War Patrol #4

List of Officers and total number of war patrols:

Lieut. Comdr B.C. Jarvis, USN	13
Lieut. F.C. Wyse, Jr., USN	4
Lieut. R.H. Gulmon, (DE), USNR	4
Lieut. (jg) A.L. Smith, (D), USNR	4
Lieut. (jg) R.B. Moore, (DE), USNR	3
Lieut. (jg) G.F. Larsen, Jr., (DE), USNR	2
Ensign C.H. Clouse, USN	13
Ensign R.C. Gilardi, (DE), USNR	2
Ensign J.W. Rhymes, (E)L, USNR	1

List of Chief Petty Officers and total number of war patrols:

Cole, R.E. CGM(MA), USN	5
Fast, H. (n), CRT(AA)(T) V6, USNR	4
Kraus, D.E., CPhM(T) V6, USNR	3
Sailers, T.D., CEM(AA)(T), USN	13
Smith, C.J., CRM(AA)(T) V3, USNR	8
Risinger, H.E., CMoMM(AA)(T), USNR	4
Williams, G.E., CMoMM(AA)(T), USN	4

0155	Underway from alongside U.S.S. Howard W. Gilmore, Subic Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands for fourth war patrol in accordance with Commander Task Group 71.1 Secret Operation Order 56-45. in company with U.S.S. Cavalla and U.S.S. George E. Davis.
0714	SD radar contact at 24 miles (plane contact No.1). Closed to 6 miles and identified as PBM.
0720	Sighted U.S.S. CHARR, bearing 347 degrees (t)., range 6 miles (ship contact no.1).
0730	Escort departed.
0800	Commenced conducting section training dives, nine (9) daily while enroute to station.
0900	Conducted submerged approach on U.S.S. CAVALLA.
1025	SD radar contact at 23 miles (plane contact no. 2)
1200	Lat. 14-45 N.; Long. 118-30 E.; 110 miles, 1650 gals.
1435	SD radar contact at 18 miles (plane contact no. 3). Closed to 2 miles and identified as PBM.
2005	Conducted radar approach on U.S.S. CAVALLA.

0605	Sighted U.S.S. GABILAN, bearing 204 (t)., range 9 miles. (ship contact no.2)
0910	Sighted U.S.S. CROAKER, bearing 287 (t)., range 9 miles. (ship contact no.3).
0930	Parted company with U.S.S. CAVALLA and set course for Area C-4.
1015	SD radar contact at 29 miles. (plane contact no. 4). Closed to 5 miles and identified as PBM.
1200	Lat. 14-36N.; Long 113-33 E.; 315 miles, 2840 gals.

0945	Entered Area C-4 at 110-28 E.
1200	Lat. 11-56N.; Long 110-17 E.; 275 miles, 2750 gals.
1300	SD radar contact at 14 miles (plane contact no. 5). Closed to 10 miles and identified as B-24.
1415	SD radar contact on B-24 at 10 miles (plane contact no.6).
1711	Sighted French-Indo China Coast, distance about 28 miles.
2300	Patrolling coast from Camranh Bay to Cape Padaran at about 4 to 6 miles at two engine speed.

0640	Made running dive for periscope patrol 3,000 to 6,000 yards off coast between Camranh Bay and Phangrang Bay.
1200	Lat. 11-42 N.; Long 109-14 E.; 232 miles, 2750 gals.
1242	Sighted B-24 at 10 miles (plane contact no.7)
2042	Surfaced. Patrolling coast same as last night except extend patrol north to Fishermen's Islands.

0629	Made running dive for periscope patrol same as for the 23rd.
1200	Lat. 11-39 N.: Long 109-12E.; 157 miles 1832 gals.
1402	Counted 128 Sailboats in one sweep of the scope.
2040	Surfaced. Patrolling coast at 4 to 6 miles from Hon Nai to Cape Padaran at two engine speed. Bright moonlight. Sea flat.
2110	APR contact on 156 mcs., strength 3, 1,000 PRF.
2115	SJ radar contact on plane at 4 miles (plane contact no.8). Passed up starboard side and lost 5 minutes later.
2200	APR contact on 156 mcs., strength 1, 1,000 PRF.
2220	SD radar contact at 6 miles (plane contact no.9) APR strength 5, closed to 2.4 miles and passed down starboard side. Lost 5 minutes later.
2315	Received orders for lifeguard duty for air strike on Siagon on the 25th. Set course at three engines speed to reach lifeguard station.

