was in sight. Dived to 150", Sound followed the noise from the starboard to port quarter in an interval of 3 minutes. It 1s presumed that an enemy sulmarine fired at me although no submarine propeller noises were ever heard, At 1505 while on course 270°, sighted two CA of the ATAGO class escorted by two DD bearing Ose? on course 285° distent about 8000 yards. vent to battle stations end delivered a 4 torpedo attack. See (c) for details and results. 1821 fired 4 torpedoes from bow tubes and altered course to the left, went to 260 and to depth charge stations. One DD was then on my port quarter distant 500 yards but I was inside his tu Circle. 1522250 second cruiser in colum passed overhead. 1529 DD delivered counter attack. Two depth charges exploded almost @ireotly overhead and slightly to port. No damage was susteined. One DD remained in my vicinity for almost two hours. 1530 made Periscope observation. One DD to Westward distant 6000 yards end Proceeding to join main body. 1901 surfaced and changed course to i05°T and made contact report to Commander Submerines, Asiatic Fleet. Iam bitterly disappointed at having failed to make the most of it efter having attained a favorable attack position. I feel that uy judgement was not normal due to physical snd mental strain that re- Sulted in my nervousness at that all important moment just before firing. I have reported this to Commander Submarines, Asiatic Fleet, and believe that I emwasting time, and a submarine's efforts when T expose it to attack and then fail to realize on the risk. I need rest. Am proceeding South toward barrier. 2240 received orders to go to Sourabaya where I will be relieved of command. Hope this is only temporary. 2245 ahead on all engines, course 285°. 2550 chang course to 270°T, Proceeding as befare. 0110 chenged course to 250°T, 0434 sub- merged. 1250 sighted two light cruisers with two DD escort bearing 210°T. Went to battle stations. This force was zigging and DDs both pinging on sound gear. 1257 changed course to 205°? and headed for targets whose renge was now about 10000 yards. 1509 targets changed course about 40° to left which put them on course 350°R. 1510 came right with hard rudder end insreased speed to 6 knots. 1514 steadied on course 270°T. 1522 target course O18°T, range 5000 yards. 1523 changed course to 500°T. 1559 changed course to ea UsoSECRET (A) NARRATIVE (Continued, 335°T, At this time both screens and target appeared to stop, start,| and adjust position. The near screen had located us by sound and was pinging on us continually. ‘The range to near screen was 3800 yards. A general signal was hoisted and executed by the eneny formation who turned directly eway from the submerine end hauled clear on course 315°T, A slow speed shot could have been fired at one time but due to the glassy water surface it is certain that the enemy would have sighted the torpedoes running and avoided. The CLs were of the NATORI class end were probably the seme ohes I fired at South of Poelassi on 12 February. At least the previous attack served to make them start utilizing a DD escort. 1417 changed course to 250°T. 1502 sighted S-motored Dutch seaplane bearing 236°T proceeding toward de Bril Benk. 1641 surfaced. 2004 received instructions to go to TJiliTjap and changed course to 1sleP.| U.S. S. SPEARFISH 27 Feb. - Proceeding as before. 0127 picked up islands at entrance Alas Strait md trensited strait on various courses. 0345 Point Ringit abeam. 0415 changed course to 260°T. 0446 submerged. 1200 changed course to 270°T, 1857 surfaced. 2040 sighted sutmarine 10° on starboard bow on opposite course. 204% changed course to 125° to develop and identify contact. The SEAWOLF may have come out here to charge. 2045 submarine dove. 2110 chenged course to 210°T. 2140 changed course to 270°T. Proceeding as before. 0008 changed course to 275°T. 0505 sub- merged. 1630 changed course to 315°T, 1916 surfaced, changed course to 270°T. 2214 changed course to 297°T following pre- scribed route. Proceeding as before. 0516 submerged. 1915 - Surfaced and proceeded to prescribed rendezvous. 2330 - Contacted pilot boat at poing "JIG" and took pilot and Iieutenent J.C. Dempsey, USN, my relief on board. Entered harbor and tied up to ammunition dock. 0200 - Was relieved of command by Lieutenant J.C. Dempsey,USN. R. F. FRYCE, Lieut. Comdr. ,U.S.Nevy, Commanding.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH (B) WEATHER: 7-10 Feb. - Clear, calm, bright moonlight. Occasfional small squalls and overcast skies in some directions. Wind generally w2 sea moderate to calm. 11 Feb. - Squally - mostly good visibility. 12 Feb. Clear, good visibility, sea moderate. 15-17 Feb. - Same as above with occassional light rain and overcast over land areas. 1s Feb. Heavy rainfall ali night at Tjilatjap. Fair to good visibility at sea. 19 Feb. Fair to good visibility, moderate sea, slight westerly breeze. 20 - 22 Fed. - Same as above. = Calm glassy sea, wind 0, moonlight bright and visibility woeecset, 23 Feb. - 3 Mn excellent. Slight swells South of barrier. This kind of bright moonlight is ideal for periscope approach but bad for battery charging end surface patrolling.in mercy e ‘ SECRET (c) SIDES AND CURRENTS: U. S. S. SPEARFISH 4)- 12 Feb. - Currents encountered North of Malay Barrier agree with Goast Pilot. Generally about 1.3 knots in an Easterly direction when prevailing wind is from West. 14 Feb. - Current through Alas Strait is unpredictable end runs up to 4 knots in direction of channel. 15-168 Feb. - Current South of Malay Barrier averaged about .3 knot Basterly and of course is variable when passing the entrance to other straits. *pareecwom - Tidal currents only were encountered during this period. dé Fep. - 3 Mar.U.S.S. SPEARFISH (D) NAVIGATIONAL tps: 7 Feb. - 8-9 Feb. 10 Feb. 11 Feb. 12 Feb. - 13 Feb. - 1, - 18 Feb.- 19 - 28 Feb.- 1 Mar.- Departure Sourabaya Light Ship (Western) and ster sights. Evening and morning sters. Stars. 1041 sighted de Bril Bank. 0538 sighted Paelasi end Tana Jempea Islands. Islands above mentioned in sight. Stars. Land areas around Alas Strait. Piloted all along South of the Barrier. end areas of barrier and in Lombac and Ales Straits. Approaches to Tjilatjap.U. S. S. SPEARFISH (8) BIEMy SHIPS stouTED. Az Fev. - | 24 Feb. - 25 Feb. - At 1540 sighted two light cruisers, NATORI class, on course 015°%, speed 14 knots, zigging, latitude 6-50-00 South, longitude 1150-25-00 East. At 1400, targets changed course to 100°, head- ing apparently for the strait south of Poelase Islend. At 0521 sighted two destroyers bearing 070°T, course 245°R, speed approximately 20 knots, Latitude 6-39-00 South, longitude 117-38-50 East. At 1301 sighted four ships, two heavy cruisers of ATAGO cless escorted by two destroyers of HATSUHARU class, on course 285°R, speed 15 knots. Latitude 6-14-00 South, longitude 1168-38-00 East. At 1250 sighted two light cruisers of NATORI class escorted by two destroyers of SHIGURE class, zigzagging, course 005°T, speed 12.5 knots. Latitude 6-55-30 South, longitude 117-08-00 Hast. At 1345 targets turned away to course 315°T.SECERE U. S. S, SPEARFISH (F) ENEMY AIRCRAFT SIGHTED: None.SECRET (G) ATTACKS MADE: 25 Fed. - U. S. S. SPEARFISH ‘At 1303, in Let. 6-14 South, Long. 118-38 East, sighted two heavy cruisers of the ATAGO cless in column, angle on the bow 12° star- board, range 7000 yards. There were two destroyers acting as pro- tective screens, one on each bow of the leading cruiser at a distano of about 1500 -'2000 yards, Went to battle stations. At 1505 the enauy were observed changing course to the right about 25°, present= ing a port angle on the bow of about 10°. The zig was made as a ship's turn rather than colum movement and indicated that the pre- vious course was nearer to base course. Since the sea was calm and glassy it was decided that a "sound" approach presented the best Chance of successful attack without detection. Went to 120", changes course to 205°, made tubes ready forward ond aft, and ran at dead Slow speed. This put the submarine in the best position across bese course for either a bow or stern shot. ‘Sound was surprisingly unable to differentiate between the targets end the soreens, Their bearings wore inconsistent except on one ship which from the pictures left in my mind from periscope observa- tion was obviously one of the screens. Sound obtelned a doubtful turn count of 140 RPM on this ship and a relative bearing of 250° on his screws. I then decided that it was necessary to make enother periscope observation for TDC setup ed to coach sound on the proper target. Regardless of the probability of detection in glassy sea at 1512 ordered the ship brought to periscope depth. At 1519 made periscope observation. The enemy formation had zigged to the left about 30° and the targets were headed across bow of sutmerine, relative bear- ing of leading cruiser 330°. As the starboard screen was then close aboard on the port ouerter, relative bearing about 220°, I decided that I mst fire as soon as possible. At 1520 ordered full left rudder and fired a four torpedo spread at the leading cruiser, range 900 yards, zero gyro angle, depth setting 10 feet, track angle 110°’ starboard to 65° starboard. Enemy speed was estimated at 15 knots and a lead angle of 19° was used with the point of aim of first shot the foremast. Hard left rudder had been ordered just before firing in order to fire eerlier but was left on too long and the ship was swinging faster than desired. Hard right rudder wes ordered after the secon@ shot but the helmsman was unable to check the swing. The firing Dearing of the last two shots was not observed. As they were fired on time and "wild", you might sey, it is presumed that they passed well astern of the target. I had'then swung around to observe the starboard screen who was now close aboard my port quarter. Went to 260' fast and manned depth charge stations and altered course to the left with hard rudder. On our way down the second cruiser passed directly overhead. No opportunity was afforded to observe Fesults except that the first two torpedoes were seen to run. The track of the first appeared to be headed just forward of the stern of the target and the second slightly to the left. The first. tor. pedo was cutting up considerable fuss in the weter - atiU. S. S. SPEARFISH (6) ATTACKS MADE (Continued) surface run. No explosions were heard in the conning tower or control room. There was considerable noise there due to blowing and venting neg- ative. Sound heard all torpedoes running end heard one explosion about a minute after the first was fired, This explosion was heard through the hull by men in all compartments except the con- trol room and was generally reported as sounding like "the bombs that were dropped on us at Balik Papan except there was more thud". It has been my opinion that a torpedo hit at 800 yards would sound loud end definite even in a noisy compartment and I am there- fore skeptical as to whether a hit wes made. ‘Two depth charges were dropped rather close aboard at 1529. They appeared to have exploded almost directly overhead and I was glad of the 260" depth. The pressure gauge in control room jumped about 12" only and no damage was sustained. ‘The enemy withdrew to Westward and submarine to Eastward. One DD remained in the near vicinity for about 2 hours. Upon arrival at periscope depth at 1930 only the DD was in sight proceeding jestward. It is believed that had I not altered course to the left just before firing to speed up the problem I would have definitely sunk @ heavy cruiser. A hero or a patper on a hairline decision.SECRET U. S. S. SPEARFISH (H) NMA ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES AND ACTION TAKEN 10 AVOID: 12 Feb. - Two unescorted cruisers zigging radically - 90° - 45° - 45°, etes, Attacked one and the other counterattacked with depth charges. The CL came down the torpedo track at high speed from 7000 yards and caught me by surprise. His eight charges came surprisingly close and inflicted minor damage; see (I). lent deep and ran silent. No further attempt was made by the CLs to search or attack. They retired to Eastward. A small vessel of high speed evidently sighted the SPZARFISH as an attempt was started to attack two other ships. This ship cane in fast on the starboard quarter out of a rain cloud and forced the submarine down. After passing astern he stopped, and maneuvered in the vicinity for about an hour, The submarine ran "Silent" at @eep submergence then came to periscope depth. Nothing in sight. About 1 hour after making contact report two DDs followed by four others came in from ahead (070°) and made a thorough search for me, for almost 3 hours. Deep submergence, silent, avoided definite detection but I'm afraid it also caused me to miss a possible target. The DDs all had Asdics 19-20 kes. and used automatic keying on contact. Eventually I ren underneath three of them and continued on my patrol line. These DDs were evidently assigned to locate an patrol against submarines all along the de Bril Rock, Kangeen Island, line. They obtained my approximate position either from my radio broadcast or perhaps one of them was the ship that had forced me dom en =~ hour or 80 earlier. At 1150 an enemy submarine or plane fired 3 torpedoes at SPEAR- FISH which passed overhead and astern. ‘At 1303 to 1522 penetrated a 1500 yard DD screen and delivered attack on CA without detection. 1 DD delivered counter-attack after firing end searched with Asdic for 2 hours afterward. 26 Feb. - At 1250 sighted two CLs with DD screen on bows. DDs were ping- ing and obviously picked up the submarine at about 4000 yards while attempting to penetrate. The formation was stopped and their course altered away by General Signal. Our sound gear was able to get an accurate range of the ster- yoard sereen from the double echo when he was pinging directly on us. This is important information.$ ( L ECRET JOR DEFECTS U. S. S. SPEARFISH The provision of wet exhaust for the forward engines was a very comforting improvement and appearsto be satisfactory. This alteration should be accomplished on #3 and #4 engines as early as practicable. Night binoculars - 7650 type - should be flown out here immediately. On 27 February lost lub oil pressure on #3 mai engine due to broken relief valve spring on the pump. Renewed spring. Lower limit switch of #2 periscope inoperative. Radars should be provided along with electric stills although this ship has no difficulty keeping up with water. on 12 February depth charge attack caused periscope cable to part at anchors. The scope dropped about 1 foot and broke off lower lug, damaging the lower limit switch. No damage to optics. The steering repeater on bridge was grounded out and flooded. 4 tube pressure gauge on #7 tube was broken and torpedo, including ex- ploder, flooded.SECRET (3) REMARKS: 1. Silhouettes of our submarines should be reduced to an absolute min- imum for night work. All from SARGO class on, particularly, are vulnerable because of enormous bridge superstructure end inadvis- ability of flooding down in a seaway. U. S. S. SPEARFISH Radars, of course. Electric stills are desirable but not essential. Wet exhaust is a "must" and that recently installed on SPZARFISH at least works now. Carbon sparks from #1 and #2 main engines were previously visible about 3 miles at certain loads. ‘The health of my crew is beginning to wane as evidenced by an enormous inerease in colds. More then half the officers and crew are affected. Night binoculars should be obtained immediately if possible. Inshore work egainst an alert DD patrol is practically impossible without detection. And then there is no depth for evasion. This type can evade best at deep submergence running silent - that means everything silent. (ae R. FeLEIER SRiAND e050 APe, INDIAN OCEAN 155 een ley IS4S 7 February (99% tb £000 /7 Februa ryKANGEAN Istanos Fetrosied dine From tord bekino. TRACK CHART ‘A* U.S.5, SPEARFIS# 0200-2130 Pfebruary, (992. ParennosTeas W710 UTBO (3TRACK CHART "8" USS SPEARFISH 2/40 10 February 1942 to 2/00 12 February 1942 Target track in redOE WARITG TSLAND %, IN DIAN ao TRACK CHART USS SPEARFISH 1913 79 February 1942 to 0027 2March /942TRACK CHART "C* USS SPEARFISH 015-2040 23 February i ; UTH AS MESO UT-OOF ns PA oon \wOS ISLA ! 166( : i Nota, (BONE: ~o5 pannaLuaNs \LASI\, . whey TRACK CHART "DEE tt ONES USS SPEARFISH |. 0300 24 February 1942 % to 2245 aS February 1942 Sy aiio 71630 aib4o 1850 , ets = 5 UV30 WP «(TSOBFE HO. 7 DECLASSIFIER 3 « a LaGAd Payee! | vex report or Sidls wuz zarz01 27 March to 20 May 1942. 1, Roti Strait - Darwin Line. 2, Lingayen Gulf area 3. Vicinity Corregidor Minus (-) 8.FIDENT! NL DECLASSIFIED HA U. S. S. SPEARFISH 1, BRIEF NARRATIVE: Friday, March 27, 1942. 1230 - Departed Albany enroute Fremantle via bombing restriction route, in accordance ComSubs serial S511(FF6-4/Al6-3) of March 25, 1942. all machinery in commission, normal and reserve lub oil diesel oil aboard, provisions for 90 days. 65 men, 6 off pedoes - 4 in each nest (6 - 10’ - et ~ 10"), 8 24 tor= pedo room, 4 in racks after torpedo room and 4 i: 1400 - Arrived’1/2 mile west of Point Cast, changed o merged for trim and aircraft observation. Exax stations. 1500 - Surfaced, set course 180(T) ana proceeded at degrees to right md left of base course. 1610 - Changed course 272(T). 1644 - Submerged to 150" upon sighting silver colored plex distant 4-5 miles on course psa (ty Exercised crew et drills 1600 - Sighted USS TULSA bearing 345(T) range 5000 yerds, 2i gace: base course 110(T), speed 10 knots. Changed course 250(T) to clear area. 1854 - Surfaced on course 250(T), speed 12 knots. Charged batteries and air. 2012 - Changed course 272(T), speed 12-13 knots. 2052 - Ghnged course 279(7). 2149 — Changed course 220('T) upon ai ahting merchant ship vex Ns range 8000 yards, on course 140(T), speed 8 knots. e212 - Changed course 279(T). 2215 - Secured battery charge. 2e25 — Changed course 201(T}- Saturday, March 28, 1942. 0229 0550 0731 1150 1232 1529 2105 2153 Changed course 308.5(T). Commenced weaving 20 degrees right and left of course. Changed course 506(T). Speed 12.5 knots. Ceased weaving. Changed course ean Changed course 000(1T). Changed course oz1(T). A Sighted Rottnest Island light bearing 037(T) distent 50 miles. Sunday, March 29, 1942. 0215 - Changed course 050(T). . 04350 Gontacted escort ship USS ISABEL end followed thru sweep channel. 0733 - Submerged for eircraft inspection on course 270(T). 0751 - Surfaced and proceeded thru swept channel astern USS ISABEL. 0856 - Picked up Lt, Comdr. Mumma, USN, to act as pilot and proceeded into Fremantle harbor. 0925 - Moored slongside USS PIKE, at North Quay, Fremantle, West Australie. 1015 - Fueled from USS OTUS (5550 gallons).poMFBEAT) ! BRIED NV Bi mea); U-S- S: SPEARFISH 1745 - Departed Fremantle, West Australia, enroute patro) =} Roti Strait - Darwin line via bombing restriction GomSubsaF Operation Order No. 7 of March 29, 1942. 1044 —CArnived Point "D", changed course 325(T), speed 19 knots on #2 ss anstitved Fomgines.’ course line 6 miles to eastward of centerline of pombing restriction area. Mondey, March 30, 1942+ coz - Sighted PBY plane. No recognition signals observes G50 = Chenged course 352(T) enroute patrol area via bombing restriction zone. qero ~7 Beiucea speed to 15 knots, and commenced running on foment ene\tes a noes ePeing sea vhicn passed thru main induction outboard yelve due tOrered after engine room so that possibility of sroundins of fain motors due salt water became inminent. asoa Sighted unidentified single wing patrol plane besrine 235(T) distent 6 miles, possibly PBY plane. Commenced riding vents. Tuesday, March 31, 1942. 0223 - Changed course 016(T). 0225 - Gnoreased speed to 15 knots on #1, 5, end 4 main so $017 = Changed course 040(7). Visibility excellent cue moonli, Wednesday, April 1, 1942. 0200 = Changed course 044(T). Speed 15 knots, 1, %, end 4 main e (295 RPM). ghuredey, April 2, 1942. 06957 = Submerged on course 044(7), posit (L- 15-40 8. Long. 119-05 Be), nee eeided crew needed indoctrination and training, 12 nom, wateb having “ectells. Shifted from straignt 5 section watch t2 2 sections section oot g section submerged watches. Exercised crew, £ battle surface ent stations. Meneuvered ship subserged to check performances Gepth 100-120 feet. Periscope observations every 20-30 minutes. DB- servedvaircteaks #2 main ballest tenk. aos —*Surfaced (Lat. 1514.7 S., Long 119-37 B.). Sp 12 knots on 3 & & main engines, charging batteries. 2510 “Secured battery charge. Increased speed to 1° xnots #1, 3, 4 main engines. Fridey, April 5, 1942+ 0532 - Submerged to 80" on course 044(T), speed 3-5 knots, enroute essigned arene Depth 100-120 feet, periscope observations every 30 minutes. Posit Lat. 15-33.1 S., Long. 121-18.5 B. 0558 - Observed sunrise. 31CONFIDENTIAL a); U- 5. S. SPEARFISH 0736 - Ghanged course 035(T)- 1755 - Sunset. ide? - Surfeced on course 035(T), speed 12 knots, on #5 & 4 mein engines, charging on #1 & 2 main engines and fil & 2 wixiliary engines. Fosit fat. 12-54.0.8, Long. 121-46.2 B. Saturdey, April 4, 1942. 0502 - Submerged to 60' on course 036(T), speed 3.5 - 5.2 knots enroute ‘assigned area, Depth 120°, periscope observations overy ‘30-45 minutes Posit doubtful. 0556 - Observed sunrise. 0558 T Sighted Southwest point Roti Islend bearing 004(T). o724 - Genged course 070(7) to patrol parallel to coast of Timor. 1749 = Observed sunset. 1749 - Gurfaced on course 070(T) posit Lat. 11-10.5 S-, Long. 122-58 Be Speed 5 knots, charging batteries. 1910 — Pgutmerged to 170" for training purposes. Tine dive 45 seconds. Ye14 - Changed course 160(T). 1930 - Surfaced. 1950 - Muonrise, Visibility excellent. Continued battery charges 2053 = cummed ouvse 110(@) to run up moon enroute Roti Strait - Darwin ne. 2149 - Changed course 070(T) to run parallel coast. 21s — Seoured battery charge and continued on course 070(7) at speed 9 knots ¢nroute patrol erea. BbsAF eorjel 9) ordering ‘st TMmor, Meni pas OF goat after pessyng Optra of Sen, (o/On/ ‘ Nica AY Oro) Seropaation eiitivh Ld Au spdoted-mine ‘ons received prior de- perture on patrol advocate use of oF: n engines proceeding to Patrol station north of barriers o1z6 —“Ghenged course 060(T), to reach position for passing thru passage ‘petween Timor and Let Island. oso ~ *beimerged on course 060(T) posit Tat 10-49-2 5: Long 124-21.2 Ee Sea enesey celm, visibility 9 miles due surface Hore Depth 120°, setsEcope observations 30-45 minutes. Fostti ce doubtful. 0537 —“Gnenged course 052(T) enroute passage ast of Timor. 0546 - Sunrise. 0548 - Gur eqiall set in, visibility decreased t¢ 1000 yards. From ange Sets, en apparent Southwest set of 1.5 knovse a7se - Sunset. 1835,- Surfeced course 052(7), speed 12 knots on #3 & 4, cnther engines. Posit Lat. 10-24.0 8+, Tons.\ a); U-S. S. SPEARFISH 2109 - Moonrise. Monday, April 6, 1942. 0454 - Submerged course 060(T) in posit Lat. 9-27.2 S., Long. 126-21.2 B. ‘Speed 3 knots, depth 120", periscope observation half-hourly enroute assigned patrol area, via east of Timor. 0538 - Observed sunrise. 0629 - Changed course 050(T) to close south coast of Timor. 1037 - Chenged course 062(T). 1733 = Observed sunset. eso - Surfaced and changed course to 090(T) in posit Lat. 09-06 S., Long. 126-51 EB. Speed 12.2 knots on #3 & 4, charging batteries on re~ maining engines. 2235 - Observed moonrise. 2850 — Changed course 000(7) to pass thru chamnel between east point of ‘Timor and islend of Leti. Tuesday, April 7, 1942. 0011 - Changed course 009(T). 0225 - Sighted Leti Islend bearing 358(T) distant 15 miles. 0250 - Changed course 270() to alter posit so es to have straight run thru channel. 0332 - Changed course 351(T). Qaad — Submerged on course S31(T), speed 3, depth 120", half-hourly ob- servations. Posit Lat. 06-11.2 8., Long. 127-28 8. 0536 - Observed sunrise. 1735 - Observed sunset. jon _ Changed course 300(T) to increase distence from Romang Island prior surfacing. iese - Surfaced on course 300(T), speed 12.2 knots on #5 & 4, charging om remaining engines. Posit Lat. 07-40 8., Long. 127-12.5 Be 1850 - Changed course 315(T). ieep - Changed course 335(T), setting course to make landfall on Gunnung Api Island. 2304 - Observed moonrise. E eet = Changed course 015(T) upon sighting Gunnung Api Island bearing 358(T) distant 12 miles. Wednesday, April 6, 1942. 0045 - Ghenged course 010(7) with Gunnung Apt Islend bearing 285(T) distant 3 miles, setting course to make landfall on Anbleau Istana. 0455 -> Sabnefges on course O10(T) speed 3.3 knots, depth 100", helf-hourly observations. Posit Lat. 05-50.5 S., Long. 126-55.8 B. 0550 - Sunri 1735 - Sunse' ; 1235 = Gurfaced on course O10(T), speed 10 knots on #1 main engine, 4- 2aSONFDENTIA L a. U. S. S. SPEARFISH cherging batteries on #2 and auxiliaries. Posit Lat. 05-03 S., Long. 127-02.6 B. Decided on sutmerged run thru Menipe Streit. 2250 - Sighted Ambleau Island bearing 020(T) distent about 20 miles. Did not expect to sight until 0030, so slowed and ran east and west until sure of identity. Visibility poor with haze obscuring horizon. Thursday, April 9, 1942. 0004 - Observed moonrise. 0032 - Changed course 035(T) and increased speed to 15 knots. Visibility improved, checked position about 1.5 miles south of Amblem Island. 0130 - Changed course 015(T). 0320 - Changed course 346(T) to pass thru Menipa Strait. 0400 - Submerged en course 346(T) speed 3.2 knots depth 120'. Observations every 30 minutes. Posit Lat. 05-32.5 8., Long. 127-24.2 EB, Visibility poor with low-lying haze - surface water flat calm. Temperature water surface 83°; 140° E5*. Observed sunrise. Observed entrence Kayeli Bay, Buru, nothing sighted. Changed course 345(T). Observed sunset. Surfaced on course 345(T) speed 12 knots on #5 & 4 main engines, charging on remeining engines. Visibility poor - hazy. Posit Lat. 02-53.2 S., Long. 127-15.3 E. Friday, April 10, 1942. 0000 - Course 343(T) speed 12 knots to pass about 20 miles east of ‘Tifumatola, Sula Island, enroute Molucca Passage. 0441 - Submerged on course 343(T) speed 5.2 knots, depth 120", half-hourly observations, Posit Lat. 00-52.8 S., Long. 126255 E- 1836 - Surfaced on course 343(T), speed 12 knots on #5 & 4 main engines, charging on remaining engines enroute Banka Passege. Posit. Lat. 00-06 S., Long. 126-19.8 E. 2137 - Ghenged course 320(T) end made after tubes ready upon lookout!s re~ port of submarine diving close aboard on starboard quarter. Not Bighted by any but one lookout. May have been USS TARPON. Posit Lat. 00-21.8 N., Long. 126-25 B. 2140 - Changed course 343(T). 2144 = Secured charging storage battery. ‘ 2225 - Sighted Mifdre Island bearing 357(T) distent 22 miles. $245 - Changed course 000('T) to check on Tifore Island which very closely resembled a destroyer. 2854 - Sighted Majoe Island 010(T) distent about 17 miles. Increased speed to 14.5 knots, so as to pass thru Banka Passage submerged+ Seturdey, April 11, 1942. 0014 - Changed course 516(T) to head for Banka Passcge. -5-CONIBENTIAL pata U.S. S. SPEARFISH 0419 - Sighted Biara Island, bearing 324(T), distant 23 miles. 0434 - Submerged on course 524(T) speed 5.2 knots, depth 120", observations about every half hour. Posit Lat. 01-45.2 N., Long. 125-37.8 Be 0551 - Chenged course 305(T) to pass thru center of Banka Passage. 0537 - Observed sunrise. 1305 = Sighted sailboat (native fishing craft) bearing 554(T) on course 170(T), distant 4000 yards. 1746 - Sunset. 1852 - Surfaced on course 305(T) speed 12.2 knots. Posit Lat. 02-10.7 B. Hong. 125-05.8 E. 1854 - Sighted large fire on Talisei Island. 1914 - Changed course 300(T), 1945 - Changed course 297(T) speed 12 knots on #5 & 4 main engines, charging on remaining engines, enroute Sibutu Passage. 2245 - Secured charging main storage batteries. Sundey, April 12, 1942. 0449 - Submerged on course 297(T), speed 3.2 knots, depth 120", periscope observations every half hour. Posit Lat. 03-i6.5 N., Long. 125-17.1 Be 0545 - Sunrise. 0606 -_ Sighted what appeared to be micke bearing 025(T), distence about 15 on 0607 - Changed course Be to investigate apparent smoke. 0780 = Changed course 296(T), apparent smoke turned out to be a cloud on horizon. 1015 - In position on track between Davao end Makassar Streit, swung ship for magnetic compass check. 1203 - Changed course 296(T). 1756 - Sunset. 1856 - Surfaced on course 296(T), speed 10.5 knots on #1 main engine, charging batteries on #2.main agine ad auriliaries. Visibility faire Decided to cruise at speed 10.5 knots #0 as to arrive south entrance about. 2300 on 15th end also to cross Davao-Terakan track while sub- merged. Plot indicates that USS SNAPFER may be in Sibutu Passage commencing 0000/14th but since USS SEADRAGON will be passing Sibutu at same time the next evening, it is felt necessary to take the chanee of sighting SNAPPER in passage. Mondey, April 13, 1942. 0400 - Moonrise. 0458 — Submerged on course 296(T), speed 3.2 knots, depth 150", observations} every 30-45 minutes. Posit Lat, 04-19.5 N., Long. 120-50.5 B. Sea flat calm. 0550 - Sunrise. 0632 - Changed course 284(T) to head for southern entrance Sibutu Passage. Star fix position 20 miles Northwest of dead reckoning. aeoe Sates. is ‘fia. ee 1916 - Surfaced on course 264(7), speed 12,5 knots, charging storage batteries. Visibility very poor - hazy. Star fix erratic. 2109 - Changed course eo 2256 — Changed course 180(T) since D.R. showed position to be well to west- ‘ward of Sibutu Island. Due to poor visibility md uncertain position, decided to patrol easterly and westerly courses in present locality end await better visibility to make lamdfall on Menuk Manka Island. 2302 - Decreased speed to 5 knots and commenced surface patrol on courses 120(T) and 500(T), reversing every two hours. Tuesday, April 14, 1942. 0437 - Changed course 090(T). 0450 - Moonrise. 0502 - Submerged on course 090(7), speed 5.2 knots, depth 66", awaiting favoreEs pet atte to check position. Posit Lat. 4-32.65 N., Long. 0548 - Changed course 355(T) to close lend. 0554 - Sunrise. Changed depth 150", half hourly observations. 0758 - Changed course 270(T) upon sighting Manuk Manka Islend bearing 000(T) distant about 6 miles. 0924 = Ghanged course 120(T) upon sound reception of submerged sulmarine ‘pearing 340(T), on course 175(T) distant about 4 miles, probably SNAPPER or SEADRAGON trmsiting Sibutu Passage. 1015 - Decided maintain position in present locality snd to pass thru Sibutu Passage during darkness so that Pearl Bank could be cleared prior next submergence. Patrolled sutmerged on courses 120(T) and 300 1808 - Sunset. 1916 - Surfaced on course 160(T) speed 5 knots, charging mein batteries. Posit Lat. 4-42.53 N., Long. 119-47.3 E. 1924 -. Changed course ait to pass thru Sibutu Passage. 2100 Changed course 3261 2; i?) ea increased speed to 12.5 knots. 2319 - Chenged course 00(T) upon clearing Situtu Passage, enroute to pass west of Pearl Bank. Increased speed to 14.5 knots. Wednesday, April 15, 1942. 0200 - Ghenged course 338(T). 0250 - Gleared Pearl Bank and entered Sulu Sea. 0400 = Changed course 000(T) and decreased speed to 12 knots. 0458 - Submerged on course 000(T) speed 3.2 knots, depth 63". Posit Lat. 6-20.1 Ne, Long. 119-20.7 Be 0502 - Changed course 033(T) enroute Apo Bast Pass vic Cagayan Island. 0511 - Chenged course 200(T) end went shead 2/3 upon sound's report of screw noises bearing 250(T). 0532 - Chenged course 033(T), having sighted nothing and screw noises haying become inaudible efter one minute - probably own ship’s ven- tilation blowers being speeded up. 0556 - Sunrise - decreased depth to 100", half-hourly observations. Sings 4ARNE te BRIEF NARRATIVE (Continued); U: 5. 5. SPEARFISH 1806 - Sunset. 1905 - Surfaced on course 035(T). Lat. 6-48.35 N., Long., 119-45.5 B. ‘Speed 10.2 knots, charging batteries enroute Apo East Pass. 2240 - Secured charging main storage batteries. ~s0er— pessae gos et 38 of 15. April ordering-SPEARFTSH’to start south ‘Af a> further orders are received. Thursdey, April 16, 1942. 0500 - Submerged on course 033(T), speed 5.2 knots, enroute Apo East Pass. Posit Tat. 6-27.6 ¥., Lange iz0-51.2 E. Exercised crew at general rills. 0556 - Sunrise. Increased depth to 120', half-hourly observations. 1809 - Sunset 1914 — surfaced. Posit Lat. 8-57.2N., Long. 121-12.6 E. Speed 10.2 knots on #1 main engine, charging main storage batteries. 1932 - Changed course 040(T), not having sighted Cagayan Island, end having decided to meke landfali on Naso Point, Panay. Fridey, April 17, 1942. 0000 - Ghanged course 000(T). 0340 - Sighted Naso Point bearing 066(T), distant about 16 miles. 0445 - Submerged on course 000(T), speed 5.2 knots, depth 120', periscope observations half-hourly.. Posit Lat. 10-21.5 N., Long. 121-42.1 E. Decided check position by land bearing prior changing course to pass thru Guyo East Pass. - Sunrise = Ghanged course 330(T) ma increased speed to 5 knots, = Gnangea course 508(T), having sighted smoke bearing 506(T), distant ‘about 10 miles. (Own posit Lat. 10-52.8 N., Long. 121-40.2 E-) - Distinguished masts of ship distent about’s miles on southerly course. - Went to battle stations. = Ghanged course 240(T) = Completed submerged attack on enemy armed transport or supply ship,| having fired 4 torpedoes, two of which hit. (Ow posit 10-55.5 N., Long. 121-35.1 B.) ~ Ghanged course 270 2) = Ghenged course 220(T) to clear area. = Sunset - completed reload. I Gurfaced posit Lat. 10-43. N., Long. 121-27 E. course 220(T), speed 11.5 kno arging batteries. Decided clear erea for night, and to delay transiting Apo East Pass until following evening due possibility vigilant destroyer patrol, that area after reported submrine attack on supply ship. 1946 - Changed course see 2030 - Changed course 200(T). 43,@ a CONEIBEN TIAL BRIEF NARRATIVE (Gonfinued): U.S. S. SPEARFISH 2330 - Secured battery charge and decreased speed to 5 knots, patrolling easterly and westerly courses in vicinity Cuyo West Pass. Saturdey, April 18, 1942. 0445 -, Sutmerged on course 090(T), Lat. 10-15.8 N., Long. 120-51.4 E., speed -0 knots 0510 course 060(T) - not sure of position. 0545 = depth 120° wbth helf-hourly observations. 1310 = Ghanged course 02(T) to make lendfell on Guyo Islands. 1600 = Sighted Cuyo Islands on northwesterly bearing, distant about 20 miles. 1805 - Sunset 1924 = Surfaced on course 0@(T) speed 12 knots, charging batteries. Posit Lat. 10-47.3 N., Long. 121-19.7 E. 2027 - Established position by bearings on Cuyo Islands and changed course (000(F) enroute Apo East Pass. 2035 - Changed course 270(T) upon 0.0.D.'s report of bright green flare rising from sea bearing 090(T) distant 1 mile. No small boat nor ship could be seen. Posit Lat. 11-00 N., Long. 121-25.2 EB. 2058 - Changed course 000(T). 2104 - Increased speed to 15 knots, having decided to submerge in Apo East Pass in a position just south of Discovery Bank. 2201 - Secured charging batteries. 2208 — Changed course 333(T) to pass to eastward of Coutts Bank and to stey in deep water while entering passe 2400 - Should have sigited “:4mBulong Island - visibility poor (less than 3 miles). Ran on D.R. Sunday, April 19, 1942. 0315 - Changed course 000(T) to stay well clear of Apo Reef. Visibility ‘about 2000 yards and decreasing. 0326 - Decreased speed to 5 knots. 0329 — Submerged in posit Let. 12-25.2 N., Long. 120-42 E. on course 000(7) to await sufficient visibility to check position. Speed 5 knots, depth 68" 0545 - Sunrise ’- checked posit by land bearings. 0343 = Ghenged course 000{T) to pass east of Discovery Bank. 0921 - Changed course 335(T). 0945 - Changed course 330(T). 1427 - Changed course 295(T). 4s11 - sunset. 1927 - Surfaced in posit Lat. 12-52 N., Long. 120-25.7 8. on course 295(T), ‘speed 12 knots, charging batteries, enroute Lingeyen Gulf. 2300 - Secured charging storage battery. ; 2514 - Decoded GomfubsaF 43 of 19 April relative to arrival of an enemy ‘force in Subic Bay on 21 April and arrival in Lingsyan Gulf of 3 ADs from Camranh on sane dey+ 2330 - Changed course 355(T). 4¢COnEoENT yy BRIEF NARRATIVE (Contimuea); U- S. S. SPEARFISH Monday, April 2, 1942. 0441 - Changed course 500(T). 0449 — Submerged on course 300(T), speed 5 knots, periscope depth. Posit Lat. 14-15 N., Long. 119-45 E. 0541 - Sunrise. 0542 - Changed course 355(T). 1618 - Sunset. 1935 — Changed course 300(T) and surfaced heading into moon. Posit Lat. 14-46 N., Long. 119-40 8, Speed 12 knots, charging batteries. 2000 - Changed course 355(T), having decided to run up coast of Luzon be~ ‘tween Subic Bay and Cape Bolinao outside 100 fathom curve imemepes- ab-trtesceptine—omemp-Sencecouppoaedi y-enroute-Subio-Bey-from-merti. 2006 - Sighted searchlight on hill north of Subic Bay. 2210 - Moonset. Tuesday, April 21, 1942, 0250 - Slowed to 5 knots and lowered sound heads upon reaching estimated position Lat, 16-15 N., Long. 119-37 B. Having assumed-theb—enemy— Berpyiess qurotte-idugeyen-Guif-from-Genranh would-probebly-_meke Fi ~on-Gage_alinecy—deoided- brol-north-fronthis-peint. = Butmerged on course 355(T). Periscope depth until sunrise then 100* with helf-hourly observations. Speed 5 knots. Fosit Lat. 16-25 N., Long. 119-39 B. = Ghanged course 090(T) to close coast. 0440 - Changed course 160() upon sound's report of peculiar knocking sound (similer to tapping ona hollow log) bearing 020(T) end covering an are of about 30 degrees. Periscope visibility poor, sighted nothing. 0511 - Changed course 090(T), peculiar knocking sound stopped (did not ‘fede out) on bearing 010(T). Visibility feir, sighted nothing - sound probably fish noises. 