0910	Exercised 20 and 40 mm gun crews on "belly tank." Sank one "belly tank."
0914	Running on one main engine. Depth of water 15-12 fathoms so considered submarine contact improbable.
1135	SD radar contact at 34 miles (plane contact no. 10), followed by sight contact on a total of 17 B-24's headed in for Siagon strike.
1200	Lat. 09-57 N.: Long 107-42 E.; 242 miles, 1501 gals.
1210	APR contact on 156 mcs, 500 TRF, strength 1, good land warning radar probably on Cape St. Jacques.
1225	1225 SD radar contact and sight contact on the first of 17 B-24's returning from Siagon strike at 26 miles. (plane contact no.11).
1240	On lifeguard station 30 miles, bearing 120(t), from Cape St. Jacques in 13 fathoms of water and a long way from the 20 fathom curve. 1/10 overcast. Sea flat, calm.
1255	Sighted last of returning 17 B-24's. Decided no work for us today. Headed back to Cape Padaran.
1756	Picked up Jap life ring at Lat. 10-21 N., Long. 108-04 E.
2200	Received orders that air strike for today had been canceled (?) and ordered to take station for strike on Siagon the 26th.
2210	Set course to take lifeguard station.
2220	APR contact on 156 mcs., 1,000 TRF, strength 3.
2227	SD plane contact at 8 miles (plane contact no. 12), APR strength 5. Range closed to 3 miles. Took sounding in preparation for dive, 7 fathoms under keel. Ordered all hands to commence holding Divine Services.
2235	Lost SD contact and secured from Divine Services.
2248	APR contact back, strength 1, and lost seven minutes later.

0718	Made quick dive for trim.
0728	Surfaced. Proceeding to lifeguard station on one engine speed.
0835	Exercised 5 inch gun crew on Jap type 93 4 horned mine. Exploded one mine (high order detonation). Ammunition expended, 4 rounds 5"25 cal. Lat. 10-05 N., Long. 108-10E.
1138	SD radar contact at 18 miles (plane contact no. 13).
1140	Plane closed to 5 miles and identified as PB4Y "Privateer."
1152	SD radar and sight contact at 35 miles on the first of 47 B-24's headed into Siagon for strike (plane contact no.14).
1200	Lat. 10-03 N.; Long. 107-44E.; 221 miles, 3,674 gals.
1240	Sighted 11 P-38's acting as fighter cover.
1250	On life guard station 30-35 miles from Cape St. Jacques, bearing 120 (t). 1/10 overcast. Sea flat calm. Not a ripple.
1257	Sighted first of B-24's headed for home. Reversed course.
1400	No calls for services so considered duty completed. At no time could we raise the planes on VHF, 4475 kcs., or 4670 kcs. Manned ABK-BN during strike and had IFF from practically all planes. Same for yesterday's strike.

0100	Back in 20 fathoms of water. Patrolling coast at 4 to 6 miles from Cape Padaran to Hon Hai. Bright moonlight. Sea flat calm.
0235	APR contact on 305 mcs., 200 TRF, strength 5. This contact was followed by jamming which effectively blacked both united of APR and completely blacked SD.
0238	Jamming ceased and APR contact lost.
0640	Made running dive for periscope patrol, 3,000-5,000 yards off coast between Hon Nai and Mu Davich. Visibility excellent. Sea force 1.
1200	Lat. 11-47 N.; Long 109-16 E.; 234 miles, 1,804 gals.
1338	Sighted what appeared to be an 8 inch turret housed gun on the 682 foot peak on Ile Tagne at entrance of Camranh Bay. Several good roads noted on this island with a considerable number of buildings. no signs of radar but the island shows signs of extensive developments.
2032	Surfaced. Patrolling coast at 4 to 6 miles from Hon Nai to Cape Padaran. Bright moonlight. Sea Calm.

0330	Received orders that B-25's were going to strike Cape St. Jacques today between 1200 and 1300.
0340	Set course at three engine speed to take lifeguard station.
1130	On lifeguard station, bearing 115(t)., distance 35 miles from Cape St. Jacques.
1150	SD and sight contact on 10 B-25's heading home, distance 16 miles (plane contact no. 15).
1200	Lat. 10-03 N.: Long. 107-47 E.; 231 miles, 1,690 gals.
1300	No word from planes by radio. Concluded strike over. Set course for Cape Padaran.

0120	Received orders to render life guarding services for P-38 strike on Siagon between 1200 and 1300 today.
0125	Received orders to depart Area C-4 at dark the 30th of April and to patrol Area D-3 north of 3 North.
1120	Sighted TBY coming in from the east at 15 miles (plane contact no.16)
1125	Established communications with TBY via VHF. He is to help lifeguard services.
1130	On designated lifeguard station, 12 miles east of Iulo Cecir De Mer.
1138	SD and sight contact on 2 I-38's at 20 miles (plane contact no. 17). P-38's are fighter cover for TBY.
1200	Lat 10-34 N.; Long. 109-09 N.; 261 miles, 3,520 gals. Requested PBY to act as anti-submarine patrol while we held swimming call. PBY obliged us.
1201	Held swimming call for hands not on watch.
1216	Secured from swimming call.
1310	Sighted B-24 coming in from east at 15 miles (plane contact no. 18). Informed PBY of B-24.
1312	B-24 still presenting a zero angle on the bow. Altitude about 100 feet. P-38's zoomed the B-24.
1314	At a range of about 1500 yards, the B-24 was observed to open his bomb bay doors and something large and heavy fell from the bomb bay striking the water and producing a column of water about 75 to 100 feet high. It is not stated that this was a bomb, but it certainly appeared to be so. When the range was closed to about 1000 yards, the B-24 rocked his wings, which certainly at this instant was reassuring and pulled out to his right passing us about 800 yards astern with the bomb bay presenting a gaping hole large enough to run a box car through.
1315	B-24 reported by VHF that it was his mistake and that he was sorry.
1320	PBY and the 2 P-38's departed due to low fuel
1334	SD radar contact at 38 miles (plane contact No.19). Plane closed to 6 miles and identified as 8 P-38's and 1 B-24 returning from Siagon strike. Could not establish communications via VHF.
1415	SD radar contact at 16 and 34 miles (plane contact no. 20). Closest plane identified as a B-24 heading home.
1544	Sighted B-24 at 15 miles patrolling Cape Padaran. (plane contact no. 21).
2100	Patrolling coast at 4 to 6 miles from Cape Padaran to Hon Nai. Sea Calm. Bright moonlight.

0644	Made quick dive for periscope patrol, 3,000 to 5,000 yards off Cape Padaran.
1140	Sighted B-24 at 10 miles patrolling coast (plane contact no.22)
1200	Lat. 11-18N.; Long 108-59 E.; 210 miles, 2200 gals.
2035	Surfaced. Set course at two engine speed to clear special Anti-Submarine area.
2115	Transmitted BAYA First reporting clear of area.
2126	Received orders to get into Eastern Dog One. Decided to work possible convoy route from Cape Kamao to Siagon north of Poulo Condore enroute to Area Dog One.

1200	Lat. 9-13 N. : Long 108-22 E.; 231 miles, 1,565 gals.
1730	Converted No. 4 Fuel Ballast Tank to a Main Ballast Tank.
1758	Made quick dive to flush out No.4 Main Ballast Tank.
1813	Surfaced.
2110	9,000 yards off three fathoms curve in 11-12 fathoms of water off mouths of Mekong River running down possible convoy track at four engine speed.
2400	With moon 40 minutes high and water too shallow to make a submerged approach. Changed course to the south to pass between Poulo Condone and the Brothers.