0543 - Sunrise. 0700 = Ghanged course 000(T) to patrol across Camrenh - Sen Fernando track, ‘a recheck having shown position to be about 4-5 miles southwest of Cape Bolinao light. 1220 - Changed course 990(m).- 1643 — Chenged course 300(T) to clear coast prior surfacing. 1618 - Sunset. 1945 - Surface - moonlight rather bright. Posit Let. 16-40 N., Long. ‘119-35 B. Oourse 270(T) to run into moon while charging batteriese 2157 - Changed course 050(T) and commenced surface petrol, having decided ‘to work north and then along track from Hainan to San Fernando. 2200 - Completed charging main storage batteries. 2310 - Moonset. Wednesdey, April 22, 1942. 0330 - Changed course 090(TT).a); U- SS. SPEARFISH Submerged on course 090(T) to periscope depth, speed 3 knots. Posit Lat. 16-48 N., Long. 120-03 5. Sunrise. Gnanged course 260(7) upon sound's report, of peculier noise re- sembling high speed propellers bearing 250(T). Posit Lat. 16-48 N., Long. 120-12 B. Sighted nothing. 0951 - Changed course 000(T). Decided screw noises were om ship's noises, ‘cause unknown. Noise ceased upon changes speed. Noted large air leak eft. Decided patrol north and south in present position about 10-12 miles northwest of Cape Bo2inao, while locating end repairing air leake Depth 120', periscope observations half-hourly. 1sl9 - Sunset. 1939 - Changed course 280(T) to head into moonlight and surfaced, speed 5 knots, charging storage batteries. Air leak decreased, but not located - probably from impulse tank or same sea chest blow. 2100 - Changed course 100(T). 2218 - Secured charging main storage batteries. 2347 - Changed course 060(T). Decided to close coast about 10 miles north of Sen Fernando end wrk in vicinity track from Takao to San Fernando. During previous day's patrol had hoped to intercept traffic a fair @istance from its destination so that if successful, I might then change my area to the northward and thus escape detection Thursday, April 23, 1942. ‘orto -w—Decedadsoonombaa? tot tiertntormation thet-eviation stores: ship - aig-Dameey arr fox-Anvor-OOn + 0435 - Submerged on course 000(T) to periscope depth. Speed 5 knots. Posit Lat. 16-51 N., Longs 120-10 E. 0500 - Changed course 090(T). 0542 - Sunrise. 0600 - Conducted submerged patrol north and south slong Tekao - San Fernando track. 1917 - Sunset. Changed course 270(T) to clear coast prior surfacing- 1945 - Surfeced in position Lat. 16-57 N., Long. 120-08 E., end commenced surface patrol across Takao - San Fernando track- Friday, April 24, 1942, 0250 - Visibility decreased to 600 yards due haziness. Made two torpedo tubes ready for firing. 0436 - Submerged on course 090(T) and closed coast to obtein fix. Posit lat. 16-55, Long. 120-11 B, Speed 3 knots, depth 120', observations half-hourly. 0830 - Commenced submerged patrol along Takao - San Fernando track. 1800 - Changed course 270(T) to clear coast prior surfacing. 1940 - Surfaced posit Lat. 16-46 N., Long. 120-06 E. and patrolled east and west in bright moonlight along track from Hainan to San Fernando, speed 5 knots, charging batteries. 2230 - Completed battery charge. 2233 - Stood by to dive upon lookout's report of small craft resembling 4 -ll- eeA... ; U.S. S. SPEARFISH motor torpedo boat about 2000 yards on port querter. Sighted nothing but decided to increase distence from Gulf entrence, since the Captain cannot think of any effective offensive tactics to use against this type of creft. Their use as sutmarine attackers is suitable in this area whem the sea is usually flat calm amd while moonlight visibility preveils, Considered depth setting a torpedo at one foot, inadvisable due possibility of premature explosion. With the possibility of a motor torpedo boat trailing the submarine's wake and coming in for an attack on the submarine's quarter, diving while strictly defensive, is quicker then swinging ship end firing one torpedo in « matter of 5-4 © minutes. Single machine gun fire against a small fast-moving target armed with three or four machine guns also appears inadvisable. =p -4 beaP-Sbr-with information-that ship loaded with evietion ~in-Eingeyen-from-Takao at 0800 April 27nd 4 dkengegnen for oe prE-2t. 1600-April 27. - Saturday, April 25, 1942. 0000 - Surface patrol, speed 4.5 knots, course 090(T) and 270(T) in position approximately 15 miles northwest San Fernando ligt. 0141 - Changed course 220(T) upon sound's report of excessively high noise level bearing 220(T). Stood by to_dive upon lookout's report of white colored streak resembling fast-moving small surface craft. Nothing sighted by Captain nor 0.0.D. Sound noise spread out and identified as fish noises, perhaps porpoises. - Ghenged course 090(7). = Sighted light bearing in direction of Sen Fernando distence 12-14 miles - showed red and waite fleshes at intervals from 0500 to 0517+ (See Navigational Aids). It is believed that San Fernando light is burned as beacon for incoming ships. ~, ,Sutmerged on course 270(T), speed 3 knots, posit Lat. 16-55 Ne, Longe 120-05 E. ~ Changed course 090(T) and decreased depth to 120" to obtein trim. Obtained stop trim for 5 minutes at 100", Sound reported nothing heard Temperature sea water at 100’ - 80° end at 68' - 85°. = Decreased depth to 66". Sighted dark outline of ship bearing 272(T)s approximate distence 4500 yards, angle on bow 80-90 port. Periscope visibility fair. Tried unsuccessfully to decrease range. Since ter- get was comparatively small (2000 - 2500 tons) and since closest range feached was 3600 yards, decided to withhold fire and track ship. 0558 - Changed course 135(T). 0635 - Changed course 155(T). 7 0648 - Ship continued on approximate course 165(T), passed inside the hundred fathom curve just west of Darigayos Foint (Let. 16-50 Ne, Longe 120-17.8 B.) and stood south on southerly course until out of sight. 0730 - Chenged course 090(T) to avoid possible mineficlds and to close coast to obtain fix - hazy condition existing just after sunrise prevents fix being obtained unless close inshore. 0900 - Changed course 270(T). 1000 = Conmenced submerged patrol north end south along Takao - San Fernando track. sii 47)BRIEF W, WENT, IAL. muea)p U- S. S. SPEARFISH Ja1e6 - sighted enemy merchant ship bearing 185(T) on northerly course in | position Lat. 16-56 N., Long. 120-11 E. 1220 = Gompleted submerged attack on merchant ship, having fired two tor-| t ‘pedoes (one hit) and changed course 500(T) to clear area. Observed ship to be on fire and sinking. { 1e25 - Went to deep submergence upon hearing series of explosions, et first believed to be aircraft bombs. 1906 - Changed course 270(T). 1815 — Periscope observation, nothing in sight. Comenced patrol along Tekeo - Sen Fernando track. 1730 - Changed course 270(T) to clear coast prior surfacing. 2008 - Surfaced in posit Lat. 17-10 N., Long: 120-00 B. Realized that in view of the attack completed this date, that anti-submarine measures would be taken to—prosent—esuscessiui—attacic-upon: Dear 56 -of B4-Apeiity Decided to run north along coast Sundey, April 26, 1942. 0435 - Submerged in position Lat, 16-40 N., Long. 120-21 B, and changed course 050(T) to close coast and obtain fix. 0941 - Changed course 000(T). 2110 = Changed course 090(7}. 1234 - Chenged course 125(T) upon sighting masts of ship bearing 038(7) on ‘a southerly course, distent about 6 miles in position Lat. 18-47 N. Long. 120-59 E. 1527 - Completed unsuccessful attack on enemy tenker, heavily loaded. Fired) four torpedoes, range 1500 yards on 110 degree Starboard track all of which missed ahead. Submerged to 100" when enemy tured toward in attempt to ram. 1330 - Changed course to left end returned to periscope depth in attempt to ‘fire bow tubes. Angle on bow 175 starboard renge about 5000 and in- creasing rapidly as enemy apparently increased speed to about 14 knotse Dia not fire bow tubes. ‘The Commanding Officer keenly regrets not having hit this target ospeotetty-efter-pinmning-cnd.mering-s-ewweess— ‘takveontec ee ~ Changed course 210(T) end trailed. = Sighted snoke bearing 228(T). Own posit Lat. 18-35 N., Long. 120-27 < {hSreased speed to 5 knots upon distinguishing uests ond upper works) of ship on a southerly or southeasterly course, renge about 7 miles, speed 12-13 knots. "Decreased range to about 8000 yards when target eltered course to ‘southwest and drew out of sight. Distinguished ship as medium sized herchant or patrol ship of about 3000-4000 tons with what appeared to be a plane on forward part of ship. - Surfaced on course 197(T) and went ahead 16 knots in effort to ‘overtake one of the two ships sighted ox—T?-unsuacssatuby-to-be-$n position tan. seeewie-austhe-omo~ebrarattmpPly ship due-to-eave ngeyenat~26e0- APTI T"27 . AU. S. S. SPEARFISH Mondey, April 27, 1942. 0130 - Lookout reported green flare bearing 045('T) distant ebout 1 mile. 0237 - Decreased speed to 5 knots on:motors, lowered sound heads, and stood ‘by to dive upon sighting searchlight beam bearing 220(T) distent about 2-3 miles. Own position Lat. 17-20 N., Long. 119-59 E. Origin of beam appeared to be close to, but on near side of horizon, Visibility fair, moon just setting. Could not sight ship nor could sound hear propellers. Beam swept horizon a few times and disappeared. At 0245 sighted either the seme or another beem bearing about 202(T), distant 6-7 miles, - Submerged on course 197(T) to periscope depth, speed 5 knots. ‘Approximate position Lat. 17-12 N., Long. 119-55 E, Decided to inter— cept aviation supply ship north of Cape Bolineo. = Sighted what appeared to be smoke bearing 120(T) aistent about 12 miles and drawing to the westward. - Apparent smoke disappeared. Continued on course 197(T) enroute position northwest of Cape Bolinso. = Sighted eleven masts fitted with mall sails in line or column bear- ing 257(T) end distant about 4 miles in position Lat. 16-39 N., Long. 119-37 B, Apparent course southwest or west. Could not distinguish hulls. Sound could not pick up propeller sounds. Sound conditions in the locality are apparently either very poor or else the torpedo explosion on 25 April wnich damaged the auxiliary JK may have damaged the remaining sound receiver. Maximum range received even after sound is coached on the bearing has been 2000 yards. This condition nec- essitates practically constant patrol at periscope depth. - Bearing of masts continued to draw slowly to the right. Changed course 160(T) to leave the sweeps to westward. - Distinguished hulls of sweeps at estimated distence of 5 miles and mainteining a southerly courses ~" Changed depth to 120* ren silent nd changed course 170(), since I felt that aircraft may.have been directing search. From plot of situation and change of bearing of sweeps, there appeared to be plenty of room for the submarine to slip by this formation. ~ Based up to periscope depth, nothing having been heard by sound. ‘The sweep formation was dead ahead with opening of the "VW about 10° on the port bow, distant about 2000 yards. The are subtended by the leading boats of each column was 20°. The subchaser was about 1000 yards broad on my port bow, and apparently directing the proceedings. All sails hed been lowered. = Changed depth to 200" end course to 340(T) with hard right rudder, in an endeavor to pass ahead of the leading boat on my sterboard bow. Since a plot indicated that the sweep formation had made good a speed of 7-8 knots in order to reach its present position, I figured it only @ matter of time before the formation caugit up with me. Still felt the formation was directed by aircraft as well as sound. The presence of the motor torpedo boat discouraged the ides of surfacing except es @ last resort. Considered possibility of firing torpedoes set for a circular run and shallow depth, but figured it wuld strike net before -u4- 44°: ° UNEIDE Tay U. S. S. SPEARFISH reaching surface. Determined to stay on course 340(T) end to run Silent at 200' until the sweeps struck, then, if necessary, to make @ Dattle surface, fire gun and torpedoes and attempt escape on surface. 1630 - Changed course 300(T) when periscope observation showed masts of formation bearing 120(T), distant about 3-4 miles and on northerly course. 2000 - Changed course 275(T) to clear area. 2147 - Surfeced in bright moonlight end went ahead 9 knots to clear areas Decided to rove track between Hainan and San Fernando and obtein some sleep since with one thing and another, it has been impossible to ob- tain more then 1 hour's uninterrupted sleep since 24 April end may have been the cause of the apparently poor judgement which elmost directed the SPEARFISH into a submarine net. Tuesday, April 28, 1942. 0421 - Submerged in position Lat. 16-56 N., Long. 118-05 3. (estimated daylight erea for incoming traffic) on course 099(T) to periscope depth. Worked back and forth across track whtil dark then stood in on course toward San Fernando. 1951 - Surfaced in position Lat. 16-56.5 N., Long. 116-02 Z. on course 100(T). Bright moonlight, visibility excellent. 2045 - Decoded ComSubsAF 60 of 28 April ordering SPEARFISH to operete near Corregidor on Mey 5, to pick up passengers and proceed Fremantle» 2110 - Changed course 520(T) with hard rudder and full speed upon lookout, ‘end 000.D.'s reports of wake apparently from periscope bearing 125(T) Gistent about 1000 yards. Own posit Lat. 16-55, Long. 118-04 B- 2114 - Slowed to 4 knots and lowered sound heads. Nothing heard by sound- b1lé . Tnereased speed to 10 knots, when wake again sighted bearing 127(T), @istant about 2000 yards. 2130 - Slowed to 4 knots, changed course 160(T) end commenced listening watch, Estimated my position to be outside visibility range of sub- marine periscope, if that was object sighted, and hoping to sight submarine when surfacing. 2154 - Changed course oa0(at Nothing sighted nor hea! 2203 - Changed course 110(2) end continued along Heinan Wednesday, April 29, 1942. 0000 - Changed course 290(T). 2 0437 - Submerged on course 290(T) to periscope depth in position Late 16-59 N., Long. 118-59 E. 0905 - Changed course 2707}. 1200 = Changed course 090(T). 1929 - Changed course 115 courses 090(T) md 270 at speed 5 knots. t}end surfaced. Conducted surface patrol on ig), in vicinity Lat, 16-45 N., Long. 120-00 B- Thursdey, April 30, 1942. 0420 - Sulmerged on course 220(T) in position about 6 miles northwest of SatieBRIEF Ee. a); U. S. S. SPEARFISH Gape Bolinao and conducted submerged patrol on course 000(T) and 180(T) Depth 100", periscope observations every 50 minutes. 1217 - Decreased depth to 68" upon sound's report of "pinging". Sighted tops and stack of one destroyer bearing 160(T), on northerly course, speed approximately 8-10 knots, distant about 6 miles in position Lat. 16-17 N., Long. 119-44 E, Destroyer continued north for about 10 min- utes then apparently reversed course and disappeared on southerly cou: Remained in vicinity of Cape Bolinao but nothing sighted. 1955 - Surfaced on course 270(7) and conducted surface patrol in vicinity of Cape Bolinao, having decided that destroyer sigited might have been checking area for future passage of ships. Friday, May 1, 1942. 0451 - Submerged on course 090(T) in position Lat. 16-29 N., Long. 119-45 Be 0500 - Changed course 000(T) and comenced submerged patroi’of area north of Lingeyan Gulf, remaining about 4 miles north of 100 fathom curve. 1944 - Surfaced in position Lat. 16-39 N., Long. 119-50 E. and set course 250() enroute Corregidor at speed 10 imots. 2800 - Changed course 170(T)- Saturday, Mey 2, 1942. 0433 - Sutmerged on course 175(T) in posit Lat. 15-15 Long. 119-50 E. 1948 - Surfaced in posit Lat, 14-45 N., Long. 119-55 E.’and proceeded on course 180(T) at speed 6 knots enroute Corregidor, having decided to charge battery while to seaward of any DD patrols and to pass sub- merged under reported DD patrol line between Subic Bay and Cabra Islend. Sunday, May 5, 1942. 0016 - Changed course gpotm 0027 - Changed course 141(T) and stopped upon sighting outline of ship bearing 141(T), distant about 3-4 miles in position Let. 14-18.5 Ne, Long. 119-58.7'E. 0044 - Determined ship to be DD on northeasterly course at speed 7-8 knots. Moonlight visibility excellent. 0046 - Submerged and chenged course 100(T), to escape detection, having decided that attack would seriously jeopardize successful rendezvous off Corregidor. 0100 - 0145 - Various courses and depths at silent speed to clear DD which apparently did not contact SPEARFISH. 0145 - DD disappeared on northerly course, "pinging" faded out. 0250 - Surfaced on course 190(T). : 0241 - Changed course 083(T) and continued battery charge, while proceeding at 5 knots. 0445 - Submerged in position Lat. 14-16.5 N., Long. 120-02.6 E. to 150". Half-hourly observations. i - Sighted 3 destroyers (MUTSUKI or KAMIKAZE class) and masts of 1 minelayer or sweep in following approximate positions: 1 DD (pinging) -1- 5ABRIEF BEN Tat nued); U- S. S. SPEARFISH pearing S0i(T) distant 4 miles on southerly course in position Lat. lae24 Ne, Long. 120-17 E.; 1 DD (pinging) bearing 070(T), distent 2 miles on northeasterly course in position Lat. 14-22 N., Long. 120-27.5 Z.; 1 DD (not pinging) beering 105(7), distent 3 miles on northerly course in position Lat. 14-20.5 N., long. 120-20.5 2; masts end sta of a light minelayer or sweeper bearing 140(T), distant about 7 mil on northeasterly course in position Lat. 14-157 N., Long. 120-30 Be Estimated speeds 7-8 knots. 1210 - Chenged course 090(T), ra silent at depth 160' to pass between DD bearing 105() end minesweeper. Remained deep to pass patrolling ships, 1500 - Patrol ship well astern and apparently patrolling line between Hemilo and Vigia points. Submarine apparently undetected during Passage, since pinging continued at 7-6 second intervals end no depth Eharges dropped. ‘The fact that a DD daylight patrol was established 6-9 miles from Corregidor and the absence of gun fire caused some concern as to vhether Corregidor had been captured and the dispetch hotification missed during sutmergence between 0046 and 0250. Since HPO call had been heard after surfacing at 0250, it was assumed that Corregidor was still a U.S. possession. 1930-1940 - Various courses maintelning position on bearing 220(T) distance 3-4 miles from Corregidor light. Noted flashes of gun fire from Bataan from 1800 until 1950. 1940 ~ Surfaced 1n position 5.5 miles bearing 220(T) from Corregidor lighte ‘prom 1940 to 2010 lay to in awash condition aweiting arrival passenger doate 2010 - Commenced battery charge. 2025 — Sighted and exchanged recognition signals with USS PEHKY. Guns on Bataan opened fire on Corregidor. 2055 - Received following 27 passengers with baggage, files, mail and miscellaneous gear: U.S. Navy: Gomdr. R,G. Deewall, USN Comar.’ EeL. Sackett, USN Comdr. HE. Wilson, (CEC), USN It.car, 1.W. Davison, USN Lt.Gar. Lec. Parker, USN Lt.Car. DeW. Knoll, USN Feawmmeee, File, USN (Unauthorized passenger) am Bernatitus, Nurse, USN Col. Gherles Savage, AC, USA Gol; Thomas Doyle, inf., USA Gol. Constent L. Irwin, GSC, USA Gol. Milton A. Hill, IGD, Usa Gol: Royal Jenks, FD, USA Gol. Mott Ransey, VC, USA 2nd Lieut., AeleG, Hortense McKay Iucy Wilson Helen Sumers Ruth M. Straub Mabel Stevens Mary Moultrie Beth Veley Grace Hallman Nenoy Gillehen Mollie Peterson Teona Gastinger -W-BRIEF _NARRATI ed): U.S. S. SPEARFISH Civilians: Margaret Jenson (jife of Naval Officer) geeeweMeGeted (Unauthorized passenger - status unknown - formerly Lt., USNR, de- mobilized in Manila by verbal orders just prior evacuation of city, es- caped to Corregidor and served with Army Trensportation Service). ‘The two unauthorized passengers assisted as part of Corregidor work- ing party in treneferring baggage from PERRY to SFEARFISH and epper— ently stowed away in SPEARFISH until after departure of PERRY. Upon arrival Fremantle they were teken into custody by Base Force for further disposition, 2050 - Passengers end baggage aboard, Observed moonrise. Heavy shelling ‘of Corregidor continued. Decided to lie to charging batteries un- til moonlight visibility increased. 2152 - Set course 270(T), speed 5 knots to escape illumination emsed by explosion of ammunition dump on Corregidor. Determined to run awey frm moon, to continue battery charge as long as possible, and to submerge if patrolling DDs were sighted. 2223 - Submerged upon sighting outline of DD bearing 300(T), distant about 2 miles ona southerly course. Posit Lat. 14-19. N., Long. 120-29.4 2250 - Changed course 250(7) andra silent, destroyer pinging having ‘ceased, could not sight DD thru periscope altho sound reported loud sorew noises bearing 270(T). 2245 - Pinging commenced approximate bearing 250(T) range 5000 yards. De- ereaged depth to 100%. 2345 - Pinging ceased on bearing 210(T)~ Mondey, May 4, 1942. 0151 - Sound reported pinging and screw noises bearing 260(T). Sighted nothing thru periscope. Posit Lat. 14-19.5 N., Long. 120-25.6 B- nothing thru periscopes Pefes out on bearing 230(T). 0581 — Ugonsound's report of r'nging, came to periscope depth and sighted 1 DD bearing 070(T) distant bout 1 mile and 1 DD bearing 330(T) dis— tant about 3 miles, both on northerly courses. Posits Lat. 14-20 Ne, Tong. 120-18 E end 14-16 N., Long 120-15 E. Changed course 260(T), went to 180" and ran silent. eee -Upon sound's report of pinging cane to periscope depth and sighted DD bearing 000(T), distant 4 miles on easterly course. 0630 - changed course. 50(}, went deep end ran silent. 0840 - Changed course 260(T). 1000 - Pinging faded out on. bearing 045(T). 1910 - Surfaced in posit Lat. 14-08 N., Long. li9-40 E. Cl in boat 3.5 inches. Used 374 cubic feet oxygen at 1800 lbs./sa. (2 cylinders) end 45 lbs. C02 absorbent. Time submerged 20 hours, 47 minute: 1930 - Changed course 180(T) and went ahead 10 knots. -1b-== WiBEH ea); U: S- S. SPEARFISH Tuesday, May 5, 1942. 0010 - Changed course 2o0(m. 0030 = Changed course 109(T) and increased speed to 12.5 knots. 0428 — Submerged in posit Lat. 12-57.9 N., Long. 120-25.5 3. 9600 -_ Changed course 090(7) to close west coast of Uindoro for navigation- oa Changed course Hela: 0835 - 1129 - Changed course 140(7. 1410 - Changed course 195(T). 1932 - Surfaced in position Lat. 12-26.7 N., Long. 120-40.7 Z., set course '180(T) at speed 12 knots to pass well clear of Ambulong Islend and DD patrol reported in ComSubséF 70 of May 5, 1942. Wednesday, May 6, 1942. 0000 - Changed course 080(T), running on D.R. to pass between Chinaman Shoals and Sulten Bank. 0043 - Made all torpedo tubes ready upon sighting 2 DDs (unidentified type) in column bearing 074(T) distent about 2-3 miles on northwesterly course in position Lat, 11-34 .N., Long. 121-12 2. 0046 - Submerged when DDs altered course toward SPEARFISi. Sound reported pinging (6 second interval). Assuited ships sighted to be destroyer patrol reported south of Mindoro {a CosinbeA-10-0f 3-Mep-kOS8, and Aeciaea to clear area submerged. Could not sient DDs thru periscope. Visibility fair. 0054 - Changed course 140(T) and increased depth to 160" upon sound's re- port of loud pinging heard round dial. 0130 - Pinging faded out on bearing 350(T). 0230 - Sound reported "pinging" on bearing 350(T). Sighted nothing thru periscope. 0300 - Pinging faded on bearing 080(T). Decided remain submerged due im- ‘possibility determining location of DD patrol. 0645 —°Ghanged course 200(1) upon sighting masts and topworks of freisiter bearing 195(T), distent about 8 miles, on course 290(T), in position Lat. 11-11 N., Long. 121-16 B. 0645-0815 - Mancuvered in unsuccessful attempt to close range. 0815 - Changed course 090(T). 0945 - Changed course 140(T). 1152 - Changed course 160(T). 1548 - Changed course 190(T). 918 _ Surfaced in Lat. 10-55 N., Long. 121-24.5 E., course 160(T), speed 12 knots. 2009 - Sutmergea upon imaginary sighting black object resembling subuerines posnUmeTESS suite B50(2), distant 600 yards. Object sighted probably cloud of Cocoro Island. Sound heard nothing. 2030 - Surfaced. Lat. 10-41 N., Long. 121-21 E. eerieBRIEF NARRATIVE (Gontinuea): U: S- S. SPEARFISH Thursday, May 7, 1942. 0444 - Submerged posit Lat. 09-55 N., Long. 120-55 E., course 212(T). Ee ee Lat. 09-16 N., Long. 120-32 E., speed 11.5 knots course poset Cnaimen coe 180(1) to pass between Tubbatena Reefs and Arena sland. Friday, May 8, 1942. 0204 - Changed course 211(T) having decided to pass west of Pearl Bank enroute Sibutu. 0446 - Sutmerged in Lat. 07-56 N., Long. 120-05.5 5. 1641 - Surfaced for star @ights in Lat. 06-58.5 N., Long. 119-44 B., oo Ee sea aameeneel 2149 - Changed course 180(T), speed 14.5 knots. Saturday, May 9 1942. 0200 - Passed to westward of Pearl Bank and changed course 190(T), enroute Sibutu Passage. 0312 - Obtained fix on Bongao and Mount Sibankat at distance of 25 miles. 0429 - Submerged Lat. 05-14 N., Long. 119-43 E., course 180(T) to transit ‘Sibutu Passage submerged. Sighted native fishing craft. 1604 - Sighted small merchant ship using blinker lights, attempted un- successfully close range. 1936 - Surfaced Lat. 04-40 N., Long. 119-45 E., course 150(T), speed 12 knots. Sunday, May 10, 1942. 0117 - Changed course 110(T) while transmitting SPEARFISH 091720 notifying ComfaskFor 51 of results and passenger list. * 0140 - Changed course 187(7) enroute Makassar Strait. 0450 — Submerged Iat. 05-10 N., Tong. 119-55 BE. 1836 - Surfaced Lat. 02-18 N., Long. 119-44 B. 2030 = Changed course 164(T), speed 12 knots. Monday, May 11, 1942. 0339 - Chenged course 220(T) upon mecing Landfall on mounteins of Celebes Island. 0441 - Submerged Lat. 00-46 N., Long. 119-37 B. 0600 - Changed course 195() 1335 - Changed course 215(T). 5 1700 - Grossed equator. Initiated 11 male and 15 female "Shellbacks". 1913 — Surfaced Lat. 00-07 S., Long. 119-16 B, Speed 11 knots. 2000 - Changed course 195(T).ag BRIEF NARRATIVE (Continued): U- 5: S. SPEARFISH Tuesday, May 12, 1942. 0026 - Changed course 195(1). 0456 - Submerged Lat. 01-57.5., Long. 118-45 E. 1847 - Changed course 080(T) to avoid native fishing fleet in Let. 02-57 S., Tong. 118-35 EB, 1925 - Surfaced Lat. 02-55 S., Long. 118-35 E., course 195(T), speed 12 knot: 2222 - Chenged course 216(T). 2527 - Speed 15.5 knots to be in position for submerged run between Lima Island and Kaloe Kaloekoeang. Wednesday, May 13, 1942. 0516 - Submerged Lat. 04-38 S., Long. 117-25 EB. and chenged course 206(T). 1245 - Chenged course 270(T) to make landfall on Lima Island. 1502 - Changed course 206(T). 1916 - Surfaced Lat. 05-14 S., Long. 117-08 B., Speed 12.4 knots. Thursday, May 14, 1942, 0200 - Changed course 190(T). O511 - Submerged Lat. 07-05 S,, Long. 116-25 B+ 0900 - Changed course 205(T) enroute Lombok Strait. 1907 - Surfaced Lat. 07-55 S., Long. 116-05 B. 1909 = Ghanged course 205(T), speed 12.5 knots. 2030 - Made landfall on mounteins Bali and Lombok Isle 2325 Changed course 195(T). Increased speed to 14. Friday, May 15, 1942. 0005 - Cleared Lombok Strait, changed course 190(1), nothing sighted. 0520 - Submerged Let. 09-44 8,, Long. 115-34 EB. 1854 - Surfaced Lat. 10-36 S., Long. 115-25 B., speed 14.5 knots. 2150 Changed course 199(T). Saturday, May 16, 1942. Sutmerged Lat. 15-21 S., Long. 114-27 B. Surfaced Imt. 13-47 S., Long. 114-17 E. Speed 15 knots. Sunday, May 17, 1942. 0643 - Sunrise. Commenced surface running. 0800 - Posit Lat. 16-48 S., Long. 115-21 E, Chenged course 205 speed 16 knots, to pass thru Lat. 20-00 S., Long. 112-00 8. 2000 - Posit Let. 19-36 8., Tong. 112-15 E. 2200 - ‘Trensmitted SPEARFIGH 171400 informing ConTesk¥or 51 of expected ‘time arrival. Changed course 175(T) enroute boubing restriction erees Bh -21-caeeal BRIEF NARRATIVE (Continued. Mondey, Mey 18, 1942. U. S. S. SPEARFISH 0800 - Posit Lat. 22-18 S., Long. 112-17 E. 2000 - Posit Lat. 25-28 8., Long. 112-15 Tuesdey, Mey 19, 1942, 0400 - Ghenged course 172(T). Decreased speed to 12.5 knots due heavy seas. 0736 - Exchanged recognition signéls with PHY patrol plene. 0800 - Posit Lat. 27-50 S-, Long. 112-55 B. 1254 = Changed course 145(t) to confom to bombing restriction lane. 2000 - Posit Lat. 30-22 S., Long. 113-56 E. Wednesday, May 20, 1942. 0315 - Sighted Rottnest Island Light bearing 115(T), distent about 25 miles. Inereased speed to 16 knots. 0515 - Contacted USS ISABEL and USS SATLFISH and proceeded astern SAILFISH enroute Fremantle harbor via swept channel. 0739 - Moored port side to North Quey, Fremantle harbor.U. S. S. SPEARFISH #9 March - 5 April - Enroute Fremantle to Roti - Darwin line off Timor. Seas south, force 4, shifting to cast and de- creasing in force when north of Northwest Cape. Wind south, force 3, shifting to southeast and east, and decreasing in intensity to force 2 after passing northwest Cape. Sky partly cloudy but visibility excellent night and day. Average temperature 78°. Averege barometric pressure 29.79. $ April - 21 April - Enroute Mmor to Lingeyan Gulf. Sea calm, with slight swells generally from eastward, until the Sulu Sea, where a northeast sea of force 2-3 was Gnoountered. Wind northeast to east, force 2, increasing to force 3-4 in the Sulu Sea. Blue sky with detached clouds. My “Visibility feir to good during day, but poor at night due to ie reflection of low lying clouds on flat sea. Average temperature N 80°, Average barometric pressure 29.69. 2l April -1May = - ~—‘Lingayan Gulf area. Sea northeast, force 1-2, wind northeast, force 2. Sky generally clear, with few detached Clouds. Day visibility excellent. Night visibility feir to good, and excellent in moonlight. Average temperature 60°, Average barometric pressure 29.76. - 3 May - Enroute Lingayan to Corregidor. Sea calm. Wind northeast, force 1-2. sky partially cloudy. Visibility excellent both night and day. Average temperature 60°. Average barometric pressure 29.75. = 20 May - Enroute Corregidor to Fremantle Sea calm until northern end of Mekessar Strait where a southeast sea of force 2 was found. South of barrier force of sea increased to 4. Wind slight northeast until Mekassar Strait, then southeast wind, average force 2-3. Sky clear until Makassar Strait, then cloudy, mostly cu nb. Average temperature 6le. Average barometric pressure 29,66. Visibility excellent during day. Night visibility good, excellent during moonlight.4- 7 April 9 April 11 april 19 April 21 - 24 April 25 - 26 dpril U, S. S. SPEARFISH Area southeast of Roti and Timor Islands, experienced current setting 256(T), drift 0.8 knots. Between 0600 and 1000 in middle of linipe Strait, experienced 2 knot southerly set. Sutnerged depth 65 - 120 feet. Banka Passage between 0800 and 1650 while sub- merged - current setting 150(7), dzift 1 xnot. Apo East Pass between 0400 and 1400 while sub- merged experienced 1.2 knot current setting southeast. North of Lingayan Gulf, experienced constent northerly or northeasterly set varying from 0.5 to 1.1 knots. Lingayan Gulf to Cepe Bojeador, experienced current setting 058(T), drift 0.6 knots.CONFIDENTIAL U. S. S. SPEARFISH NAVIGATE ONAL Arps: 17 - 18 April Fire or light burning high on hill close to Naso Point, Panay. 16 april Fires or lights buming on Mindoro Island, about on Sante Teresa Hill, behind Ilin Island, and about the Radio Station, San Jose. 19 April Fires or lights burning on tops of hills on Mindoro Island, at unidentified pleces. 25 April - San Fernando Light showed red and white flashes et varying intervals from 0500 to 0517. Believe this light is used as beacon to guide incoming ships. Fortune Islend Light burning - normal character- istics.AOMEIDENTHL DESCRIPTION oF SHIPS stairzn 10 April - 2157 = Sutmarine posit Lat. 00-21.8 N., Long. 126-23 E. bearing 140(T) distant 500 yerds, course 240(7), apparently heving broached. Lookout only person who sighted this submarine - probably imaginary sighting but may have been USS TARPON. Not observed by Captain nor 0.0.D. - no attack possible. U. S. S. SPEARFISH 21 April - 1505 - Native fishing creft (no positive means of identifica tion), in Banka Passage (Fosit Lat. 1-58.8 N., Long. 125-20.7 Ea) bearing 334(T) distant 2 miles on course 170(t). Decided to / remain unobserved and passed well clear. 17 April - 1447-1615 - Armed auxiliary or cargo ship, La;, 10-55 N., Longs! \ 121-85 E, zigzegging on southerly course at estimated speed of | 8-10 knots. Sighted smoke at 1447, bearing 306(T) end at 1510 | distinguished masts and smoke stack. Zigzag about 20-30 degree! to right and left of base course which appeared to be 160(T). Ship appeared to be enroute Apo East Pass to Tlliolo or Cebu. Description: two masts, estimated height 100', two goal posts, midships deck house with either 4" or 6" gun mounted bow and stern. Estimated length 450-500 feet, estimated tonnage 9000- 10000, end appeared to be fully loaded. Similar to NITIYO MARU or NIGEIYO MARU. attacked with four torpedoes tired from bow 3. 25 April - 0500 ~- Smell trensport or possible cargo ship, lat. 16-55 N., long. 120-05 B., course 149(T) changing to 165(T) at 0635, at estimated speed 9-11 knots. (62 RPM questionable turn count). Range 4500 yards. Description: Two stick masts, 1 stack, midship deck house, no gans mounted. Estimated length 300', estimated tonnage 2000- 2500, Similar to RAKUTO MARU, except that no booms were @iscernible. Very much resembled USS ISAHEL in outline end thought at first to be patrol or station ship. In view of excessive renge and hazy estimate of target course (due visibility) considered chance of hitting with long renge shot very atall. Disclosure of position would jeopardize chance of successful attack upon more valuable ship due in Lingeyan the next morning. Decided trail end determine entrance to Lingeyan Gulf if possible. It was noted that sound took appreciable time to pick up target even when coached on the bearing - screws (slow speed) had very mshy sound. 1126 = Freighter in position Lat. 16-56 N., Long. 120-11, bear- ing 185(T), distant ebout 8-9 miles, on northerly course at estimated speed 8 knots. Desoription: Similar in outline to NAGATA MARU, but appeared de of greater length. Estimated tonnege 6000 tons. Estimated masthead height 90', estimated length 450'. Carried two masts with prominent triengular crosstrees, one stack, and mid-ship “3 élwsoxrprrox oF sizes stom (PoStSSRyA°FISH deck house. No guns observed. Appeared to be about three- quarters loaded and had packing cases stecked on deck forward. Unescorted. Zigzagged 15-20 degrees from a northerly bese course. At 1218 attacked with two torpedoes fired fron stern | tubes. 26 April - 1254 - Combination freighter ana tanker in position Lat. 18-47 Ne, Long. 120-59 E., bearing 056(T), distent about 6 miles on southerly course, at estimated speed 9-10 knots (160 RPM by sound count). Target zigzegging 20 degrees to right of initiel course. Description: 10000-12000 tons, similar in outline to SAN RAMON MARU, except this ship had mast, midship deck house, goal post mast end stack aft and appeared'to be a great deal larger. The number "805" was painted along side of midship deck house. Unescorted end no guns observed. Cargo covered with canvas stowed topside space forward. Small Japanese fleg on flagstaff eft. Estimated length 450 feet. Estimated masthead height 90". At 1527 attacked with four torpedoes fired from stern tubes 1736 = Unidentified type merchant vessel or patrol ship in approximate position Lat. 16-30 N., Long. 120-24 E., bearing 225(T), distant 9 miles, on southerly chenging to southwesterly course. Estimated speed 8-10 knots. Closest range 8000 yrds. Target drew out of sight on southwesterly course. Estimeted length 350', estimated masthead height 90'. Estimted tonnage 3000-4000..’Two stick masts, midship deck fiouse and single stack. Af object resembling an aircreft of sone type appeared to be carried in the forward pert of the ship. No attack. Target disappeared at 1626 on a southwesterly course. 27 april - 1437 - 10 power boat sweeps (two columns of five each) appar- ently dragging a net, and accompanied or directed by a suber- ine chaser or motor torpedo boat similer to Philippine "Q* boat. Position Lat. 16-39 N., Long. 119-37 E. Power boats appeared to be 60-80 fect in length, resexbling tuna fishing doats, each fitted with a light mast and small sail apparently for camouflage purposes. The two columns of 5 boats each seenral in tandem were on courses diverging 45-60 degrees, with distance between boats of each column about 50 yards. The motor torpedo boat was stationed on one side of the "¥". Sound could not pick up propeller sounds. From plot, the formation appeared to be capable of a speed of 7-8 knots. 30 ‘April - 1217. - Destroyers - class unidentified due range in position Tat. 16-17 N., Long. 119-44 E., bearing 160(T), distent 7-8 miles on northerly course at speed 8-10 knots, apparently patrolling vicinity Cape Bolinao. Sound reported "pinging". DD continued on northerly course until 122 n apparently 2- bzNFRDENTIAL U. S. S. SPEARFISH DESCRIPTION Of SHIPS SIGHTED (Gontinued) i reversed course and disappeared on southerly course. No attack, range excessive. Sway - 0027 - 1 Destroyer - tentatively identified ss of KAMIKAZE class { in position Lat. 14-18.5 N., Long. 119-58.7 E., veering 141(T), distent 3-4 miles on northeasterly course, epparently patrolling \ entrance to Manila Bay clong Subic - Cabra line, since sound \ reported "pinging". With excellent moonlight visibility pre- \ veiling, a fair chance of successful attack existed. The \ Commanding Officer did not close the enemy since he considered \ non-detection of the SPEARMIS! necessery to « successful \ rendezvous off Corregidor. S 1200 - 5 Destroyers - MUTSUKI or KAMIKAZE cless. a Toi Bearing Renge Course Speed \ ust: Bars. Boe scutnerly 8 14-22 N. 120-27.5E. 070(T) 4000 Northeasterly 7-8 14-20.5°N.120-20-5 EB, 105(T) 6000 North 78 1200 = Light minelayer or sweep ~ type unidentified due range in Lat. 14-15.7 N., Long. 120-30 E., bearing 140(T), distent 7 miles on northeasterly course at speed 7-€ knots. ‘Above ships apparently patrolling entrence Manila Bay along line between Hamilo and Vigia points, since pinging could be heard from two of the DDs. Maneuvered to escape detections 2223 = Outline of DD in position Lat. 14-19.8 N., Long. 120-29.4 E., bearing 3001), distent 2 miles on soutuerly course’ at speed 10’ knots. Destroyer part of patrol previously sighted. Submerged since generel set-up offered no possibility for attack. 