0707	SJ radar interference on SJ.
0850	Exchanged calls with U.S.S. LAGARTO by SJ radar.
1140	SD radar contact followed by sight contact at 23 miles (plane contact no.23). Plane closed to 14 miles and opened out. Similar to PB4Y-2.
1200	Lat. 7-27 N.: Long. 104-24E.; 342 miles, 4,229 gals.
1300	Sighted PB4Y-2 at 16 miles (plane contact no.24). Closed to 3 miles and contacted Privateer by VHF. He had no dope for us. Informed him of the position of LAGARTO and CAIMEN.
1500	Intercepted contact report on Mopaco frequency from Section Roger search plane of 1 AO, 1 Auxiliary and 2 DD's stopped at Lat. 5-42N. Long. 102-58E.
1525	Set course at three engine speed to intercept at predicted 2200 position.
1533	SD radar contact at 5 miles (plane contact no.25).
1534	With range closed to 4 miles, made quick dive.
1559	Surfaced all clear.
2055	Exchanged calls by SJ with U.S.S. LAGARTO.
2148	Slowed to take sounding. Sounding 7 fathoms. Changed course to parallel coast.
2155	SJ radar contact on 4 ships at 15,000 yards, bearing 197(t) (ship contact no 4). Called away Battle Stations Tracking Party.
2210	Sent contact report to LAGARTO.
2245	LAGARTO reports she is in contact with convoy. Convoy tracking on base course 310 (t)., speed 9 knots, running along the 5-7 fathom curve. Convoy identified as one large (No.1), one medium ship (no.3) and two escorts (no. 2 & 4), both equipped with 10 cm. radar. Commenced surface attack at 12 knots from starboard bow of convoy. All torpedoes set at 4 feet. Night Dark. Clear sky. Flat sea.
2246	SJ and 10cm. radar interference all around the dial on the SJ radar. We now have a target on the port bow (no.6) (ship contact no.6) and one on the starboard bow (no.5) at about 8 to 10,000 yards in addition to the convoy. Heavy tide rips 2-3 feet high sharp on port bow.
2247	Turned into No. 5 to avoid possible shoal.
2249	No. 2 and No. 5 both apparently closing us with No.5 closest. Ordered set up on No. 5 for a 3 torpedo salvo. Held fire as No. 5 appeared to be the LAGARTO.
2256	No. 6 identified as large three masted junk at about 4,000 yards.
2300	Headed back in on main convoy.
2301	Passed the junk on the starboard beam and found ourselves face to face with No. 2 at about 4,000 yards.
2302	Headed for No. 2 for a down the throat surface shot. Seven fathoms under the keel.
2304	No. 2 turned on a green light over a white light and commenced turning to her right.
2305.15	Commenced firing forward with range down to 1500 yards.
2305.30	Checked fire after two away. Turned hard right, all ahead full to keep from ramming No. 2 which at 1100 yards was identified as a SHIRATAKA type minelayer.
2306	Passed No. 2 port to port at 900 to 1000 yards, observing rules of the road.
2307	No. 2 opened fire with 20mm, 40 mm, and 2 or 3 4.7" guns at range of 1100 yards. Cleared the bridge with exception of OOD and the Captain.
2308	Jap gunnery poor but plenty of it. Tracers passing down both sides of the periscope shears and overhead. 4.7 inch appeared to be common and fused as it was ricocheting alongside and over the stern as well as bursting overhead which was thought at first to be star shells.
2309	With range at 1150 yards commenced firing three torpedo salvos down the throat shot.
2311	Target presenting alternate port and starboard angles on the bow apparently avoiding possible torpedoes and to bring his after guns to bear.
2320	With range about steady at 1700, the second escort at 4,700 yards, the near escort illuminated us by search-light and began a little accurate gunning. Blew safety dry. Gave all tanks a five minute blow. Fired No.10 tube which had been reloaded at near escort.
2325	Range opening to 2100 yards. Escort secured his search-light and resumes all caliber firing.
2329	Heard and felt six tremendous explosions about 10 seconds apart which shook the ship violently. Possibly depth charges in shallow water.
2333	Escort turned away giving us a parting burst with all guns. Range opened rapidly from 3,000 yards on out. Informed LAGARTO that we had been driven off by gunfire.
2341	Exchanged calls with LAGARTO and for the first positive time identified No. 6 as the LAGARTO.
2345	Secured from Battle Stations with the range opening fast. It is nothing short of a miracle that we came through so much gun fire without a single hit. His deflection was as consistently on as his range was off.

Read LCDR Jarvis' telling of this attack in a speech he gave in 1999. Click HERE.

0240	Made rendezvous with LAGARTO and discussed plans for today. She proposed to dive on convoy's track and make contact at 1400. BAYA ten to fifteen miles further along track. If no contact was made we were to intercept at 2000 at convoy's possible 2130 position. Set course for arranged station.
0814	Made quick dive for trim.
0828	Surfaced.
1200	Lat. 7-55 N.: Long. 102-18E.; 318 miles, 5,203 gals.
1342	Patrolling on surface normal to convoy's projected track.
1436	Sighted single float plane at about 15 to 20 miles apparently patrolling convoy (plane contact No. 26). Commenced trailing from ahead.
1500	Sent first of numerous contact reports to LAGARTO. No receipt.Note: This is not in the War Patrol Report, but The LAGARTO was lost on this day. Divers found her in the summer of 2005 off the coast of Thailand. Read the report here
1645	Second plane joined convoy (plane contact No. 27).
1650	Original plane apparently relieved and commenced sweeps down convoy track.
1653	With range closed to about 9 miles, made quick dive.
1805	Surfaced. Plane in sight over convoy.
2037	Headed down convoy track at two engine speed to gain SJ radar contact.
2143	SJ radar contact at 17,250 yards, bearing 257(t). Called away Tracking Party (ship contact no. 6)
2200	Convoy identified as same one encountered last night. First solution showed enemy course of 030 (t)., but within fifteen minutes of our changing course to close the range the convoy tracked to a stop. After several minutes of milling around the convoy proceeded due south.
2215	Proceeded at full speed on end around for port flank attack. Keying SJ radar once each minute. Two separate 10cm. radar interferences from the direction of the convoy, usually keyed for ten seconds each minute. Occasional enemy radar sweeps were made at the rate of 3 ½ revolutions per minute.
2240	Making good progress up targets port quarter. Convoy has suddenly changed course to his left to 050(t). Continued to cross ahead at full speed.
2250	Convoy changed course abruptly to 340(t). These can not be zigs. Convoy is obviously alerted by our radar and is taking evasive actions based apparently on change of bearing of our own 10cm. radar.
2300	Continuing down convoy's starboard flank to gain position for a 120(t) track on main group. Convoy has now eased around to small zigs on a rough base course of 050(t). We are using our SJ only 5 seconds each two minutes.
2347	Convoy zigging on base course 060(t)., speed 9 knots. Having sent LAGARTO contact reports almost half hourly with no receipt, decided to make the attack along. Manned battle stations.
2358	In nice position on starboard box expecting zig away. Commenced surface approach at 14 knots from starboard bow. Night dark with clouds around the horizon with occasional lightning. Sea flat calm. All torpedoes set on four feet. Nearest escort 1500 yards on starboard beam of leading target. Planned for 110-120 starboard track to fire three torpedoes at each main target. There is a chance that we have confused the convoy by little use of our own radar.

0010	With target almost 15 minutes overdue for a zig and giving us a 55 track decided to fire all six bow tubes at the leading and larger target.
0011	With torpedo run of 5500 yards, commenced firing low powered shot forward. As No. 3 left the tube the target was observed to turn away presenting a 90 starboard angle on the bow.
0012	Completed firing forward nest.
0013	Came left with full rudder and ahead full. Observed targets to turn away completely while near escort turned towards.
0015	One explosion reported from below. Not seen from bridge.
0020	Secured from Battle Stations.
0030	Pulling away from escort. Decided to try another starboard flank attack after shaking escort. Manned battle stations.
0037	Escort still chasing us on port quarter. Main target group on course 020(t).
0053	Put out RDB and went ahead to open out on escort. RDB could not be picked up by our SJ and it did not lead the escort astray. Convoy made radical course change to the northwest.
0110	Changed course to 020(t) at full speed to shake escort, got ahead of him, and head in for second attack - preferably on port flank because of moon.
0118	Moonrise. Convoy has changed course to 320(t) to keep us astern. Escort is tagging along wide between us and main group, keeping us silhouetted in bright moonlight. The Jap 10cm. radar is too good for us tonight. They are neither going to let us close or gain a position ahead for a submerged attack.
0134	Lost contact. Secured from Battle Stations. Changed course to follow ahead on possible convoy track at slow speed.
1034	Sank type 93 Jap 4 horned mine by 40 mm gunfire at Lat. 07-39N., Long 103-21E.
1200	Lat 07-14 N.: Long. 103-25E; 261 miles, 2,563 gals.
1350	SD radar contact at 31 miles (plane contact no. 28), lost contact at 33 miles.
1640	SD and sight contact on low winged fighter at 12 miles headed toward (plane contact no. 29).
1641	Made quick dive.
1838	Surfaced all clear.
2040	SJ radar interference, bearing 150(t). Headed toward.
2050	SJ radar contact, bearing 145(t)., range 10,450 yards (ship contact no. 7).
2120	Made rendezvous with HAMMERHEAD. Received mail and exchanged movies.

0130	Made quick dive for small pip believed to be an airplane.
0140	Surfaced.
1200	Lat. 6-10 N., Long. 104-29 E.; 248 miles, 2,183 gals.
1236	SD radar contact on B-24 at 20 miles (plane contact no.30). Plane closed to 15 miles and then lost at 20 miles.
1344	SD radar contact at 11 miles (plane contact no.31) No. IFF. Plane closed to 9 miles.
1345	Made quick dive.
1411	Surfaced, all clear.
1544	SD contact at 9 miles. No. IFF (plane contact no. 32). Made quick dive.
1607	Surfaced, all clear.
2155	Patrolling Malay coast north of Pulo Tengoll at 7 to 8 miles.

0300	Commenced opening coast to make rendezvous with HARDHEAD and BECUNA.
1200	Lat. 4-20 N.; Long 105-15 E.; 265 miles, 2,227 gals.
1540	Sighted USS HARDHEAD, bearing 121(t) (ship contact no. 8).
1543	HARDHEAD dived.
1555	Sighted USS BECUNA (ship contact no. 9)
1620	HARDHEAD surfaced.
1620 to 1704	Made rendezvous with BECUNA and HARDHEAD. Transferred and received mail. Traded movies.

0738	Made quick dive for trim.
0746	Surfaced.
1200	Lat. 4-46N.; Long 105-04 E.; 261 miles, 2,123 gals.
1515	Sighted B-24 at 18 miles (plane contact no. 33). Plane had previously contacted us by Wopaco frequency but could not get him close enough to talk via VHF.