0151-1000 - Passed thru destroyer patrol, sighting sane destroy= ers in approximately the same positions. No opportunities for attack. Decided upon evasive tactics since from mmeuvers of destroyers and shifts to automatic pinging they evidently suspected presence of submarine in vicinity. 0043 = 2 Destroyers (class unidentified) in column, position Tat. 11-34.N., Long, 121-12 B., bearing 074(T), distent 2-5 miles, speed not determined, oh northwesterly course. Sub- merged when mele on bow of leading DD decreased from SOP to 0. Destroyer used 8 second interval pinging and were evidently patrolling south of Mindoro. 0645 - Freighter in position Let. 11-11 N., Long. 121-16 E., bearing 195(T), distant 7-8 miles, course 290(T), speed 9 knots (not zigzagging), evidently enroute Linapacen Strait. It was noted that ship passed south of Inzon Benk ond between Chineman Shoals and Maracanao Island. Angle on bow at sighting about 95S, smallest range obtained about 8000 yards, Description: Similar to MORIOKA MARU, estinated tonnage 4000- 5000, estimated length 350", estimated masthead height 60*. = 63PARTICULARS OF ATTACKS: U.S. S. SPEARFISH 17 April 1942: Location: Lat. 10-53 N., Long. 121-35 EB. (About 6 miles Northwest of Sombrero Rock). Type Targets Armed transport or supply ship. No. Torpedoes Fired: 4 Torpedo Nos S.W. Time Firing Interval 2 0-25 = = 0-35 4 0-55 Firing Range: 2530 yards 2700 yards (TDG) 2500 yards (Time torpedo run) Foremast, 100 = 110 Port No. Torpedo Gyro Angle (TDG) Gyro Angle (Tube) Depth Sete 7 349 ‘347 8 348 347 10 348 1/2 347 8 347 548 10 Estimated Enemy Cours 159(7) Estimated Enemy Speed 8 knots, Own Course 240(3) for all shots ‘Own Speed: 4 knots increasing to 4.8 during firing Own Depth: 65! - 64" ~ 65! - 64! Daylight submerged attack from periscope depth on generated bearings with periscope dowd, Raised periscope 45 seconds efter last torpedo fired and observed hits. (after firing first torpedo. “KIL torpedoes ran hot according to sound. Spread Data: 2 degrees divergent il Torp. - 2° ahead of foremast 2 Torp. - Foremast 3 Torp. - 2° Astern of Foremast 4 Torp. - 4° Astern of foremast. Spread applied on TDC by offsetting gyro setting from generated gyro angle. Ni red Time Explos. Observeéion TompHoe Bae test = ae yone 2 16-06-19 16-07-59 Hit under foremast 3 16-06-29 16-08-09 Hit slight abaft mainmast 4 16-06-49 - None ]__ Observations 1607 to 1620 showed ship to be listing to port and settling by stern, By 1611 ship had settled and lost about three-quarters of orig- inal freeboard and propeller had stopped. Observed two suall power toats Deing hoisted out. Lowered periscope at 1620 went to 100' due to imaginery 5a 65L U. S. S. SPEARFISH DESCRIPTION OF SHIPS SIGHTED (Continued): fwo stick masts with prominent crosstrees, midship deck house, single tall stack, hull end superstructure peinted gray with rust streaks vhich tade for excellent camouflage. Apparently in ballast, and smoking excessively. 9 May - 1454 - Sailboat similar native fishing prau in Lat. 4-49 Ney Long. 119-40, bearing 100(T) on northwesterly course, distant about 2-3 niles. 1604 - Small cargo or passenger ship in position Let. 4-47.5 N., Long. 119-31.4 E., bearing 274(T), on course 010(T), speed 9-10 knots, distant 4-5 miles, Siuiler CHOHEI MARU, two stick masts, single stack in middle deck house. Estimated tonnage 2000, estimated masthead height 70', length 250", Ship ran very close to Sibutu Island coast and would not. have been sighted had not foremast yardarm blinker light flashed intermittently during a period of 2-3 minutes. Sailboat only. other ship in sight md no answering signels observed from either sailboat or Sibutu Island. Angle on bow at sighting 70-80 8. Attempted close, but smallest renge obtained was 6000 yards. Ship continued on northerly course until out of sight.SONRDOE?|. U. S. S. SPEARFISH PARTICULARS OF ATTAGKS ‘Continued sighting of aircraft, At 1620 sound reported small oat propellers drawing sievtrron last reported bearing of stecter. ‘at 1650 sighted small power dost, drewing iway from steamer which now had stern awash. At 1715 nothing n sight. 25 april 1942: Location: Lat. 17-01 N., Long, 120-15 z. Type of Targets ‘Freighter No. Torps. Fired 2 Firing Interval: 16 seconds Firing Range? 1500 yerds Torpedo Run! 1250 yards. Point of Aim: #i - Foremast; #2 - Steck Track Angl 90° Port Gyro Angle: tube shot) Depth Setting: Bet. Enemy Courset Est. Enemy Speed Method of Attack: Seplieht sutuerged watehing terest suring yiigre (White Light method on TDC) Sprea None Torpedoes: Bound heard both torpedoes running: First Ung pedo fired appeared to “porpoise” oF to make @ surface run. Dorp, Noe Time Fired Time Explosion _ Ovservation SSE 2-16-0. = Passed astern 2 12-18-17 12-19-20 Hit slightly abeft stack. observations from 1220 - 1224 showed Stir down by stern with flame, smoke, and steam pouring from loceti oo Gust abaft stack. Lowered pertsocge snolebs, while adjusting depth. At 2-24-30 a prolong ft crackling ot tippling explosions and noises vers heard thru the hull. simile: ns ont s tombs landing close aboard. Yet mergence. ard, not mking anoth observation % which time nothing 1 Jeter check with sol cer leads the Coumending officer to believe tha’ emunition ex plosions aboard the en ig up. Sound Veter reported that heard et the same time ‘as the explosions. Sicer regrets not heving made ¢ Geriscope observation sooner to more Tennitely establish this sinking. -2- 66,U. S. S. SPEARFISH Continued, Location: Lat. 16-47 N., Long. 100-39 E. Type of Target: Combination tenker and ‘9000-10000 tons heavi No. Torps. Fired: 4 (after tubes) Firing Interval: les - lis - 13s Firing Renge 1500 yeras Torpedo Runt 153u yards Point of Aim: Foremast Track Angle: - 1098; #2 - 1118; #3 - 1135; Gyro Angle: 1 = BaR; #2 - 24K; #5 - 26R; #4 Depth Setting: — Bt; #2 - 10°; #3 - 8; #4 - Est. Enemy Cours 233 (7) Est. Enemy Speed: 10 knots Own Course: 320(T) Method of Attack: Sutmerged from periscope depth - with TDC on generated be Spread: None Torpedoes: Sound reported all ran hot. Torp. Nos Time Fired Time Explosion Observation 13-27-44 None Missed ahead 13-28-00 None do 13-28-11 None do 15-28-25 None do Observation showed torpedoes to have missed chead. Znemy apparently sighted periscope and turned toward. Commanding Officer did not detect Shange in angle on bow until too late. Misses attri tuted to incorrect sees epplied to TDC. Went to 100" when enemy turned toward in attempt $e'tam” Changed course to left and returned to periscope depth in Efteapt to fire bow tubes, Angle on bow 175 stertoard, renge S000 - a3¢ not fire.eran 700 SONABENTIAL U. S. S. SPEARFISH EVEMY ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES: North of Lingayan Gulf, enemy employed ten boat trawlers to tow submarine net. Formation direct: motor tor- pedo boat (possibly former Philippine "Q" boat). ation carried small sails as disguise. Speed o: approximately 7-6 knots. Sound could not hear pr: at ranges 1000 - 2000 yards, even when coached on by bearings. Method of evasion employed was going deep { altering course to clear leading trawlers and t silent. It is believed that aircraft assist tra in locating submarine, altho aircraft not siguted.Erp T9 Ho, U. S. S. SPEARFISH DESCRIPTI 27 March 1942: 1744 - One plene - no deseription - posit Lat. 35-18.8 S., Long. 117-05 B. - range 8000 yards ~ elevation 10 degrees - on course 070(T), speed 100 Ml.P.H. Probably friendly SOC from Albany. 1942: PBY plane - posit Lat. 29-25 S., Long. 115-24 Z., bearing 090(t), slant renge 12000 yards, position engle 5 degrees, northerly course, speed 90 knots. Unidentified single wing patrol plane, posit Let. 27-41 S. Long. 112-55 B, bearing 255(T), slant range 12000 yards, position angle 10 degrees. When sighted, plene wes in & sharp bank, turning and climbing to lose itsel? in clouds. Not under observation long enough for identific- ation purposes,U, S. S. SPEARFISH MaJoR DEFECTS:U, S. S. SPEARFISH (a) Operations: 1. Buoys marking entrence to minefields PacFor 041601 of 4 April 1942 were not sighted. One merchent apparently enroute San Fernando was observed to pass inside hundred fathom curve at a point west of Darigayos Point (Lat. 16-50 N., Long. 120-17.8 B.). Gomiuni cations: 5 fo difficulties experienced while NPO operated. a. North of the equator, Bakers on 9250 kes. faded badly during the period 00W~ 0400. 3. ‘A broadcast station operating on a frequency nesr 9250 kes. caused considerable interference each night during the period 2250 - 2300. Broadcasts are in Spanish and station's call sign never heard. Excellent reception obtained on 4370 xcs. during early morning hours. 55 Suggest rebroadcast of NERKS on Beker frequency, vided compulsory decipherment, in order to obtein essential formation, is not required. Material:- ae One torpedo was observed to mdce a surface run (depth set 10 feet) - cause unknown, Will check with tender during current = The bridge pelorus fitted with selsyns and connected to ™c installed during lest overhaul proved invaluable for navigational Purposes. {e) Engineering:- aa eens one main engine out of commission for 2 dus. Machined steel plug on discharge side of piston cooling gear backed off due to sheared locking key.Plug fell into crankcase causing following dan— ages: cracked wrist pin bushing end crankcase door, scratch on piston rod, broken web on crosshead guide plate, deneged connecting rod bear— ing, minor dents in engine frame. Repaired by renewing all moving parts. zy Prior return to base from Lingayan Gulf, all upper cylinder heads on #3 & 4 main engines were cleaned end "Apexior" renoved. AS a result oil and water temperatures were lowered from 10-15 degrees end the burning of rubber water seal gaskets completely eliminated. Scale and rust cut loose by Dearborn Formula 5 used in treating main engine circulating water adheres to all surfaces painted vith “Apexior™, form- ing a coating which restricts water flow end prevents heat transfer. Submitted that "Debecote" or similar substance be used instead of "Apexior" to prevent excessive corrosion of cy of water jackets. -1-SRREAAL REMARKS (Continued) U. S. S. SPEARFISH (4) Sound:— I. In the vicinity of Cape Bojeador where « definite temperature }\ difference existed (4-5 degrees between depth 66 feet and 150 feet) sound conditions were fer superior to the area north of Lingayen Gulf where practically no temperature difference was noted, end sound conditions unusually poor. CURL J. 6. DEE, Liedtenant, je Navy, Comnandi ng.eae. CONFIDENTIAL PATROL ROUTES: U. S. S. SPEARFISH 29 March ~ 5 April 5 april 21 April Fremantle to Roti - Darwin line via east helf of bombing restriction lane, thence northeast approximately 50 miles off Australien coast to Northwest Cape, then northeast to Roti Island passing east of D'Artegnan Shoal. Enroute Timor to Lingayan Gulf, passing east of Timor end Kiser Islands, then north through Manipa Streit, passing east of Iifumatola Island, to Banka Passage. Thence west through Celebes’ Sea to Sibutu Pass, and then north, passing west of Pearl Banke Trensited Sulu Sea’ on course northeast, going cast of the Gogayan Islands, thence north through Cuyo East Pass. Then northwest, traversing Apo East Pass going west of Cabra Island ‘nd then north along the west coast of Luzon to the entrance to Lingayan Gulf. Patrolled Lingayen Gulf Area. Enroute Lingayan area to rendezvous off Corregidor Islend, going south until due west of Corregidor, thence east to a point three miles bearing 220(T) from Corregidor Light. Enroute Corregidor to Fremantle, passing north and west of Cabra Island, then south through Apo East Fass to Cuyo East Pass. After transiting Cuyo East Pass, southwest through Sulu Sea, passing westward of the Cagayan Islands, to the Sulu Archipelago. Passed west of Pearl Benk und through Sibutu Passage, then southwest through Celebes Sea to Makassar Strait. Followed west coast of Celebes south through Makassar to Cape Mendra. Turned southwest to pass between Sibaru and Kolu Kelukueng Islends, west of Sibbold's Bank end east of Sekela Island to the entrence to Lombok Strait. Transited Lombok Streit, then turned southeast to head for west section of poubing restriction lene, which was followed to rendezvous off Rottnest Island.fu ayguet 17, 2 DEOLASSIED ART, ous, ORANG AslEG f Wien om i ‘The Contianding Officer. Comander Submarines, 50 Subject: jar Patrol Regort - June 26, 1942.[FeorTH1 Reference? si nes, SOU ‘16-3 (serial 0155) of J Be me attached report, suumitted in reference (a), consists of the following perts yarrative (pages 1 to 20, incl.) (pages 1 to 2 incl tz ( 4 chips sighted ( ‘Mreratt Sich articulers of Atta /S Measures (pase Defects Bx, rienced (pace S, including Lovistic {pages 1 to 2, incl.) Route (page 1 FUMES Y31 84es) Nothing sighted this radar watch. - Ghenged course t - Posi tio: - Interceptec followin 5 ¥ 6/226 siz KH, rous vihale Resumed base course June 28, Surface patrol bombing 10 01304 Pac 0 trim ane te con on* Gas Ae enerssEN TIAL » = (dune 28, 1942 (Con! 1605 - Sighted wu) 090°(7 be USS Latitua Tune 29, 1942 surface patrol em 12 knots. Passed thru latitude 20-00 5} course to 008°(T) enroute Lond: Position: Latitude 18-54.0 35 Submerged igo crew at surfaced an ea 3 rounds froE 12 knotss Increased speed to 15 imots, caln weer Tncreases ope $n position for cay list transiting Lombok Streit. Notning sigited this cate. Surface P 15 i:not: fect weat stood by to dive upon lookout BiSe(a), distant 6-10 niles separ gave no indleatier spect. = Position: surface pat, 15 Stop ed a submerged Strait. Made iandfs currents, decid Lombok and to tr‘ace patrol 15.5 40(T), Visibility could be nade. Subnerged, vent Sound conditions ve: sight nothin: thovercest, occess Position: Ix tituée Cainged course to 050° Chinged course to 050°(7) distait about 1 nile. Resumeé course 025°(T), 6 Subnergec Land1900 - Visibilit and lower with sai li1500 yerds with to 12 knots, te sol in vicinit = Surfece p 1.7 knots.to ou etzolwesterly2 doubtful iscope. zarine < o90e(7), showed 5Taly 14, 1942 - 2.D. atrol South Chine Son. ae Position: Surfece patrol South Ck 1938 = Subs route fron S: erged patrol. 50 Ne Fosition: Letitude Nothing TY-SSCOND DAY - July 17, Surface patrol enroute « Pulo Ceeir D:De Mer. Position: Ictitude 11-10 northeasterly sot of 2.2 - Nothing sighted this dcte. tion: Letitude 11-00 ed northeasterl Nothing s Surface p to 111-3 1930 = Position: Lctitude Nothing sic this‘NARRATL VS: bady 21, ‘tugNTY-SDETE DAY ~~ gurfece patrol South Chine potrol vieinit, Surface patrol South Ch 958 - Submerged patrol icine position: Latitude 11 Position: Latitude 11-34.¢ § Nothing sighted thiesition: Letiteéeof depts rt muck 2510, ved well 2ort, iani, probably Distance to urface yetrol South China Sea. 0520 - 1945 - 200 - Position: Ls Nothing sichted decided to work in leaving area on Jul 0550 - 1945 300 - Decoded ConSubs, So delay dep east of longitude 110 E. ated this date.191s - Position: area north Nothing siNARRATIVE: IRTY-BIGETE DAY - 2, 1942 - 2D. Surface petrol e: abac Strei! Dangerous Grounds. 1200 - 1900 - Subserged patrol. 1200 - Pogition: Latitude 07-16 N; Lonsitué Latitude 08-00 1; point of to| northeast u Siputu Passage Surfece patrol enroute Bank. 0456 - 1647SGRPIBENTIAL 1. NARRANIVA: -SEOOND DAY - August 6, 1942 surtace patrol Position: Nothing si titude 00-15 Position: latitude 03-12 5, Lo 1800 - Sigh yerious times. ishing st of Unil easterly or nort. Meneuvered to avoid stall sailboat ery black night.1200 p to Lis ec patrol ex ~ Fosition? Latitude 05- Sighted 4 native saili various times dvr: atrol sighted lig Sibalds Ba Surface patrol - 1905 - Subnerze - Positi sast 12, 194 Surigee petrol enroute Lo vie latitude 20-00 3,1200 = quuniag dive on all main Mearboard mein motor TeyeTsor Staring battery overload tO oper of eanage necessitate oval cided rel nigit. Pogition: 18-05.¢ 8, Loi gustaveds) 2150) conmaenas cess otor reverser switch. thins surface patrol enroute position: Latitude 17-05.5 S, sighted this date. ed SPEARET jmiest Paciiic,- August 16, 19 patrol enroute Lor via bor: ction 1847, - Subierged patrol enroute Fre: restriction zone. Latitude 50-49,8 8, Longitude conducted in or scheduled t to eliminete u: speeds. of se igated glow of Rottnest Islend tent| 40 miles, surface patr vie bombing restriction zo Sigated Rottnest Island 11, miles. Contacted USS IS/2RL end follo} oreé starboerd side to p Fremantle, w+» Patrol completed.car Straits, beroneter with 2 clouds. roneter 29:68. Avera increased Sky clear +Enroute Fetrol Stetion to Lo Slight sea vith moderate svel? ine to southeast wen south 3 from southwest, snifting 0 Bank» enorellt north end of Mekesser Streit, fyercast. Visibility good © akascer Strait, wnore visibility » tion of clouds on flat sea. ive Averege tempercture 64°F. Znroute Lombok Strait to Slight sea with moderate swell creasing to very heavy swells 50! oretn of latitude 15° S. wind £ veering to southwest ™ sky mainly cloudy. Vi intermittent rain squalls. intreaaing from 29278 at Loabok 3 srerage teuperature 64°F at Lombok 5- In Sibutu Ps although predi 3 tonameoroe(a}, O41"(H), one 08 eotively Sighted 1 sub-chase: on southerly cou conditions sufficientl. be obtained.escort. Only details visible stack, and r class bearii on course 150°(%'), and speed. Poor visibility features of ship. Sound. cout. a Position: Latitude 0 10 1 Small destr: 190°(T), dista: knots in pe Ship was "p: visibility One mast, one hi: long. Ship in rain stor. Small destrove at 1495, bearing 210°(T) S40°(@); speed 12 knots in itude 1ie-3e B. Ship reversed course to 1607(T) and d Ship not "pinging" but hed ali outs, Apparent s Patrol ship except ti tons and had but one ty t one gun mount forward, and no deck~i0% stack appeered exceptionally Japanese colors flow at flac. racks nor torzeco tubes1AL U.S,S, SPEARJTSE. 5. SHIES SIGHTED: July 8, 1942 (Cont'd.):- NOTE:- __Anti-sutmarine vescel_sichte: probably searching for USS SCULPT cepted dispatch information) sunk vicinity on July 7, 1942, July 10, 1942:- 0652 - In position latitude 07 distant about 7 miles, speed Balabac Strait vie Coairen Channel end 1050 on e southwesterly course, Closc and details of construction not distinjuis gaff, estimated heigth 50-40 feet, sitall and hot under sail. rin position latitude E, bearing 045¢(7), distent 9 r southwesterly course at estimated spect e- sound count). Angle on bow at sichtinc 40° Description: 5300 gross tons, identi¢al Length 400 feet, two stick nests (esti with cargo booms, bridge islar fron, single tall midship s: aft, streight bow, counter < with no camouflage striping. Shir a: the stern, smoked excessively, and had nounted on poop-deok. yards with Tuly 27, 1942:- 2015 = Large passenger-cargo longitude 111-05 5, beers apparently zig-zagting to rich 208°(T) at estimated speed 12-14 knots. first sighted was approximately 2357(7) « bow of about 40° port. Moonli except that this chip appeared rather horizon in the north. Deser i similar to "ZASAKUNI MARU" or two stick masts, estimated he: structure covering about two- Pais io1942 (Cont'd. single low stack, bow. No detail: could be discorne good turn count o: knots. Attacked vith Taly 50, 1942: o1s5 ~ Unidentified ship in po ang 110-06 B, bearing 217°(2), ai apparently on 2 dense storm clouds, internittent rei appeared out of a black clone we were outlined agcinst a ol to port, disappearing in a rainstorm Since the position at time of sigitin enemy wes on tho Si further contact could north along Singapore dewn atteck position. tise and then petrolied across dhen sighted, the ship out of a cloud ust 6, 1942:- 0148 ~ course. observation fo SWORDYISE signals exchanged. ship sigitod might havoducust 15, 19421- 0800 - PSY type bearing 071¢(7) course. Oun position 112-14,2 B,SE «5. SESARPISS 7. PARTICULARS OF ATM uly 26, 1942:- Iocation: Latitude 11-58 og2e(T) fro! pe Terget: Freighter (S600 srose tons), iéer io. Torpedoes Firedt ; Interval: ng Reng edo Run: t of Alm: Depth Setting: Zst. sremy Course Pea on Own Depth: Method of Attack? spread: steck, forwa (200 Zeet) None No. Torpedoes Firing Ranges Torpedo Runt Point of Aim: ‘Track Angle: Gyro Angle Depth Setting?U.S.S. SPSARE ce July 26, 1942 (Cont'de Est. Enemy Course? Est. Eneny Spee Own Course: Own Speed: Own Depth Method of Attack: TORP. NOs 4 At 1612 (2. E, own col bearing, speed of port, so took up nort attack range prior sunset (1906, type identical to the "/ZA were established. The terg 20-40 degrees to risit and silhouctted against settizc plenty of vhitecaps ené the servations ves du ing impossible at 5 checked perfectly am which ap: Because of 200 feet forward « ana first torpedo fired at i Givergent spread wes applied solver ; diel from tae tre scope tr ; 0.8. continuously ¢ observed for five minutes after tiring 20 minutes after sunset, terzet w could not be seen, but sound re,ortec eee the proper bearing. ‘Target appeared unawa: minutes later executed an ontiated bearings checked raage of 1200 verds, Lowered perise th was decreasin periscope plosion, soi rect tra Bade abort 15-20 sing to the rich OF Dleck snoke Zrox len Steck, end (estineted S-inch) rate of & unsuc| essfully for water surfe tion wilen might indi plocion, but the numerous white cer Parget settled don on se 510°(7) (ai apparently increased sre 1é-15 Enoti enerel direction. A few of + ended 100-200 yards fron the periscope 5 officer cen neit the appare refi on tle second etteck. Since lode is supposedly 450 ¥ elapse betueon firi report were at tio different stations and are consi thet the detonation 550 yards from the subuerine at noticeable erecked.Location: [Latitude 11-28 N, Longitude 1 ype Target: Passenger-Cargo (12000 gross RARU" or "cRTAN AKU", No. Torpedoes Fire Firing Intervel: 18 sec. ~ Firing Range: 1100 -"970 ~ Torzedo Run 300 - 800 Points of Air Bow - Ship! _i/a sh Track Angles: Gyro Angles: Depth Setting Enemy Course: Sneny Speed: Qwn Cours Qwa Spee 4 to 4.5 Own Depth: Method of Attack: Spread: At 2013 /(Z.D. -8) sighted & 11-46 N, longiltude 111-05 #, distent y course, at estimated iting was about 40 port, propulsion and went aheadJuly 27, 1942 (Gont'd.):— sky wes slightly overcast but moonli:? “Ath Suelis from the southwest epparentiy bound for Singazore 30090 degrees Tight enc left of @ bas Sige rencing fron 7 to 16 ainutes eneny a take for dawn attac. to be § i (because of heavy of cour: adaren woulé nullit Qhon subergeq attack es soon as 2 bo: wes reach Turneé toward ter 3 degrees Sic.tea Up throur tout espe Jeon tie bow Was ©: gigged avey during sub success, altao saortl: ves obteined. ‘while on Shot, terset zigged towards target coarse of 2c0°(2), e¢ bud perigcore bearings agreed, Zero. First foryedo Tired et 2. Sbserved to hit 45 seconds later Stern, ‘Secon torgeco fired ct 22-55-57 ~ ship's lenzthl ahead of bow, hit otter fixiac,| Mhird end fourta torpedoes ai Ship's lengtil aft of stem missed, enc t piperiseopp. tneny ship listed reaice fpin round to the left, the stere sinki propellers after first hit). Went to 100 At 22-38-04 (2 minutes after 2 22-41-17 (5 minutes, 15 seconds, a: Still deep, heard tro very loué explosion Siblosions were somewhat on the orcer of de; {onder and nore prolonced. Liade ip still afloat, dub with stern 4 ea about 20 dearecs to port. S So fires could be observed aboard. turned to observe ship, whi listed heavily to port and sinkia jeter for about 1-2 miles 2 two or three red Verys sia to nearest lend was 100 niles, 2 for the ship to be salvased, decide igne prior arrivel ene=y aireratt.it of Lombok Strait on 15 miles north or the speed 12 knots nted 5 small dest: a line extez 010°(7) to 024°(7), jub-chasers, shortly a angles on enay, aid were not “pining. propellers. Tenperature curia It is believed that our tressit been observed by a shore station « to lie-to across our course line. latitude 07-53.3 S, longitude 116 July 8, 1942: 0004 ~ Encountered ant ag dare steer Sound could not distingu: ots, tudes 05-00 ranging apperatus for search 7 second interval, 5600 surface 86°F, temperature et 100 fe visibility, patrol ship aft, and along the sides, avrar Sound obtained a turn count of of 12 knots.wit occurred in No. 1 nein uotor starboard motors and mein ropulsion power at tize s aveilable i position. Short cirouit betweenConnumications were satisfactory, all coived. "SELLS" schedule was received stre ite of Sibutu Passage. No of:ortunity July, 14, 194 e resul piston and all rings of No. engine aid renewed five ring unit, No. 1 nein engine. Repaired pin hole nein motor circulating water puny July 19, 1942: As a result of conn-rod beari: be: 1 and No. 4 August 2, 1942: and tested lover cleened pistoa, august 5, 1942: unit, No. 2 main eng on cover.The Kleinsnidt still aided co battery and potable water. abi tability at all times, enc torily. Food was a: as cuick-frozen vegetables, “idl be weleoe health of crew wae fair, siz cases of resulting in ex avei loss of three man susteined o leceration of the he ird of the patrol, A mild form of cum disease bro! crew received one nis retrol total eluded twelve (12) men serving in thei: (8) members of tie crew cual: trip, auc all new nexbers qualizied watches, 9, LocIsire Dara: Length of Patrol Distance on Surface Distance Subnerged Total Distance ours subnerged Total Fuel Zxpended Total Lub Expended Fuel Consumption - 10.68 Tub | Consu:p! = Os or one gallon 1ub fralapge cosh waieueeiuban vies 502 cludes 60 gallons per day for e Average frosh water Gistilled 351 gallon: Average battery water consumption 70 ¢ ‘Average battery nade 59 gellons per In addition, 110 gellons per day of cir co condeasate was obt ined nd u orTune 26 - Enroute Frementle, “i.4., to Lobo! July 1 duly 1 - Enroute Lombok Streit to 8 eest of Line Islands July 8- + Enroute Sibutu Passage to 1 West of Pearl Bank, east of Cage: of Bancoran Island. July 12 - nroute patrol station, passi. Ground. >, Enroute patrol stetion, folloni traffic lane. On patrol station between lati tua 12-00 1 Enroute patrol station to Balabac south of Dan; round, August 3- -| Enroute Balabac Strait 5 Bancoren and Cagayen Sul Pearl Bank. August 6 - Enroute Sibutu sasse, lh kasser Strait, via Li: August 11 - - 17FC5-2/88190/ 416-3 Serial 3-7 -seewe IAL FIRST From: a ‘bru uadron foe » United stati Via: oes Subjec Period 1 This was thi lasted for e period of fifty-three was in the gouth China Sea. through Makassar Strait passing north days were spent in waters where eneny shir The weather |was favorable except for the peri Two attacks were made. estimated avout 5,300 tons wes unsucc the destruction of a lerge passenger be about 12,000 tons. Regerding the unsuccessful 8 Teport of a premature ¢ is inconslugive end does not gibe with that torpedd was heard runnins efter able data in the report indicates th overestimated and that target was saking in first thiee torpedoes passing ahead, report it has been ascertained thet ne the T.D.C. dt tine of firing fourth shot been expected to miss whether or not it \ This instance substantiates Commander has had since early i merchant end men-of-war, frequently r expected for their type, with ahead. This may have been a coincic and fuel economy. It seems more 1 little trick from the93190/416 ge To subject: Refcrenec: 2: sub 27, 1942. Snelosurcs: (4) Report of Sixth Wr Potrol. In cecaréenes with roforenec, the the ar patrol conaveted during the :cri 3, 1942, to er 11, 1932, is forwarded horcy enelosure (5).1. NaRRATIS: FIRST DAY = Septembe 3, U.S,5. SiS,RFISE completed lest patrol on ucust 17, 1942, During the period august 17 to Sentesber 7, 4 routine overhaul was comoloted at Frocantle, -’.1.” 6 September 8, departed on current patrol. Underway in accordance with Coa?askGroup 51.1 operation order No. 51-42 which is quoted in part as fol. RFISH will conduct sn offensive war patrol azainst enery coubatant, cuprly and transport chip Sortie throuzh BOOK GTi, Fremntle, at adout zero hundred zed Tuesday, September eight, nineteen fo Proceed via swezt channel to an oxerdise area north of Rottnest Tsland for sractice azoroach. Uzon cox of exercise proceed through eastern half of Restriction Lane to l.titude 22 desroes south, to Sxnout> Gulf. Fu l to capscity and rroce Strait, Lokassar Strait, Sibutu Passage and Fuss to your patrol area. You will p.trol the wostern coast of Luzon betwo lghitudes thirteen degrees forty-five minutes enteen degrses zoro zero minutes Horti. of your arce is lonzitudc one Bast. roy particular ettention to tho tanile Bay rsa oaso inti-cubzs.ine measures becoue too active ‘anil Bay move to anotae: scotion of your area ndeuvoring to koc) on the nein traffic lanes", Completed approach on U.3.S. 13.38! cor visibility due rin storms, and periscors casuilty to linit switch randored oxcrzise ineffective. Reccived visual dissateh from Com3ubT#0 to ;rocesd on duty assimed. 3ct requisit> course at sp Fosit: Latitude 31-13.0 s Day - Sentoabor 9, 1942, trol cnroute Gulf via Bombir ‘riction Lane. oxchsneed recognition si no uthbound t TAUTOG in 1titude 29-04 eitude 112-57 2. Posits: 08CO Latitude 1200 Latitude 2000 Latitude les 254.7 Course 329(T)<3. SUBARFISH September 10, 1942. Surface patrol enroute Exmouth Sulf via Bom Restriction Lane. Subzerzed for trim end drill. Surfaeced, cxerciecd gun's crew, firing two rounds and cortinued cnroute ixnouth Gulf. Posit: 0300 Latitude 23-39-0 S$ Longitude 112-30. 1200 Tatitude 22-42.0 § Lonrituce 112-40 2000 Latitude 21-27.5 S Loneitude 112- iiles 341.9 courac 358.5(T) Sposa 13,8 Fuel 5236 September 11, 1942. Surface patrol enroute Zxsouth Gulf vie Eonbing Restriction Lanes. Sighted U.3.3. i, B. 2RISTON entering Hxchangea recognition signals vie ecarch1i at ontrance cult. : cuit. “xchang.@ recognition sicnals and calls with Moorea to fucl barge. Gom-enced fueling. d 13,350 © y from barge, kuving sent int ensuece : to locate wir le: Glourca Z\uouth Gulf. Subsor; ané training. surfaced ant sroccedcd c: 14 nots, slunnin to slané, ing to tran: Posit: 0200 Latitude 21-46.0 1200 Latitude 22-15.0 2000 Latitude 21-25 ydles 201.9 Gourse 072September 12, 1942. trol cnroute Exmouth Gulf to Lombok st distant 12 mil + sighted so did not dive. cised 3% gun crow, f: 7 round: caliber 1.2. cro 0800 Lititude 12-49.0 1200 Latitude 19-39-7 2000 Latitudes 15-44.2 Milos 264.4 Course 003(7) D. Sept Surface satrol cnroute Gxiouth Gulf to Lombok strait. 0605 - Submerged for trim and training, 0652 - surfuced und continuca regulating sp Island. Trained 50 caliber Posit: 0800 Latitude 13-27.0 3 Loncitude 11 1200 L.titude 12-39.5 3 Loncitude 11) 2000 Latitude 11-11.5 5 Lonzituds 11 diles 305.5 Gourse 009(T) P Day Septembor 146, 1942, Surface patrol cnroute Sxrouth Gulf to Subuorged. Position ubout 50 miles south o: Strit. Surfeced. Fosit: 0800 L.titude 9-48.05 Lonzite: 1200 Latitude 9.43.0 3 Lon 2000 L.titude 9-33.7 3 197.9 Course 005(T)-R-E-T S.S. SPZARFISH DAY Septaaber 15, 1942. surface patrol transiting Lombok Strait. Complotoa transit, nothing sightcd. submerged. Sighted two sailboats bearing O11(T), dist: on westerly courses. vege landfall on Sckule Island, stant 10 ailes. gerfeced. Set course to muk: L.ndfall on Lina Islands. sigited Us. subpiring dn lutitudc 07-01.3 S; loncitude 116-28.5 B, bearing 065(T), on southerly course =t stimetea Speed 12 xnots, range 5 miles. Prob-bly cither SaUAY or S-ORDFISH schedulod to pass this dete on tow at sigating about 40 3, so silhouc dentificd. ‘Tarco winutcé oftor sichtinc, 5 submerged. Cleared area at full spovd. oxctiunged. Fosit: 0800 Latitude 7- Longitude 1200 Latitulo 7- Longitude 116-11 2000 Lutitude 7-0 Longitude 116-22.2 Miles 152.6 Course 0. Bpeod Fuel 1 INTE DsY September 16, 1942. 0545 0530 0842 1843 gurfacc jatrol transiting Makssear Strait via Lins Is: Sighted sibaru Island beurinc 395(T), distant 10 niles. Subnorged. Chenged course to uoad Zor CAD gurfec: Posit: 0800 L.titude 5-11.8 1200 Latitude 5-04.0 3 Loncituac 2000 Latitude 4-40.0 § Longit les 165.2 Course 023(T) Speed 6.5 Fadl 1504SE ORE-7T U.S.S. SPEARFISH TENTH Day Soptenber 17, 1942. 0234 - Surface rutrol onroute Lima Islunds to Ca: Mansuyered to avoid suilboat sichted close aboard (490 yards) bearing 340(T), on southerly course, (Latitude 3-41,0 8 Lonsitude 118-16.3 2). Slowed and observed scilboat, apparcntly native craft enroute Cane Mandar tc Lima Island. Submerged. Surfaced. Durine morerzed patrol (3) at veriowe intervals all of whi westerly course und all of which p. rongs hull évwn. Mo dstuils disti Posit: 0800 iatitude 3-11.1 Lonzituce 1260 Latitude 3-06.0 3 Lengit: 2090 Lutitude 2-42.7 3 Loncituds Milte 151.3 se 036(T) Spocd poor visibility 250 - 1000 jurée. Bighted scilbost bearing 345(7), dis southerly course. Wo opportunity to obs: Subnergeds Decided to patrol along onc: aroute 1 Bnony rsported to % surfaced. Posit: 0800 Latitude o- 1200 Lotitude 0- 2000 Latitude 0- Milpe 10.6 ‘Course Surface patrol Sighted Cage wankalin ing 340(T), @ist.nt about 20 mile ion a - 60 niles south o submerged.nor 19, 19-2 (Conttd.))+ Posif: 0200 zntitude 1-10-0 N Longttuce 1200 L.titude 1-20.0 N Loncicuc 2000 Latitude 1-5: Lon piles 140.3 course 015(T) goptasbor 29, 1952+ .ee gatrol Hakess.r Strait to Sibuto F- “ltdred course to investigute blsclt ob. tasil boat, which turncé out to be lurde tre testo@ Mtomy gun". : 2 in roeition about 40 ) bavin= doeidcd to wks 6c seage after @ sighted Jeluag Islund dD fizs, Ravics bean sct cone: Visibility poor to fair “vith bez. rogits 0800 Latitude i-02.3 N Lon. 1’? q200 Tavitade $-06.9 N Loa | 2000 13: viles 177 gurfue: patrol transiting Sioute > Gomsletee transit wil set coures to poss Bunk. subecrgd, snroute Psarl Bonk aefaced about alles ety sichtcd nothing int .firn Iuzon oint. Surfs0cd about 29 ailss west of corrugider @uring rin vhils ch.rginc b.ttorics. Dari led Aorth nd south betwoun cntr.nes Subic ani 5 a -21-U. 19.2. (Contra). Posit: 0600 L.titude 14-21.0 1206 L.tituee 1+-23.0 2000 L.titude 14-15.0 vilos 39.2 Coarse 168(7) sabacrged 11 trolled 5-7 0600 Latituds 14-28.3 1200 L-titude 1--23.0 2000 Litituie .-1..0 F wiles 117 Course 265(T) October 16, 1942. Posit rE DTE Day corr tud. 1+-10.3 F Curse 135(T) Decoded OIF 52 dvse. Pelotive cndarsnec to a432+ = 2526 = Surfsccd 12 ilu: ic Guys Islands te Trneaittyd SPLRFIO 171507 civiz we B.@ surficiont cadur ne. t Fosit: 0800 Lititude 12-30.0 » 1200 Latitude 12-36.7 ¥ 2000 L.tituée 12-35.6 1 Miles 150 Cours. 172(T) October 18, 19:2. p.trol enroute « Sabacrgvd § siles NW of J: south cout + milos off Surfaced sbout 10 ailcs nrute Pourl Bunk. Posit: 0800 Latitude 1 1200 Ltitude 1 2000 Latituie 69-53.8 F Miles 153 Course 155(7) FORTY S3G0ND DY October 19, 0036 - 0513 - 1803 - 0594 = Surf.co n.trol gulu s: ‘Tronscitt.< & A relative tr Surserged, overeas nturmittnt 3 Surfsecd una eyntinucd cnroute Porrl Br 0 Lutitude 03-34.9 MN Loncitus 1200 Latitude 28-25.5 K Loncitu: 2000 Ltitede 07-52.9 1! Lonritu ee Curse 2C1(7) a Octuber 20, 1942. Surface p.trol Sulu Sox. Ov-roust, poor vieibiiity. Subacr=.2 in estinuted positivn 1 rl Bonk. ~23-October 20, 1922 0811 - sight. trecs on Doo ogition. Conductod Gptrane. of Pearl Bunk 1618 und passed 4 2030 relative Deterali na then tronsait when in or lights of plane cist, northe.sterly coursu. Posit: 0800 1200 L. nt osition 10 miles WY of Bongeo, a tituds 06-06 NX Lon ivudo 05-56 N Lon. Decoded OIF Fifty-one 200950 «cain r.qucsting ii SPUARFISH ondurcneo tc that onswcr to first évsputch hud not tronsit Sidutu cs quickly as procecd Bricd. ‘boon informstion dvsirs igh cbout 3 Bright moon]: tude 119-50 119-50 2000 L.tituee 05-50 N Lon: Miles 180 course 207(7) October 21, surfies g.trol transittine Glo.rud Sibutu Passuee SPLRFISH 201928 info: Snaur.nec to ;roce.d Bri eurrcat putrel, nd thot Sibutu Pus=a5 et 0327 Cir 51 th anc no WOTe Telands in anticis.tion of orders. until 0500 duc st.tic amt 0513 - Suonorsod. 1609 Surf.cod. De lion of Ri giving 20sit, STA < posit: 0800 L-titude 01-27 1200 Latituee 07-29. 2000 Latitude 0: 1s 162.5 Curse 161(T) Anterfarcnes. overcast thruout <-: @ 120-13.¢ 120-22 .8 120-58.9 Spe.d +.0 Fucl 1599 12U.3.3. SP2uRFISH Octobur 22, 1942 Jsbus Sea enroute Sibutu Sct apecd 12 kasts to be in Scuth of 5.rongwni Isl.nd. Fosit: 0800 Latituao 0+-46.0 ¥ 1200 Latitude G+-.7.1F 2000 L.titude 0¢-59.8 N Lonzituc. 123. 16.1 5 Milos 163 carse c81(7) a 5.6 FORTY SIXTH Du xr 23, 192. surfacc patrol Celebes 05% subaerged southwest of Scranguni Island. 120¢ - set clocks to zone tinc minus ninc. 1653 - surfaecd. ‘“xporicnesd huivy scuthwcst-rly dotwocn 3 ni uné Kuwio Isl_nds. north of Tulcud Isi.nés and exert pisdin> within 6-10 uil-s of Tobi Isl-ni. Decoded OIF Fifty Onc 250755 (serial 23) to report to OTF Forty Pw2 for when 30-40 ril.s 2ist Dscoded CIF Tafty Onc 231400 (serial +4) r faform tion rol.tive S:s.RPISE dvepctch 171597, = Tocsiptod for by VIxB, but seit 0800 L.titude 05-07.3 © 1200 Latitude 05-0+.5 2000 L.titude 65-01 Hilvs 163.2 Guures 085(7) FORTY SGVSNTE DY Cctobur surfcce p.trol north 9 wn shift. -23-Tea. Ostober 24, 19.2 (contra). FORTY Shittcd to 8330 sblisheg vg. neniti RIISE 231802 CTF Forty Two, .trol enroute Heavy passing rains. Surf..ced in ruin wné continucd unroute Vitioz Strait. Posit: C800 Lititdde 1-18 N Lonvitude 13-52 120 L tituge 01-03 i 135-3. 