0212	SJ radar interference bearing 322(t).
0400	Made rendezvous with USS BREAM (ship contact no.10) Delivered mail, traded movies and received a spare projector bulb.
1200	Lat. 4-34 N. : Long. 106-24 E.; 265 miles, 1,965 gals.
1231	Sighted mine at Lat. 04-35N. Long. 106-29 E.
1235	SD radar contact at 26 miles with IFF (plane contact no. 34).
1240	Exploded type 93 4 horned new looking mine with third round of 40 mm. Very high order detonation. Lat. 4-35N., Long. 106-28 E.

0720	Made quick dive for trim.
0725	Surfaced.
1146	Sighted periscope on horizon, bearing 198 (t). (ship contact no. 11).
1200	Lat. 4-21 N., Long. 106-55E.; 268 miles, 1,905 gals.
1227	Made rendezvous with USS BLOWER. Delivered mail and traded movie films.

1200	Lat. 0-32 N., Long. 106-32 E.; 276 miles, 2,085 gals.
1407	Crossed the equator at Long. 106-35E.
2300	Commenced transit of Karimata Strait.

0730	Completed uneventful transit of Karimata Strait.
0738	Made quick dive for trim.
0750	Surfaced.
1200	Lat. 4-16 S.: Long. 109-45E.; 371 miles, 4675 gals.
1655	Entered Area E-8 at Lat. 5-00 S., Long. 110-07E.
2110	SJ radar interference, bearing 130(t)
2256	SJ radar contact on USS BESUGO, bearing 100(t), range 9,200 yards (ship contact no. 12)
2325	Effected rendezvous with BESUGO and exchanged information by megaphone.

0718	Made quick dive for trim.
0730	Surfaced.
1140	Sighted unidentified two engine bomber at 10 miles (plane contact No. 35). Made quick dive.
1200	Lat. 5-58S.; Long. 110-45E.; 246 miles, 3,680 gals.
1241	Surfaced, all clear.
2032	SJ radar interference, bearing 200(t).
2047	SJ radar contact, bearing 280(t)., range 10,250 yards (ship contact no. 13).
2140	Made rendezvous with USS HAWKBILL and exchanged greetings and information. HAWKBILL informed us that she was going to reconnoiter Rembang Roads and asked if we would accompany her and standby.
2245	Completed reconnaissance of Rembang Roads, apparently empty.
2355	Made rendezvous with HAWKBILL and exchanged information. HAWKBILL informed us that she was heading north for Karamate Strait.

0514	SJ radar contact on 3 ships dead ahead, range 15,500 yards (ship contact no. 14).
0515	Called away Battle Stations Tracking Party.
0529	Three ships in sight from bridge at 10,500 yards.
0547	Target checking nicely on base course 330(t) at speed 7. In nice position on starboard bow for surface attack. Manned battle stations.
0553	Commenced surface approach from seaward and starboard flank of convoy at 14 knots. Clear dark night. One tenth overcast. Sea condition 0-1. Will have 10-12 fathoms of water. All torpedoes set on four feet.
0559	Slowed to 12 knots to reduce wake. Convoy now disposed as follows: No. 1 target, loading, is a heavily loaded engine aft new looking large freighter about 425 feet long. No. 3, target trailing, at about 1500 yards on her port quarter, is a medium to small AK. No.2 is on the starboard quarter of No.1 and appears to be a large mine layer about 315 feet long.
0605.25	Commenced shooting a full six tube bow nest at No. 1 target on a beautiful 90 starboard track. After our recent misses, we wanted a sure thing.
0606	All torpedoes fired forward. Swinging right at flank speed setting up stern tubes on No. 2.
0609	Steady on course with good solution on No.2.
0610	Commenced shooting remaining two Mark 18's aft.
0610.10	Completed firing aft and all ahead flank.
0611.15	Observed and felt the first of three solid high order torpedo hit in No. 1 target, followed by 5 seconds a second hit, and by 5 seconds another his. No.1 obscured by dense black smoke.
0613	Observed and felt one hit on No. 2.
0613.05	Observed and felt a second hit on No. 2.
0615	No. 1 and 2 dead in the water.
0618	Commenced approach on No. 3 with last 2 torpedoes.
0619	No. 3 checking on course 340(t) speed 6 ½ knots. Angle on bow called from bridge as 35 starboard and confirmed by plot.
0619.20	Commenced firing two bow tubes at No. 3 with about a 45-50 starboard track.
0619.35	Completed firing forward. With sunrise less that a hour off commenced opening scene of attack and seeking 20 fathoms of water.
0622	Felt first hit in No. 3.
0622.15	Observed and felt second hit in No. 3.
0624	Still have three targets on radar and from the bridge. No. 1 and No. 2 both very low in water. Fear they are sitting on the bottom without sinking.
0629	Observed No. 1 sink and disappear from radar screen. Pip on No. 2 very week.
0631	Secured from battle stations.
0639	Lost sight of No. 2 from bridge and pip disappeared from radar screen at 7,800 yards. No. 3 still in sight.
0643	Made quick dive for trim with No. 3 at a range of 10,050 yards dead in the water.
0701	Surfaced. All clear. No. 3 not visible. With light conditions as they are am positive No. 3 could not have disappeared any way except down.
1200	Lat. 5-24 S.: Long, 112-10 E.; 267 miles, 1,850 gals.
1346	Sighted yellow smoke bomb in our wake.
1354	British submarine surfaced astern (ship contact no. 15).
1415	Closed and spoke with H.M.S. TERRAPIN.
2131	Exchanged calls and greetings with USS BLACKFIN by SJ radar. Lat. 05-46S., Long 114-09 E.

0653	Made quick dive for trim.
0705	Surfaced.
0840	SD radar contact at 27 miles (plane contact No. 36). Closed to 19 miles and lost at 28 miles.
1200	Lat. 6-18S.: Long 116-40E.; 333 miles, 4,790 gals.
2045	Commenced transit of Lombok Strait.
2106	SJ radar contact , bearing 062(t) range 9,000 yards (ship contact No. 16). Avoided.
2130	SJ radar contact, bearing 253 (t) 063R., 3,050 yards. Avoided, Due to speed probably a sail.
2200	Completed uneventful transit of Lombok Strait.
2347	SJ radar contact, bearing 188(t) (008 r.), range 4,850 yards (ship contact no. 17). Avoided.
2350	Contact plotted on course 000(t)., speed 10. Possible British or Dutch Submarine.

1200	Lat. 12-52 S.: Long. 115-15 E.; 397 miles, 4,765 gals.
1435	Sighted two British submarines, bearing 150(t)., range 7 ½ miles (ship contact no. 18).
1641	Sighted HMS RONQUIL, bearing 190(t)., range 8 miles (ship contact no. 19).

0115	SJ radar interference, bearing 180(t).
0200	SJ radar contact on USS BLUEBACK, bearing 240(t) range 10,100 yards (ship contact no. 20).
1200	Lat. 19-33S. : Long. 113-08 E.; 416 miles, 7,980 gals.
1755	Sighted three British submarines on opposite and parallel course, Lat 21-11 S., Long. 112-28 E.
2100	Exchanged calls by SJ radar with USS CHUB.

1200	Lat. 26-07 S. : Long. 112-18 E.; 366 miles, 7255 gals.

1200	Lat. 31-55 S.; Long 115-27 E.; 382 miles, 7500 gals.
1500	Arrived Fremantle, W.A. for refit.

(C) WEATHER:

There were no unusual weather conditions. The weather was excellent with high visibility and an average of less than ten percent clouds for the patrol.

(D) TIDAL INFORMATION:

Tidal conditions for South China and Java Seas were in accordance with hydrographic data published. Prevailing current in the China Sea was zero to one half knot from the southwest (same direction as the prevailing winds). Java Sea currents were three tenths of a knot easterly. Sea state for the patrol was zero to one. Winds varied from dead calm to twelve knots.

(E) NAVIGATIONAL AIDS:

No lighted navigation aids were sighted.

(F) SHIP CONTACTS:

In the war report this section contains all of the ships sighted during the patrol, their location, date of sighting, vessel type, range, course, how contacted (radar, visual, etc) and other remarks. This information, which is already presented in the Narrative section of the report is shown in a table form. If you are interested in this info, please email me and I'll send it to you.

(G) AIRCRAFT CONTACTS:

In the war report this section contains all of the aircraft sighted during the patrol, their location, date of sighting, aircraft type, range, course, how contacted (radar, visual, etc) and other remarks. This information, which is already presented in the Narrative section of the report is shown in a table form. If you are interested in this info, please email me and I'll send it to you.

(H) ATTACK DATA:

In the war report this section contains technical information (and a lot of it too) for the BAYA's three torpedo attacks during the war patrol. The majority of this information is already contained in the Narrative section of the report. This section lists sea states, course and track info, as well as which tubes were fired, torpedo serial numbers, depth settings, etc. If you are interested in this info, please email me and I'll send it to you.

(I) MINES:

No enemy mine laying or sweeping operations were observed. Three Japanese type 93, four horned drifting mines were destroyed at the following positions:

• No.1 Lat 10-04N Long 108-10E.
• No.2 Lat 7-39 N Long 103-22E.
• No.3 Lat 4-35 N Long 106-28E.