2006 L.titude 00-37.5 6 te 135- Kiles 256 Course 169 1100 DAY Octcber 27, 1932 Sarfucu p.trol enroute Vitiaz Strvit. prise. Gontinucd on surficv. Ovare-ct “round horizon, Cour-: 114(T), a 11.5 3-4 main nines. -27-1606 = Sigktea r thru liter, the pp portly flct sou, ani hedod for 4 churges at boat 20¢0 y.r DDw-s still ins ¢: eased & fs % 1907 thr aig aot ving, but a.ncuvered on voricus Voti us 3:..¢2 in sur vicinity until inutve oft_r suns.t) ¢ ul r visibility. Sine: ship .né pesitin, dceidod to re. gurf..ccd, nethias in orrsut. Vitisz ctrait. Foeit: COC Lotitu a 11.3 Pact 2585 Octcber 28, 19. enroute Vitisz strait. ust valve Loctage nce. s1f noer int rvs. -28-Tetitude 01- L.titues 21-55.7 Geurs 116( Oct >be (-) 10 2-2. 00 Latituds ¢2-2..6 1200 Ltituce 92-27. 2000 Litituic 02-30.7 & Miles 150.9 Curse 107(T) TY TTR October 36, 1942. gurfsec patrol enroute Viticz Strait. orca. Jonéfall on Kerkar Island ¢ieton = Surf..ccd. Fosit: 0800 S Lenzite 1206 3) 2000 Tutituzo 0--22.5 8 L Curse 127(T) October 31, 19: nroute Vitinz strait. % shoals t- cxist bt. ne oof, dcoid 288 subscrsc) b ind Tolokiw: Isi.nds ind to transit norr.x t wostarly sot in VitiezSurf.ec sitrol enrsate Surfiec yatrol enroute Roeacl Isl.n 0555 = Subs 1924 2255 25 (ER37) t. rts llcd for by 2 tohcs WR 33's wa8 Picvived =t 0035/3 nd FR 33 gogition ct 2255 ded 2 tion, it w. 5 fuel rormit roturn to Huon sol in that urea. _coordinc proeacded Sucn Gulf. ¥. > receive "Bells" wWiile sui oaerein one630052 (ER 37 (Antcreopt ery cut +Tovi :ve Poutis Se vccords so@lark Isl née L.titne > 09-29 2 69-23.0 200G L-titude 07-2+.1. iilss 135.3 Gcursc 251(T) 97-39. Cq-1 .0 07-45.0 surfice p-trol Yo fix durin Subscrgd. surf.ced Eosit: 0800 L 1200 L.titu: 2000 L-titude 69-1 files 155-5 Course 116(T) Surfseo p.trel enroute xosscl Is -3l-1925 - Surfuccd. Posit: cé0o lzec 2000 Riles 129.7 buas 12-75. Sars. 157( Movexber § fico p.trol enroute print Bi it: 9800 L.titude 15-07.2 ensituds 155-1 1200 Litztude 16. Tensituds 155 2000 L.titude 17, 3 Lonzitues 1 hiiles 235.7 Course 151(7) Spe. Vovexbor 7, 19.2. 1315 (Subde four fe resort of Subs our t: nd forty. wtion a8 crécrcUe PISH Novesber ¥, 1942, (cont'd). sit: 0800 Latituds 20-38.5 1200 L.titude 21-29.0 200c Latitude 22-57.5 los 326.1 vourse 107(7) SURTY FOURT! DAY Novasber 10, 1942. 0529 0549 1347 1923 2213 Surface 2atrol entcute point Bud. surface ~ arrived point Surf.cod ung ;roce Not buing sure tht orty Two of our ET, point pug, bis b rusced to CousubP.cFor), SuRFISH 101113 to CiF Forty Two wits is 1 Caloune: of Koruton lish 0800 1200 20¢0 Miles 255.4Seriuce yabrol earovte stived caldaunéra jar Sicnal stution, Brisbane, t 0000 Latitude 27-20.0 3 Course 222(7)except ut ni 2 ise’ & Snobs T707 Menile « th. crivnced typacenst waa 2629 to fore. Dura: Cctossr jonsl 1i a. ViewNo unesucl tions] Lichin ltitude 29~ tude 1i2- 57 B, on eoutherly course, dist-n' jles. Reco:pition Signals exchanced. er LL, 1942: distant 421.5 3; io ail store <0542 - 1823 - Three native sailing vint Mantibug Point, Zamboanga Peninsula, courses, onc on northerly course. Ir. September 23, 1942: in - Sailboat in position lutitude 10-40.3 ", lonzitude 121-40 8, bearing 025(T), rage 5000 yards’ on northerly course , az9cared to be mutive craft Snroute Dalip Point. Soptomber 24, 1942: 0204 - __Convorted minclaycr bearing 00¢(T) ai niles stunding out of 30 Bast Pass on s att abbacked with three torgedoes in l:tit Jongitade 121-07 B at 0603. cannot find ‘this ship. Desoripti f cl of 5000 t: 100 foot vith two sti EST mn Hounted in St just aft of st 1 4 cine tracks, on whi either nines or ¢u,th shirts were gccn on bridre. Soptusbor 2, 1942: 0349 - Seilboat or saul sudchascr in glands, latitude 12-46.9 442, cist yards on dstails distinguisnod. avoid detection, sound could not hex. ¢ thru periscope. Fro! Ship bearing 114(T), diet.nt 6000 y-re o3d 15 knots, (200 RPM). Subch.scr of TO0Zt eliss aSeptember 23, 1942 (Contra): Latitudo 15-55.0 Tr, loncitude 119-45 range 6000 yards. October 3, 1942: 0919 - Two carco ships in josition latitud. lonsituds 119-57.9 3, angls on bow 10.5, 24 150(T), ut 13-14 knots sbout $00 yards. bout 3500 ton h 350 fout. ts (cst: ht 92 fe ddship zu.ck. B cd to bu durk gruy or black. © tons, similer sz, 400 fo t, two stick (estic od hoight 100 fctt), lor cture with single t.11 stuck. Gun nountod Could not closs r nae beyond 6000 songur ship ia lonzitudc 119-54 on course 330(7) r.age below 10000 yures. were 2 stil 1 .ced ut sunset and uncuce overtake. tober 4, 1942; 0943 = Jeall stcesor of Philizpine inte: (80-100 tors) in 1.titude 16-19 N, 1 130(7), distant 6 cilcs on nor 8 mote. Sa:11 cun fleg paint d on si prascneo by gin sight be potroll trafric. 0540 - Patrol ship in lititude 14-18.3 N, 1 120-18.4 B, ar betwoon Luzon icint ond 150 fost long, 2 stick = slichtly aft of cidships. BS,Octobor 7, 1952 (Cont Did not cttack sinc. srcsunce this ; traffic about to cove fron Munils. Qetobor 9-16, 1942: Convoy ccnsistins of 3 curso NsSEI class destroyer. Narrative sichting, tracking .nd attuck. sinilar OMI l.RU of 3500 t howd hei_nt 90 fo.t, stroi cls forvars ..d .ft, sidshi, st.ck, snd counter stern, ruint oufl Sic gun mounted + RU of 9000 tons, fo:t. Tyo stick Gargo wells for- gh cuoufl.ce .roun bow 1 siciler LYONS RU of 7000 tc Esthiud height 100 fot. strd 30 welle forward ond ft superstructure. Sinzlc tall stuck trom bridge. Gr.7 , Ro casour aft. Last in coluc tt 3 torzedocs in Ltit October 11, 1962 0546 = s atrol shir th.t ¥ Iutitude’ 14-25 M, lon close for attack. Munile Bay thra north e! October 16, 1942 1659 - Outline of su:11 destroyer or su 1s-15.5 , 1o1 a ms: courgé at’s.cod 1-15 ‘mots. Be-ring | 350(T), dist.nco bout 5000 yrds to 600 Started swing towcrés,do tub: ready yeras, a;parontly without scoing us, Sboat’10 minutes later, on ¢ heuding for F Islond. No dotails ¢iscornible and nc aOctod 26 Qetooer 24, 2 céai - Cargo ship in Istitude 0s 58.2 5, oc.ri g 198(T), eourse’at epocd 12-13 ostinated 4! Unsucccss fully ut in latitude 04-46 7, longitude 126 DONTE bout 3500 tons, 1c aaa iB Rakod hkeizht stack, ond forward cargo cnnant Browaish rea cod ¢; ship inercas. nd heade? in general dircetiRSE CRIPTION OF ATROR.FT SICH PBY pstrollinz Restricted Sxnouth Gulf. xeeo_nition = verbor 12, 1942: = PBY in latitude 18-38.0 8, loncituce 115-37 3, nz 100(T), range Sout 12 cilés on northirly course. S\RFISH wpsarcntly rot sighted by rlanc. October 20, 1942: 2307 - of altitud SPL.ATIGH < Sighted fleshes of al z @ out of sun, in latitude O46 Tr, 03 Z. altitude 2000-3000 fost, race - Not in sicht long snowch for Tanverv 11, 1943, Calibreted megnetic corpess. Como at 1700 L. Pass2d throuzh FOIN? Van, peed and requis- ite courses to follow ri i Ds Tetion order. Secxred /5 main engine a-e-to knock 14 knots while investigatin: danec 2000 L - Posit: Latitude 26-50.05 Lonit DsCMBIR 3, 1oaa: Proceeting assigned area on surfac 0510 L - Submerged to obtain tria and test fox tichtn. Two hours spent in correcting loaks and worps. tained damage to #2 main agine caves) bv en of brass (instead of steel) cotter in comecting Tod bearing bolt. Since the damege to of the two charging engines involved a scores connecting vod journal, tuo wiped main boerincs oni a possible geored cranksheft, decided remain submersed until full extent of damage could be ascerteinsd, in cose necessity for return to base erose. Inspestes erankeases ell main engines. At 1850 L, determi engine coul? be repeirsd by ship's fo. avs, so decidca to contin enroute erea pairing engine. Posit: COOOL Letituis 26-50.0 S Longitude 153-13.2 1200L Letitude 25-56-15S Loncitn 2000 L Latitude 25-47.5 S Lonritude Miles Steamed 195.2 Fuel 0 2357 si EACLOsUaE ACONFIDENTIAL esse. SESARETOR DGaMBR 4, 1942: - Surfac creasing : 800 L patrol enrout- area. to 14.5 knots upon comp. Latitude 25-05.0 S 1200.L Latitude 21-53.6 2000 L Latitude 20-08.0 iles Steamed - 245.7 Posi ol enronte eres. gun cre ting 5 rounds. ealibor mechine guns. Tested 2103 L - ‘hile contsctins nrectic: hevine shifted soun’ reported yerd scelo. Ap siniler to that from this sh with which operator is well exp2rien Posit: 0800 L latitude 17-22.2 1200 L Letitude 16-2 2000 1. titude les Steamed - 335.5 DACSMBER 6, 1942:- Surface patrol 6330 L = Gomplsted repaire to #2 0745 L - Crossed Latitude 12C0 S 0608 L = Submerged patrol enroute erea, beoa vorking in sh: 2, a rest prior entering 2355 L = No. wipe Posit: 0800 1200 L Te 2000 L Latitnde steamed = 200.5 Miles © night surfec bettories and lowered Longitude 154-45.0 416 approach, sound heads, es on 1600 r felt jerSurface end submerged patrol enroute Quote? arilis. Continved repairs to 7? posit: 0500 L Latitude 09- 1200 L Latitude 02-38.1 2000 L Mitude 02-15.0 S Longitude 16: Niles Steamed - Buel Used - 1756 Suxface end submerged patrol enroute sree. Latitude 07 Istitude 07-13.0 © 2000 L Letitude 06-46.2 5 g Steamed - 178.4 Fuol t Su; fece Sighted north tangent PINIP: distent, 10 Obtes positions. Completed repaizs to #2 mein Licht load. Posit: C600 L Latitude 4-07.6 Longitude 153-5 eee EL Eetitude 8-57.08 Longitude 155-39-6 2060 L Latitude 5-41.2 zitude 153-54.0 Miles Steamed - 197-1 Surfecs end submerged patrol enroute Changed course to 270(7) round: inelix loosted troublesome eir leek in 200 1b. Suing outeies oreseure hull between contro) room Bre conning tover. (C-T. blow line.) Number 4 mein ongine out of commission auc to bre Mee j2 unit. lusber 2 mein engine oporet ine satis- guneS ae aitnenen Gtilt Wi-ited to cout 70% loadsPosit: 0800 L Latitws 01-13 gitude 185-55.0 1200 L Letitude 01-10 gi tude 153-40.7 Lgtitae 01-05; 5 = 175.1 rain end soor visihilit: thro onal fixes cbtsinable. Sight oa TACH ISLAND bering 340(T), ais 3000 vards.. Changed course to 12C(T) to el 1200 L 2000 L teamed Serface patrol - course about 5 Watie cou position Latitude 01-53.2 ©, Loni flowed ana observed snip, which to be fied tons trol to see if h leadi.ne vor but sighted no other shi ubmsresd when patrol heeds for us. Sighted nothing through periscone, soun? coula not her serevs. Sighted >-trol ship vezring 240(T), rans? about BGCG yerds on course 155(1) at slow speed (5-8 kCCNEXDENTIAL 0030 L. e200 L 22 2 Intermittent pinging on 24 kes. Abo minutes pstrol ship emittec dense puii oleck ince the presence of 4 patrol sb far (70-20 miles) from a bass might indicets passage of traifie through this point, ama sincs it was impossi2l2 to reach my area durin: daylight , decided conéuct submerged patrol this vicinity. At 0645 L, patrol ship dis- eppered, heading in direction CAPS Ki 1: Sighted masts end upper works of 5 ships (Contect No. 2) besring 145(T) on northwesterly et high spred in position Letitude 01-4 tude 145-45.1 2. Glosed range to ECO ’ 6 on bow of reer shin » the form:tion zizged ewer to 2 cours Inentified shipe ce 3 destroyers (Kl and 2 heavy cruisers of LOT cless, z. botwoen corse 240(T) end 295(T) at’ s> (240 RPV). Cruisers veyv2 in column sbout Sistcncs, with ona DD ebout 1500 var other DDS cetroliine on olther flonk bet and quarters of to cruisers. Time froz. until the form tion was past ebout an onl 20ssible am roech © the normal apnroech course 2 towards, which thay didn't. Surfeced cnd proceedcd about 10 miles west of area. Clear with good Posit: C200 L Latitude C1- 1260 L Latitude 01 2600 L Latitude 02 Miles Steamed - 172.0 32d Surface gstrol enroute erea. Wonbar 2 main engine agein out of commission due to wiped asin bearing. Sntered erea cbout 10 miles dary sna set courss to reported b suberines *reviously~natrollin erec.SonPTDENTT AS, SPLARPIGE (DiCcNBaR 15, 1942 ~ Cont+a) 0645 L - Sighted masts and stacx of vatro2 ship (c No. 3) similer to’ that sighted 12 Do: tude 02-42.5 8, Longi Ba, » : Feng2 14000 yards on co! 340(7), at 5: 14 knots. 4n Jeon bow greater then 163 P.. oa: to conduct submerged patrol this vicini Patrol shio vesterda: was fore: iratfic.” Sighted various mountains on Overcast with intermittent rains aftee Completed rassirs #2 main engine. united to 600 REI. urfaced. Posit: 0800 L Letituae o2-. Longitude 14¢-25,1 1200 L Latitede o3-: Longitude 14¢-g314 2006 L Latitude 93~ a Miles Steamed - 96.5 DICEMBER 14, 1942: - DECEMBER 14, 1eea: GuBfece patrol during derk, submerged aur light, various courses in vicinity trotting Obtain fix on mountains of N2° -unoy Sighted smoke beerine 324(7) and nh. tinguished mssts -n No. 4)'in Latituds 03-02 yhen on firing course fer 110 8 treo, Mith renge 2000 yards, nado out shis to erked @6 a hospital slip, conformi: to markings prescribed by Geneve © that instead of one red cross on two, one small csoss neer bow e: slightly aft of amidships. Discontiny Ent took eeriscope pictures. Shin wes SAIPAN WRU of 6500 tons. Sighted what e2peared to be single sticx ing 270(T) end heeded for it. RESt to be large t: 2C feet aboveCONEIDEHDIAL U.S.S. SPEARFISH (D.csMBR 14, 1942 - Cont'd) 1057 L - Surfaced and patrolled across traffic lier hazy comition around horizon. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-02.2 S Longitude 1s 1200 L Latitude 03-010 5 ge 150-03 2000 L Latitude 02-55.0S L Miles Steamed - 66.8 DECEMBSR 15, 1942:- Surface patrol during night, submresd during dey- light, various courses crossing treffic lenes. Intermittent rain during afternoon. Nothing sighted. Upon surfacing, moved southeast along traffic lame. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 05-06.2 S Longitude 149-15.8 1200 L Lctitule 0259.25 Longitude 149-24.0 2000 L Letitude 0254.6 S Longitude 14¢-38.2 Miles Steamed - 75.8 Fuel Used - 490 DECIMBSR 16, 1042:~ 0025 L =~ -va- Intermittent hoov: decreased visibility to 500 yords. Submerged on ensterly course for de expected track of destroyers enroute ® Position doubtful. Changed course to 140(T) upon sighting smoke be 140(T), range sbout 12 mils, in Latitude 03-16. Longitide 150-37.6 2. Distinguished masts, indicsting ship (Coht=ct No. 5) to be on course 200(T), sped 9 knots, angle on bow about 40 P. At 0738 L, ct ronge of 2500 yards, dis- continued approach upon recognizing shin to be th. sam hospital ship sighted Decembor 14, 1942. Con- tinued petrol to castwerd ecross traific lene from RABAUL to KAVIENG. Surfecéd end stood southeast to get in treffic lms between PALAU ISLAND ond RABAUL, dispotch informetion (CTF-42 29-B) indiceting transport movement probeble between those pleces. <7 =SOLEIDETTAL U.S.S. SPEARFISH (DicuibeR 16, 1942 — Contra) 018 L - Sighted outline of patrol ship (Contact : DD in Letitwds 03-40.5 S, Longitude 126-s) 6 bearing 080(T), distant %000 Speed about 15 imots. In to get ahead for attack, Sighted hazy outline of small Chaser (Contect No. 7), details bearing 146(T), distant i eases? 8, Longitude 150-5242, whicn dice, almost immedi in mist prevaient to werd. i tempt to overhaul fir: 2108-L, determined no convoy to be eefern, and at 21301, abandoned chase, the petrol Eiee act DD Ravine disapposrea on cours 296(F)~ Kinimum range reached about 6000 yerds. ‘Coaaoccea patrol across this track. Sighted smaii shape, thought to be p fubeheser (Contoct No. 8) (details not pearing 200(T),, distant about 5000 ycrac’ the oopo? soba ehenged course to get chesd. “St oots a, fhe [ship sighted us and hended tor us. Wenetters Ae bedBt stern tovord and node after tubes reser, deat eo te,cistineuished ship to be motor tosses Poet (no mests, no stack, extimted G0 tens) oe Ratitude 05-42-88, Longitude 150-46.0 fo eon in ebout: 3000 yerds, coming - 2 track. Decided it would t- to have even c feir chence to hit, Tigged for depth charge. hile pass Sound renorted whet sounded like’a bl. going clone sterboara sia 2 little Speed light screws (no count obta DURE Port side. No depth charges wore ae Durine the first 10 minutes after subser i explosions similer mzchinc motor torpedo boct romminsd in vicinit ently stop: 2308 L wh: Cleared area to northwara Nothing in sight. Ren us ing betteries. Posit: 0600 L Latitude 03-23.6 S Longitude 150-40.0 Boon E Eetiaide 03-24:9§ Longituse 1sbsa9.5 2000 L Letitude 03-39.7 § Longitude iscleste Miles Steamed - 108.5 Fuel Used ~ 476 ENCLOsuR2 (4)CONFEDENET, U.S.S: SPIARFISH DSCINBER 17, 1942: Surface patrol on southwesterly course to reach position for submerged patrol vicinity CAPS LABIRT, in hopes that enemy forces scheduled to make landing on north coast Nsw GUINIJA would sail from RABAUL. 0601 L - Submerged for patrol across traffic lenes bet GAPS LAMBSRT end VITU ISLANDS. lo fix obtainable. Position approximate. 1958 L - Surfaced and stood northward to cross traffic lanes from PALAU to RABAUL, Visibility good. 2346 L.- Sighted two ships (Contact No. 9) in Latitude 05-41.9 S, Longitude 150-45.2 2, bearing 225(T), renge 7000 yards, + on course 110(T), et speed &-10 knots. Took up con- Yerging course end increased speed until ships iden- tified as two subohaSers in approximete colum, the changed course to investigete track astem of those ships. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 04-01.8 S Longitude 150-34.2 1200 L Latitude 04-00,0 S Longitude 150-41.8 = 22 2000. L Latitude 03-58,2 S Longitude 150-51. Miles Steamed - 67.7 Fuel Used - 600 MBIR 18, 1942:- Surfece petrol on northerly and westerl courses investigating erea astern of petrol ships. Not! sighted. Sighted masthead lights of ship (Contact lio. 10) in Latitude 03-35,8 8, Longitude 150-45.3 =, dearin, 135(T), range about 16,000 yards, on course 290(T) at approximate speed 8-9 knots. Closed 0 3000 yerds, Ship sightea carried normal running lishts pl illuminated red crosses on bridge end on sing) stack es well es illuminated green stripe around hull. Two masts, single stack, full superstructure. Submerged for patrol across traffic lanes. Surfaced and patrolled along course 500(T) mated reverse of track between PALAU and RABAUL. Moonlight visibility prevailing is too bright for surface attack, but our position is such that we mey maneuver ahead of any ships sighted so as to gt in position for either a dawn or a moonlight submerged approach. ENcLosuRz (A)CONF IDENTL.L. (DicuBiR 18, 1912 - contra) (DECEMBER 16, 1942 ~ Contra’ 0050 L - 2000 L - Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-52. 1200 L Latitude 03-33: 2000 L Letitude 03-47. Miles Steamed - 75.8 Surzace patrol along enemy traffic lene Sighted smoke {Contact Lonsitude 150-38.5 8, be 16,000 yards, and headed Determined to be course at spec to Get ahead at best speed appesred. At 0200 L aban sighted. Submerged and patrolled acros enemy's estirated daylight area Sighted smoke (Contact No. 12) bearin: 9 Latitude 03-26.0 S, Longitude 150-36.0 2 10-12 miles, estimated cours: 330(T), at knots. Tnstecassfull: tae ol n not sighted. Surfoced ané@ patrollcd acrose treffic to northward. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-32. 1200 L Latitude o 5 dan BAY, speed 14-15 knots. Sightcd subchaser (Contact No. 15 distant about 4006 yer at slow spee: 151-04 chaser and hoaFID: (DscmmsR 20, 1942 - Cont'é) L ~ Submerged ond rigged for @ charges dropped Suvcheser remaincd util O25 L, apperontly stopping at in Sighted subchaser throvg! 2000 yerds on wester: 0250 L. Surfacca. Sightvd san. or similer subchesor in Letitudo 03-22.4 S, Longitud. 15. 150(T), ranev eboat 4000 verds on south course, Doterminsé thet subcheser vw ing end et 0540 L submrged end vatroil traffic lanes. hted AICHI type (97N SE) floatpl 03-28 S, Longitude 150-59 3, dearinc 5000 yards, altitude 1000 fet on ep course 320(T). Sighted sams or simi Longitude 250-57.0 2, Dd. yerds, sititude 1500 fee Surface’ end patrolled across Posit: 0600 L Letitude 03-2¢.0 1200 L Latitude 2000 L Latitude Miles Steamed - 104 DSCHMBER 21, 1942:- Surface patrol across traffic lan Latitude 05-2 ering 296(T), ran all main engines and clo as 2 destroyers escorting 1 (Contact "o. 15), possibly a transn: on base cours2 110(7) at speed 15 kn doy of nearest DD about 60 P. With visibility prevailing, dstem ined dawn sutmerged attac! aieCONFIDENTIAL U.SiS. SPZARFISH DsCsMBaR 21, 1942 - Cont'd 0430 L - At range 6000 yards, when about 50 decrees on port Sow of nearest destroyer, sighted 2 subchasers {Contact No. 16) in Latitude 03-35 S, Longitude 161-06.5 #, bearing 5 end 15 degrees on starboa bow, range ‘about 4000 yards, on opposite per: course (310 T). Altered course in attemt to run Ground stbchasers, but either they.or the neer ertort sighted us, ‘Transport and fer escort changed Course to westward, while near destroyer snd sub- CPuner headed for us. At 0448 L, subrerged to peri- Scope depth and changed course to 160(T), to inter= cept transport should it zic back to its bess course. Destroyer, tracked by sound, passed well astern of us ‘nd not sighted through periscope. Subchaser pases | ane wn end continved on northwesterly course. Shifted $b fi periseove and decreased depth to 52 feet to thetk bn destroyer whos screws hed faded out astern of us. Sighted nothing through periscor Sinity decreased due to-passing clouds. At 0515 1, while searching, heard.depth charge explode about 1600 yerds asterm. Sound reported ser up and élosing. Still couldn't see 0D periscope. While going deep, received eherge, much closer. Destroyer rer gntil 0615 L, during which time 2 more dropped at estimated ranges of 300 and © Periscope depth. Sighted AMAGIRE cless pearing 275(T), distant 7000 yerds, 9: Gourse, at speed of 15 knots. No ot sighted. Sighted mast of subchaser or torpedo dost, (Contact No. 17). in Latitude 03-15.8 S, Longitude 151-06.8 2, remge 18,000 yards, on easterly cours: mots. Disappeared at 1110 L. * Sighted sudchaser (Contact No. 16) in Letit Oacs2.28, Longitude 150-58.5 2, range soout 10,000 garde, on course 300(T) at ged 18 knots. Closed {e's0G0 yards to observe.. Ship appeared to be about 260.300 bons, Diesel powered, with high speed screws, Gne low stack, one mest, gun forward, and depth Charge rack aft. Very low in water. At yerds Fenes, subchaser headed directly for Went to 200 feet while subcheser pas: without changing speed and continued Posit: 0600 L Latitude 03-26.2 © 1200 L Letitude 05-26.1 S 2000 L Latitude 03-37.8 S Miles Steamed - 89.8 Fuel - 12CONFIDANEIAL U.S.S . SPJARFISH DECSMBIR_g2 Surface patrol across traffic lanes 1 LAMBERT. Visibility good exceot durin reins. Sighted apparent. puff of smoke bearing 318(T). Inves- tigated area but sighted nothing. Sighted smoke (Contect No. 19) fron 2 ships in Leti- tude 03-42 S, Longitude 150-23 E, bearing 352(7), Tenge probably 25,000 yerds, on easterly course at 1s knots. Unsuccessfully attempted to close range until dawn. Shipe not sighted. Submerged for patrol across traffic lees leading to CAPE LAMBERT. Sighted smoke, identified as patrol ship (Contact No. 20) of trawler type (length 100 feet, 200-500 tons) circling in position Letitude 03-53.5 S, Longitude 150-56.5 2. Observed trawler which man- Suvered in tight circles for about 10 minutes, letting out puffe of heavy black smoke, and then Stoadied on © course for about 5 minutes, returning to original position to resume eireling; si 10 knots. At 1048 L, trawler stopred smoking cleared area on easterly course. Patrolled this Vicinity during day but sighted nothing. It is possible that trawler wes operating In conjunction with enemy submarine reported this erea. Sighted smoke in Latitude 03-37.0 S, Longitude 150-45.5 3. Ran toward until identified es destroyer or CHIDORI class torpedo boat (Contec course 110(T) at speed 12 knots. 80 got ahead for submerged attack. At 2333 L, Pane about 8000 yards, engl2 on bow about 5-10 degrees starboard, submerged for attack and headed for terget. Posit: 9800 L Latitude 03-50.5S Longitude 1200 L Letituie 03-55.0 S$ Longitude 150-54.0 3 2000 L Latitude 05-47.6 S Longitude 150-48,0 2 Miles Steaned - 99.5 Fuel Used - 795U.S.S. SPEARFISH Submerged, conductihe ao-roach on en or torpedo boat. Nothing sigh tedtu: nor could sound hear prosellers Teported faint propellers, whi s minutes, doad ahead (om course 290(4)). nothing. At O110 L ana 0180 L. < Propeller noises lasting for 34 minut bearing. At 0250 L, surfacsd, nothing 0604 L = Submrgea for day patrol. 1448 L - Sightea single mast of torpedo boat or subchaser | (Gontact No. 22) in Latitude O5-25.2°5, Lovet rene 151-01.8 E, which Passed out of visible ranee on golirse 300(T), at estimated speed 15 ino Closed thet area but no ‘other ships sighted. 1951 L - Surfacea. Posit: 0800 L batitude 05-428 8 Loneitude 150-54.6 3200 L Latitude 03-3473 5 Loneitude sols 2000 L Latitudd 03-3018 8 To: 5 Miles Steamed - 73.5 Fue ER FECEMBER 24, 1o4e paurolling across traffic lanes, visibility reir to poor with intermittent rains. Thro wh rainstorm sighted CHIDORT torpeio Subehaser (Contact No. 23) in Latitus 6 Longitude 150-36.0 3, directly astern, 8000-4000 varas, ‘course 110(7), s io after tubes resdy, opene’ ran; course for 50 port track ster: At estimated range 4000 yards, target and headed for us. Submerged’and ©. charge. “No charges dropped. Torne in vicinity until 0330 L. Dia no Dut slowed or stonped oc casiona ll Periscope depth. Heavy rain. Visibility zero. Surfeced in rain and charged batteries. worked to Borthward to conduct submerged patrol off vectors end DJAUL ISLAND , Submerged. ENCLOSURE (1)ONFIDENTEAT, U.S-S. SPHARFISE (DECIMBER 24, 1942 - Cont'a) 1801 L - Sighted what amreared to be puff of snok Latitude 03-08 S, Longitude 150-40.3 2. toward, but not sighted again. 1950 L - Surfaced ana patrolled south of pas: TINGWON and NeW HANOVIR ISLANDS. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-18.1 Ss 1200 L Letitude’ 03-16.9 S . _2000L Latitude 03-13.7 S Miles Steamed - 64.6 Fi DSGJMBER 25, 1942: - Surface and submerged patrol across treff South and southwest of NEW HANOVER. Heavy rain during early morning. 1305 L - Sighted smoke in Latitude 03-02.0 S, Longitude 150-12.6 B, distant about 15-20 miles, and headed for it. 1407 L = Identified masts of convoy (Contect No. 24), consist- ing of 4 AKs (similar LIMA MARU) escorted by a CHIDORI class torpedo boat. Formation, in two Tagged columns about 1000 yerds apart (aistance between ships of each column about 500 yards) with- torpedo boat on station about 500 yards ahead en midway between the two columns, zigzagzhe courses between 230(T) and 330(T) at aeea u knots. Sea smooth but no plenes observdd,' §4 ap- proached on various courses at high speed to-regein Position ahead of formetion upon complotion of each zig. During approach, one 2ig was observed to lest 5 minutes, while another lasted 16 minutes. 1502 L - When on firing course for 80 P track, shot, 2000 yards from track and about go for firing bearing, formation 290(T) to 330(T). Had decided to fir: at each ship of neerest colum, using lo: Spread and zero gyro, swinging shio a obtain correct lead angle for seco with Wik. Z torpedoes, it hed been the TDC could not be’used to match ¢: load on clutch. During zig, the leading column started to overlap rear AK of fer colum. ENCLOSURS (4)COMPIDENT IAL U.S-S. SPEARFISH (DECIMBSR 25, 1942 - Cont'd) 1506-101 Firea 4 torpedoes on 110 port track et tar; by’ the 2 overlepping AKs which were in lir ing, seperated by 1000 vards, with leading ship of near column slowly vassing reer ship of far 5 Used longitudinal spread with 10-14-10 second firine intervals, zero grro angles, and rences about 2500 and 3500 yerds. Depth settincs Sound reported. all torpedoes: runnine nozelly completion of firins, targets wore cbous one-hel? overlapped and one minute leter overlapped. At this tine observed to: heading for us, probably having seen bubble which wes much larger then . Targets had not altered course. vent deep end rigged for depth charge. At 1509:25 heard very loua torpedo explosion followed by rip>ing end tearing Sounds. At 1510:39 heard second torpedo explosion followed by many light explosions. At 1511:50, three depth charges spaced 20 seconds apert end distant about 500 yards. Torpedo boat not pinging so cheriged course end ren silent. Loud crackling sounds and water disturbances froi direction of torpedoed ships could be heerd through hull for 15 minutes after firing. It is believed thet one hit was obtained on each of the tio AKs. Sound tracked one torpedo until it exploded, then picked up another torpedo end tracked it until it exploded, efter which no torpedoes were heard running. Torpedo boat remained in vicinity for 30 minutes, maneuvering at verious speeds, employing listening search. No further depta charges were droped. Position of attack: Latitude 02-56.1S, Longit we 149-55.2 EB. Periscope depth, about 3 miles from firing posi Distinguished masts of two AKs and ti boat on course of 030(T), at renge of 6 niles ently heading for Nii HANOVER. Could not tuo other AKs. Cleared area to south aireraft search. Sound reported echo-ranging, & second interval, 23-24 Kes. Sighted mast and suner f torpedo boat (Contact No. 25) bearin 15,000 yards, on mortheasverl: cour: speed 8-10 knots, in Letitude 03-06.4's, 150-07.7 8. Out of sight at 1930 L. Surfeced and patrolled across traffic lenes, working to southward. ZNCLOSUR: (2)CONPTDENTIL U.S.S.° SP2ARFISH (DECINMBER 25, 1942 - Cont'd) Posit: 0800 L. Latitude 02-58.2 S Lon/itude 149-47.1 1200 L Latitude 02-55.4 S Longitude 149-55.8 2000 L Latitude 05-11-35 S Lon-itude 150-00.8 Miles Steamed - 78.2 Fuel Used - 461 DSCIMBER 26, 1942:— Surface and submerged patrol across J1PA aL traffic lanes. Weathsr hazy. Water surface flat calm. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-29.5 S Longitude 1: 1200 L Letitude 03-25.6 S Lonzituae 2000 L Latitude 03-36.0 S Lone Miles Steamed - 105.6 Fuel DECEMBER 27, 1942: oo10 L Surface patrol across traific lanes. - Decoded CTF-42 NR 55*B relative shift of ereas en ordering SPSARFISH to srea #ASY (S.B.), east of Longitude 151-00 B. Set requisite course. = Sighted black object (Latitude 03-24.3 S, Longitude 150-42.2 2) which epzeared to be small A/S patrol (Contact No. 26), bearing north, distant ebout 3 miles. Only one bearing could ve telen vefore object was obscured br black clouds end no further contact could be made, - Sighted aircraft flere a great distance to the northeast. This flare illuminated that area for about 10 seconds. - Submerged and continued northeastward to enter new area, fix having shown a westerly set. = Sighted AICHI type 97 N Sé floatplene in Latitude 05-41.3 S, Longitude 151-15.0 2, bearing 104(T), distance about 2 miles at altitude 1000 feet, appar- ently searching area. Surfaced and proseedsd eastward. 17 = ENCLOI (..)CONRIDENTIAn U.S.S. .SPEARFISH (DECuMBSR 27, 1042 - Gontta) 2245 L = Heavy intermittent rains set in. 2306 L- Sightéd lichts of ship (Contact No..27) 4 08-38.9 S, Loncitude 151-46.0 8, beer ins distant 3-6 miles on northwesterly course. gated end determined ship to be hospital snip, carrying correct merkings. sl oe Posit: 0800 L Latitude 08-52.8S Longitude 1200 L Latitude 03-36.5 S Lonsitude 15: 2000 L Latitude 03-40.0 S fon. Miles steamed - 64.8 Surface patrol enroute dawn position N.i. of wATOM ISLAND. Heavy intermittent rains end overcast sky reduced visibility to 1000-2000 yards. Position uncertein, but decided to maintain S.z. course, evading patrols as possible, visibility being in our favor. At 0400 L, visibility increased although @ thick mist coveted RABAUL area. Submerged in estimated position 6-8 miles VATOS ISLAND . 3 searchlights vicinity RABAUL turned on for Seconds. Numerous searchlight s vicinity RABAUL. Sky over RABAUL wes red glow, although thet still covered ‘bv low-hanging black clouds. aroun¢ is very hazy and sea flat calm. Sound reported pinging beering 383(T}, on 22 Ke 10, 7, and 2 second intervals, hand keyir nothing. Sighted 5 small ships resembling trewle. about €000 vards in line of bearing, yards apart, on easterlv course, Lati ta Longitude 152-14 3 (Contact No. 28). Zach seemed to take turns pinging. After im maneuvered to avoid, since the fornation be working south. ENCLOSURE (4)CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SPEARFISH. fe ‘DECAMBER 28, 1942 - Cont'd) DECMBER 26, 1942 - Cones’ oe40 L - Heard pinging to S.S. end stented to on" ships ieertact No. 29} similer to above, in line of S.By (Contect aigvant ebout S miles (Latitude 04-9) 2 course rae 152-18 #), cach alternately pinging & penoscoond intervals. Stood to westward @ brigheast to get estern of pingers end cov’ fic lane from RABAUL to KAVIENG. Sienved masts of 4 torpedo boats (Contact 0, 30) testing 248(T) on northwesterly course, O15 peer ¢5,000 verds. These shige passed hur? apott gh speeds (Latitude 05-55 S, Longitude 2 2-01 B Surfaced end patrolled north and south across traffi lanes. Posit: 0800 L Letitude 03-58 1200 L Latitude 05-54 2000 L Latitude 03-45 Miles Steamed - 99-9 CAMBER 29, 1942: ~ Surfece patrol ecross traffic lene tr EATLING. Decdded to submerge at dawn 0 Taw. of WATOM ISLAND to evade A/S petrols. ‘Overcast Natit moonrise when visibility improved. Rein over RABAUL. Submerged. Position unce: Heav’ poor visibility, which continues inte % ttentl Pproughout: the dey. Nc sign of air reid on RAI AIGHI type 97 NSE floatplene in Le Stents “Longitude 151-50 E, bearing 242(7) » 4 clouds AUL- ude stant Oreet a imiteayammtituse 1000 feet, on northerly count: Surfaced and patrolled across traffic lenes. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 05-56 S Loncitace 1200 L Latitude 03-525 1b 3000 L Latitude 03-40S Le Niles Steamed - 84.0 : Fuel DECSMBIR BO, 1042!- DECEMBER SO, 1942) Surface patrol during dark, submerged durine daylight. 0505 L ~ Sighted searchlight, parachate flers® » & fire in direction RABAUL. Displey laste? iaCONFIDENTIAL | (DECR'BSR 394 194 Posit: 0800 L Latitude 05-55 S Longitude 1200 L Latitude 03-45 S$ Lonzit 2000 L Latitude 05-42 S Miles Steamed - 74.6 DEGHMBSR 31, 194i Surface patrol across traffic lanes northwest of WATOM ISLAND. Occasional overcast vith interrittent reins. Sighted CHIDORI tyne torpedo boat e 352(T range 7000 vards on easterly course, sncie on bor about 60S, in Latitude 03-42.5 S, Lo: A fev minates later, distingzished o ships end two escorts. Veriable visi in and out of scattered clouds precluded of closing renge undetected for surface a cided to run ahead, while obtaining o speed, end composition; until visibility increased or decreased sufficiently for either periscope or su fece attack. ustimated convoy's course as 115(T), speed Convoy (Contact No. 31) composed of 2 8 end 1 small tanker in a staceered column, with 4 CHIDORT type torpedo boats stationed ebout 500-1000 yerds on beams of leading and rear ships in col: About, this time convoy wes lost to view in feirly heevy rainstorm, so set course for enemy's estimated 0500 L position. At 0330 L, visibility improved and moon- light periscope attack es believed possible. Picked up leeding AK of convoy bearing 310(T), range 000 yards, on course 115(T), angle on bow estinated at is 8. Scattered clouds, but moonlight visibility good to excellent, so in view of present favorable position, decided ettack submerged inmedictely rather then proceeding to enemy's dawn position. Submerged for approach. At 0420 L, having sighted nothing through periscope and believing convoy to have zigced away, closed track on normal avvroach course until souhi vickod up screws. ‘At 0450 L, sighted leading AI at estimated range of 2000-3000 yards and chenged to course for 90 S track, streight shot with second AK as target. Two leading escorts had passed eheed end leading AK wes too-close to firing bearing to allow tim for change to firi course. Visibilite was decreasing re>iily and oiter escorts could not be seen, About o: jute later = 20 - BNCLOSURS (4)CONFIDENTIZL U.S.S. SPHARFISH (DECHMBSR Sl, 1942 - Contra) formation zigge? towerd to vstimated:c of 160(7) and secon AK passed about 200-300 yards aleed while we were swinging right to open track on the last ship in column. Swung per isco: on CHIDORI escort which hed been on st: arter of formation, and sighted it dt-range of 200-360 yerds with a 5 degree starboard angle on box. Lovere: Deriscove and starte | coins dep. Torredo dot passed overhead as we Were pessing 70 feet. This approach did not help the morsle. Position of at- tempted attack at C502 L - Latitude 03-51.5 S, Longitude 151-57 2. Sighted outline of ships still on course 160(T). Continued submsrged patrol across treffic lmes. Surfaced and patrolled line between KALIZI HARBOR and WATOM ISLAND . Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-565. 1200 L Letitude 03-50. 2000 L Latitude 03-50 1 Milés Steamed - 80 Fuel Used - 536 0 8 Longitude 0 S Loncitide 0 Surfece patrol between KALINI HARZOR a Intermittent rain with much cloudiness around horizon. 4 Sound reported serews (105 RPI) bearing 135(7). Thirty seconds later sighted CHIDGRI class torsedo boat in Lititude 03-34 5, Longitude 151-51 3, conine out of rein cloud, bearing 145(7), rence 1200 on opposite peralicl cours (300(T)) at 10 knot: Angle on bow at sighting wes 30 star>oard. (Contect 0. 32). Made torpedo tubes ready, ba: tarboard and went ahead full on port screw to to position for straight bow shot, but tarcet was past firing beering end we couldn't twist fast 2nouch to catch up. With range avout 400-500 yerds and our bow not quite pointing about 5 degrees abaft torpedo boat's stern, they soperently saw us, as 3 or 4 Japs, waving flashlights, were scen moving aft. vent ahead full speed and submerged, passing about 600 yar: astern. The 0.0.D., upon first sighting the ship, started the swing toward and got tubes ready. Trying to get lead angles set on gyros, while tubes vere being made ready, would have complicated the situation. Time from sighting until we submerged was about 3 minutes. After submerging, sound picked up screws well abeft beam. Screws then. faded.o:t or stopped - no depth charges were dropped. - 21 ENCLOSURE (4)OONFIDENTTAT, SPSARFISH ONETDENTEAT, (JANUARY 1, 1943 - cont1a) At periscope depth 15 minutes aft: See noth ing due to heave rain. end so many failures, becoming. discouraged: Heavy rain Fomin submerged end take a blow. matic gyro-setting equipment was’ k. Siehted type 95 single-Licat seaplans i 05-88 S, Longitude 151-5¢ 3, bearine 276 #000 yards, altituds 1500 fet, on northers? Tene, Sound revorted scho-ranging 7-10 second intervals, hand-ke ying, besrin, 188(7). fishted 2 trewler-type patrol ships (C-atact xo. 33) in Tetitude 08-42 8, Loncitude 1si-sc i. ‘o aring 2) , Tange 12,000 yards on easterly tous ce peter, Mots Ho other shins sighted sstem or Patrols. Petrol ships out of sight at 1030 1. Sighted seme or enother typs 95. single-floot sea Plone in Latitude 03-44 S, Loneituds 1512, Ag 270(T), renge 8000 varas, on southeri Bent to 140 feet for 20 minutes whon vis observed: to decrease altitude and head: tion. Surfecce petrollod to northwest slong traffic lanes. 2 Posit: 0600 L Latituas 1200 L Latitude Longit 2000 L ‘ Latituds 03-3 Longi tua. Milos Steamed - 73.4 Fuel Ysod - RY 2, 1943:~ JANUARY 2, 1945: Surfaco patrol elone traffic ienes to nortimest of WATOR ISLAND. Sighted destroyer or toreio boat (¢: ja tetitude 03-19.7 s, Longitude 15)<>. #S8(7), range 6000 yaras, course 100(7), tots. Ship vessed at minimun renee of end was out of sight at 0040 L. Investi but sighted no other ships, GieRESE smoke of convoy (Contact No. 34) in Letituse 05-28.2 S, Longituds 151-36.3 2, bearing 104(T), aoe ranes oo Yards. Determined convoy to cousict of two large APs or AKS (similar LyoNS wARU) {0 column, - 82 - AMCLOsURE (i)CONFIDENT U.S.S. SPsARFISH (JANUARY 2, 1943 = Cont'd) escorted by 2 CHIDORI tyne torpedo boats, one ahead of column and one on port quarter of roar AK. For- mation course 280(T), speed 9-10 knots. Submerged for approach, in position about 8000 vards dead shead of convov. Convoy easily sighted through periscope because of smoke. Commenced approach on leading AK on starboerd treck angle. At 0525 L, formation zigged to course 310(T), so crossed ahead for 90 port track, zero gyro stern tube shot. Shifted target to rear AK and set torpcdoes et 6 and 8 feet so as to have chance of hittix quarter of reer ship,.sho:lé set-up perm count of 64 RPli on target. Fired 4 torpedoes on 90 port’ track, zero gyro angle, at estimated range 1500-1800 yards. Used longitudinal spread and firing intervals of 9-11-20 seconds which aimed torpedoes 50 feet aliead or bow, foremest, mai>— mast, end about 75 feet aft of stern. Observed target during firing but went deep immediately upon firing lest torpedo because rear escort was ebout 800 yards on my port quarter and impulse bubbles and torpedo tracks were raising en unusual commotion in the phos- phorescent water. Two minutes and 1 second efter firing first torpedo or one minute and 21 seconds after firing last tornedo, heard loud explosion ac- companied by usual ripping and teering sounds. These crackling sounds could be heard for 15 minutes after initial explosion. Position of attack, Latitude 03-25.8 S, Longitude 151-21.6 3. AKs were similer to LYONS MARU. Depth charge sttack sterted. This attack was carried out very deliberately, six charges, being dropped at intervals verying from 2 to 10 minutes. Zscort did not echo-range but slowed or stopped to listen. All cherges seemed to explode between 200-500 yards astern. Last charge exploded at 0610 L, but escort’ remained in vicinity until 0700 L. Periscope depth sbout 5 miles from attack position. Obsorved terget dead in water on fire with smoke Tising from stern. Superstructure and masts of tor- pedo boat clso sighted, apparently staniins by. While passing depth 60 feet, coming up to check on target, received two aerial depth bombs which ox- ploded ‘about 600 yards eway. ‘lent to 200 fect and changed course. ~ 23 = ENCLOSURE (g ENN EAL. U.5.S4 SPEARFISH (JANUARY 2, 1945 ~ Cont'd) 0838 L - While at 200 feet, received string of depth bombs which landed close and shook ui ship. Cleared area tc southeestward to ch fuel and air leaks. Periscope depth. - no sign of target or escort. Gontinned submerged patrol to southwer?, scross traffic lanes. Surfaced. Heavy rain, poor visibility. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-2 1200 EL Letitude 03-3: : 2000'L Latitude 03-4 Miles Steamed - 82,8CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SPAARFISE JANUARY 3, 1945:- Surface and submerged patrol across tr: between CAPS LAMBSRT and “ATOLL ISLAND. rough seas, end poor visibility throushc During daylight, visibility increased to about 5000 yards for a period of about one hour. Posit: 0800 L Letituie 03-508 Longitude 151-40 1200 L Latitude 03-46 5 Longitude 151-40 2000 L Latitude 03-51 S n gi 151-35, Miles Steamed - 66.1 JANUARY 4, 1943: - Surfeco and submerged patrol vicinity of Jenes from N2¥ IASLAND to RABAUL. Poo: continued. Heavy intermittent rain storss. seas made depth control difficult. Sighted ‘masts and stack (Contact small patrol tepe ship previously in Latitude 03-43 S, Longitude 151 about 6000 yards, on course 110(T), seed Angle on bow ab Sighting 110 P. Unsuccess attempt to close. In sight for about 10 « obscured by rain. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 1200L Latitude 2000 L Letitude Miles Steamsd - 65.7 JANUARY 5, 1943: - Surfece patrol across traific lane between KALIHI EARBOR and CAFS TAWUI. Poor visibility. Submerged about 6 miles southwest of Lai BAY. Torrential rains with zero visibili ve persisted during pest 2 hours and showed no sicns of letting up- Dawn position about 4 miles south of LAIBAN BAY. Conducted submerged patrol across lene fron this DOIN’ to GAPS Tal. Heard 4 aircraft bombs explode at som= distanc Sighted nothing through periscope. Verieble visi pilitr during day. Surfeced for enotter night of rain and poor visi- bility. = 255 xl(CONFIDEN'TTAL U.S.S. SE (gauwaRy 5, 1245 - Conta) 2300 L - Decoded OTF-42 dispatch 69-B directin: to shift to area aASY (SOUTI/SST).at sun @ January, and-to leavs for PIARL at sun 11 January. Posit: 0600.L Latitude 03-40 6 . Longitirie 1200 L Latitude 05-35 S Loncitu 2000 L Latitude 05-52 S Lonel tu Miles Steamed 71.4 JANUARY 6, 1943: - Surface patrol in estimated position about 8-10 miles off coast Nsw IRSIAND. Visibility 5 yerds. During lest fow days » heavy Southeasterly current hes been expsri end sea from west and northest has siderably. Submerged, not heving been cbl2o to soz more 300 yerds for past hour, due’ black clouds Procesded to take up dawn nosition south of LAGAN BAY Sound reportsd fest light screws which » aboard to southward. Heavy rain. sce about 2000 verds, nothing in sicht. of screws was, similar to that of patrol viously heard this vicinity. during devlicht between 0 ana 2000 y Surfaced and patrolled across traffic 1 Decoded CTF dispatch 97-B, reletive GY by SARGO, + Since heavy" persisted during early mornin . BLANCH3 BAY, decided to patrol across en from reported 1500 L position to RABAUL durin and to take up dewn position about 4-6 mile of CAPS LAMBIRT light. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-38 S-: Longitude 152-04 1200 L’ Latituie 05-40 S Lon itude 152-00 2000 L Latitude 03-455 1 ude 151-49 Miles Steamed - 65.6 BNCLOSUES (..)CONFIDENTIAL JMOBRY 7, 1943: - Surface patrol ecrogs treffic lanes, enroute daw position north of GAPE LALBERT licht. Sound reported lisht fest screws bearins 552 rela- tive. Excslient visibility, nothine siznted. Sound contect lost after a few mo: = probably false contact. Submrg2d in estimated position about @ niles north of CAPS LABART light, ond patrolled north and south during dey. Visibilitr fair with overcast sxy. Surfeced and patrolled across treffic lanes to northward. Much rain. Decoded CIF dispatch 02-B containing instructions relative route for clearing area ani PSARL. Posit: 0600 b Letftude 03-57 S Loncitu 1200 L Latitwie 03-55 S Lonzi 2000 L Latitude 05-55 S Kiles Steemed - 60.3 JANTARY 8, 1045: urface petrol dur “ind from northwest increased abot C5 seas ith much rein which continued th: Benth control et veriscoze deta dizficvlt tein. cp : x Posit: COC L Letitude 03-17. 1200 L Letitude 03-15-29 $ 2000 L Latitude 03-25.5 5 Wiles Steamed - 74.2 te 21 JANUARY ©, 1943: Surfece patrol ¢uring night, submerged < light. At C2l1¢ L sigited lights end merkin, hospital ship (Contact jc) beering 137(7), dis- tant 4 miles on courss 290(7) at spee: Gstimated vosition, Latitude 03-32.¢ 151-10.8 Z. At about 0600 L entered Goniucted submrged patrol in estinat: position of tor to RIBAUL. Geavr sees, overcest, «ith practic~ ally continuous rein, - 2 moto tz ()U.3.S. SPEARWISE $, 1943 - Cont'd) Posit: 0800-L. Latitude 03-20 Long: 1200 L Lstituce 03-25 3 Loné: 2000 L Latitude 03-35 3 Longitude 15 Hiles Steamed - 75.9 Pwel Used - 442 giles south of Did but visibility fair. Sighted subcheser (Contact N 37) d@istent 7CCO rerds on ~asterl* course et mots (21 RPM) in vosition Le SNUARY 11, 1945: - face pe se across trefiic lanss 22t2er ANCVER, ané Rad. 3 eir at. Interni tie! hac™ weether F Gyro follow-up system out of Obte in: iz on WaitU.8.8- SPEARFISH RY 12, 1945;~ Surfede patrol dietring area: Heavy rein, bility 0-2000 yerds. Sightsd slash oi light position Letitude 03-52 8, Light Gisappeared inuediate except during fleshes of lish ta he sighted subehaser or torped 060(T) but this sighting wes not confirned. Sighted lights ent markings of hospitel shi Southerly course, estinetec range about 5000 verds. Position Latitude C2-20 5, Lonzi 149-28 # (Contact Fo, 38). Submrged abot 12 riles sor between TINGHCN and NeW HANOVER. Rain dev and no len@ sighted. Grro follow Surfaced and proceeded across area Snroute point Latitude 0-00, Lon; in accordance routing instractions. Posit: 0800 L Letitude 02-15'S 1200 L Latitude 02-14 5 2000 L Latitude 02-11 3 Niles Steamed - 150.9 13, 1943:- Surfece ané submerge? 3etrol eercss enroute PiARL. Ren north ani south in position Letituce 02-00 Longitués 152-00 @, while transaitting SPSARFIS: dispatch 121548 to OTF FORT!-T.0 reporting resvlis. Recaipt obtained at 0545 L. In accordance with Confaskior FORTY-Tic opora #360 operational control passed to ConfasiFor SSVEN. Posit: 0600 L Latitude 01-50 1200 L Latitude 02-00 2000 L Latitude 02-17 Miles Steamed - 150.6 JANUARY 14, 1943:- Surface and submerged petrol, crossing sree EASY (NORTH) enroute Pu:: CSCO L Latitute 1200 L Lssitude 2000 L Letdthde-01-35.5 Miles Steane¢ - 178.5 etrol enroute PEARL. Posit: 0800 L Letitude 0-42.5 1200 L Uetitude 0-30.0 S 2000 L i Hiles Steamed - 255 JANUARY 16, 1945: Surface patrol enroute PAARL. 0945 L - Made radar contect at 10 miles, decrees not sig-t plane due scattered low clouds ces2 L - Sighted 2 om, Latitude C1-22.5 ™, Longitude 164-4 150(7) on westerly course ct rong tude 1500 fest. Thought but plene when or our wake, da ply $1000 L. At 1030 ‘ttent reins, lested ive eurfeced « Letituee Surfece patrol enroute PEARL. ding night, ovaresst éu; 0848 L + Odteimed radar contac? at 0652 L - ‘Mth recer range 8 miles, lockout sev clene (uni¢en~ tified) bearing 100(7) in Letitude Cs-14 Lon {tude 166-40.0 8. Plane inediatel: in scattersd clouds. = 30-U,S.8. SPEARFISH 17, 1943 + donhia) 0855 L - Submerged when radar renze indicated 4-1/2 niles. Plane not sighted. ‘Threa main engine oxhoust valves (inboard end outboard) leeke¢ very bedly, necessi- teting continuous puxping. Reeaived 2 depth bombs, distent about 500 verds. Altereé course. Drain puxp quit, Satisfector~ suction » abls with trim pueo. Bucket bric weter fro: main motors br dumpi tanks, until drain pump ba p Ronained sttbmerged until 1745.1, due rd: tions plenes 3-1/2 te 5 miles various times turone! ovt day. Woon surfacing, rubbed in oll oxnevst valves and proceeded. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 03-08. de 186-24.0 1200 L Latitude y tude 168-44.0 Z000 L Lavituae 3 Miles Steamed - 262.3 JANUARY 16, 194: Surfece patrol enroute PEARL, during nia! merged during davlight because of visibility con~ ditions and to evede plane patrol which seems to heve us fairly well spotted in. Posit: 0800 L Latitude 04-16.2.N Loncitude 171-31.0 B 1200 L Letitude 64-22.5 N Longitude 171-45.5 B 2000 L Latitude 04-400 N Lonzitude 172-19.2 8 Miles Steamed - 196.9 Fuel Used - 2243 petrol enroute PEARL. Set clocks to 2.D.(-)12, Obtaine? rader contect at 15 miles, Sk clear with few scattered clouds. Sumerged when reader renge decreased to 7 Plane not sighted. (Letitule 04-44.3 1, Li 175-25.0 3). At 140 feet, with course changed 40 degrees, Teceived two depth Doubs which exploded alaost Simalteneously about 75 rerds avay end caused con- Siderable minor damage. Inereespd depth and cleared - Sle mc0.023 (.)WsSiS1 SPEARFISH (JANUAR 19, 1943 + Cont'a) area. Remeined submerged until dusk to check and repair derece, Tisehle. tsolete 280 volt crouna elicve? se bo in eusillery power cmtrol circuit. “Posit: 0800 1200 2000 Letitnte 04-44.1 N Latitude 04-38.0 1 Latitude 04-4835 ? ngitude 175-14.5 itude 175-28.5 Longitads 175-09.3 Miles Steamed - 242.8 Fusl Used’ - 3697 JANUARY 20, 1045: Surfecs end submerged patrol enroute Cvereast during day with low clouds. Femedied. 230 volt ground found to be of grounds in 2 periscone usper wiring end in main motors due to severe] brushes and brush-holaer Posit: 0600 H 1200 Hi 2000 Ii Latitude (5-55.2 7 Latituze 06-02.0 Latitute 06-25.0 hjles Steamed - 209.6 2u 1943: Surfeco patrol Chenzad tine t Transmitted SPssRFIS relative 2ositd 500 en@ 1000 a4 212045. Posit: 0600 ¥ to Conducted 6 hour enroute Piiki, Zed. (#)12. dispaton ons. §nside JOmis' le circles. Subrarged for ons hour vz0n sic Plans in Lesity: 11r62.3 3 Tenge 7 miles, eltitute course. Posit: 080c ¥ 1200 ¥ 2000 7 hilos Steaucd 281.8 #210es. Receirt obtaine batter: di scher! Lon: Lon ity tude 17B-26.0 2 tude 178-42,0 2 {tude 179-20.6 3 to Comsubpac: and PEARL 172-16.0 197-2728 wie 175-55.2 © @ = 4510eon 3.8.8; SFLARFISH JANUARY 22, 1945:- Surface patrol enroute PEARL. © Posit! 0800 ¥ Letitude 15-27-1 N Longitude 170-09.2 © 1200 ¥ Latitude 13-50:8 N Longitude 169-3410 W = 2000 Y Latitude 14-49.2.N Longituce 167-59.0 W Miles Steamed - 265.7 Fuel Used - 4235 JANUARY 25, 1945 :- Surface patrol enroute PEARL. 0100 ¥ - Changed time to Z-D.(+11). Posit: 0800 K Latitude 15-56.0 N Lor 166-07.8 1200 X Latitude 16-22.3.N Lo 165-22.5 ¥ 2000 X Letitrde 17-148 Lcnsitude 163-51.0 Miles Steamed - 269 Fuel Used - 3792 TANTARY 24, 10945: Surface patrol enroute PEARL. Decoded ComfaskFor dispatch 252145 eddresseé to Comtaskunits 7.3.11 and 7.1.8 indicatins enemy sub: merine loceted 15 milés west of our 1730/24 Januery position. Assumed SP@ARFISH Taskunit ao tion to be 7.5.11. Posit: 0600 X Latitude. 16-55.2 N Loncitude 121-47.0 1200 X Latituie 19-24:1 N Lon itude 161-05.2 2000 X Latitude 20-08.0 1 Longitude 160-30.0 W Miles Steamd -°297 Fuel Used - 3480 RY 25, 1941 ‘e Surface patrol enroute PEARL. Hot having received any information regarding entrance rendezvous scheduled 0530 X/25 January, transmi tea SPEARFISH dispatch 251140, informing ComTaskFor SEVEN ‘and requesting instructions. Decoded ComfaskFor SEVEN dispatch 251240 containing Ainstrvetions for rendezvous, and information that enemy submerine DOG FCXED on bearing 212(T) from PEARL. Our present bearing from PsARL is 221(T), distenc > 80 miles. aCLOST:_* CONFIDENTIAL U.S,S- SPZARFISG (JanUaRyY 25, 1943 - Cont'd) 0225 X - 0243 X - Sighted aircraft ilitmination flere bearing 055(T), distant 15 miles. Radar contact with @ plenes distant 6 end 14 miles closing « Sightea running lights of plano in Latitude 20-33.5 5, Longitude 158-50.0 2, bearing 045(T), radar ranze 6 Piles, apparentl© heading for us. Neelized thet our planes were probebly searching for e Peportea this vicinity, and “sondero? ho" distinguich botween enemy end friendly sx>: night. At reder rangs of 3 miles, nlen> < off running lights or éLsappeered into clcu: radar reng2 decreased to 2 =i identification flares us for both plane ané end feded out at 18 miles. route rendezvous. Sighted escort beering 070(T), aista: exthanged recognition signals ané follows Moorea port side to berth S-6, Pearl Harbor, T.H. Completed patrol.CONMIDENETLL, U,S.3. SPSARFISH 2. WEATHER: 2-12 DECEMBER 1942 - Enroute Brisbane, Australis, to Patrol Area Easy South. Sky generally overcast ith 1 from the ‘southeast until react nity of Solomon Islands, ‘then sky cleared and sea was caln. Wind'4 to 7 knots from southeast, shifting through north to northwest when cast 0: liew Irelant Visibility fair to good, decreasing be- cause of surface glare St night during @alm seas around Solomon Islands. Average barometer 30:00 inches, decreas- dng to 29:95 on ep»roaching vetiol erea. Average temperature 84°F. 12-26 DEGSMBIR 1942 - ON STATION - PATROL AR#A ZASY SOUTH. Sky alternetely cleer and cloudy, with loud benks generally around horizon. Daily rain, usually in showers of short @uretion. Wind 1 to 4 knots from north- west. Sea usually celn, with occasional swells from northwest. ‘Visibility feir ‘to good when sky was Clear, but decreas- ing to poor during the cloud~ and squally weather which predominated. & cloud bark covering an arc of about 30° to 40° in azimuth was alyays visiblo in the Southeast end visibility was invariably poorest in that direction. 26 D¥CiBIR 1949 - TL JANUIRY Toss ON STATION - AR#A iasy coum: Sky cloudy and overcast, clea: sionally for periods of’sn hour or longer. Cloud banks norwslly around the horizon, decreasin bility dur ing the day to 2 genera! mexi.uw: of 10,000 yards. At night visibilitr alter- nately good and poor, heavz rain squalls Teducing visibility to zero fre.uentiy. Wind and sea were moderate from the north- west until 6 January, then increased in intensity. Average barometer 29:94. Average temperature 86°F.U,S.S. SPEARFISH (Conta) 1-25 JANUARY 1943 - Znroute Patrol Station to Pearl Harbor, T.H. Sky gonerelly clear with clouds after leaving Ireland. Wind and sea mi the northward until clear o: Archipelago, then shifted to north- east. Sea increased to long swells and wind increased to’ 8-10 knots when east of Makin Island.. Visibility gen~ erally excellent after ‘1 Ireland. Average barometer 29:90. ‘Average temperature 65°F.3. TIDES AND CURRENTS! In area EASY (SO7TIEAST) current of 0.6 Imots on 100° TONAL AIDS: Nene.5. SHIPS SIGHTED: ‘Time 312) EREMY- POSITION, 01-53. 148-51.08 01-47.0S 148-45.18. = 3 DD 02242.5S :: Patrol : 14000 : 149-20, 28 0302.28 :Hospitei: 16000 150208.88 03-18.18 spitel: 24000 150-3762 03-40.35 7000 + 150-57 .85 0-42.45 4000 + 150-653-408 0-42.85 5000 150-46 .3 03.41.08 7000 150-43.28 : 5-35.65 16000 150-45.38 05-50.45 - + 18000 150-39.58 03-26.08 24000 150-36.02 05-28.53. 4000 151-04.08 : _ 4000 8000 03-35.05 :2 SC 4000 151-06.52epee iat U.S.S« SPEARFISH 8. SIGHTED ~ Contiai- see muy | POSITION 151-06.6 & 03-52. 25 150-58, 52 5-42.03 150-23.08 03-53.55 : Trawler 150-56.35 03-57-08 1150-45-58, 03-28.25 151-01.88 3-52.88 150-36 .0z 03-02.05 150-12,62 : 173 05-06 .43 3B ? 150-07.73 03-24.38 : Patrol : 150-42. 28 05-38.98 Hospital: 1 151-48.08 05-54 192-14 04-01 152-16 03-555 152-018 : 7.3. 03-42.58 : 2 AK 151-36.5f = 1 40 473U.SiSi SPEARFISH ‘SHIPS SIGHTED - Cont'd: 1943: TIME : SNE Dats. POST TION, 05-84 8 151-51 E 05-42 S 151-56 & 03-19.78 151-24.18 05-32 3. 151-10.8E 3-19 150-44 3 02-26 149-28Seep U.S.5. SPYARFISH 6. ATRORAYT SIGHTED: 142. t SAICHI -(97N SE): 5000 jame or simi- er to #1. :ALGHI (97N SE: 151-15.0E : Floatpiane 03-51 S :AICHI (97N SE! 151-50 Z : Floatplane 03-39 $ :Seaplane (95) 151-56 EB :Single-float 03-44 5. 151-41 B 01-22.5N : 164-46 EB 03-14 I 168-40 B O4n44.5N : Rei 175-28.08 : Unidentified : 11-08.3N : Probablr U.S 173-36.87 : UnidentifiedPARTICULARS © ng Interval: Firing Ra Torpedo’ Run: Point of Ait Track Angles: Cvro Anglea? Depth Settings: Est. Enemy Course: Est. Enemy Speed: Own Course: on Method of Attack: Tins Zxplosion: veather: Sea: Sound Conditions: ATTACK #1 December 26, 1942 02-58.1 8 149-55.2 B 2 As (LIE MARU) 4k. EB 10 - 14 - 10 2800 2800-3800 Bou - foremast of leeding AK, Mainsest - stern of rear AK. 110 Port 0 (Bow) 8 -10-e8-10 320(T) 10 knots 030(T) 3 knots 62 foot Day submerged. ‘TDC anc Mye.VIIT angle solver. Longitudinal 15-06-10 L 15-09-25 and _: 15-10-39 Clear Smooth Good (7000 y ATTACE # Tanvery 2, 03-25.8 5 151-21.6 2 AK or AP (LYONS LA 4 Mic. X-5 9-11-20 1600 1800 50 feet forema 75 fee 90-Port © (Stern) 6-6-6 - 310(T) 9 knots 220(T) 2.5 kn Slighs sve Fair (5006CONFIDENTIAL 5.8. SPEARFISH 8. aNTT-SUBAARTNG MAASURES: Patrol eraft consisting of CHIDONI type torpedo poste, trawlers, and in onz instance, « motor torpedo boat, ‘appeared to-operate along traffic lanss to and from RABAUL. All traffic was escorted by either torpedo boats or destroyers. Little echo-renging was notictd, patrols end escorts seemed to employ the "slow and listen" procedure. Patrol orcft endvavored to ettract submarine by periodically omitting heavy black smoke. Aireraft patrols were encountered, especially after the presence of the submarine hed been do~ tected proviously by surface craft. ‘ircraft depth- charging wes more accurate than that of surfece craft. Enroute PAARL, while passing botweon AKIN ISLAND end MILI ATOLL, we were sighted on threo occasions, at distencés of 100 to 500 milss from MAKIN. Night air petrols were not encountered.CONFIDENTIAL U.S-S-. SPEARFISH 9, MAJOR DEFZOTS: EXHAUST VALVSE - Inboard and: outboerd main engine exhaust valves sek excassively-on all occasions. unless previously pemporea by slepping end rubbing in. uick dives off the engines are invariably followd by exeess- ive and somatimes dengsrous leakage. Some method of removing carbon and making tight at loa: inboard valves must be devised. Both trim end drain pumps are noisy and unreliable, although overhauled during cach refit. Until *Gxhaust valve leakage can be lessened, en eddition— @l drain pump installed in the sfter cngine room Might, because of the shorter piping inwived, {mprove the present unsatisfactory installation. Location of’ tho pump aft would be ‘cspecially advan- tagcous when tho ship is carrying a heavy down angle aft. {AIN MOTORS: ~ A close aerial depth-chargs dislodged several main motor brushes from-their holders. In No. 3 main motor, the brush spring assombly fell clear of the brush holder into the sump, whilo in No. 4 main motor, two brush spring assemblies wore knocked clear in tho sam2 manner but brushes remained in position without ony spring tension holding them Bgainst the commutator. Recommendstion for alter- ing present installation to provont rcoceurrence will be submitted. MAIN ENGINES - Boaring cep nut (No. 21K.E., No. 9 unit) on inboerd side of the connecting rod backed off 1/2 inch, shearing bress cotter >in, and allowing baring cap to swing down and strike Grosshoad guide. Resultant pounding ruined conn rod bearing, bent conn rod, nd loosened jack bolts on No. 9 and No. 10 main bearings. Main shaft crank journal was scored slightly. On tests following repair, No. 9 main poaring wiped, and upon renewal wiped again. Engine placed in operating condition by reinstell- ing original iio. 9 main boaring, limiting ongine speed to 600 RPM and cutting out No. 9 lower eylind-r. Sa acrowm (&)CONFIDENTIAL U.SsS: SPZARFISH (MASOR DzFSCTS ~ Contd) MAIN ENGINES - Cont'a - Demege caused by conn rod bearing caps not heving been made up tight following an inspection, and substitution of brass for stec] cotter pin. TORP-200_GONTRO} Neither automatic gyro setting nor local power could be employed to set gyro angles on all the Mk X-3 torpedoes in one nest, due to overload on Clutch. Using local hand setting, it was found possible to set predetermined gyro angles simul- taneously on a maximum of two torpedoes in any one nest, but at periscope or greater depths gyro angles could be set only on ons torpedo at a timo. Consequently, the TDC was employed for tracking only, torpedee gyros were sit to zero and fired on boar ing obtained from Mk VIII angle solver. PIPING - - Superstructure piping, including vent risors, is badly corroded. Leaky piping has been ronewed-or patched during each refit but additional leaks Occur after a few weeks patrol and after cach depth-cherging.CONF TOIT IAL U.SiS. SP.3ARFISH * 10. GENERAL REMARKS: Results of this petrol were discoursging. It is felt that suffidient traffic was encountered to warrent more thin two attacks. Methods of track- in and approsth used on previous petrols just @idn't seem to "click." UNTCATIONS: Reception and transmission satisfactory. No serials were missed. Reception generally god, except during rain squalls, when ‘nothing but fell of rain on surface of water could Ye"hesrds Wrile on surfeco petrol, the slow speed serews of enemy petrol ships could’ not be Actected, and during submerged patrol, sane scrow noisos were pick?d up only at comperatively short ranges. SD rader equipment was overhaulcd in BRISBANE end Femarkably successful results obtained. On two Occasions, submerged upon radar contects at ranges of 2 and 7 milos, heaving beon uneble to sight Planes. On both occasions aircraft depth-cherging Occurred very few minutes leter. This is the only petrol that rader cauipment hes operated setis- factorily and it has proved itself invalueb DEPTH CEARGINC In sd@ition to usual gouge broskego snd grounds on IC cquipment, e closs seriel dopth cher pro- duced the following results not before. cxperi 2nce 1: Shattered. ell clectric light steam-tight fittings in tho conning tover. Knocks4 mein motor brushes out of holders. ‘Shattered-¥.C. porcolain bowl. Goused slight Icakege around conning towr door. Gesket epperently not demeged and leakage did not reappear during following dives. -1- moreCONPIDINTLAL: UiS.S. SPZARFISH (DEPTH CHARGING - Cont'd) 5. Dished in gun sight 7. covers, elthough sigh ta and gun operating mechanism not | ~ othotwise effected. irfectively seated mein engine outboard exhaust velves which stopped excossiv Leakege Blew entire gasket completely out of Safety tank main vent valve. Gaskct, undameged, was later found droped ovr, ont valve opereting erm. Partially blow Gasket out of #4 main ballast tenk vent valve « threw oyt of adjustment 2 main vont ard § hull opening electricel inaic:.tor: lights turning from green to red. HBALTH AND MORALS: The hoelth of the crew wes god. One men wes ads meted to the sick list for 12 deys with vonorest Hiscase. About 20% of crew and 3 officers, suffered Gapeesrolonged coughing spells which ned the of sects from Proing cough without nausea or vomiting» These olis, which persisted more or less throughout the sBtrol, aid not incapacitate enyone for suty- tho commanding officer, 4 officers, ond approxi- Tie iy 60 por cent of the crow have beon continu. — Basiy on Wer petrol in the Southwest Pacific ore? ously Qho start of the wer. Tho majority of rofits fines con eccomplished by the ship's force. Am opportunity to visit thelr familics wou)? maintain oppor‘moralo end spirit more then ony other fector- LocIstic DATA: Length of patrol - lijles Steamd -- - - - ~ ~,7481 Motel fuel expended - - - 90503 gals. Total lub. oil expended - - 2940 Fuel consumption ---= 12.08 gels/mile Furl consjensumption --- -. 0.0026 gais/gai FuelFB5-43/A16=3 Care of Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, California. Serial ( 010 ) January 25, 1943. CONFIDENTIAL Fro ‘The Commander Submarine Division FORTY-THREE. To The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet. Via The Commander Submarine Squadron FOUR. Subjeet: U.S.S, SPEARFISH — Seventh War Patrol, Comment one Le ‘The SPEARFISH returned from patrol in poor material condition due-to not having had a complete overhaul since May 1941, The major defects which will require correction before making another patrol are as follows: (a) Completely overhaul all engines; including reblocking No, 4 main engine ani replacing crankshaft in No, 2 main engine, (b) Renew piping in superstucturo; vent risers, 10 1b, blow lines, an’ sections of main induction piping are aoteriorated beyond further patching. (c) Litt ali main motor ani main genc.ator arma- tures for complete overhaul; megger readings on generators ani two motors are below one negohn. (a) Renew five year old min storage battery. USS SPEARFISH, FC5-1,/A16—3 January 27, 1943. Serial ( O14 ) SQUADRON FOUR QONFIDENDIAL_ FIRST ENDORSHENT The Commander Subrarine Sque¢ron FOUR. The Commander Submarine Force, P-cific Fleet. Subject: U.S.S, SPEARFISH - Seventh War Patrol, Comment on, ¥ Forwarded. ENCLOSURE (A)BLAU) wt ope en nt FEB 16 1943 ; By: ~~ 10 te 3(3)/ss/96 Gp tite fe « = i FF12-10/A16-3(5) SUBIARINE FORCE, acre (a2) ony. ce Serial O11 § Care of Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, California, Januery 30, 1943. 987$2 CONFIDENTIAL COMBUBPAG PATROL REFORT NO, 12° U.S.S, SEEARFISH SEVESTH WAR EATROL. From: ‘The Commander Submrine Force, Pacific Fleet. To : Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet. Subject: U.5.5, S@BARPISH (85190) - Report of dar Zatrol. Enelosure: (4) Copy of subject war patroi report and gnelosures thereto. af The U.5-S. SPEARFISH seventh war patrol_was con- ducte@ enroute fron Brisbane to Pearl Harbor, vetveen December 2, 1942 and Jamuary 25, 1943. Thirty-one days of tne total period of fifty-four days were: spent in the patrol areas, 2s Two attacks were mde, the cicht torpedoes fired resulting in three hits for a score of 37.5%. It is unfortunate that the convoy attacked on December 31, 1942, was not fired at, The situation encountered by the SPEARFISH, wherein a last minute "zig tovards" upset the attack, is an old one, It foreibly illustrates the fact that each commending officer must constantly drill hiuself for the unexpected, and be "nontally prepared” for the zig towards him at close quarters, de This subnarine is the fourth one recently arrived from the Southwest Pacific in which the gyro setters have failed, oth eleetrically and by hand, to set the Mark 10 torpedo gyros in a nest of tubes at periscope depth with sea sressure in-the suves, This difficulty has not been encountered with the Mark 1, -tor— pedoes, “Ati this latter type, the ordnance equipment cheek-off list rewvires a daily exercise of gyros to sce that indicator =cgusatérs are following the TDC and settin: gyros correctly. In sonducting this test it is only necessary and advisable to train the gyros through small angles.riLeer ae) BUBUARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET 12 Serial O11 Gare of Fleet Post office, San Francisco, Celifornia, CONIDENTIAL Tanuary 30, 1943. COMSUBPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 127. U.S.S, SPEARFIS# SEVENTH WAR PATROL. Subject: U.5.S, SPHARFISH ($5190) - Report of Seventh var Patrol. 5e SPEARFISH is congratulated on inflicting the fol- owing damage on the enemy: DAMAGED 1 Freighter (LIMA sARU type) 7,000 tons 1 Freighter (LDA MARU type) 7,000 tons 1 Preighter (LYONS NARU type) - 7,000 tons TOTAL = 21,000 tons 6. above damage, and also the dasage inflicted by the SAILFISH on its seventh war patrol (Comsandor Submrine Peree, Pacific Floct, Patrol Report No. 126) vere inflicted pew fore the two vessels joined this force and should be credited on {he records of Commander Submrines, Southwest Pacific Foree. J. H. BROWN, Jr., Acting. DISTRIBUTEON List ITZ, 88 Special: P1(5), ENB(5), Z1(5), Gomsublent (2), X3(1), Comsubsowespac(2), Subschool, W.L. (2)+ EOE E. R. S¥INBURNE, Flag Secretary.ce CSTE gg tt - ieee U.S.3. SPEsRFISH (SS190) - Report of Sigseh var Patrol. Period from 5 June 1943 to 1 August 1943. Operation Order No. 100-43. PROLOGUE Arrived Pearl Harbor on 25 January 1943 on completion of Seventh ‘Yar Patrol. Proceeded to Mare Island on 28 January 1943 for major overhaul. Overhaul completed, degaussed, sound Surveyed, proceeded to Pearl Harbor. Arrived 26 vay 1943. ilinor repairs and adjustments, five days training, including indoctrination depth charging. 1. NARRATIVE: 5 JUNE 1943. 1200( v7) Departed Pearl under escort by P0584. 2025(vi) Escort departed. 6 JUNE 1943. 1000(¥) Sighted friendly A0G and FY on opposite course. 7 JUNE 1943. 0703(W) Sighted air escorts. 0920(%1) Moored at Johnston Island. ‘Topped off fuel, repaired gyro. 1406(W) Underway for patrol station. 8 - 10 JUNE 1943. Proceeding toward area. 11 JUNE 1943 0822(m) Sighted plane, dived. Plane not identified. Plane low, no SD contact. 0900(M) Surfaced. 12 JUNE 1943. 1241(1) Arrived at Lat. 12-38 N., Long. 168-43, Sued patrolled east and west courses. ; Ball cigsCONFIDENTIAL Subjeo Seventh U.S.S, SPEARFISH - Report of EXMKXK var Patrol. 2120(L) 1545(L) 1852(L) 0519(L) 1853(L) 2015(L) 0016(L) 0524(L) 212.7(1) 0900(L) 0125(K) 0450(K) 1843(K) 2300(K) 0454(K) 1850(x) 0458(K) 1907(K) Proceeding toward assigned area. 13 TOME 1943. Entered area seventeen. Bent on three engines. 14 JUNE 1943. Dived for all day submerged patrol. Routined ‘all torpedoes, arilis. Surfaced, went ahead on three engines. Departed area seventeen. 15 JUNE 1943. Entered area sixteen. At Lat. 6-55, Long. 161-50, dived; patrolled. Proceeding toward assigned area at two engine speed. No contact. 16 JUNE 1943. Departed area sixteen. 17 JUNE 1943. Entered area fifteen. Commenéed submerged patrol, course 270°. Surfaced. Steering courses toward moon. 18 JUNE 1943. Submerged, patrolling across tracks from Truk to eastward of Hall Islands. Surfaced, headed to westward of Hall Islands. 1g TONE 1943. submerged, patrolling to westward. Surfaced, set course for wostward of Namonuito Island.CONFIDENTIAL e @ Subject: 0458(K) 1910(K) 0247(K) 0251(K) 0337(K) 0344(K) 0345(K) 0450(K) 1000(K) 1919(K) 0445(K) 0900(K) 1915(K) Sevent: 20 JUNE 1943. Submerged, patrolling west of Namonuito Island. Surfaced. 21 JUNS 1943. Sighted ships bearing 311°(T) to 334°(7). Dived, started approach. Counted 11 to 14 ships. ‘Three passed to northeastward of us, remainder to southwestward. Practically full moon but abov heavy overcast. Shapes plainly visible but char- acteristics impossible to distinguish until close. Barly stages of approach on cruiser, shifted to carrier on his starboard quarter. Fired four torpedoes, all missed. Range and speed probably underestimated, fired late. Maneuvered for position to fire stern tubes at another carrier. Heard four distant explosions, probably torpedoes at end of run. Destroyer coming in on port beam with very small angle on bow. ‘‘ent deep. One sct of screws remained in vicinity but no depth charges No screws heard for about twenty minutes, cane to periscope depth. Destroyer just foruird of starboard beam, angle on bow about 40 port Stopped or going very slowly. after 360° sweep with periscope, destroyer had considerable bow wave And zero angie on bow. ‘fent deep. No Gepth charges. He stayed with us until about 0960 after which no screws were heard. Commenced heading north at periscope depth. Surfaced, headed to eastward of Namonuito Isla: 22 JUNE 1943. Submerged, patrolling toward Truk. Changed course to 090°(T). Surfacea.CONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report of $2Eg2h" 2236(K) Sighted Lutke Island, bearing 109°, distant about 12 miles. 23 JUN 1943. 0443(K) Submerged, patrolling across tracks from Truk to westward of Hail Islands. 1509{K) Sighted masts, started approach. 1611(K) Broke off approach, ship identified ship of about 4500 tons. 1907(K) surfaced. 24 JUNS 1943. 0453(K) Submerged, patrolling to southeast. 1905(K) Surfaced. 25 JUNE 1943. 0046(x) Sighted Chidori type torpedo boat, no other ships in vicinity, avoided. 0440(K) Submerged. 1907(K) surfaced. 26 JUNE 1943. 0221(K) Sighted Chidori type torpedo boat, no ships in vicinity, avoided. 0441(K) Submerged. 1907(k) © Surfaced. 1920-1935(K) Searchlight on Truk. 27 JUNE 1943. 0439(K) Submerged. 1907(K) surfaced.CONFIDENTIAL Subject 0441(K) 1236(K) 1239(K) 1425(K) 1429(K) 1432 to 1514(K) 1522(K) 1624(K) 1838(K) 1925(K) 2352(K) 0234(K) 0320(x) 0400(K) 0445(K) 1907(K) e@ Seventn U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report of JOTgH0K 28. JUNE 1943. Submerged. Sighted smoke, started approach. Sighted plane. Two convoys, first consisting of one escort (looked 1iké big cabin cruiser yacht) ana one freighter passed astern while approach was being made on second convoy. Second consisted of four freighters and one torpedo boat. Fired three torpedoes at 6500 ton freighter. Missed, targets turned away. Glassy sea and could not get closer than 2500 yards. Went deep. Nine depth charges, groups of three, none too close. Pinging, but he apparently could not locate us. Remained below 90 feet until Nothing in sight. Surfaced and followed convoy. Sighted four ships and started tracking with disappointing results. With each chance of our course, a course change by the target would be indicated. 29 JUNE 1943. ‘ith moon coming out, submerged td 40 fect at range about 5200 yards, on enemy port bow, distant 500 yards from’ track, Although range should have been less than 1000 yards and sound indicated shins getting close, neither periscope nor radar could pick up ships. Went to 90 feet. One ship passed directly over- head, others on each side. No attack made. Surfacea. Submerged, headed toward Truk. Surfaced.0448(K) 1855(K) 0443(K) 1840(K) 0433(K) 1400(K) 1855(K) 0421(K) 2750(1) 1955(L) 2248(1) 0531(L) 1925(L) 1908(L) 0024(L) 0509(L) Seventh 8. SPEARFISH - Report of Mfgnth 30 JUNE 1943. Submerged. surfaced. 1 JULY 1943. Submerged. surfaced. 2 JULY 1943. Submerged. Entered area sixteen. Surfaced. 3 JULY 1943. Submerged. Sightea two sampans. Surfaced. Set course for reconnaissance locale. 4 JULY 1943. Submerged. Surfacea. 5 JULY to 11 JULY 1943 Period spent on reconnaissance, covered in Annex "A" hereto. 11 JOLY 1943, Reconnaissance completed, set course 135°(T) until report made. 12 JULY 1943. Changed course to 270°%T). Submerged, changed course to 000°%(T). -6-CONFIDENTIAL 2635(L) 1654(L) 1655(L) 1657(L) 1714(L) 17211) 1736(L) 1746(L) 1752(L) 1810(L) 1842(L) 1955(L) 2324(L) 0516(L) 1945(L) 0713(K) Seventh S,.S. SPSARPISH - Report of Ets wer Patrol. Sighted unescorted destroyer, started approach. Fired three torpedoes; all missed. First depth chargé. Second depth charge, went deep. Seventh and eighth depth charges, closest yet, but not too close. Fifteenth depth charge. Screws faded out. Screws heard again. Screws faded out. Started up to periscope depth. Nothing in sight. surfaced. Set course for new area. 13 JULY 1943. Submerged. surfaced. 14 JULY 1943. nroute on surface, made dive at dawn for trim. 15 JULY 1943. Enroute on surface, made dive at dawn for trim. on stationy patrolling on surface. 16, SULY to: 29 JULY 1943. Patrolling on surface, made trin dives at dawn. No contacts.Seventh Subject: U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report of MigkeD CONFIDENTIAL 28 JULY 1943. Patrolling on Surface on course 350°(T). 0120(K) Set course for eastern edge of area at three engine speed. 0452(K) Submerged. 0532(K) Surfaced. 1730(K) Departed area, set course for Midway. 29 JULY to 31 JULY 1943. Enroute to Midway, made trim dives at dawn. 1 AUGUST 1943. Enroute to Midway. 0950(s) Sighted plane bearing 0007), range 10 miles. No radar contact, too low. 1 AUGUST 1943. (Repeated) o500(x) Rendezvous with aircraft escorts, 0731(¥) Moorea at Submarine Base, Midway. MILES STRAMEI Pearl to Johnston 750 Johnston to Station 2575 On Station 5606 Station to Miaway 1596 Total 10527 FACTORS OF ZNDURsNCS R'aMAININ Fresh Vater Unlimited Fooa 20 days Fuel 11,000 gals. ‘Torpedoes 10 Personnel 5 days FACTOR GaUSING END OF PATROL: Departed area on date ordered. eeake,CONPIDZNITAL Seventh Sub ject: U.3-3. - Report of iehth ver Patrol. WEATHER: In general, weather was good except for occasional rain squalls. ‘Weather ’in the last area assigncd was the most disagreeable of any experienced during the patrol, with rain squalls being quite frequent. AVIGsTIONAL INFORMATION: No remarks. Information concerning Eniwetok Atoll is covered in Annex (a). CURRENTS: Currents encountered were in general the same as those previously reported by submarines operating in the same areas. In area fifteen, the general set experienced was northwesterly. In the vicinity of Zniwetok atoll, the current is in general westerly, following the contour of the encircling reef close in, with velocities of 1/2 to 2 knots. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES Probably the destroyer which passed over us on the morning of 21 June (1st attack) did not know of our presence at the time. He continued on his way and not until considerably later did a destroyer approach frou the direction in which the task force was moving. Then his tactics con— sisted of running a few minutes, stopping, and going ahead again. No pingin, was used. No depth charges wore dropped He passed olose several times but gave no indication of knowing it. on the attack on 28 June (2nd attack), as the thira torpedo was fired, an impulse bubble was sccn. The froighters headed away and the torpedo boat apparently headed directly for the impulse bubblo. The sea was slassy. He dropped nine charges, the first a single followed a finute and a half later by a group of three in quick succes— sion. Five minutes later anothor group of three. Tho last two came thirty-four minutes later and were thirty scconds apart. His maneuvers consisted of ruining slow, stopping, ‘then speeding up and dropping. ke was abaft out beam at all. times. Nine minutes after the last charge he started echo ranging but was then apparently rather distant and he did not locate us. SorSeventh Subject: U.3.S, SPEARFISH - Report of ar Patrol. CONFIDENTIAL ‘The maneuvers of the destroyer attacked 12 July (3rd attack) appeared to consist of dashing about. Charges were dropped in groups of four, seven, and four, with intervals of almost exactly one minute betwoen charges in each group. He passed close aboard twice, passing astern each time, and once passed directly overhead. He did not stop, but changed speed several times. MINSSWEEPING OPER. TIONS: None. MAJOR DEFECTS: Gyro error varied betweon zero and four degrees west throughout patrol. Grounded out D.Q. prevonted getting bearings on Japs transmitting on 450 kes. and believod passing through our area. Port bow plane shaft leaked badly. TORPEDO PERFORMANCE: Satisfactory, oxcept on attack on destroyer (Gra attack) two torpedoés apparently detonated prematurely after running about 650 yards. The splash of one was soon just abaft the destroyer's bridge and appeared to be 25 to 50 yards short of the destroyer. The other was not seen. The interval between detonations was about one second, although the ‘firing interval was 10 seconds. HEALTH AND HABITABILITY: Excellent. RADIO; “he reception was good at all times. At night 8230 kos, was usod to best advantage, with 4115 at about 1200 to 1800 GOT during the daylight hours. 12345 kes. is the best. Thore was not jamming at any timc on the NPM schedules. On 450 kes. one intorception of one of our om submarines, distanco,at least 500 miles, was reccived very clearly: Also what scemed to be Japanese code onc night in last patrol area about 0200 local timo. -10-Seventh U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report of Hupuch War Patrol. CONFIDENTIAL 4 Transmission was good at all times. time did NPM fail to answer up before Melbourne picked up the transmission. The submerged loop is good down to 65 feet, no more, up to distance of 2000 miles. 85 feet was the best depth experienced and that was just off Pearl Harbor. SOUND Excellent. Screws picked up at one time when ship-was still hall dom. Zstinated range at time, 10,000 = 12,000 yards. ‘FATHOMBTER: Tested, found working. RADAR: SD - No tube failures after better than 280 hours of use. Will pick up planes as low as seven to eight degrees. SJ - No tube failures on this patrol. Range tank has a tendency to leak. In use on one attack: sensitivity used, 85 per cont. Bearings were from two to four degrees orf with bearings talen on bridge. Maximus range at this fime”and best so far ona ship was 15,000 yards. A large Dip was obtained and it was casy to hold. Av about 5,000 Yards ship dived. Decreese of elevation lost the pips- No leaks around wave guide through pressure hull.Attack Time (GCT) 1937 0425 0554 Date 6/20/43 6/28/43 1/12/43 (Iat.) 8°39" Ne 7°58.5'N. 11012" N 2 Location (Tong. 1490201 B. 152042058: 161950" 3. Number and Type Torpe- 4 3 3 does Fired on Hach Atttk 14-38 1434 143A Hits ° ° Number Sunk (Tonnage) ° 0 Number Damaged ° ° Type of Target v Freighter Range (in yards} 2500 Tyve of attack .- P P Eetirated Draft of Target 2: ft. 15 ft. 9 ft. Torpedo Depth Setting eucts 15 ft. 10 ft. Bow or Stern Shot Bow Bow stern ‘Track Angle 150P-161P 110P-116P 205 - 438 Gyro angle 330-319 009-007 154-175.5 Estimated Target Speed 16 8 18 Firing Interval 10s. 10s. 10 s. Spread - Amt. and Kind 4° Div. None 4° Div. Was Torpedo Performance Satisfactory? Yes Yes No Remarks: Attack #3 - One sure premature torpedo, possibly two. -12-CONFIDENTIAL Seventh Subject: U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report, of Ragnar REMARKS: (Cont 14) ApracK #1:~ ‘A task force consisting of at least eleven ships, Anoluding three aircraft carriers, probably a battleship, one Aoba class and one Tenryu class cruisers, and tho remainier probably cruisers and destroyers, was sighted at a range of ten to twelve miles. ‘The sky was heavily overcast with practically a full moon. After five minutes it Was apparent that the ships wore headed directly toward SPEARFISH, so submerged and ran with task force. Ships passed on either side of SPERFISH, one Aoba passing within three hundred yards as SPEARFISH was turning in to attack carrier which was on starboard quarter of cruiser. Had planned to be about 1000 yards abeam of carrier but range was about 650 yards. Attack organization sagged = the officors wno should haye kept the approach officer informed of track and gyro angles failed to do so and the commanding officer failed to realize the situation until tho targot got by. Misses aro attributed to unfavorable track and gyro angles and probable greater range than used. After firing bow nest, SPSsRFISH turned to fire stern tubes et carrior astern of first. As the firing course noared, the commanding officer saw a destroyer coming in on the port beam with a zero angle on tho bow - wont deep and rigged for depth charge attack. Subsequent events indicated that the destroyer was not cognizant of our presence but was merely a screen on the port bow of the carrier proceeding in position. # golden opportunity lostt Arrack 72:- While patrolling at periscope depth in the general area where patrols had been sightod the two previous nights, smoke was sighted. Turncd Gircotly toward, determined gencral direction of movement and came to normal approach course. On socond look a plano was sighted, in goncral dirce- tion of smoke, on course to pass ahcad. With the smoke bearing about 90 dogrocs relative, a single freighter was soon on the port quarter with a 50 @ogroe starboard angle on the bow. A fow minutes easCONFIDENTIAL Subject: Seventh U.S.S. SFEARFISH - Report of HGAXK ar Patrol. later an escort was seen ahead of the freighter. he smoking convoy consisted of four freigiters in approximate column formation with Chidori escort apparently about abeam (to port) of the fourth ship. Targets were zigzagging, always showing a port angie on the bow. Came to firing course for straight bow shot, 90 port track. Targets zigged 30 degrees to the right. Speeded up to close range but could not get closer than 2500 yards. Fired at second ship in colum, the largest. They apparently saw either the periscope, an impuise bubble, or the torpedo wakes. On the next look after firing they were exposing their fantails. The escort was heading directly in, so we went down. The sea had a mirror-like surface. Aprack #3: Sighted masts of destroyer coming fast. 4s he hhad a 30 degree starboard angle on bow, could not get in but tried anyway. Succeeded too well. He made two zigs toward, the second at 3600 yards putting us seven degrees on his starboard bow. foo far from track to cross or get on and run ahead for "down the alley" shot. Tried to get around for 50 degree track stern tubes. Did not get far enough from track. When torpedo run got down to 700 yards ordered torpedoes fired with resultant unfavorable track and gyro angles. Probably should have refrained from firing. The sea had a slight chop but no aporeciable swell. I considered conditions suitable for firing with depth setting as shallow as ten fect.CONFIDENTIAL Subject: U.S.5. (SPEARFISH ~ Report of BOGSER SURFACz CONTACTS Seventh lar Patrol. 8-42 Ne 8-13.5 N.| 1-35.5 Ne 1-56 Ne 8-00 N. 7-58.5 Ne 8-24 N. Jn10 Ne 11-12 N. 14-46.5 W. 8-00 N. t over Engebi Island, Eniwetok Atoll. Landing on Zngebi Is., Eniwetok atoll. Tar ong 149.18.5 Ee 151-35 B. 152-56 2. 152-2.9 B. 152-42.5 3. 152-42.5 B. 153-37 E. 158-12 B. 161-50 B. EIRCRART. 195-18 B. j 152-42.5 EB. as Task Force 11-13 ships including 3 CVs, CAs, ts, bps. Hospital Ship Patrol Patrol Freighter and escort with plane Convoy - 4 Freighters plus Escort Convoy - 2 Sampans Unidentified torpedoes = no hits. No attack Fired 3 torpedoes - No hits. No attack Headed for PONAPS, Harbor Fired 3 torpedoes - no hits. Type 97 Seaplane ‘Type 96 or 97 Mitsubishi Bomber ‘Type 96 or 97 Mitsubishi BomberSUBMARINE DIVISION FORTY FOUR FB5~44/A16-3 c/o Fleet Post Office. Serial ( 032-B ) San Francisco, Calif. August 2, 1943. iL Commander Submarine Division FORTY FOUR. Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet. The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, Subordinate Command, Subject: U.S.S. SPEARFISH - Report of Seventh Patrol - Comments. ae SPEARFISH Sevonth Wer Petrol covered a period of 57 days, 42 of which wore spent in assigned arcas and on special missions. Patrol was terminated in accordance with provisions of Operation Order. This was the first war patrol for the presont Commanding Officer. 2. SPEAREISH mado three attacks and oxpended ton torpedoes, No hits were obtained. Comments on attacks ere as follows: (a) Attack No. 1 was a night poriscope attack against an eircreft carricr in a task force of cleven to fourteon onemy: ships. Four torpcdocs were fired from bow tubos, estimated range 850 ras. tho submarine was in good position to fire under favorable conditions, but because of dcficicnolos in the fire control organization the target got by ond SPEARFISH was forced to uso unfavorable tracks and gyro angles. SPEARFISH then turned to fire stern tubes at a second carrior. Just. before reaching firing position Commanding Officcr sightcd a dostroyer heading in with zoro anglo on the bow and wont docp to evade. Subscquontly tho Commanding Officer decided that destroyer was not aware of presence of SPEARFISH but vas carrying out normal movements as serecn for carrier. Howover, by going decp tho SPSsRFISH lost all furthor oppor- ‘tunity for attack on the formation. ‘Tho SPEARFISH aid not uso SJ radar in locating or tracking the formation, The Commanding Officer considered the mattcr for sovoral cys and dc- cided thet use of rader might joopardizo his mission bocauso of possibility of onony picking up the SJ signals and avoiding SPE.KFISH. Based on information available at the proscnt tinc ro~ garding direction finding on SJ signals it is not Pelioved that the Commanding Officer's dccision was a good one. -1-oa DIVISION FORTY FOUR FB5~44/A16-3 c/o Fleot Post Office. San Francises, Calif., Serial ( 032-B ) August 2, 1943. G-ON-ET Subject: U.S.S. SPHARFISH - Report of Sevonth War Patrol - Conmants. It is felt that SJ radar should Inve beon used to obtain eccurate data on cnomy course and spocd. It is interesting to note that while SPEARFISH wes in the midst of an important cnony formtion and passed 300 yards from a cruiscr the enony apparently was not cognizant of presence of tho subrerino until after sho fired her torpedoos. Attack No. 2 was a daylight poriscope attack ageinst a froighter in a 4 ship convoy, undar escort. ‘The ostimated range at firing was 2500 yards. Three torpedocs were fired and no hits were obtained. The Commanding Officcr counted on the natural disporsion of the torpodocs to cover errors in cstimatod onony coursc and spocd. Tt is considered that in vicw of the unccrtainty of onemy course a spread should havo been sat on the torpedoes in this case. Attack No, 3 was conducted against a dcstroyer. Thre torpedoes wore fircd at a range of 650 yards, depth setting 10 foot, Tracks wore unfavorable. No hits, It is to be noted that onc torpedo wes seen to oxplode prenaturcly about 25 to 50 yards short of the targot. The naterial condition of SPEARFISH is very 3s good and it is oxpocted that refit will be accomplished in the normal period.¥F12-10/816-3/(16) . SUBMARINE FORDE, PACIFIC FLEET Serial 0981 Care of Fleet Post Office, San Frencisco, California, Tuly 30, 1943. CONFIDENTIAL From: ‘The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Flect. To + ‘Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet ‘Subjects U.S.S. SPEARFISH ($8190) - War Patrols, renumbering of- References (a) Consubron 2 Conf. ltr. F05~2/416-3/rg, Serial 056 of July 16, 1943. 1 ‘The last two (sixth end seventh) war patrol.reports of the 1.8.8. SPEARFISH have been numbered incorrectly. Therefore, the SPRARFISH sixth ond seventh war patrols have been renumbered fifth and sixth accordingly. 4. LOCKWOOD, Jr. c= List III, ss. Specials Pl, BN3, Bl, 23, Consubslant, Consubsowespac, Subschool, WL, YoNO, Cinclant, Gomaopac, Comsowespec, CTF 42 (1 each). dé te Fleg Secretary. 02 ony sve! oaalaoay 1314'S ‘1. 4R1HO NI YIGRVWHO: 8 81Al6s3 COMMANDER SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET SUBORDINATE COMMAND, NAVY NO. 1504 Serial 033 SECOND ENDORSEMENT to CO SPEARFISH report on 7th War Patrol. GONFIDENTTAL From: The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Fleet, Subordinate Command. Te ‘The Commander in Chief, United States Fleet. Via (1) The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific ¥ (2) The Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet. Subjecti © VeiiSe OFGARFISH » Keport of Seventif Comments . 1 Forwarded, concurring in remarks of first endorse- ment. * NOTE: The numbering of this patrol report changed throughout in accordance with ComSub?ac Conf. Ltr., Serial 0981, dated July 30, 1943. Cc. B. MoUSEN.SUBMiRINE FORCE, FP12-10/2.16-3(5)/(16) et Post Office, Serial 01077 San Francisco, California, CONFIDE SSTAL meee’ 1 RSELENT to report of .C PATROL REPORT NO. 232 “REISE - SEVENTH VAR P.TROL. The Commander Submarine Force, ? The Commander-in-Chief, U. S. ¥ The Conmnder-in-Chief, U. S. Pecific—Flect. 5 U.3.3. SPBARFISH (55190) - Renor* Patrol, (5 June to 1 August 1943). Reference: (a) Comsubspac Conf. ltr. FF12-10/316-3/(16), Serial 0981 dated 30 July 1943. Enclosure: Copy of subject war patrol report. Copy of Consubdiv 44 Conf. Ist. dna. FD5=B4 A1€-3, Serial (032-B) dated 2 August 1943. Copy of ComsubspacSubordcom Conf. 2nd. end. Al6-3, Serie] 033 dated 4 August 1943. ae ‘The SPEARFISH soventh war petrol was the first for the now Commanding Officer. This patrol report hes been renumbered in accordance with reference (0). en An opportunity to inflict irrcparable damage upon the onomy was missed when the ship's fire control party failed to function properly. Steps will be taken to correct tho deficioncics shown in this and other attacks. 3. Tho possibility of "D/Fing" the SJ redar is most rometo. In order to make successful night attacks this radar must be used. he This patrol is not considered successful for Combat Insignia award. 53661 FILMED. Distribution end authentication on following page.@ e SUBMARINE FORCE, PACIFIC FLEET FF12-10/816-3(5)/(16) Care of Fleet Post Office, Sen Froncigco, California. Serial 01077 11 August 1943. CONFIDENTIAL TRD ENDORSEIENT to SPOLRFISH report of Seventh War Patrol. COMSUSSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 2, U.8.S. SPSCRFISA - SEVENTH Wak P.TROL. subject: U.S.8. SPEARFISH (Ss 190) - Report of Seventh Var Patrol, (5 June to 1 august 1943). DISTRIBUTION: Toninch, VONO (5 ca.); Cincpac (6); Cinclant, S/M School NL, Comsopac, Consubsowespac, CTF 72, SUBD EI, ConsubspacSubordCon, all Squed. & Div. Comir. (2 ea.)} Serforpac (adv. Bose Plan. Unit), Comsovespac, CTF 16, SPZARPISH (1 ea.}; Comsubslont (8); Comsubspac (12); All SS Subspac (less enclosures) (1) YC fc. LAER, Flag Sceretary.' 5 USS SPEARFISH Eighth War Patrol. o ares ‘0445, OPNAVINGT 5610.16 As Pugogs: tr mela August -1943: Arrived Midway from seventh (revised no.) war patrol. Normal refit work accomplished by Submarine Base, Midway. Lieutenant Commander Richard A. Vaugh, Bxecutive Officer, detached to new construction. On 10 August Lieutenant Commander Joseph J. ‘/illiams, Jr., relieved Commander George 3. Sharp as Command— ing officer. Had five day training period. Readi- ness for sea date 25 august. B. NARRATIVE: 25 August 1943: 1500(¥) Underway from Midway for Zighth (revised no.) ‘ar Patrol, under air escort. [idway fai oP tech= nician’ tested fathometer outside channel, fatho- meter still out of commission. Transferred tech— nician to small boat. 1815(¥) air escort departed. 1845(x) ‘Trim dive. 26 August — 2 September: Enroite area, conducting daily dives and fire control drills. 2igzageing during daylight and moonlight. Onitted 27 august from calendar on crossing 180th meridian. 2 September: 0920(K) 0.0.D. sighted twin-engine type 99 flying boat on starboard bow, distance 4-5 miles. Dove. No SD indication. 0952(k) ll clear, surfaced. 3 September: 0841(K) Lookout sighted aircraft sinilar to yesterday's Visitor, distance cight miles. Dove. No sD indication. 0912(K) All clear, surfaced. 1326(K) Sighted similar aircraft, ninc miles. Still no sD indication. Dove. <1CONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Bighth War Patrol 1354(K) Ali clear; surfaced. 4 September: O73M(I) Lookout sighted flying boat coming in fron astern, distance 4-5 miles. Dove. Having stayed deep for an hour under the assumption he had seen us, came back to periscope depth, all clear by periscope and SD so at 0852(1) surfaced. 0908(T) Same f1ying boat coming in fron the starboare bow, distance 3-4 miles. Dove. The overcast sky was giving him the advantage so decided to remain submerged remainder of the day, making the passage through NANPO SHOTO submerged, We were 35 miles from the island of SOFU GaN (Lot's Wite), 160 miles from BONIN airfields. The air . Patrols have certainly becoue, more effective since the two round trips I made through here earlier in — the year. 1515(Z) Sighted SOFU GaN, distance 20 miles. Surfaced after sunset and passe? SOFU CaN abean, distance 6 miles, testing SJ radar. waxinun range 15,000 yards - very good performance. 5_ September Made morning twilight dive, surfaced, and continued toward the area (400 miles} surface cruising. 1256(Z) Sighted fiying boat on starboard quarter, distance 4-5 miles. Dove. . Decided to remain subzerged remainder. of day. This was our sixth force-down. Routined torpedoes, maintaining periscope patrol. & September Heading up the 160 line from BUNGO SUIDO, commenced submerged daylight, night surface patrolling. 2230(I) | Sntered the area after eleven days enroute. Having to skirt the restricted area of Marcus added about 600 miles to the passage. ‘LSeptember: Patrolling intersection of BUNGO SUIDO - PALAU and VaN DIEMEN - TOKYO routes. avoided three unlighted small boats at night. iorsCONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Bighth Wer Patrol 8 September: Same general location. Sighted small boat and east coast of KYUSHU during day. 9 September: 0645(I) Same general location. Just before time for morning @ivg sound reported two torpedoes fired at us from 050° relative. Turned toward ani dove. Nothing farther sighted or heard. The sound man, an exper- fenced 7th patrol operator, later described the noises as a large rush of air followed i-mediately by high whining-noise of varying intensity, followed 10 seconds later by a similar set of noises. Sighted two Chidori torpedo boats, in line of bearing, conducting echo ranging Search on course 110%), speed 9 knots. Avoided at. periscope depth. They passed right over our morning diving spot on a course definitely not a traffic route. ASsumed the reverse of their course hoping they were clearing the way for something, but no luck. These two contacts, the first possibly doubtful, seemed to indicate that our presence was known, in spite of the fact. I was quite sure we hadn't been sighted. Will shift scene of operations tonight an hereafter keep shifting at least slightly every day.. at noon sighted southwest coast of SHIKOKU. 10 September: 0652(I) 1305(T) a311(I) Patrolling north an@ south off cast coast of KYUSHU. Avoided one small boat about 0200 - the SJ does not seem to be working properly. Sighted Chidori torpedo boat patrolling on northeriy course. avoided at periscope depth. Sighted smoke to westward, first thought to be from the coast, as the haze which haa prevailed all morning began to lift. Sighted many tops of ship masts, begen approach. Convoy developed into seven good-sized freighters, in two columns, escorted on starboard bow by FUBUKI DD, port bow and quarter by CHIDORI TBs.. Convoy base course 175°(T), zigzaaging, speed imade good 7 Knots. Converged at standard speed, 100 feet between 15-minute observations, for one hour end forty minutes, but best position was 6000 yards, 120 track, on trailing ship. During approach heard dis= tant depth charging, echo ranging, and sighted air escort. Commenced trailing submerged at 4 knots. eeCONFIDENTIAL uss. ISH Righth War Patrol 1931(2) 2132(I) Surfaced and commenced chase - three-quarter moon, very bright, due to set at 0206. Sighted convoy dead ahead, estimated 14,000 yards, crossing to port;.they had made an evening change of course to about 150°(T). Commenced end-around run. No indication on SJ radar, therefore planned submerged attack shortly before moonset with convoy in moon streak at firing. Hoped to get up again for dark night or daylight attack. 11 September: 0043(I) 0247(1) 0148(I) 0149( I) 0251(1) Submerged at estimated 12,000 yards, 10° on port bow of convoy, ships getting distinct. ‘Stayed at radar depth until generated range reached 9000, but still no indications. Secured SJ, went to periscope depth as the range was not certain and surface visibility excellent. Shortly after ships became distinct in the periscope I thought we were almost dead ahoud of the port column, so commenced a slow swing out to their port flank planning on initial stern shots. We were about half-way through our swing when I saw that instead of being ahead of the port column we were ahead of the starboard column and our maneuver Was putting as in a position of athwartships to, and almost exactly between, the two columns. The destroyer was patrolling back ani forth in front of the convoy and twice presented zero angle on the bow, but each time it proved to be his normal patrol swing. Passed hin abeam at about 1200 yards. Scttled on course 070°), 80-100 tracks, and dom the alley they came. We were in such beautiful position decided to shoot two at cach of four ships; comenced firing at with bow tubes 1 and 2 at the leading port ship as he came up on our port bow. Shifted sct-up astern and at fired storn tubes 5 and 6 at the leading starboard ship just after he crossed our stern. Fired stern tubes 7 and 8 at the second starboard ship as he came up on our port quarter. shifted Set-up ahead and at fired bow tubes 3 and 4 at the second port ship as he camo up on our port bow. Total firing time for eight torpedocs fired by con— stant bearing at forchast and mainmast of four ships was 4 minutes and 37 seconds. Of the eight fired -4-CONFIDENTIAL 0154(1) 0237(I) 0320(I) (0630(1) 0645(1) USS SPEARFISH Bighth Var Patrol there were three hits as follows: (a) Tubes 1 and 2 missed due to a control error - spreads were applicd when firing was done by con- stant bearing. ‘his error was discovered a3 #2 went out. Tubes 5 and 6 apparently misscd as there were no explosions. The periscope range was about 650 yards, but may have been in error giving too short @ run to arm, torpedoes may not depth (10 feet), or they may h (c) One hit (timed) from tubes 7 or low order explosion. (4) Two hits (timed), very loud full cxplosions, for tubes 3 and 4 at Went deep, swung to opposite of for depth’ charge. The first of a series of indisc about tuelve. First deliberate atta were working as 2 team alternati listening. Four charges not too Secon’ deliberate attack that was at about 20-second intervals, cach o: ship with torrific forec. The ol later admitted that these were a ever oxperienced. Having tried to shake then by sound partial success, came up to periscope ¢ vefore reaching periscope depth, I rais scope to look for air or oil lo were leaving a continuous vory larce bubbles astern. Periscope depth. at about 6000 yards, freighter stopped, down by the stern about 8 feet, with the FUBUKI déstroyer patrolling between us and the frcighter, although I cannot positively identity this ship as #2 of the starbcard I think it was. He was not extonsiv ing as though his stern section had possibly caused by a dud. Certainly fered two torpex explosions. ship hit with two to had was nowhere in the vicinity of + ceCONFIDENTIAL USS _SPEARFISH Zighth War Patro} 0750(1) 0849(1) 1248(I) 1811(I) 2010(1) 2230(1) Planned to attack the destroyer and then finish off the freighter as soon as we could gct tho ship in shape. ‘ent back to 200 foot while opening out for reload and to avoid possible borbing as a result of our air leaks. Commenced reload, trimming ship, pumping bilges, ven- tilating and giving all hands a short rest befoi going in. Checked over air systems to try and discover leak. Heard heavy undcrwator explosion not vory close, thought it might be the freighter blowing up. Started up to periscope depth, but on the way up took ti aircraft bombs or depth charces feirly close. more of the same on the way back down. pparently we were still showing our trail so gave up the idea of tangling with the destroyer during daylight today. Heard faint echo ranging, came up to periscore de and sighted Chidori torpedo boat. Comnenced mancu: ing to avoid but he kept closing so went back down to 250 feet and silent running. Ee stayed with us, sometimes seeming to have contact, sonetizes searching until we thought he had faded out’ at Started up to periscope depth. while passing 100 his screws speeded up, echo ranzing became vory lot and coming in. apparently he was just waitin so went back down. Again ho stayed around i of our evasive tactics and silent runni sunset he either faded out or stopped echo rangini Decided to run silent for another hour to deter: whether or not he was mcroly waiting or had left. Had just about decided we had finally left hin w he started up his ccho scarch again, fairly close. The next two hours he spent in the Zoncral vicinity but I think we had pulled away sufficicntly, during the hour after sunset while he was waiting for us to surface, that ho had lost definite contact. Eis echo ranging got weaker, could not sco hin through the periscope, so at surfaced at battle stations with tubes all ready - he was not.in sight in tho moonlight. de had been sub- merged.for 22 hours, the battery about flat, and ‘the very foul air, in spite of oxygen replenishment, had visibly affected all hands. Hcither the ship nor porsonnel were ready to search for ani tackle th @Bcorted damaged freighter-so decided to chase the convoy to the south. It will give us about cightcen hours to recover our breath; check for leaks, ami will take us and our possible leaks away from the coast, SieCONBIDENTIAL USS _SPEsRFISH Bighth War Patrol which I firmly suspicion will be heavily 4 tomorrow. Full moon all night for next fej favors convoy chase. 12 September: Running on four engines, chasing convo: them tonight. Bade aorning twilight dive and at 1230(I) a short dive for SD contuct at 15 miles. Surfaced when all clear and resumed chase. tothing sighted during the night. 13 September 1100(1) 1130(1) 1245(I) Rugning on the surface, on a searc 15° of base course and one kno‘ of speed. Dove for visual aircraft contact, seven miles. ft 55 feet, raised SD antennae, made contact at tnree miles, wert down again. all clear by periscope ami SD and, were gettirg close, surfaced and However, nothing was sighted by sunsct course and headed back for the area- report. 14 September: 1134(1) Returning to the area, running Dove for visual aircraft cont suomerged for remainder of day to leaks and work on other minor depth gubacrge? daylight patroi up the Reentered the area during the r 16 September: 1437(1) 1938(I) Patrolling south of ASHIZURI S.kI. short2y efter sunrise. Sighted faint smoke to westward, wh drawing south, came to normal s ‘pr Sucke developed into another s three escort convoy! It was scon coula not get in on this one duril So comienced trailing submerged. abean at 12,000 yards. Surfaced and commenced chase. Sn =2010(I) \USS SPBARFISH Dighth var Potrol Sighted smoke of convoy ahead, estimated rance 20,000 yards. The bright moonlight. makes visibility almost like day. Commenced trailinz to determine new base course, then started end-around run to westward to keep convoy in moon. as we worked around their star- board beam they continued to chunge their base course to the left at about hourly inter nd T was beg ning to believe that aSHIZURI SalI 17 September them away fron ‘us, when at about. 0245(T) 0306(I) 0445(I) 0715(I) 1200(1) 1305(2) 1404(I) 1648(I) 1834(I) the plot indicated they had zigged right for us. Dove at estimated range 12,000 yards ahead. Had smoke in sight by periscope shortly after diving but it dis- appeared in some poor visibility spots that cane up. Generated range came down to 2000, still no convoy. Assuned his base course. Sighted convoy coming up from port quarter. tie had apparently badly overestimated the range. Commenced the approach, but in the early morning light it wa not until too late that I realized they were givin us a big constant helm zig with a base course well to the left of what we thought. Shifted targets successively from leading ship to rear ship but best range at was 3500 yards on the trailing ship, a nice big 7000 tonner. Didn't feel too happy about thie apsroach for we should have gotten into much better position. Plotted their new base course as they orened out over the horizon. Checked over torpedoe i flooded after body and gyro. The range having opened sufficiently, com facing procedure but found SD radar out of cox Decided to let technician try to fix it for a short while. 4 fortunate decision, for at sighted a bomber through the periscope. SD apparently out of comission for « long while, decided it was now or never, so surfac2d and commenced chase. We were closing nicely, naintaining high periscope watch whon suddenly a trailing escort seened to pop right over the horizon. wove in a Luiry to avoid tcing sighted. Surfaced while it was still lignt ani r By 2230 we should either have joined formation with them or covered at least 45 degrece change of base course at sunset. Decided to search to the westward, and at eaBk=:CONFIDENTIAL US3_SPEARPISH Eighth Var Patrol 2320(I) 18 September: 0443(I) 0445(I) 0448(I) Sighted their one and only, but fatel, aistake - the familiar smoke. ‘/e were about on their beam - commenced Tunning ahead. again they kept chansing their base course away from us but the rejuvenated SJ, coached on, picked them up at 21,000 yards, and we had ther, PRaubne we saw a green flare (auonarine to shortly’ thereafter but discounted it. Dove 12,000 yards ahead of them and started in. diving the engine roon reported :!4 outboard ex valve not holding. The inboard valve, cont: past history, fortunately was tig loaded valve’and there was uncertainty as to ing under depth charge, but continued the apsroacl when the ships becase distinct in the periscope I could see we were dead ahead of the port column, so pulled out to their port flank, turned back and at fired the four bow tubes at the bic track, 180C rr? run, Swung hard rig on thé ships «tead of hin. ‘as prised to so tea 2ig left, giving us at #3 port saip. Fired stern subes 5, 6, and 7 at th track, 990 yards. althoue!. she torpedo explosions fn the wcnaiag tower, sound 00 (even five in all), s0 too! fellow - his back was broken in t midships section was awash, bow a degrees, and the entire center soc: a haze of smoke. Sound roported periscope around and saw j2 22 in a similar haze of 2 for developments, p ao 4 range of 1500 yards, ghth torpedo right torpedo right to his is screws sl 2% after f: cf the escorts on ordered dcep depth and riguse In the next ton minutes there charges, none very close. in Single charges, closer than the ot! strictiy amateurish compared to our € llth. ‘fe wore deep in a 129 nog. gradient, which I am certain aco = rokeCONFIDENPIAL USS SPZsRFISH Eighth ‘Jar Fatrol* 0800() 0845(I) inability to find us, our inability to hear’ then excent for an occasional ccho renge, und the unusually low noise level of both torpedo and depth charge explosions. Continued silent running until Came up to periscope depth. All clear by periscope. Commenced roload. Reversed course and headed back for the scene to sce if there were any cripples. Searched the arca Ry periscope thoroughly for the next five hours out nothing Sighted. By this tine the seas had picked up consider ably so was not surprised that we saw no floating minor wreckage. ‘gm quite certain that we doleted three good ships a convoy that was using very good tactics, with two hits in the targct (estimated 5500-ton AK) 2 hit from one shot at ;3 target (a 5500-ton AK). Decided against further convoy chase for the following reasons: (a) They will ost surely hav remainder of this day, and wita our SD (w gave us two warnings On our last chase) out o: commission, I did not focl that surfacing during the daytime at the scene of the attack was worth the chance we would take. but 2 torpedoes left. (b) #4 engine was socured until wo could ff: Bxhaust valve topside. Without the en {ng the chase.at derk, we could not until the following noon, ani I would be looking for a necdl then for their previous baso anywhore from the BONINS to tho PKILLIPINES. Spent the night running with the seas, engineers on deck overhauling 74 exhaust valve. Had it back in commission by daylight, 19 September Maintaining submerged patrol-returning to By noon the seas became so heavy: maintain periscépe depth. surfaced typhoon - mountainous seas. If uny ships are still float they are havin in this woather-CONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Bighth War Patrol 20 September: Having completed the battery charge, occasionally taking water down the hatch and indictions, submerged at 0115(I) to ride out the storm. Spent the day at 170 feet rolling as much as 10° at times. Surfaced at dark with the seas about the same, but wind shifts indicate the center has gone by, probably right over us during the day. 21 septenter: Submerged at twilight, broached on our first look at daylight. By afternoon we were able to look at intervals. “Surfaced, with the seas somewhat calmer, at dark; headed back’for the area at two engine speed. Reentered the area during the night. 22 September: Patrolling traffic routes in southern part of the area. Sighted one lighted small craft at night. 23 September: Patrolling off TOSAKI HANA. Sighted two small craft during the day. 24 September: Patrolling south of AZHIZURI SAKI. avoided small craft at 0332(I). 25 September: 0430(1) 0900— 1230(I) 1700-— 1830(1) Patrolling off east coast of KYUSHU. Radar contact on small craft, 3300 yards, who was alert but definitely non-belligerent - he gave out smoke, turned away, and ran about one-half minute after’ our contact. Lost contact at 4000 yards. Maneuvering to avoid sampan patrol who quite thoroughly Searched the area of this morning's contact. Had Chidori torpedo boat in sight at about 8 miles who also quite thoroughly searched the same area. On surfacing, cleared the vicinity, making speed and course changes. This making small craft contacts almost every morning between 0200 and 0900 is begin— ning to look suspicious. -CONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Eighth ver Patrol 26 September: Dove in eastern part of the area, made no contacts entire day. Maybe our maneuvering last night threw them off the trail - if they are tracking us. 27 September: 0755(Z) Patrolling BUNGO - PALAU - VAN DIEMAN - TOKYO june- tion, Avoided one small oraft at 0000 and one chidord at 0257. Chidori was stopping and listening at inter= vals, patrolling at 5 knots, Initial contact on chi- dori’ by radar at 5500 yards, held to 6500 with 90° ancle on the bow. Sighted smoke to westward drawing north. Came to normal approach, thinking finally we might shoot our last torpedoes, but never sighted snoke again. 28 September: Patrolling southeast corner of the area. 29 September: 0044(Z) 0050(z) o202(I) Patrolling back and forth across line from PALUA to BUNGO in southeast corner of the area. $3 radar contact bearing 036° (T), range 19,560 yardst Comnenced tracking, target zigzagsing on nort cnvesters— ly base course, speed 143 knots. Ahead standard speed (15-17) knots, came to normal aporoach, commenced closing range Slowly. Rader ter- gets developed into two tremendous pips, with two or three smaller (escort) pips. oighted targct group dimly at about 10,000 yards; there were two very large passenger liners, with a large destroyer or cruiser ahead, a smaller destroyer astern, and a Chidori or smell’destroyer apparently patrolling between the two large ships which were in column. Going in on course 3300(T), 15 knots on four engi: ships 10 degrees on starboard bow, 90 port track, range 4800 closing by leas and bounds, tubes ready, firing point coming up rapidly, set-up checking per- feotly = they 2igged away giving us a 180° angle on the bow. The trailing destroyer headed in our direc- tion - thought our phosphorescent wake had boon sight- ed (we could soo theirs), Started turn avey but cams back imsediately thereafter when the destroyer's an~ euver turned out to be a false alarm - he was adjust- ing station. Put them on the starbosra bow-to “ieCONFIDENTIAL USS SPAs\RFIG! 2 0219(T) 0231(I) 30 September 3 October: 4 October, 1205(L) catch them on the next left zig. They about 10 minutes; at range 5100 yards, 113 port track, 9° set-up checking, another right aig duc minutes - foeling that it was the best posi would get into considering (1) small ential; (2) two hours until twilight; phosphorous wake - - fired the four rom: edocs in low power with a small spread at the trailing large ship.’ Turned away an dal full speed. Heard three to five (opinion varies) explosions at about four second intervals. They were, in my esti- mation, in order of probability: (1) depth charge: (2) end of run explosions; or (3) hits on leading ship(s) after a right zig. A rehash of the attack shows that if I had not been so anxious to go in, parallel with them to gain further dis’ we would have been in an attac! i big zig away would not havo left us i position. However, at 0219 I felt that it was most probably then or not at considoring the obvious valuc of the tar: sidered firing obligatory. Radar indicated the formation made a radical change of course, specd, or formation about 10-12 minutes after firing, indicating they saw torpedo there were hits. Set course for Midway, all torpedoes oxpo : ing the vicinity on four engines. Dove at twilight to avoid probable search. Enroute Midway. nroute Midway. a J.0.0.D. aft sighted aircraft on starboard quarter, 6-8 miles. Dove. No SD indication.CONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Zighth War Patrol 1208(L) Leveled off at 200 fect. slowed: down, thinking this was like the other nine bombless dives we had mad: three depth charges exploded overhead. No damage. We were 581 miles, bearing 026°(T), fros ISLAND. Changed course to south for an east for an hour. 1417(L) all clear, surfaced, and resumed passage. Sz] October: Enroute Midway. Conducted six hour battery discharge for determination of capacity (first since battery was overhauled). Capacity 100.6%. Repeated October 7 on crossing 180th meridian. Octobe: 1359(Y) arrived Miaway. 8 October: 0915() Underway for Pearl Harbor. 9-12 October: Bnroute Pearl Harbor. At 0600(x), one destroyer and tanker on paral ) distance 15 miles. Sent contact report and ved word that ships were friendly. 12 October: 1145(vW) arrived Pearl Harbor, patrol completed.CONFIDENTIAL USS _SPSaRFISH Zighth War Patrol Cc) weammsr: © Enroute to station from Midway weather was gencrally and mild. In the area of the BUNGO SUIDO the same weather held except for the typhoon of September 19-21. Normally calm seas during tho day and phosphorescent at night made extremely careful patrolling nece! D) TIDAL INFORMATION: ‘The reports of CUTTLEFISH ani TRIGGIR concorning in the BUNGO SUIDO were gencrally verified, ave of the KUROSHIO wes about 1.8 knots, set 065°(9) i center, 015°(T) in southwest corner, and an casterly set {in the southeast corner which has not been previously reported. B)_NaVIGaTONaL AIDS: None sighted, although we were within the normal rans TOSaKI HANA and ASHIZURI SAKI.CONEIDANTIAL F) SHIP CONTACTS: THB(T)* LaT(N) No. DTS _LONG(3) 1. 0217, 31-46 8/43 132-42 4013451 2. 9/8/43 132-38 0550. 32-54 9/87/43 __ 132-36 3-47 132-35 31-42, 132-32 ale 32-08 : 2p 43 152-15 0652 32-00 4. 9/10/43 132-00 4 1313 32013 + 9/10/43 132-00 T1300 3-10 gd. 9/12/43 132-45 \ 0549 32-04 U0. 9/16/43 132-36 +, 1437 32-10 We 9/26/45 i 32-. 0737 31-53 12. 9/23/43 131-50 1051 31-55 13. 9/23/43 131-45, 0332 «S154 14, 9/24/43 133-00 0430 52-05 15. 9/25/43 131-58 0902 32-13 16. 9/25/43 132-04 3. SPEARFISH - Jighth War Patrol styP3(S) small craft 1 craft. small craft small craft ohidori_7Bs(2) Small craft Chidori 1B Convoy - 7 AKs, 1 Db, 2 TBs. Ohidori 1B small oraft Convoy - 7 AKs, escorts. Small craft Snall craft Small oraft Small craft Sampan patrol INITIAL | COURS RANGD(ya) - SPTED 3000 3000 8000 3000 = 1207 6000 9 4000 = ‘000 10,000 10 175° 15,000 al 12,000 Various 8000 = (smoke) 130° 25,000 8 1000 6000 000. 3500 6000 HOW CONTAGTD RIMARKS (Unless otherwise noted “gmall craft"could have boen patrols or fishing vessols) Avoided. Avoided. avoided. Avoided. ‘Avoided = conducting echo search. Avoided. Avoided. Attacked after night surface chase. ‘AS vessel sent out after attack. Avoided. Attacked 36 hours later after chasing. Avoided. Avoided. Avoided. Avoided - He sighted us and ran away. Searched area of Contef15CONPIDLNTLAL E ar Patrol SHIP CONTACTS (Contra (unless othorwise noted mall craft"could have THEM) LAn(M) INITIAL boon patrols or fishing NO. DATS LONG( 1) _ Ranosl ya) p vessols) « 3503 32-10 Searched area of 11. 9/25/45 _122- 10,000 contit 15. 2230 7 18. 9/26/43 small craft 5000 __ avoided. _ 0257 Alternated stopping. 29. 9/27/43 Chidori_7B 500 Fatrolling at § knots. 0045 Convey - 2 large 20. 9/29/4: APs, 3 DD escort 19,500 Attacked. None cf tho three convoys sighted were on the 160 line from FUNGO. The Japs are apparently avoiding the regular routes.JONFIDENTIAL U.S.S. SPRARFISH - Eighth War G)___ATRoRAFT contacts: aT NITTA LONG(2) TYPE(S) _RaNGE 0920(K) 33-06 9/2/43 150-39 KawaNISHI-99 5 mi. OB41(K) 31-42 9/3/43 145-58 KallaNISHI-99 8 mi. S. Lar Dove 1326(I) 31-20 3. 9/3/43 145-04 KAWANISHI-99 9 mi. 18 by Dove 0731( 2) 9/4/43 “ KAWANISHI-99 4 mi. Day Dove 0908(1) 9/4/43 KAWANISHI-99 3 ai. Dove 1256(T) 6. 9/5/43 6 KAWANISHI-99 4 mi. y Dove Convoy 9/10/43 KAWANISHI-99 4 mi. Patroling P. escort. 1212(1) 9/12/43 15 mi. Dove 21200(1) 9/13/43 2 6-8 mi. 1241(1) Sane 10. 9/13/43 2 mi. plane(?) 1234(1) ne graye ? 6-8 mi. 7? S. Dove 1305(1) 12. 9/17/45 Bomber 5 mi. 1205(L) 13. 10/4/43 6-8 mi.CONFIDENTIAL SPHARFISH Bighth ‘a: H) aTPack DaTa: TORPEDO ATTACK REPORT FORS USS SPEARFISH TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 TRE: 01497(I) DaTE: 11 September 1943. 0151(T) Loe TARGET DsTA.- DaMaG# INFLTO' DESCRIPTION: Seven medium-sized freightc> destroyer, two torpedo boat contact by day periscope. Visibi during night approach (3/4 moon). SHIPS DsMAGED 1 - One AK, similar BOSTON 5425-5477 tons. or PROBABLY SUNE: #2 - One AK, type unidentific same length (400'), tcnn DaMAGE DETER- #1] One timed hit or dud y MINED BY: in water, down by stern about @ Two timed hits, ship not in later. Probably sunk. Target Draft - - 20 fect Course 150°(T) Speed 7 knots OWN SHIP DATA = = = - 07097) 65 fect. Night submerged attack in bri; from betwoon two columns of ships, J bow and storn shots, two torpcdocs at forona: mainmast of cach of four ships by constant bo: mothod.«CONFIDENTIAL TORPEDO FIRING DATA - - - USS_SPEARFISH Eighth War Patrol ATTACK NO. 1 TARGS #1 Tube Fired ‘Track Angle Gyro Angle Depth Set Power Hit or Miss Erratic Mk. Torpedo Serial No. Mk. Exploder Serial No- Actuation Set Actuation Actual uk. Warhead Serial No. Explosive Firing Interval ‘Type Spread Sea Condition Overhaul activ REMARKS: (1) (2) (3) (4) 1032311257 Contact 26.3 iBy periscope at forenas Tubes jl and spreads were aj by constant bearing. Pubes #5 and 76 apparently missed - = due to too short run to armor failure to coz to depth. : one hit from j7 and 78, explosion. ~ , ; ‘Two hits from #3 and #4 firing interval. a up either a dud or low order timad for right range and -ISS SPEARFISH Bichth Var Patrol. USS SPEARFISH TIME: 0443(I) & September 194%. 04.48(I) TARGET DATA — DaMiaGE IFTIC DESCRIPTION: Seven medium-sized freighter convoy, with three escorts. Initial contact by periscope. Visibility excellent during night attack (3/4 moon). SHIP SUNK: #1 - One 7000-ton AK, similar to LISBON MaRU, page 227, ONI 208-3. SHIPS DAMAGED #2 & #3 - Two 5500-ton AKs, types unidentifie estimated 400' long and 5500 ton cisplaceaens. or PROBABLY SUTK: DAMAGE DETER- 1 - Sound reported two-hi about one minute ‘MINED BY. later saw, by periscope, ship sinking with back proken, center section awash, bow and stern up at about 20°, and heavy black snoke issuing from entire center section. Ship not in vicinity three hours later. #2-- Sound reported two hits. about one-half min- ute later saw ship with heavy black smoke issuing from entire center section. #5 ~ Sound tracked torpedo to target, heard torpedo Rit, heard target's screws slow and stop. T did not have a chance to look at this target after firing due to a/S measures. ‘TaRGED, 1 e Target Draft:: - 27) 201 20} Course: - 2407) 200°( 7) 200°( 7) - 8 knots 8 knots 8 knots - 2000 900 1500 3. 4.0 4.0 350°(T) 045-0559 T) 075° T) 6 re. 6 tt 65 tt. FIRE CONTROL DATA TYPE ATTACK: Wight attack, submerged, in bright moonlight. Fired by constant bearing method. Four forward torpedoes at major target, swung ship and fired 3 torpedoes from stern at #2 target, followea by last stern torpedo at #3 targct. esCONFIDENTIAL USS SPBARFIGH Eighth Var RPsDO FIRING DaTA sCK NO. 2 Tube Fired Track angle Gyro Angle Depth Set Power Hit or Miss Erratic Mk. Torpedo Serial No. Mc. Exploder Serial No. Actuation Set Contact Actuation actual ? : : Contact-Comtact- Mk, Warhead Serial No. Explosive Firing Interval ‘Type Spread : “shaven /Ban Fonte, Sea Condition Calm; moderate swells.: overhaul Activit: Submarine Base, iMidway REMARKS: Torpedo and explodér performance most satisfactory~-USS SPEARFISH z 2 OL No. 8 rom: 0219(I) E % 310 27" Hi, : : 153° 20" 8. ‘TARGET Daa DESCRIPTION: . ‘wo very large ships resembling 12,000 ton pass= gnger liners, escorted by on> large destroyer, or cruiser, and two smaller destroyers. Visibility « dark Qvoroast moonless night; sighted dim out- line of ships-at 10,000 yards. Ships still not aistinct at 4500 yards. Initial contact by ST radar at 19,500 yards. SHIPS DAMAGED: Results uncertain. DAMAGE DETER-. Heard three to five explosions about 10 minutes WINED BY: aftor firing (low power shots at 5600 yard run}. Could have been depth charges, cnd of run explo sions, or hits after a zig away. Target Draft: 20 feet Course: 262°(T) Speed: 143 knots Range: 5100 yds. SHIP DATA 15.5 knots 320°(T) Surface QYPE ATTACK: Wight surface, radar and visual. Check bearings, from 7.3.1. during firing. Spread by offset dials. large 2ig away during attack phase 17 minutes previous accounts for large range.TORPEDO FIRING DaTA Tubes Fired Track Angle Gyro Angle Depth set Power Hit or Miss Erratic Mk. Torpedo Serial No. Mk. Exploder Serial No. Actuation set Actuation actual Mk. Warhead Serial No. Explosive Firing Interval ‘Type Spread Sea Conditions Slight swells Overhaul activity: Submarine Base REMARKS: All torpedoes appeared to run hot and straight.CONFIDENTIAL USS _SP3ARFISE (1)_utngs: 4 sampan, painted a bright rod, was encountered in Tat. 319-55" N., Long. 1310-45" 3., lying to or anchored on the 100 fathom curve off TOSAKI Hina. This was the only sampan so painted and it may be that he wus serving as a warning vessol for a defensive mine ficld. ANTI-SUBMARINE MEASURES sND EVASION TaCTICS: As reported by other submarines, the area is well patrolled, particularly at night near the intersection of the BUNGO 160 line and the Val) DISMEN - TOKYO route. Patrolling is done by sampans and Chidori torzedo boats, mainly at night. ‘fe ran into at least one unlighted small craft nearly every morning between the hours of 0200 and 0900, in fact so con~ sistently that tho possibility exists that the submarine may be under a tracking problom from the beach. The patrols and Chidori's do not appear to have officicnt locating equipment, however. The possibility exists that two torpedoes were fired at SPEARFISH, nour the above intersection, at about 0430(I), 9 September; visibility was good at the time. Sound reported the torpedocs; their wakes, or source, were not sighted from the bridge. 4n hour after diving immediately thereafter, sighted two Chidorits conducting echo ranging search. They passed right through our diving spot. The depth charge attack on 11 September, following the first attack, was a nice picco of work on the part of the three convoy escorts (one DD and two TBs). ‘The last barrage of six, two hours aftcr we had fircd at the convoy, was tho closest yet experienced by SPEARFISH during tho war. The escorts had alternated coho ranging and listen- ing. A Chidori, called out to search the arca, kopt us down by his proximity until 2230(I). Ho stopped his echo ranging for onc hour after dark, apparently waiting to catch us surfacing in the moonlight. When wo didn't surface, ho started up his search again and finally drew off suffi- ciontly to enable us to surfaco, after 22 hours submerged. The depth charge attack after the second attack was defi- nitely second rate, conducted by tho convoy oscorts, two converted trawlers and one small morchantman equipped as an AS vessol. A 12-dogroc negative tempcraturo gradient probably helped us out considerably. ‘Approaches to the area are well patrolled by aircraft. We made nine quick dives for aircraft contacts.‘CONFIDENTIAL USS SPAARFISH (&)_MATOR DEFECTS AND DaMaGe: (a) ENGINEERING: 2. DERANGEMENT OF #2 MA: A knock was heard in #2 ongiro, inspection showed that tho outvoard ¢ rod bolt nut had backod. off al Lovin to open approximately 1/8". Oa. disasscably the Connecting rod bolt and the bearing shell were found slightly sprung. This failuro was caused by improper assembly unit during major overhanl. ‘Tho slot in the of the connocting roa bolt (picce 2) was not €riy alignod with lookserow (pc. 17). “/non the Dolt was tightened it partially shca (po 17). Zngine vibration further 5! picco allowing clearance which allows to work and shear cotter pin in nut. Parts replaced wore: po. 2, 3, 4, 9, and 11 on Buprint No. Ss186-s41-06; HoR’ print '1502B. DERANGEMENT OF OUTZOsRD SAHWUST VaLVa: On a dive, 18 September 1943, #3 outboard exhaust valve did not hold. Tho inboard valve hcld. On inspection it was found that the bolts, which hold the valve scat sprinkling ring, had vibrated loos and falion on top of valve gaskot while valve was open. Whon valve was closed a bolt was caught otwoon valve end seat, holding valve off the soate Tt is the opinion of the Commanding Officer that theso bolts should be sccurcd by spot welding to avoid future dorangemonts of this naturo. Referonce: N-Y-M.I. print (B) HULL: None. ‘The ability of the ship to withstand the depth charging of 11 Soptomber, without damage, is a tribute to the improves this direction since the start of tho war.(c) “TONPIDETIyL, USS SPEORPISE Yipht War Patrol Eourrperqan USS SPEAR ISH Sights Wa A Proken stud in the gyro housing of torpodo 723423 Geused flooding of the gyro pot and after body. Gyro was removed, cleaned, and oflod, and the tor- Pedo used as a wing torpedo of t! on the dast firing. COMIUNTC..PTONS: The fathometer has not been inwommicsion for the ols. 5 idway, was ? ReeOmenpaTions: To improve the offensive power of our subnarines we urgently need: 1, Periscope radar. 2. P.P.I. for the SJ radar. 3. A dead reckoning tracer machine small set furnished surface ves: 7 maintain a manual plot of own ship's track is at present a crude and inaccurate operation, giving poor data on targot course ana spocd. Increase of the range limite on the from its Prosont maximun of 6000 yards tone Tot 25,000 yards, and possibly greater with tho new impfoved Zadar. Having to halvo or quarter tho range, entor own speed manually halved or quartered, makes TDC tracking above 8000 yards a very inac. curate and slow process. An improved bridge bearing transmittcr which wi give bearings comparable in accuracy to the ihe periscope. 4 completcly mechanical one, shaft extended directly below to 4 bearin, in the conning tower, a pressure-pro. Titted to the upper éxtonsion with a mont, would seem to this problem.CONFIDENTIAL USS SPEARFISH Eighth War Patrol (2) _RabIO: Radio reception of NPM fox schedules offered no difficulties, 4115 kes. seemed the best frequency. ‘Considerable jasming was encountered on 8470 kes. hen attempting to clear our two messaces while near the areas ‘The messages were finnaly cleared through VHM in Australia. (M) RADAR ‘The SJ radar again proved its inestimable walue.- The initial contact on the convoy of 29 September of 19, 500 yards is considered outstanding materiel and personnel performance. Installation of a tuning cavity is of prime importance, for on many nights the flat sea prevented tuning on wave return. ‘The SJ shaft needs realignment; it is mueh too stiff in hand training. "The SD radar again proved its reliability. We made eight sight cont.cts without the SD giving indication - there were two SD contacts not verified by sight prior to diving. A major casualty occurred on the SD when the blower motor stopped, causing: (a) Two (2) 8014A transmitter tubes burned out. fp) Damaged a filament ooil (wiring shorted). c) Burned silver plating on tube holders. A new filament coil was made using copper tubing, however, reliable operation of the sp is at present questionable. N) SOUND GEAR SOUND CONDITIONS: In general, sound conditions in the area of BUNGO SUIDO were poor. Screws wore not usually heard over 2500 yards. The sound equipment is in good condition. 0) DENSITY LAYERS: Hach morning, in the area of BUNGO SUIDO, a dive to 200 feet was made to determine the nature of donsity layer and to obtain date on a deep trim for the days' operatio: Ganerally, in tho KUROSHIO, a gradual negative tempcreture gradient of two to six degrees from 100 to 200 feet was encountered. This gradient scemed to offer litvlo pro-ection during the first depth charging. On the socond attack, about Lat. 30°N., Long. 135°R. (120 miles southeast of the area), a vory rapid negctive tempera— ture gradiont of 12° from 100 to 200 fect scemed to offer a safe hiding from the escorts for they never secned to cin contact. It is of interest to note in this latter case that while at periscope depth five torpedo hits (damage later veri- fied -by periscope) were barely audible throughout the ship. -27-CONPIDENTIAL USS SPEARPISH Bighth Yar Patrol 9) _PaRSONNgL: The officer ani enlisted personnel situation is satisfactory, as is tho state of training. Tho performance of duty of the - crew and officers, particularly during the 22-hour cnforecd submergence when the prospects of an unmolested surfacing wore in doubt until the last moment, was in accordance with the highost traditions of our submurinc scrvice. ‘The outstanding work of Licutenant G. ‘Y. FORBES, Jr., U.s.1., on tho TDC is considered worthy of special mcntion. “In the first two attacks, four séparate firing sct-ups during the first attack, and’three during tho sccond attack rapidly and accurately entered without hesitation fusion. The diving officor, Lieutenant P. F, PIURCS, U.S.U.R., aid an excellent job during each of these attacks, maintaining the desired depths at all times, including the unusually long firing periods whilo all eight tubes were being fired. MILES STEZaMSD ~ FUSL USED: Base to area - - 3070 mi 26,400 gals. Inarca - - = - 3000 mi 26,200 gals. area to basc = - 3860 38,000 gals. (Beari) S)__ DURATION: Days enroute to arca ok Days in area - - 22 Days cnroute to base 3 Days submerged - - 25 .CTORS OF SNDURANCZ REMsTNIN Torpedoes Fucl Provisions Personnel Factor o 000 20 days 10 aays ab hiaway) : Limiting factor this patrol: Expenditure of all torpedoes. Bega ILLLAMS, Jem Licutonant Cox. Commanding. = 28 -com DIVISION T FB5=21/A16-3 Gare of Fle: San Francisco, Serial. 042 13 Oct USS SPuRPIS War Patrol dated 10/12/43 ‘The Comiander Submarine Comender Submarine ¥orce, recifi The Commander Subrarine Squecton TO. Subject: U.3.S. SPWARVISH Eighth vai on. as Forwarded, ay The Eighth Yar Fatrol of the a period of forty-six days, twenty-two of w: the assigned area, Patrol was terminated torpedoes. Three worth while gontacts were 3. Arrac (a) The attack on September 10 ageressive and the decision not to at afternoon of the 10th wes sound, attained was any subueriner's drean, end i fortunate the SPEsRFISH did'nt heve ten tub: comanding officer's explanation as to the results and performance of the eight torvedocs fired needs no amplification, Tt is believed th is sufficient to credit one si on this attack, (b) The attack on September 16, 17 and 1é was most tenacious, aggressive end extremely well conducted. The "doggedness" and spirit of the new commencing officer was well rewarded after this 36 hour chase, with five hits out of eicht shots fired, end from the revort it would appear thet there were two defi- nite sinkings and one Genaged. (c) The attack of September 29th those cases where "you do or ‘you do: ly, due to high speed of convoy, a position was not gained and it'is not any hits were nade.OMMLANDER SUB.ARINE DIVISION Twe FB5~21/A16-3 Care of Fleet P San Francisco, Serial O41 13 October, 1943. -F-I-D-E-N-T-I~A-L Subject: U.3.S. SPSARFISH Zighth ‘iar Patrol - coments on. le An interesting comment of the conranding officer ig the possibility of the Jepaneso using e red nes 8 wern- ing vossel for mine fields. ‘The anti-submarine measures of the onery is un- doubtedly improving. All of the three convoys attached had three escort vessels, and air activity has increased inmoasurably. Unfortunately the SD'redar wes of no use in this patrol. A thorough investigation will be made of this valuable instrurent. Attortion is again invited to the possibility of tie Japeacse firing torpedoes as @ counter-mcasure, and also to the fact the ‘Anti-Submarine vessels are remaining in the vicinity until well aftor dark. 5a ‘The material condition of the SPJARFISH is average. The controlling Jobs of the refit will be the thorough overhaul of four main engines and tho excessive axial clvarence of ne motor armatures, Four wocks will be required for this work. 6. The Division Commander takes great pleasure in congratalating the coranding officer (nis first patrol as such), the officers and the crew of the SPSARFISH for a very excellent and profitable patrol.¥05-2/a16-3 SUBMARINE SQUADRON TWO Serial ( 0139 ) 60/py e/o Fleet Post Office Srancisco, California Co O-N-F-I-D-E-N-T-I-A-L i, October 1943. SECOND ENDORSEMENT to War Patrol of 10/12/43. rrom: The Commander Submarine Squadron THO. To The Commancer Suomerine Force, PACIFIC FLEET. Subject: U.S.S. SPEARFISH Zighth War Patrol ~ coazents on. 1 Forwarded, concurring with the remarks in the first endorsement. ‘The first recommendation, contained in Part K Ge 31 and 32) of this report, would greatly increase the effectiveness of our submarines. It is especially desir- able that the range of vhe 7.D.C. be increased as much as practicable. 3s It is with great pleasure that the Squadron Commander congratulates the new commanding officer, his officers and men on a highly successful and well executed patrol. P. E. PENDISTON.FF12-10/a16-3(8)/(16) SUBMARINE FORCE, PuCIFIC FLEET i Serial OL483 Gare of Fleet Post Office, Sen Frexcloco, Cals orate COMPIDENTIAL 16 Octoter 19/9,.vau a0 SLES LTRD_ENDOPSEMENT SPEARPISH Report of Eighth War Patrol. COMSUBSPAC PATROL REPORT NO. 287 ‘U.S.S, SPEARFISH - EIGHTH WAR PATROL. From: ‘The Commander Submarine Force, Pacific Feet-g aa To + ‘Tho Comander-{n-Chiof, United States Flect. COPY M@rvant-e € at The Comander-in-Chief, U. S. Pacific.Flect. py. .u/ 70 ot Subject U.8.8. SPEARPISH ($5190) - Report of Eighth Ver Patrol. (25 bogust to 12 October 1943). as ‘The eighth war patrol of the SPEARFISH wes the first for the new Commanding Officer, es such. 2 2. The patrol was contucted tn an Euptre area where air ani sufsoe anti-submarine meesures were strong. In spite of this, the SPEARFISH"s crea ‘coverage was good. es The only three worth-while contacts were convoys and each was attecked eggressively, with tenacious chases being conducted when enemy enti- eubmerine measures permitted, be This patrol 1s considered successful for Combet Insignia éwerd. 5. ‘The Comender Submerine Forco, Pacific Floct, congrateletes the Commanding Officer, officers, and crew for this eggrossive Give it further cbsorvation. Many pli today.CONFIDENTIAL USS _SPEARPISH Ninth War Petrol Decomber 3 ae Deve northdast of North East Pass cnt olcsed East Point for photography. While aszrcaching, plainod down to 90 foot once fcr a single ongine, Single float plano that wes gotting +00 close. Gruisc2 down Best Pcint at 3000 yards, locking intc the face of barracks, cbservaticn : guns, barb wire, radar towers, ralic towors, Power lines, embanksents end cne patrol Bnchored near the beach! While taking a sweep arcund in low power pricr to taking tho last sot of pictures of East Point cane face t- fece with the pilot of tho single ongine, single flcat plane! His englo on tho bow, abcut 16 starbcar’ Eocreasing. ‘Went dcop in a hurry, oxpocting 2 shaking up at any moment, but nothing hoppaned Cloerod tho vicinity, drow off to the Sastwar? Shortly after surfacing sot course fcr iotjo for rescus station. Earcute Wotje. Arrived during tho night on Gesignated Fesoue station forty miles cast of fot Jee Patrolling on staticn, surfaces. 0515 (L) Heard a fow "tosting" calls on 6835 kes, the assigned aircraft frequency. 0624 (L) Sunrige, sky fillod with seatterod c 89 gost fcr aircreft work. 0533 (L) 8.D. contact 15 miles. Tried t: stay up for {dontification, but with range cl:sing rapidly te six ciles withcut sighting, cove. (L) surfaced. (L) 5.0.0.D. ropartoé aircraft elsse aboard, dove. Not identiziod. (L) Surfecod, From lockouts report that he ha@ scen a bird on the samo bearing, delicved that we had not made an ectual contact. J.0.0.D, not positive it was en aircraft.CONFIDENTIAL os2l (L) 1252-51(L) 1755 (L) 1935 (L) 622 (L) USS _SPEARFISH Ninth War P 8.D. ccntact 17 miles, Again trict + {aontificeticn, but with the range cl: sii niles without sighting, dove. Our directive is tc renain undotectcd until after the attack, which was scheduled f-r either today Sr tensrrew. Since tho "lawn" hour was well past, and no activity hoard cn tho aircraft frequency olieved tensrrew ie tho day, sc ronaincd sub— merged. Hoara fur very distant underwater ox Nothing in sight by high porise:po oxp Surfacod 20 minutos after sunsot, petrsliing staticn. Sighted possible distant flare bearing 065° headed for it at 15 Ents, after having e-no seven milos, swopt scarchiight ar. unc tho horizcn and in tho @ky. No answer. Ocntinucd -n for cight n-ro miles, thon ccrmonced a back and forth scarch back d:wn the sriginal bearing lino, At sunrise wo were cn tho bearing lino, 6 otlos fren tho sriginal sighting. Continuing search sn the surface. No eignels cn 6855 kes. Sighted the biggest eircreft I have cvor seen ~ an "Emily" flying beat that aekes « "clipper™ leox Like a fighter. Thcught wo could cct away with ronaining on the surfece, but ho apparently sighted us and turned for us. Dove. Decided tc elése Wotje submerged, as cur surface sorrching had carricd us in that direction. Now Deliove that yostor?ay wes the day Sighted WotJe. Closed t> thro radar towers still standing - Sight 4 engino " land inside the Surfaced end ccmacneed scarch Wotjo and Malgslep. Hoard cerning Mershall air st= indicetion thet a raid did takeSONBIDENTIAL Deconber 2 0030. (L) 0046 (L) 0517 (L) 3787 (L) Docenbar 8 Deconber 9 0935 (L) 1707 (L) 1e20 (L) USS SPESRFISH Ninth War Pate] Cleared ow serial #1 to ComSubPac. Sighted beam of two vertical searchlights cn Maloclap. Seme scrt =f anti-subcarinc wrk? M-ved te the westward for ecarch in tho =crning to ecver wostward current, drift. Submerged at sunrise, tho lcw -vorcast sky sakes aircraft surprise to> easy. Ye have n: infcrnaticn whatecover ch the dcwning “f any aviatcrs. Surfaced end set ecurse f-r Jaluit in ace>riance with cur massage. Deve ncrtheast =f Northoast pess, cl-s0i c-28t final phctogrephy. Worked fron Ncrthcast pass, around East Point, at 2000 yarde, and acr-8 Scutheast pass at’S500 yards. Sichtcc the sano ak at ancher inside East Pcint, identificd hic 28 the 1951 ten Gosei Maru class, ‘Waves broaking ff,NE pass. Sighted same trawler as : widely different bearings, indicating Japs have Sithor 10 on Radar, or Adar Jaziing sots, a0st probably the later, Secured our SJ to not give away our presence. Made out enoko and, masts of throo ships through the high periscope. Gonnencod tracking. course 160° 7, tho course from Supire to Truk. 9 knots. Surface run for position ahead. Now dead ahead of tho base course, rango about 25,000 yards, submerged to 250 fect for trin check. Saall negative break at 220 foot. 3 02667os56 (K) 1103 (X) 1104 (x) 1ilo (x) 1621 (K) 1700 (K) e % Periscope depth, sighted ‘smoke, commenced aporaach fs range docreesod made out convoy to consist of fhree Loaded, good sized merchantaun, and two corvette type oscorts, Tho freighters wero in line of bearing 90 degrece to tho baso course, tho cscorts on outboard beams. Zigzagging simultencously ab ary seven ainutos. A most unusual foraation, and wore dead ahead wo got in with no interfvronce. one more zig to go swung to a course normal to base course, planning on both bow and stern shots. The next and last zig was sore than oxpccted, at put Us dead ahead of tho center uorchantnen at 750 Yards. Had +0 walt about, 2 minute for favorable gyros and tracks on *ho Wing ships ~ it seemed @ yory Zong minute. At fired tho four storn tubos (MK 15's) at tho port wing ehip, range 1200 yerds, 105 starbocrd srack, gyros about 30 loft. incodlately efter comsencine fire I looked at the center ship to sco if wo had tine to got off the bow tubes on the starboard wing ship. Wo didn't, for the angle on tho bow of the center ehip wee still zaro, rance ebout 400 yards. Ordered deop depth, full spocc, and ris for cepth chargo while we wore still firing tho stern tubes. Gwo timoG hite (loud explosions) on our target. The two escorts comconced dopth charcing, which, while thoy never came close onouzh to do danse was a little disturbing by thcir persistancy ‘heir onerous doling out of tho charges. During the next *hros hours tho official count was 46 depth charges. Last barrage et 1409 (x). Periscope depth, alvhted stoke boarii 255° 7. Comsonesé closing sacke, and rolosding. Situation as follows (2) Our target stopped, suokine ily froa his stack. Rengo 18,000 yards. visible danaze at this rance, other than fact ho is stopped. (2) fho foracr starboard win, cerchantaan eireling tho cripple. (3) Borh escorts running around in circles, echo ranging. (4) Tho centor merchantnan not in sight - apparently he had gone on. (5) Sungot in 1$ hours - ineufiicient tine for eub- nerged attack. Planned night surface at~ack, cee creling 16,000 yards off. -3-1e58 (K) 2152 (K) 2254-50 (K) too much visibility for surface attack, will weit for moonset at 2215. Moon setting on other sido of ergo. Comnegese closing the scene of action, PPI boarinz 260° 7, range about 18,000 yards. the "pip" tracked at epeed zoro, At about 10,000 yards made out both morchentmen fairly close together — rader hed proviously roportcd two targets. At 7500 yards Elghted ono escort a little to the right of tho two freighters. At 6900 yards both sight end PPI showed one morchantman going very closo, or alongside, the other one, and tho escort closing both ships. Nice big angles on the bow, still spoed zoro on largest pip. Intended to close in to abuut 1900 yards, but at with all three tergots forming ono biz black sass, range 2500 yards, grabbed the oppcrtunity and fired ‘ho four bow tubés with MOT as uidcle of the sass (tBv boarings). uorpedoes sproac by offset to cover a target length of 560 fect, ayros alternating across zero. Throe explosions in the targot croup such as T never believed possible, Two trozcndous pillers of fire rose 1000 foct in the cir, lichtine the whole area for miles around, All han2s cn the bridce, includ- ing myself, saw both morchantzon litorally dis— intograte and cisappear in abcut 50 seconds, leaving 3 Gleer horizon oxcapt: fer burning oil or gasoline én-the wetor. ‘Tho escort could not bo distinguished after he had nerzod with tho tarot croup, end after the oxplosions, ho too was cone. The PPI 2fficer immediately confirned tho sinkinys with the report — ‘They hove all Uisepooered". If I han't soon it mysolf-I wouldn't have belicvod i+. si salvo for the record books. With one esccrt still unaccounte’ for, clearcé the vicinity, Surning liguié on tho water still visible for 30 ainutos. Fron the Jap angle, I think this wes thoir story Original target danaged end stopped in the first attack, A possibility of cottinz hin underway (as avidenced by heavy smoke fron his stack lator in the afterncon). However thoy kept one fret, hter for towing and both escorts (who weren't bic encuch for towing) 4n cage ho couldn't cot uncorwey. By socn- Set thoy apzerently gave up trying to cet hip underway (he gave cut no snoke during tho approach). 3 0206Feb. 7 0410 (H) 0530 (H) 1835 (H) e ® mo undamaged froighter had begun to go slong st The wae g row line, one escort assisting» moe {aRAPIsH torpedoes struck. Tho cargo of ascunition, or gasoline (probably gasoline f 2 gasecus or Gesroriatic of the flane pillers) in ono, co Groightore, ‘blew up and literelly and ficural wiped out all three vessels. inl corenree paresis te thet the uasceaes g Posetbroune at unset) cay have besa who frosghtors during the whcle night approach. If 80 he too wag gunk. Howover, niGthore was no rader interference curing te approach he ‘possibly had gone on efter “ne other apprOaen an, if thero wore any survivors froa the ® een eeMi, is a miracle. Rosuccc course 1° The ‘rca, as the other: morchantaan hac a start at unknown speed and tho wh for. Wo folt protty go08 about + particularly votting at leest no fhe cecorte who had worked us over. Ships sunk wore similiar to: jeeeana Maru (original tersct) 7098 ton 2. Adon Maru - 5901 ton 3, Corvette - 500 ton. Spent the day subnerged, restin: porrol of Ecpire - Truk route, Rosuned surface cruising +2 the arca. Entered eestorn part: of the arce face crulein: toward South Chine spect. 3 PPI landfall on Bataan Islan?s, raze 40,000 yartse subnergea for pesse,e throuch Bashi Channel, ints South China Sea. pupfetehinsaded con falippinos - Formas: SEAA{Ad routesFob, 8-9 1045 (H) (8th) Feb, 10 0638 (H) 1240 (H) 1s42 (H) 1850 (H) 1659 (H) eo @ Submerged daylight, night surface patrol -n the listress frequency from noerby vessols, The tarvot is ostinato’ as a 6000 t:n aK, unknown class.0545 (H) 1640 (H) 1950 (H) 2211 \(H) 0835 (H) 1100 (H) e e Although I'm quite certain we «2+ =ne hit inte _a goed sized ship, I fool very batly ab_ut this attack. We should have itton further shoac anc come in at rater or perisczpo depth ani celivoret @ Close ranzo attack with both bow end stern *ubos, However, the success

You might also like

• Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike

  

  From Everand

  Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike

  Phil Knight

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (537)
• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

  

  From Everand

  Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

  Angela Duckworth

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (587)
• WW II British Liason Report On Rescued Prisoners of War

  

  Document62 pages

  WW II British Liason Report On Rescued Prisoners of War

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  0% (1)
• • Magazines
  • Podcasts
  • Sheet music
• SS 191 Sculpin

  

  Document285 pages

  SS 191 Sculpin

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• The Fleet Type Submarine Hydraulics

  

  Document155 pages

  The Fleet Type Submarine Hydraulics

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• 21-Inch Submerged Torpedo Tubes

  

  Document152 pages

  21-Inch Submerged Torpedo Tubes

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  50% (2)
• SS 390 Plaice

  

  Document355 pages

  SS 390 Plaice

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 177 Pickerel

  

  Document253 pages

  SS 177 Pickerel

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 213 Greenling Part1

  

  Document250 pages

  SS 213 Greenling Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 410 Threadfin

  

  Document146 pages

  SS 410 Threadfin

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 234 Kingfish Part1

  

  Document200 pages

  SS 234 Kingfish Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 176, SS 313 Perch

  

  Document349 pages

  SS 176, SS 313 Perch

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 194 Seadragon Part1

  

  Document250 pages

  SS 194 Seadragon Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 167 Narwhal Part1

  

  Document250 pages

  SS 167 Narwhal Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  75% (4)
• SS 202 Trout

  

  Document286 pages

  SS 202 Trout

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 183 Seal Part1

  

  Document300 pages

  SS 183 Seal Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 192 Sailfish

  

  Document363 pages

  SS 192 Sailfish

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 291 Crevalle Part1

  

  Document275 pages

  SS 291 Crevalle Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 178 Permit Part1

  

  Document220 pages

  SS 178 Permit Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 198 Tambor Part2

  

  Document147 pages

  SS 198 Tambor Part2

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 247 Dace Part1

  

  Document237 pages

  SS 247 Dace Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 198 Tambor Part1

  

  Document314 pages

  SS 198 Tambor Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (2)
• SS 310 Batfish Part1

  

  Document250 pages

  SS 310 Batfish Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 247 Dace Part2

  

  Document107 pages

  SS 247 Dace Part2

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 312 Burrfish Part1

  

  Document239 pages

  SS 312 Burrfish Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 178 Permit Part2

  

  Document280 pages

  SS 178 Permit Part2

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (1)
• SS 236 Silversides Part1

  

  Document428 pages

  SS 236 Silversides Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (2)
• SS 230 Finback Part1

  

  Document383 pages

  SS 230 Finback Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 237 Trigger Part1

  

  Document291 pages

  SS 237 Trigger Part1

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  100% (2)
• SS 312 Burrfish Part2

  

  Document57 pages

  SS 312 Burrfish Part2

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• SS 237 Trigger Part2

  

  Document89 pages

  SS 237 Trigger Part2

  San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

  No ratings yet
• Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race

  

  From Everand

  Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race

  Margot Lee Shetterly

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (894)
• The Yellow House: A Memoir (2019 National Book Award Winner)

  

  From Everand

  The Yellow House: A Memoir (2019 National Book Award Winner)

  Sarah M. Broom

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (98)
• The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living

  

  From Everand

  The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living

  Meik Wiking

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (399)
• On Fire: The (Burning) Case for a Green New Deal

  

  From Everand

  On Fire: The (Burning) Case for a Green New Deal

  Naomi Klein

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (73)
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

  

  From Everand

  The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

  Mark Manson

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (5794)
• Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It

  

  From Everand

  Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It

  Chris Voss

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (838)
• Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future

  

  From Everand

  Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future

  Ashlee Vance

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (474)
• Yes Please

  

  From Everand

  Yes Please

  Amy Poehler

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (1891)
• A Heartbreaking Work Of Staggering Genius: A Memoir Based on a True Story

  

  From Everand

  A Heartbreaking Work Of Staggering Genius: A Memoir Based on a True Story

  Dave Eggers

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (231)
• Principles: Life and Work

  

  From Everand

  Principles: Life and Work

  Ray Dalio

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (599)
• The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer

  

  From Everand

  The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer

  Siddhartha Mukherjee

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (271)
• The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are

  

  From Everand

  The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are

  Brené Brown

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (1090)
• The World Is Flat 3.0: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century

  

  From Everand

  The World Is Flat 3.0: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century

  Thomas L. Friedman

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (2219)
• Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

  

  From Everand

  Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

  Doris Kearns Goodwin

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (234)
• The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers

  

  From Everand

  The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers

  Ben Horowitz

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (344)
• Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America

  

  From Everand

  Devil in the Grove: Thurgood Marshall, the Groveland Boys, and the Dawn of a New America

  Gilbert King

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (265)
• Fear: Trump in the White House

  

  From Everand

  Fear: Trump in the White House

  Bob Woodward

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (738)
• Angela's Ashes: A Memoir

  

  From Everand

  Angela's Ashes: A Memoir

  Frank McCourt

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (440)
• Rise of ISIS: A Threat We Can't Ignore

  

  From Everand

  Rise of ISIS: A Threat We Can't Ignore

  Jay Sekulow

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (137)
• Steve Jobs

  

  From Everand

  Steve Jobs

  Walter Isaacson

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (806)
• John Adams

  

  From Everand

  John Adams

  David McCullough

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (2409)
• The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America

  

  From Everand

  The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America

  George Packer

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (45)
• Bad Feminist: Essays

  

  From Everand

  Bad Feminist: Essays

  Roxane Gay

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (1015)
• The Glass Castle: A Memoir

  

  From Everand

  The Glass Castle: A Memoir

  Jeannette Walls

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (1712)
• Wolf Hall: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  Wolf Hall: A Novel

  Hilary Mantel

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (3811)
• The Outsider: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  The Outsider: A Novel

  Stephen King

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (1839)
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower

  

  From Everand

  The Perks of Being a Wallflower

  Stephen Chbosky

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (2099)
• The Woman in Cabin 10

  

  From Everand

  The Woman in Cabin 10

  Ruth Ware

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (2322)
• The Light Between Oceans: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  The Light Between Oceans: A Novel

  M.L. Stedman

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (789)
• The Sympathizer: A Novel (Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)

  

  From Everand

  The Sympathizer: A Novel (Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)

  Viet Thanh Nguyen

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (119)
• Little Women

  

  From Everand

  Little Women

  Louisa May Alcott

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (104)
• Brooklyn: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  Brooklyn: A Novel

  Colm Toibin

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (1937)
• A Man Called Ove: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  A Man Called Ove: A Novel

  Fredrik Backman

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (4609)
• The Art of Racing in the Rain: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  The Art of Racing in the Rain: A Novel

  Garth Stein

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (4200)
• Manhattan Beach: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  Manhattan Beach: A Novel

  Jennifer Egan

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (792)
• A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

  

  From Everand

  A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

  Betty Smith

  Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

  4.5/5 (1929)
• Sing, Unburied, Sing: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  Sing, Unburied, Sing: A Novel

  Jesmyn Ward

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (1103)
• The Constant Gardener: A Novel

  

  From Everand

  The Constant Gardener: A Novel

  John le Carre

  Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

  3.5/5 (104)
• Her Body and Other Parties: Stories

  

  From Everand

  Her Body and Other Parties: Stories

  Carmen Maria Machado

  Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

  4/5 (821)