(J) ANTISUBMARINE MEASURES AND EVASION TACTICS:

The only Anti-Submarine Measures encountered of note were the two 10cm. radar equipped escorts with the convoy encountered on 3 and 4 May in the Gulf of Siam. 10cm. radar has been encountered before but has been found to be very ineffective. Both escorts had excellent equipment and used it with a high degree of skill. It is believed that we were detected first by our own SJ radar interference. The escorts gave every indication of picking us up by radar at ranges in excess of 8,000 yards and knew exactly where we were. Out SJ was keyed at first once a minute and increased to once in three minutes. The Jap was just as cagy, turning his gear off while ours was off and keying his when we keyed ours. He occasionally took a sweep in hand power to be sure we were not pulling a fast one. The pulse rate of the Jap 10cm. radar was not much above our own SJ. For this reason it was practically impossible to distinguish between their radar and that of the LAGARTO.

On the night of the 4th of May we launched a RDB to endeavor to lead the escort off but he was not pulled off. Our own SJ could not pick up the RDB.

The BAYA was under fire from the escort for 26 minutes with ranges from 1100 to 3000 yards. During this time at least three 4.7", 40mm, 20mm, and searchlights were brought to bear on us. Our escape unscathed is a tribute to the Japs poor gunnery, and our good fortune. Tracers passed up both sides and over the top. 4.7" shells were ricocheting alongside and over the stern as well as bursting overhead. We were in a continuous hail of lead, fire, and steel and sustained not a scratch.

(K) MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE:

No Remarks.

(L) RADIO:

The APR-SPA units functioned highly satisfactory. It is highly desirable to obtain a TM unit that covers the higher frequencies of 1000-3500 MC.

The VHF operated satisfactorily occasionally for close ranges of six miles, but it should have at least two to three times this range. Reception is erratic.

Trouble was experienced on the Wolf Pac Frequencies. The source of trouble was finally traced to our frequency meter which was to be five Kcs. off frequency.

In an attempt to transmit on 8470Kcs to radio Perth our transmitter failed six times during the transmission. The trouble was located in the oscillator stage of the high frequency side of the transmitter.

Reception on the fox schedules has been consistently poor due to weak and fading signal, atmospheric conditions, moderate jamming from enemy stations, and some interference from our own stations.

(M) RADAR:

SD radar operation has been exceptional with maximum ranges on planes at 50 miles and consistent contacts up to 30 miles. Equipment has been very stable in operation. It has required replacement of a pair of transmitter oscillator tubes once during the patrol.

SJ radar operation has been satisfactory with one major exception --- the lack of proper sensitivity to echo reception (signal to main ration). This has been a factor for the past two patrols and is due in part to misalignment in receiver IF stages caused by tube replacements.

Transmitter tubes, the modulation network, as well as TR cavity, beat oscillator tube, and xtal mixer have been replaced and most careful tuning of all adjustments, including antenna feeder unit, has been accomplished from time to time using the 60 ABM wavemeter and land echoes with no increase in sensitivity beyond a certain maximum,

Maximum ranges on targets were as follows:
Submarines 10,000 yds.
Destroyer Escorts 15,000 yds.
Major targets 19,500 yds.

(N) SONAR GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS:

The Sound Gear functioned satisfactorily and sound conditions were found to be normal.

(O) DENSITY LAYERS:

This section of the war report lists Isothermal levels/layers encountered during the patrol. If you are interested in this information, please email me and I will send it to you.

(P) HEALTH, FOOD, AND HABITABILITY:

The health of the crew had been good. There has been no evidence of vermin or parasitic insects. The general sanitary condition has been good.

Too much credit can not be given to the Commissary Department for the high state of morale of the crew. All meals were well planned, well balanced, and excellently prepared. Both cooking and baking were outstanding in their own lines. The ice cream freezer has been enjoyed by all hands and has more than paid for itself on this run alone.

Movies were shown on this patrol for the first time. Their value as a means of relaxation and amusement can not be overestimated.

Habitability has been good. The Air Conditioning Plant is sufficient even in equatorial waters.

There have been no serious illnesses or injuries. The only battle casualty occurred as follows:
HANSON, W.C. S1c(TM), #762-27-47, USN, while acting as 1st loader on the 5"25 cal. deck gun, firing upon an enemy mine, sustained laceration under the right eye and on the upper right eyelid. There were no apparent injury to the eye or damaging effect to the visual acuity. Five sutures were necessary. This injury was caused by an ejected shell case rebounding off the life line.

(Q) PERSONNEL:

Number of men on board during patrol	80
Number of men qualified at start of patrol	63
Number of men qualified on this patrol	6
Number of unqualified men making first patrol.	11
Number of men advanced in rating during patrol	10

The performance of duty of all officers and men was of the highest order and in keeping with the high standards of the Submarine Force. It is particularly desired to commend the lookouts for their untiring efforts and alertness. They are the finest set of lookouts it has been my pleasure to serve with.

(R) MILES STEAMED --- FUEL USED: