The Avenging SS-195 'SEALION'

[ninja turtle]

I propose to follow the war career of SS-195 ’SEALION’ under the commander’s name of Richard G. Voge. The career will start on 8th December 1941. This is the default in-game start date, which is also two days before the original SS-195 was damaged by enemy bombers. Home base will be Manila, which is convenient as this is when SS-195 was scuttled in December 1941. I will continue until:

a. The boat is destroyed by enemy attack.
b. The end of the War when Japan signs the declaration on 2nd September 1945.

Name: SS-195 ‘SEALION’

Submarine Type: SARGO

The following parameters exist:

1. The following mega-mods are used: TMO 2.5 with patch, and RSRDC v550 with patch. Some minor eye candy minor mods have been added as well which do not affect the game-play.
2. Dead Is Dead. However, the priority is survival for the boat and crew so no needless actions will be taken.
3. TC maximum is 512/1024 when in patrol area and 1536 in open water at the player’s discretion.
4. All of the options within the game are checked apart from:
   i. Manual targeting due to a possible fault when installing, although as much information is worked out by the player before firing torpedoes.
   ii. Map updates, although used sparingly. It is in effect a second opinion from the crew for the following reasons:
   a. The watch crew would constantly give target updates when on the bridge when weather conditions allowed.
   b. Sonar, radar, and navigator would also continually update information passed to them.
5. External view is checked for eye candy and used sparingly.
6. Realism in-game is at 75%.
7. Ship spotted bearings will be as per in-game, not true bearings etc.
8. If offered a new submarine, it will be declined as I want to continue with SS-195 as long as possible.

SS-195 Historical Facts:

Commissioned on 27th November 1939. After some time at sea, ‘SEALION’ along with ‘SEADRAGON’ docked at Manila in November 1941 for an overhaul. Whilst tethered, the harbor came under attack by Japanese bombers on 10th December 1941. ‘SEALION’ was damaged resulting in the decision to scuttle her on 25th December 1941. It is thought to be the first US submarine casualty of the second world war.

The Commanders of SS-195:

The first commander was LT. Julian Knox Morrison, Jr. USN from 27th November 1939. He was born on 28th April 1904 and was killed aboard SS-195 whilst cleaning a target weapon on 11th February 1940. LTCDR Richard G. Voge USN (born 4th May 1904) was the second commander of SS-195 ‘SEALION’ and took command on 14th February 1940 until 10 December 1941. He continued with his command on SS-192 ‘SAILFISH.’

In-Game Facts:

The crew names of the original SS-195 have been added into the game, including the first commander. Those who were killed during the attack, including Howard Firth who died as a POW later in the war, will be concentrated on for promotions and medal awards. The commanding officer is LCDR Richard G. Voge and the 2iC is LT Julian K. Morrison. The list of the crew names is below. Ranks do not correspond historically so apologies for any original crewmen who have been demoted. However, the original members who had lost their lives have been given senior ranks when possible.

Write-ups:

The patrol logs are hopefully set as the USN would have appeared using SS-315’s (SEALION #2) first patrol log as a template. Much of the information found in these patrol logs are not included as it would become a full-time job and very time consuming; I have a full-time job and it isn’t as a submarine commander.

I hope you enjoy reading these logs as much as I have enjoyed writing them.



Sources:

http://www.oneternalpatrol.com/uss-sealion-195.htm
http://www.oneternalpatrol.com/uss-sealion-195-loss.htm
http://www.fleetsubmarine.com/ss-195-com-crew.html
http://www.usssealion.com/sealion/uss_sealion.htm
http://ussnautilus.org/blog/the-loss...ealion-ss-195/
http://maritime.org/pamphist/subslost/ss195.htm
http://www.maritime.org/doc/subreports.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_Sealion_(SS-195)
http://www.history.navy.mil/research...on-ss-195.html
http://www.usssealion.com/sealion/sa...he_sealion.htm
http://uboat.net/allies/commanders/3141.html
http://uboat.net/allies/warships/ship/2931.html
http://uboat.net/allies/commanders/3428.html



Other links (a short film about the second ‘SEALION’ SS-315):





Edited 9/07/2016:

Added a new source link: http://www.navsource.org/archives/08/08195.htm

Also a change to the career parameters:

Although the original SS-195 had a deck gun, using in-game mods for the type-Sargo sub prevents me having one at the start of the career and adding one as an equipment upgrade after subsequent patrols. Therefore this is not historically correct.

[ninja turtle]

R. G. Voge

[ninja turtle]

SEALION's Baseball team

[ninja turtle]

The names in italic are SH4 crew names. The names in bold are the original five who were killed during the attack and as a POW. All names and ranks (other than SH4 crew members) have been added by myself prior to the first patrol. When promotions and medals have been awarded after patrols, I will add them within the patrol log.

Morrison, J. K., Jr., LT, USN
Moore, J. R., LT (JG), USN
Raborn, A. ENS
Reich, E.T. ENS
Thompson, W. C. ENS
Albren, Clifford O. PO1C
Armenia, Peter S. PO1C
Bordonaro, Philip. PO3C
Brigman, Travis B. SM1C
Brown, James D. SM1C
Caldwell, William T. SM1C
Childers, Russell H. SM3C
Cowan, Alva R. SM3C
Day, Loyal E. SM3C
Dean, Leslie N. CPO
Dicks, Tribble J. CPO
Draper, Feign D. PO3C
Ellis, Alfred. PO3C
Firth, Howard. ENS
Foster, Sterling C. ENS
Gerdes, Richard W. PO3C
Gullickson, Oscar T. SM1C
Hantsche, Edgar M. SM1C
Hemingway, Erastus B. SM1C
Howell, Thomas L. SM1C
Hurst, Joseph. SM1C
Jenes, Euin M. SM1C
Jenkins, Myron L. SM3C
Jester, Halbert M. SM3C
Johnson, Clarence H. SM3C
Jones, Henry B. PO2C
Joyce, John W. SM3C
Klidzia, Joseph J. SM3C
Lewellin, Clyde R. SM3C
Littell, Edward O. SM3C
Loxley, Raymond W. SM3C
Mallory, Robert V. SM3C
Mallough, Kenneth G. SM3C
Montierde, Filemon. SM3C
Murphy, Edward W. CPO
O’Connell, Melvin D. ENS
Ogilve, Ernest E. CPO
Platt, John F. PO2C
Pollard, Claude L. PO3C
Richardson, Louis M. SM1C
Riley, Jim H. SM3C
Rogers, William J. SM3C
Schrader, Edgar L. SM1C
Shaw, Alvin. SM1C
Shelton, Henry W. ENS
Smith, Carl D. PO2C
Swain, Hannis C. PO2C
Tutt, Wilson F. PO2C
Utz, James Lewis. SM3C
Vallentyne, Paul L. CPO
Way, Raymond G. SM3C
Wroble, Fred. SM3C

Rosencrans, Tucker M. SM1C
Molony, Royce, Lewis M. SM3C
Lynch, Glynn. SM3C
Conyers, Herbert. SM3C
Simmons, Leigh. PO1C
Cage, Bladen E. PO3C
Ackerman, Frederick P. PO3C
Jenkins, Dudley T. PO3C
Davis, Byron. PO3C
Andersen, Victor R. SM1C
Hathaway, Royce R. SM3C
Heston, Tudor P. SM3C
Russell, Stan L. PO2C
Titus, Eli. PO2C
Thomas, Edward S. PO2C
Madley, Oscar D. SM3C
Power, Everett W. SM3C
Heston, Barton. SM3C
Hess, Talbot Donald B. SM3C
Henderson, Charles E. SM3C
Voge, Stanley H. SM3C

[ninja turtle]

PROLOGUE:

The U.S.S. SEALION SS-195 was commissioned on 27 November 1939, Lieutenant Julian K. MORRISON in command. Following shakedown, SEALION was assigned to Submarine Division 17 and prepared for overseas deployment. On 11 February 1940, MORRISON was accidentally killed whilst cleaning a target weapon aboard SEALION. On 14 February 1940, Lieutenant Commander Richard G. VOGE took command. In the Spring of 1940, SEALION arrived at CAVITE in the Autumn and began operations as part of the Asiatic Fleet. In late 1941, SEALION along with SEADRAGON arrived at CAVITE Navy Yard for an overhaul. Although scheduled for completion on 12 December 1941, SEALION was ready for sea on 8 December 1941.

OBJECTIVE:

“Proceed to an area south west of the coast of FORMOSA 21°N 119°E and conduct combat operations within 75nm of the patrol area center point.”

NARRATIVE:

8 DECEMBER 1941

1300 Departed MANILA HARBOR for First War Patrol. Clouds clear, wind 5 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.

9 December 1941

Enroute to patrol area. AA gun tested. Test dives carried out. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard 15 knots.

10 December 1941

0045 Patrol radius reached.
0055 Radio message received: “Remain in Southern FORMOSA patrol area for 36 hours. You may depart the area to engage IJN units as necessary. TF3 N2 has no new updates on IJN intentions.”

11 December 1941

0504 Ship spotted on bearing 12°. (Ship contact #1). Gradually 3 x fishing boats came into view. Avoided getting too close. If we had a deck gun, then we would have engaged.
0713 Aircraft spotted on a bearing of 144°. (Aircraft contact #1). Crash dived to 100 feet and took evasive action. Bomb explosions heard, no damage to boat. Continued submerged until dark.
1800 Surfaced. Radio message received: “Conduct combat operation in the northern LUZON STRAITS. RTB at your discretion.”

12 December 1941

0629 Aircraft spotted on a bearing of 212°. (Aircraft Contact #2). Crash dived to 100 feet and took evasive action. Bomb explosions and gun fire heard. No damage to boat. Continued submerged until dark.
1730 Surfaced.

13-14 December 1941

Patrolled a radius within 70nm of APARRI and continued to patrol LUZON STRAIT. Travelled on surface during day and submerged at night.

15 December 1941

0920 Aircraft spotted. ((Aircraft Contact #3). Crash dived to 100 feet and took evasive action. Boat was already decks awash. Bomb explosion heard. No damage to report. Continued submerged until dark.
1730 Surfaced.

16 December 1941

0800 Radio message received: “Deploy to position 140nm ESE of OKINAWA. Conduct anti-shipping operations along the JAPAN-LUZON STRAITS-SINGAPORE shipping lanes.” ETA: 2 days. Current position: 680nm from new patrol area.

17 December 1941

1700 Headed toward ITOMAN and NAKA harbors.
2100 Patrolled within 20nm of harbors, being sure to stay in deep water.

18 December 1941

1008 Aircraft spotted on a bearing of 138°. (Aircraft Contact #4). Crash dived to 100 feet and took evasive action. Bomb explosions heard. No damage to boat. Continued submerged until dark.
1800 Surfaced.
1900 Headed SW along LUZON STRAIT to SINGAPORE. Hopeful to sight IJN targets.

19 December 1941
Enroute SINGAPORE.

20 December 1941

0100 Radio message received: “Effective immediately. Shift base of operations to SURABAYA, JAVA.”

21 December 1941

No contacts.

22 December 1941

2000 Headed to a radius within 50nm of CAMRANH BAY.

23 December 1941

No contacts.

24 December 1941

0700 At periscope depth. Patrolling within 100nm of entrance to SAIGON.
1800 Surfaced. Navigator calculated that diesel reserves were just enough to RTB at Ahead ⅓. Decided to RTB SURABAYA.

25 December 1941

0800 Dived to periscope depth. Christmas celebrations were performed by crew whilst submerged.

26-30 December 1941

Travelled on surface during day and submerged at night to save diesel at Ahead ⅓.

31 December 1941

1645 Arrived SURABAYA.

PATROL SUMMARY:

Apart from 3 x fishing boats, no ship contacts were made. 4 x aircraft was spotted causing crash dives with each contact. We were fortunately at decks awash apart from contact #2 when the boat came under bomb and gunfire attack. No damage to report. With diesel engines running at Ahead ⅓ and travelling submerged, we could have increased the patrol length by some few days. This will be remembered in subsequent patrols. The Commander requests modifications to the boat, namely SD Radar and a deck gun.

TORPEDOES: 22
FUEL: 35%
DAYS AT SEA: 24
HULL DAMAGE: 0%

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS: 4
SHIP CONTACTS: 1(3)
SHIPS SUNK (DAMAGED): 0(0)

WEATHER:

Throughout the patrol the visibility was very good with clear skies. The sea conditions were favorable when on the surface, apart from one day when the diesel engines had to be increased against the rough swell. We did not encounter any rain or heavy fog, although there was occasionally some light fog and haze on the horizon.

MK-14 TORPEDOES:

This vessel carried 22 MK-14 torpedoes but was unable to fire any of them through lack of targets throughout this patrol. Therefore, performance of this armament cannot be rated.

SONAR GEAR:

No ships were encountered throughout this patrol. Therefore, performance of this equipment cannot be rated.

MODIFICATIONS AT BASE: NIL.

PERSONNEL:
(a) Men on board during patrol: 78
(b) Men making their first patrol: 78
(c) Men advanced in rating at start of patrol: 00
(d) Men further qualified at start of patrol: 00
(e) Men advanced in rating during patrol: 30
(f) Men qualified at end of patrol: 00
(g) Unqualified men making their first patrol: 44
(h) Men awarded medals at end of patrol: 00
(i) Men injured during patrol: 00
(j) Men KIA during patrol: 00

This Commanding Officer was greatly impressed with the high performance of duty and general efficiency of officers and crew on this, the first war patrol. The watch crew are deserved of a “well done” for spotting aircraft in time for the boat to crash dive, therefore preventing any damage or injuries to the boat and crew. Morale within the crew was high throughout the patrol even though we did not encounter any ship contacts and therefore returned with our full quota of torpedoes. During the return to base the crew were encouraged to study for further qualifications, attending schools when on shore leave if possible.

TOP SKIPPERS:
1. RAYMOND J. MOORE 10,700
2. WILLIAM E. FERRALL 10,000
3. JAMES W. COE 10,000
4. FRANK W. FENNO 5,200
5. RICHARD G. VOGE 0

ENDORSEMENT to

SEALION First War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. SEALION (SS195) – Report of War Patrol Number One.

1. The First War Patrol of SEALION, also the first War Patrol for the Commanding Officer as such, was conducted in the South China Sea, particularly the Luzon Strait and comprised a period of 24 days. SEALION arrived at Surabaya for refit on 31 December.

2. The performance of duty by the watch crew is noted, particularly as the boat was without SD Radar. Four aircraft contacts were made with effective evasive action taken.

3. SEALION encountered very good sky and sea conditions, but unfortunately did not spot any ship contacts as potential targets.

4. The SEALION returned in excellent material condition and will be given a normal refit.

5. Modifications will be considered and acted upon when possible.

6. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew, are congratulated on their first patrol.

[ninja turtle]

PROLOGUE:

U.S.S. SEALION SS-195 arrived in SURABAYA for refit on 31 December 1941 on completion of First War Patrol. Sea trials, sound tests, and training exercises were conducted during the period 1 January – 21 January. SEALION was ready for seas on 22 January 1942, carrying 22 Mk 14 torpedoes. On 22 January 1942, Lieutenant Commander Richard G. Voge reported aboard for duty.

OBJECTIVE:

“Proceed to the MOLUCCA CHOKE POINT at the north end of the MOLUCCA SEA via the BANDA SEA and conduct combat patrol within 100nm of its center point 1°N 126°E.”

NARRATIVE:

22 January 1942

0845 Departed SURABAYA for SECOND War Patrol. AA gun and dive tests carried out. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard 15 knots. Clouds clear, wind 5 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.

23 January 1942

FLORES SEA. Enroute to patrol area. Nothing to report.

24 January 1942

BANDA SEA. Enroute to patrol area. Nothing to report.

25 January 1942

2200 Patrol area reached. Radio message received: “Conduct combat operations for next 72 hours within 100nm of MOLUCCA PASSAGE.” Diesel engines reduced to Ahead ⅔.

26-27 January 1942

Patrolled MOLUCCA PASSAGE on surface during day and submerged during night. No contacts.

28 January 1942

2200 Radio message received: “Proceed at best speed to the TARAKAN ISLAND and conduct scouting operations for the next 72 hours. Remain within 100nm of center of the operation area.” Increased diesel engines to Ahead Standard. ETA patrol area: 36 hours at 15 knots.

29 January 1942

CELEBES SEA. Enroute to new patrol area.

30 January 1942

0800 Patrol area reached. Patrolled with no contacts.

31 January 1942

1430 Heavy rain and fog, sea very rough, visibility nil. Dived to periscope depth at Ahead ⅓ and continued submerged. No contacts.

1 February 1942

0800 Surfaced for radio check. Nothing to report.
0830 No change to weather conditions. Dived to periscope depth. Ahead ⅓.

TORPEDO ATTACK #1
No damage inflicted.
3°23’N 119°1’E.

1740 Sound contact on bearing 347°, closing, slow speed. Surfaced and set diesel engines at Ahead Standard, course 40°. (Ship Contact #1). Clouds partial, wind 1 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.
1810 Dived to periscope depth for sound check. Contact at 262°, closing. Surfaced. Set diesel engines to Ahead ⅓.
1815 Ship spotted on bearing 300° within 100nm ESE of TARAKAN ISLAND. An unescorted merchant. Changed course to due south. Sun setting. Intended to get ahead of target on assumed heading of 178°.
1833 Dived to periscope depth on course 270°.
1850 As the target closed to visual range through the periscope, it could be identified as a Small Split Freighter, but unable to determine nationality. Battle stations. Torpedo #1 set at track angle 90° port, depth 15 feet, high speed, contact, range 600 yards, aim-point center.
1902 Just before firing, the target’s flag fluttered into view. DAMN! Netherlands. Crew stood down. Unfortunately, an attack was not to happen, especially as it was perfect weather conditions.
1910 Surfaced and continued with patrol. Ahead Standard at 15 knots.

2 February 1942

0108 Radio message received: “Conduct combat operations in the CELEBES SEA at your discretion, remain on station as long as supplies are adequate.” Course set to patrol northern sector of CELEBES SEA.

3 February 1942

0240 Submerged to 80 feet due to weather and rough sea conditions affecting visibility. Ahead ⅓.

4 February 1942

0700 Surfaced to replenish oxygen and recharge battery. Heavy rain and fog, wind 9 m/s, sea rough, visibility nil.
1016 Battery recharged. Submerged to 80 feet. No point in staying on the surface under current weather conditions. Ahead ⅓.

5 February 1942

0630 Checked weather through periscope. No change. Submerged again to 80 feet.
2200 Surfaced. Weather has improved, clouds partial, wind 5 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good. Diesel engines set to Ahead Standard.

6 February 1942

1000 Radio message received: “Proceed to a position along the Japanese - Singapore shipping lanes and conduct anti-shipping operations. Remain on station for 96 hours.” Course set for 14°N 112°E. ETA: 81 hours at Ahead Standard 15 knots.

7 February 1942

0130 Rain and heavy fog, sea rough, visibility nil. Dived to 80 feet. Ahead ⅓. Whilst submerged crew and I were able to celebrate my birthday.

8 February 1942

0700 Surfaced. Weather improved, wind 3 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good. Ahead Standard 15 knots.
1100 Rain and heavy fog, sea rough, visibility nil. Submerged to 80 feet. Ahead ⅓.

9 February 1942

0700 Surfaced. Weather improved, clouds partial, wind 1 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard.

10 February 1942

No contacts.

11 February 1942

1200 Plotted course to patrol within 40–100nm of CAMRANH BAY, heading south.

12 February 1942

1200 Plotted course to patrol within 50–100nm of SAIGON harbor. Submerged to 80 feet for sound check.

13 February 1942

1930 Surfaced. Ahead Standard.

14 February 1942

0800 Headed on course 145° to patrol traffic lane from SINGAPORE between 5°N 110°E to 1°N 106°E.

15 February 1942

1900 Submerged to 100 feet for sound checks.

16 February 1942

0700 Surfaced. Ahead Standard.
1700 Plotted a course within 20nm radius between 1°N 106°E to 4°N 109°E of traffic lane.
1930 Submerged to 80 feet for sound checks. Ahead ⅓.

17 February 1942

1433 Raised to periscope depth as boat was too close to bottom along sand bank south of island in 2/3°N 107°E. Well done to personnel on duty in control room for staying at 80 feet for over an hour when the depth under keel was sometimes only 17 feet.
1630 Submerged to 80 feet in deeper water.

18 February 1942

0900 Surfaced.

19-20 February 1942

2130 Dived to periscope depth for sound checks.

21 February 1942

0800 Surfaced.

22 February 1942

No contacts.

23 February 1942

1700 Decided to set course for SURABAYA due to diesel reserves. ETA: 51 hours.

24 February 1942

Enroute SURABAYA.

25 February 1942

1500 Arrived at SURABAYA.

PATROL SUMMARY:

Only one contact was made throughout this patrol which turned out to be a neutral vessel. However, the crew were efficient in the impending attack. The patrol was hampered every now and then by bad weather and poor visibility. Therefore, I ordered the boat to submerge to certain depths in order to use the sound equipment. Normal enemy sea traffic lanes were patrolled with no success. The patrol ended due to low quantity of fuel. The Commander requests modifications to the boat, namely SD Radar and a deck gun.

TORPEDOES: 22
FUEL: 25%
DAYS AT SEA: 35
HULL DAMAGE: 0%

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS: 0
SHIP CONTACTS: 1
SHIPS SUNK (DAMAGED): 0(0)

WEATHER:

As mentioned the patrol was hampered every now and then by bad weather and poor visibility. Sea conditions reduced the speed by a knot whilst on the surface.

MK-14 TORPEDOES:

This vessel carried 22 MK-14 torpedoes but was unable to fire any of them through lack of targets throughout this patrol. I can therefore not rate the performance of this armament.

SONAR GEAR:

With only one sonar contact, the commander cannot give a full rating. The equipment did not appear to have any faults throughout the patrol.

MODIFICATIONS AT BASE: SD RADAR.

PERSONNEL:

(a) Men on board during patrol: 78
(b) Men qualified at start of patrol: 34
(c) Men qualified at end of patrol: 00
(d) Unqualified men making their first patrol: 00
(e) Men advanced in rating during patrol: 01
(f) Men awarded medals at end of patrol: 00
(g) Men injured during patrol: 00
(h) Men KIA during patrol: 00

This Commanding Officer was greatly impressed with the high performance of duty and general efficiency of officers and crew on this second war patrol. The control crew are worthy of additional praise for preventing the boat from grounding when depth was no greater than 17 feet at times, particularly SM2C A. Shaw and W. Rogers, PO3C C. Pollard, and ENS A. Raborn. Morale within the crew was high throughout the patrol, although the aborted attack against the Netherlands ship dampened spirits for a short while.

TOP SKIPPERS:

1. RAYMOND J. MOORE 10,700
2. WILLIAM E. FERRALL 10,000
3. JAMES W. COE 10,000
4. FRANK W. FENNO 5,200
5. RICHARD G. VOGE 0

ENDORSEMENT to

SEALION Second War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. SEALION (SS195) – Report of War Patrol Number Two.

1. The Second War Patrol of SEALION, was conducted in the Molucca Passage, Tarakan Island, Celebes Sea, and the Japanese-Singapore shipping lane and comprised of a period of 35 days. SEALION arrived at Surabaya for refit on 25 February.

2. No potential targets were encountered during the patrol with only one neutral ship spotted. The Commander was extremely lucky to have seen the ship’s flag in time before letting lose a torpedo. Advice is strongly issued to confirm nationality as early as possible during an attack.

3. SEALION encountered some unfavorable sky and sea conditions, which may have contributed to lack of targets.

4. The SEALION returned in excellent material condition and will be given a normal refit.

5. SD RADAR will be fitted whilst in dock.

6. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew, are congratulated on their second patrol, but a more successful next patrol is hoped for.

[ninja turtle]

PROLOGUE:

U.S.S. SEALION SS-195 arrived in SURABAYA on 25 February 1942 on completion of Second War Patrol. Whilst in dock SEALION was refueled, torpedoes checked and the boat was modified with SD Radar. SEALION was ready for seas on 26 February 1942, with 22 Mk 14 torpedoes. On 27 February 1942, Lieutenant Commander Richard G. Voge reported aboard for duty.

OBJECTIVE:

“Proceed at best speed to a point 65nm of MAKASSAR CITY and conduct barrier patrol. Remain within 100nm of the center point of the operation area 5°S 119°E.”

NARRATIVE:

27 February 1942

0000 Departed SURABAYA for THIRD War Patrol. Clouds clear, 5 m/s, sea clam. AA gun and dive tests carried out when in deeper water and out of harbor. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard.
0600 Passed Allied Task Force heading west at 7°S 112°E consisting of the following vessels in single file:
Java CL Light Cruiser
Mod-Leander Light Cruiser
Admiralen Class Destroyer x 2
J Class Destroyer x 3
Clenson x 4
De Ruyter
Northampton Heavy Cruiser
York Heavy Cruiser

28 February 1942

0400 Patrol area reached. Radio message received: “Conduct combat operations in the MAKASSAR STRAIT / MAKASSAR CITY area for the next 36 hours and remain within 100nm of the center point.”

1 March 1942

0421 Ship spotted on bearing 24°. (Ship contact #1). Identified as Netherlands Small Split Freighter heading north.
1605 Radio message received: “Proceed at best speed to the LOMBAK STRAIT and conduct scouting operations for the next 36 hours. Remain within 75nm of the center of the operation area.”

2 March 1942

0330 Heavy rain and fog, sea very rough, visibility nil. Submerged to 80 feet with electric motors at Ahead ⅓.
1600 Surfaced. Patrol area reached. Weather conditions not improved. Stayed on surface to recharge batteries. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard.
2007 Batteries recharged. Submerged to 80 feet. Ahead ⅓.

3 March 1942

0630 Surfaced. Weather improved. Continued patrolling on surface at Ahead Standard.

4 March 1942

0315 Radio message received: “Proceed at best speed to the BAWEAN ISLAND Area and conduct scouting operations for the next 36 hours. Patrol area at your discretion. Remain on station as long as supplies area adequate.”
1700 Radio message received: “Proceed to the vicinity of the Api Passage 330°N 110°E by 150nm and conduct anti-shipping operations along the shipping lanes. Remain on station for 96 hours.”

5 March 1942

KARIMATA STRAIT. No contacts.

6 March 1942

1512 Radio message received: “Proceed to the vicinity of the Api Passage and conduct anti-shipping operations along the shipping lanes. Remain on station for 96 hours.”

7 March 1942

No contacts.

8 March 1942

0102 Radio message received: “Effective immediately. Shift base of operations to FREEMANTLE, AUSTRALIA.”
0430 Large sea swells and sky overcast causing poor visibility. Submerged to 80 feet for sound checks.
0800 Surfaced.
2030 Submerged to 65 feet for sound checks. No contacts.

9 March 1942

0730 Surfaced. No contacts.

10-11 March 1942

Clouds clear, wind 0 m/s, sea smooth, visibility very good. No contacts.

12 March 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ONE
One Old Raked Bow Freighter Sunk
3°34’N 108°48’E

0504 Ship spotted on bearing 320°, heading north-east. Changed our course to run parallel and to get ahead in order to set up an attack angle. (Ship contact #2).
0515 Quite clearly identified as a Japanese Old Raked Bow Freighter, 6500 tons, travelling at 8 knots. Submerged to periscope depth as the moon was to our port side and therefore would have silhouetted the boat.
1725 Battle stations for a submerged attack. Bow torpedoes #1 and #2 set at 15 feet, high speed, range of 600 yards, 90° port track angle.
0535 Torpedo #1 was fired followed by #2 five seconds later, aiming at the bow and center. Torpedoes ran on track with impacts 25 and 30 seconds later. The target was set ablaze.
0538 Surfaced. Target sank by the bow first. No survivors were seen nor any lifeboats. Some debris in the water, including a lifebuoy with the name “ANDASTE”.
0545 Radio message received: “Proceed to a position 70nm NW of the Brunei (0°6’N 114°48’E by 150nm) and conduct anti-shipping operations along the Palawan shipping lanes. Remain on station for 96 hours.” Course set for patrol area at Ahead Standard.

13-16 March 1942

Area patrolled with no contacts.

17 March 1942

0700 Decided to head for DARWIN to refuel and then proceed to FREMANTLE, crossing BALABC STRAIT, and passing SULU ARCHIPELAGO, MAKASSAR STRAIT, FLORES SEA, and BANDA SEA. Will engage targets of opportunity during the course.
1545 Radar contact. (Aircraft Contact #1). 7ºN 116°E. Crash dived to 80 feet. Continued submerged at Ahead ⅓.
1900 Surfaced.

18 March 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO
One Small Old Tanker Sunk
3°56’N 120°4’E

2300 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 269°. (Ship Contact #3). Surfaced and steered to course 40° at Ahead ⅔. Clouds clear, wind 8 m/s, sea rippled, visibility good.

19 March 1942

0000 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact made at bearing 298°. Surfaced and steered to 270°. Target heading for TARAKAN ISLAND?
0030 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 93°. Surfaced and steered to 295°. Visual contact on bearing 54°. Japanese flag clearly seen! Small Old Tanker, 1500 tons.
0045 Target unescorted. Zig-zagging at what was determined to be 20° angles. Speed was calculated at 5 knots with a heading of 255°. All bow torpedoes were set at high speed, 15 feet, with range of 700 yards for a 90° port angle.
0120 Battle stations for a submerged attack.
0124 Torpedoes #1 and #2 fired. Track good. Both missed.
0126 Torpedo #3 fired. Track good, but went too deep and travelled underneath target. Torpedo #4 was fired set at minimum depth. All four torpedoes went beneath the target. The boat was quickly swung about to use stern torpedoes.
0206 Torpedo #5 set at minimum depth was fired, but missed due to target taking evasive action. Torpedo #6 was fired at minimum depth and hit the stern of the target. Both were fired at 600 yards.
0209 Torpedoes #7 and #8 were fired with minimum depth setting and hit the stern, causing the target to sink.
0210 Surfaced. One lifeboat was seen containing five survivors. These were picked up for questioning. Secured from battle stations and continued with original course.

20 March 1942

MAKASSAR STRAIT. No contacts.

21 March 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. THREE
One Large Old Split Freighter Sunk
7°43’N 119°45’E

0650 Whilst patrolling FLORES SEA, visual contact of ship on bearing 28° heading west. (Ship Contact #4).
0940 Got ahead of target on assumed heading. Spotted target, although identification not known.
1000 Nationality confirmed as Japanese.
1010 Identified as a Large Old Split Freighter, 8000 tons. Decided to use stern torpedoes set at minimum depth due to previous torpedoes running deep, high speed, contact, with range of 600 yards, 90° port track.
1015 Battle stations for a submerged attack.
1018 All four stern tubes were fired along the port side of the target. All hits. Target sank within 2 minutes.
1020 Surfaced. Secured from battle stations. No survivors. Continued with original course.

22 March 1942

FLORES SEA. Enroute DARWIN.

23 March 1942

TIMOR SEA. Enroute DARWIN.

1600 Heavy rain and fog, wind 10 m/s, sea with swell, visibility nil. Continued on surface, but reduced speed to Ahead ⅓ due to lack of visibility as a precaution of possible collisions.

24 March 1942

VAN DIEMEN GULF. Enroute DARWIN.

0800 Unloaded prisoners at DARWIN. Too dangerous with the weather conditions to refuel so continued to RTB FREMANTLE.

25-26 March 1942

JOSEPH BONAPARTE GULF. Enroute FREMANTLE.

27-31 March 1942

Enroute FREMANTLE.

1 April 1942

2125 Arrived FREMANTLE.

PATROL SUMMARY:

The Commanding Officer of SEALION considers this third patrol to be a success. Three ships were attacked and sunk, with their nationality confirmed in good time. The new SD Radar installed after the last patrol was only needed once but has given the crew the confidence to continue on the surface and reach the patrol area much sooner, rather than have the precaution of travelling decks awash for a hasty crash dive. Three torpedoes unfortunately ran deep, but at least each target was still destroyed. With 25 days during the patrol of no contacts, it was good that we returned home with three positive outcomes. The patrol ended mainly to return the prisoners to Darwin.

TORPEDOES: 8
FUEL: 25%
DAYS AT SEA: 34
HULL DAMAGE: 0%

AIRCRAFT SPOTTED: 1
SHIPS SPOTTED: 4
SHIPS SUNK (DAMAGED): 3(0)

WEATHER:

The conditions during the patrol was extremely favorable, although there were a couple of days in patrol areas when the visibility was very poor. During these days I submerged the boat in order to use the sonar equipment. Ships on the surface were spotted in good time, providing us the leisure of setting up a good attack position.

SONAR:

The equipment performed faultlessly, resulting in one successful attack.

SD RADAR:

Only one aircraft was encountered, but the radar picked it up in plenty of time to take evasive action.

MK-14 TORPEDOES:

This vessel carried 22 MK-14 torpedoes and used 14 in attacks. Three torpedoes ran too deep, which otherwise would have been a faultless attack. All the torpedoes fired ran true and when impacting created sufficient damage to the target.

MODIFICATIONS AT BASE: NIL.

PERSONNEL:

(a) Men on board during patrol: 78
(b) Men qualified at start of patrol: 78
(c) Men qualified at end of patrol: 00
(d) Unqualified men making their first patrol: 00
(e) Men advanced in rating during patrol: 39
(f) Men awarded medals at end of patrol: 02
(g) Men injured during patrol: 00
(h) Men KIA during patrol: 00

This Commanding Officer was greatly impressed with the high performance of duty and general efficiency of officers and crew on this third war patrol. The cool mind set of each individual when on battle stations is worthy of praise. The watch crew were constantly on alert and called “ship spotted” with extreme authority and efficiency. Morale within the crew was high throughout the patrol, and with three successful attacks, they are eager to begin the next one. It is gratifying that so many men advanced in rank during the patrol, proving that the crew were never idle. Also it is with great pleasure that I am able to award the named personnel the following medals: Ens. S. C. Foster the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and the Navy Cross Medal, and CPO E. E. Ogilve the Navy Cross Medal.

TOP SKIPPERS:

1. RICHARD G. VOGE 16,327
2. FREDERICK B. WOODER 14,000
3. RAYMOND J. MOORE 10,700
4. WILLIAM E. FERRALL 10,000
5. JAMES W. COE 10,000
6. FRANK W. FENNO 5,200

ENDORSEMENT to

SEALION Third War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. SEALION (SS195) – Report of War Patrol Number Three.

1. The Third War Patrol of SEALION, was conducted in the Makassar Strait and Lombak Strait, with areas of opportunity included and comprised of a period of 34 days. SEALION arrived at Fremantle for refit on 1 April.

2. Three torpedo attacks were made as follows:

Attack 1. One Old Raked Bow Freighter was sunk by two Mk.14 torpedoes which were fired at short range. Both hit.

Attack 2. Four bow torpedoes were fired at a tanker at short range, but all missed due to running too deep. The four stern torpedoes were fired moments later with one missing and three hitting resulting in the tanker sinking.

Attack 3. Four stern torpedoes were fired at a Large Old Split Freighter at short range. All four hit the target causing it to sink rapidly.

3. After attack number two SEALION picked up five Japanese survivors for questioning.

4. SEALION encountered some unfavorable sky and sea conditions, which may have contributed to the lack of targets.

5. The SD RADAR fitted after the previous patrol has been successful in gaining the confidence and time the crew needs to combat the air threat, although only one aircraft was encountered.

6. It is recommended that damage inflicted on the enemy be assessed as follows:

SUNK

Attack #1: 1 Old Raked Bow Split Merchant 6,450
Attack #2: 1 Small Old Tanker 1,549
Attack #3: 1 Large Spit Old Freighter 8,150

Total 16,149 tons

7. The patrol ended prematurely in order to off load the POW’s in Darwin.

8. SEALION returned in excellent material condition and will be given a normal refit.

9. Certain personnel of the crew have been praised sufficiently within the report and two members have been awarded deserved medals.

10. It is pleasing to see LCDR R. G. Voge #1 on the ‘Top Skippers List’.

11. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew, are congratulated on their third patrol.

[ninja turtle]

PROLOGUE:

U.S.S. SEALION SS-195 arrived in FREMANTLE on 1 April 1942 on completion of Third War Patrol. Whilst in dock SEALION was refueled, torpedoes reloaded, and equipment checked. After sea trials SEALION was ready for patrol on 19 April 1942, with 22 Mk 14 torpedoes.

OBJECTIVE:

“Proceed to an area 20nm SSW of HOG POINT in the Western CELEBES SEA and conduct choke point operations within 80nm of 0°5’N 119°30’E for 72 hours.”

NARRATIVE:

19 April 1942

2025 Departed FREMANTLE for FOURTH War Patrol. Clouds clear, 5 m/s, sea clam. Once in open water AA gun tests carried out. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard.

20-24 April 1942

Enroute DARWIN. Dives and routine sea-worth checks carried out.

25 April 1942

Fully refueled at DARWIN.

26-27 April

BANDA SEA. Enroute to patrol area.

28 April 1942

FLORES SEA. Enroute to patrol area.

29 April 1942

Patrol area reached. Plotted patrol course within 35nm radius through MAKASSAR STRAIT. Stayed on surface during day and submerged at night. No contacts.

30 April 1942

0730 Surfaced after night sound checks. Diesel engines at Ahead Standard. Weather conditions very good.
1900 Continued travelling on the surface as due to the moon phase and clear sky, visibility very good.

1 May 1942

0200 Weather deteriorated. Heavy rain and fog, wind 9 m/s, sea rough, visibility nil. Submerged to 80 feet at Ahead ⅓.
1100 Surfaced. Weather improved. Clouds clear, wind 9 m/s, sea with a swell, visibility good.

2 May 1942

0130 Radio message received: “Conduct choke point / anti shipping operations within 80nm of 0°5’N 119°30’E for 72 hours.”

3 May 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ONE
One Type-A Freighter Sunk
5°22’N 119°29’E

0713 Ship spotted on bearing 200°. (Ship Contact #1).
0730 Submerged to periscope depth at Ahead Full into an attack position. Target heading 340°.
0740 Identified target as a Japanese Hog Island Type-A Freighter, 4000 tons. Bow torpedoes set at depth of 10 feet, high speed, contact, for a 90° port track angle at a range of 600 yards. Target speed estimated as 9 knots.
0745 All four bow torpedoes were fired along the port side of the target. Three hits. Unknown what happened to fourth torpedo. All torpedoes were on a good track. Can only assume the fourth torpedo went too deep. However, the target was destroyed and sank within minutes. One lifeboat was seen.
0835 Surfaced. Patrolled within 15nm of this attack.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO
One Medium Old Tanker Sunk
5°24’N 119°39’E

1900 Periscope depth. Sound contact on bearing 37°. (Ship Contact #2). Surfaced immediately and steered to bearing 230° at Ahead Full.
1930 Periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 76°. Surfaced at steered to 330° at Ahead Flank.
1937 Visual contact on bearing 342°. Target heading 335°.
1950 Target identified as a Japanese Medium Old Tanker, 4800 tons. Came under attack from the tanker’s deck guns but ineffective.
1955 However, came to battle stations. Bow torpedoes 1-4 were set to 15 feet depth, high speed and contact.
2000 Submerged to periscope depth and steered to 270° at Ahead Flank to close the tracking distance. Aimed for a 90° starboard angle using bow torpedoes at a range of 700 yards.
2006 Fired two torpedoes. After 20 seconds there were two impacts.
2007 A third torpedo was fired, but missed. It was seen to follow the correct track, but the target had reduced speed. Target began to sink by the bow, slipping below the surface at an acute angle. Two lifeboats were seen.
2012 Tanker disappeared below the waves. Continued to patrol at periscope depth at Ahead ⅓.

4 May 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. THREE
Large Old Split Freighter. Damage inflicted
Location unknown

0600 Sound contact on bearing 65°. (Ship Contact #3). Surfaced and increased diesel engines to Ahead Full. Steered to 45°. Clouds clear, wind 0 m/s, sea smooth, visibility very good.
0615 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 336°. Surfaced and steered to 15°.
0645 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 48°. Surfaced and steered 40°.
0648 Smoke on the horizon on bearing 23°, heading south. Steered 180°.
0715 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Target on bearing 290°. Through the periscope the stack was visible over the horizon.
0745 Identified the target as a Japanese Large Old Split Freighter, 8000 tons. Battle stations. Bow torpedoes set at high speed, 25 feet depth for a submerged starboard 90° track angle attack. The target was clearly zig zagging with a speed of 8 knots.
0804 Over two minutes, three torpedoes were fired along the target’s starboard side. All missed, running too deep. After thirty minutes running parallel at Flank Speed at 80 feet, came to periscope depth and turned hard to port for another try. Three torpedoes were again fired. Torpedo #1 missed the target, torpedo #2 was a dud, and torpedo #3 hit the target in the center.
0842 A fourth torpedo was fired, but the torpedo ran parallel with the target on its zig. All bow torpedoes spent. Decided to release target as it was too hard to maneuver and keep up with it submerged. If we surfaced, we would be under fire from the Freighter’s deck guns. But at least we damaged it.
0847 Decided to surface when out of visual range and race south ahead of assumed heading and use stern torpedoes. Once we surfaced we were still within visual range and came under attack. The bulkhead had minimal damage, the 20mm AA gun was damaged, and three crew members had minor injuries: PO1C L. Simmons, PO2C F. Ackerman, and SM1C V. R. Andersen.
0926 Ship spotted on bearing 12° heading north. (Ship Contact #4). Decided to continue attack with target #3.
0940 Submerged to periscope depth. Target #3 spotted and continuing south.
1023 Surfaced to decks awash to increase speed.
1036 Submerged to periscope depth.
1040 Target #3 had changed course and it would appear that it was heading north. Surfaced and steered to run between both targets.
1100 Determined that target #3 was heading south again. Changed our course to intercept further south. However, unsure what direction it was going to take as it started to head north again. Steered north to attempt to attack target #4.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FOUR
No damage inflicted
Location unknown

1130 The weather had changed considerably. Rain and heavy fog had reduced the visibility to nil.
1140 Submerged to periscope depth for a sound check. Contact on bearing 266°.
1151 Two stern torpedoes were fired using sonar with an estimated range of 500 yards. Both missed.
1155 Surfaced to recharge batteries. Abandoned both attacks due to weather conditions. Heavy rain and fog, wind 15 m/s, sea very rough, visibility nil.
1500 Batteries recharged.
1800 Submerged to 80 feet running at Ahead ⅓.

5 May 1942

0600 Surfaced. Clouds partial, wind 15 m/s, sea rough, visibility good. Set diesels at Ahead Standard. Checked AA gun – okay.
1040 Radio message received: “Deploy to the Makassar Strait and conduct anti-shipping operations within 50nm of 0°S 119°E for 36 hours.” Steered 185°.
1200 Periscope depth for sound check. No contacts.
1300 Surfaced.
2000 Clouds partial, wind 14 m/s, sea rough, visibility moderate. Continued on surface.
6 May 1942
1200 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. No contacts.
1300 Surfaced. Set diesels at Ahead ⅔.
1830 Submerged to 70 feet at Ahead ⅓.

7 May 1942

0600 Surfaced. Clouds partial, wind 9 m/s, sea with slight swell, visibility very good.
0645 Ship spotted on bearing 288°. (Ship Contact #5). Went to decks awash to decrease the possibility of being detected as the target looked to be heading toward our location.
0650 Submerged to periscope depth as it was confirmed that the target was heading towards us, but had not detected us.
0715 Target speed estimated as 5 knots with heading NE.
0718 Surfaced to gain distance ahead of the target at Ahead Full. Came under fire (no damage). Battle stations. Identified the target as a Japanese Large Modern Tanker, 10,000 tons.
0725 Submerged to periscope depth at Ahead Flank.
0745 Upon looking through the periscope the weather had changed considerably. Heavy rain had caused very poor visibility.
0758 Surfaced. Remained on surface trying to run parallel with the assumed target heading and speed until the weather cleared.
1000 Submerged to periscope depth for a sound check. No contacts. Lucky bastard!! Weather had prevented an attack. Continued submerged at 80 feet at Ahead ⅓.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FIVE
No damage inflicted
Location unknown

1400 Sound contact on bearing 240°. (Ship Contact #6).
1430 Through the periscope, weather still unfavorable. Continued at periscope depth. Checked weather conditions every thirty minutes.
1700 Weather cleared. Sound check. Contact on bearing 68°. Possibly target #6. Surfaced and set diesel engines at Ahead Standard, steering to 60°. Clouds partial, wind 0 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.
1800 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 18°. Surfaced at Ahead Full.
1900 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 353°.
1919 Ship spotted on bearing 11°. Surfaced at Ahead Full and steered North to keep out of visual range and to get ahead. Kept within 5nm of assumed target heading.
2130 Submerged to periscope depth for sound check. Contact.
2200 Battle stations. Stern torpedoes set at minimum depth, high speed, contact for a port 90° track angle. Target speed estimated as 7 knots. Japanese Medium Tanker, 2800 tons. Fired four stern along port side in case of duds at 600 yards. All torpedo tracks were good, but ran deep underneath the target. Tanker did not take evasive action, therefore assumed that the torpedo wakes were not seen. Maneuvered into another attack position.
2247 Fired last two stern torpedoes at 700 yards, set the same as before. Both passed underneath the target. Out of torpedoes. Decided to RTB.
2300 Surfaced. Target unarmed. We desperately need a deck gun!

8 May 1942

MAKASSAR STRAIT. Enroute FREMANTLE.

9 May 1942

FLORES SEA.
1051 Ship spotted. (Ship Contact #7). Submerged to 80 feet at Ahead ⅓.
1800 Surfaced at Ahead Standard. Clear clouds, wind 14 m/s, sea fairly rough, visibility good.

10 May 1942

FLORES SEA. Enroute FREMANTLE.

11 May 1942

BANDA SEA. Enroute FREMANTLE.

12 May 1942

0633 TIMOR SEA. Radar contact on bearing 30°. (Aircraft Contact #1). 10°S 124°E. Crash dived to 100 feet and continued submerged running at Ahead ⅓.
1900 Surfaced at Ahead Standard.

13-16 May 1942

Enroute FREMANTLE.

17 May 1942

2230 Arrived FREMNATLE.

PATROL SUMMARY:

The Commanding Officer of SEALION considers this fourth patrol to be a success. Five ships were attacked, sinking two and damaging one. SEALION encountered three enemy deck gun attacks. The second attack caused some minor damage to the hull and AA gun, but did not affect the performance of the boat. Three crew members suffered superficial injuries. Only one aircraft contact was made towards the end of the patrol. The patrol ended due to exhausting the torpedo load.

TORPEDOES: 0
FUEL: 27%
DAYS AT SEA: 29
HULL DAMAGE: 3%

AIRCRAFT CONTACTS: 1
SHIP CONTACTS: 7
SHIPS SUNK (DAMAGED): 2 (1)

WEATHER:

Conditions overall were very good. However, with two potential targets escaping due to poor visibility, the weather had hampered the patrol somewhat.

SONAR GEAR:

The equipment performed faultlessly throughout the patrol with no deficiencies to report.

SD RADAR:

Only one aircraft was detected on this equipment giving the time to submerge. It would appear to not have any faults.

MK-14 TORPEDOES:

This vessel carried 22 MK-14 torpedoes, using 22 in attacks. The load was affected considerably with torpedoes running too deep in otherwise perfect attack solutions. Ten torpedoes ran deep while another was a dud.

MODIFICATIONS AT BASE: NIL. Offered new submarine – declined.

PERSONNEL:

(a) Men on board during patrol: 78
(b) Men qualified at start of patrol: 78
(c) Men qualified at end of patrol: 00
(d) Unqualified men making their first patrol: 00
(e) Men advanced in rating during patrol: 05
(f) Men awarded medals at end of patrol: 02
(g) Men injured during patrol: 03
(h) Men KIA during patrol: 00

This Commanding Officer was greatly impressed with the high performance of duty and general efficiency of officers and crew on this fourth war patrol. Even though the boat came under surface attack three times the men were professional and cool-headed, even when three crew members (PO1C L. Simmons, PO2C F. P. Ackerman, and SM1C V. R. Andersen) encountered minor and superficial injuries during one attack. After three unsuccessful attacks due to torpedoes running too deep, the Commanding Officer was mindful that morale may ebb slightly. This did not appear to be so. Five crew members were promoted whilst on patrol: PO2C H. C. Hannis, H. B. Jones, J. F. Platt, C. D. Smith, and W. F. Tutt to PO1C. Also it is with great pleasure that I am able to award the named personnel the following medals: LT. J. K. Morrison the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and ENS. F. Howard the Navy Cross Medal.

TOP SKIPPERS:

1. FRANK W. FENNO 36,200
2. RICHARD G. VOGE 25,470
3. FREDERICK B. WARDER 14,000
4. RAYMOND J. MOORE 10,700
5. WILLIAM E. FERRALL 10,000
6. JAMES W. COE 10,000

ENDORSEMENT to

SEALION Fourth War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. SEALION (SS195) – Report of War Patrol Number Four.

1. The Fourth War Patrol of SEALION, was conducted in the Makassar Strait and comprised of a period of 29 days. SEALION arrived at Fremantle with empty torpedo tubes for refit on 17 May.

2. Five torpedo attacks were made as follows:

Attack 1. Four bow torpedoes were fired at one Hog Island Type-A Freighter at short range with three hits resulting in the target sinking. One torpedo was thought to have run too deep.

Attack 2. After coming under attack on the surface, SEALION dived to periscope depth and fired three bow torpedoes at short range at a tanker. Two hits caused the target to slow down, therefore causing the third torpedo fired to miss. The tanker sank with two lifeboats seen.

Attack 3. During this attack seven bow torpedoes were fired at a Large Old Split Freighter at short range in clear weather conditions. One hit caused some damage, but the rest were either duds, missed due to target’s evasive action, or ran too deep. After surfacing, SEALION came under attack resulting in some minimal damage to the boat and superficial injuries to some crew members. With the uncertainty of the target's heading, the Commanding Officer called off the attack.

Attack 4. In heavy rain and fog two stern torpedoes were fired at an unidentified previously spotted target using sonar. Both missed.

Attack 5. Six stern torpedoes were fired at a Medium Tanker at 600 yards. All torpedoes ran too deep, and with SEALION’s torpedo reserves exhausted it resulted in an aborted attack.

3. It is recommended that damage inflicted on the enemy be assessed as follows:

SUNK

Attack #1 1 Hog Island Type-A Freighter 4,037
Attack #2 1 Medium Old Tanker 4,804

Total: 8,841 tons

DAMAGED

Attack #3 1 Large Old Split Freighter


4. SEALION encountered some unfavorable sky and sea conditions, resulting in one aborted attack and one unsuccessful attack.

5. Three torpedo attacks had torpedoes running too deep. The problem of torpedoes running deep and malfunctions is under review.

6. Only one aircraft contact was made by SD Radar with nothing to comment upon.

7. Three crew members were injured under surface attack, but their injuries do not warrant the Purple Heart at this time.

8. Five of the crew were promoted during the patrol, which is also commendable to their Commanding Officer in encouraging advancement, and two members have been awarded deserved medals.

9. Although SEALION was damaged during a surface attack, the submarine returned in very good condition and will be given necessary repairs, reload and refit. No modifications are due, although the addition of a deck gun is under consideration.

10. It is with great pleasure that the Commanding Officer be promoted to the rank of COMMANDER, effective immediately.

[ninja turtle]

PROLOGUE:

U.S.S. SEALION SS-195 arrived in FREMANTLE on 17 May 1942 on completion of Fourth War Patrol. Whilst in dock SEALION had minor hull repairs carried out, was refueled, torpedoes reloaded, and equipment checked. After sea trials SEALION was ready for patrol on 9 June 1942, with 22 Mk 14 torpedoes. On 9 June 1942 CDR. R. G. Voge reported for duty.

OBJECTIVE:

“Deploy to the MAKASSAR STRAITS and conduct anti-shipping operations within 50nm of 02°S 118°E for 36 hours.”

NARRATIVE:

9 June 1942

1430 Departed FREMANTLE for FIFTH War Patrol. Clouds clear, 5 m/s, sea clam. Once in open water AA gun tests carried out. Diesel engines set at Ahead Standard.

10-13 June 1942

Enroute MAKASSAR STRAIT. Dives and routine sea-worthy checks carried out.

14 June 1942

0600 Submerged to 70 feet through LAMBOK STRAIT during daylight hours at Ahead ⅓.
1900 Surfaced at Ahead Standard. Clouds partial, wind 6 m/s, sea rippled, visibility good.

15 June 1942

2050 Patrol area reached.
2100 Submerged for sound checks.

16 June 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. ONE
One KMSS Ryuun Sunk
1°24’S 118°9’E

0700 Surfaced. Clouds clear, wind 13 m/s, sea with large swells, visibility fairly good. Diesels at Ahead Standard.
1900 Submerged to 70 feet. Immediately upon submerging, we had a sound contact on bearing 265°. (Ship Contact #1). Continued to monitor sound contacts to calculate a heading.
1935 Came to periscope depth. Visual contact. Prepared for a stern attack. Torpedoes 5-8 were set to minimum depth, high speed, and contact.
1950 Fired all four torpedoes due to the risk from previous patrols of duds. All four hit at 600 yards along the target’s starboard side at a 90° angle. The target was silhouetted against the moon. When the torpedoes hit, the merchant broke in half and sank immediately. Only one lifeboat could be seen.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. TWO
One KMSS Hog Island Sunk
1°26’S 118°14’E

2057 New sound contact on bearing 274°. (Ship Contact #2).
2107 Surfaced. No visual.
2120 Submerged to periscope depth for sound search. Contact on bearing 43°. Surfaced immediately. No visual.
2144 Submerged to periscope depth for another sound check. Contact on bearing 80°. Surfaced and had visual contact.
2150 Dived to periscope depth for a submerged attack.
2204 Two bow torpedoes were fired along the starboard side at 700 yards set as high speed, minimum depth, and contact at 90°. Both impacted and destroyed the target. Three minutes later and it was beneath the waves. Continued submerged at Ahead ⅓.

17 June 1942

0600 Surfaced. Clouds clear, wind 15 m/s, sea with large swells, visibility fairly good. Diesels set at Ahead Standard. Radio message received: “Proceed to Makassar Strait/Celebes Sea choke point and conduct operations within 80nm of 13°0’N 119°30’E for 72 hours.”
1730 Weather conditions improved. Clouds clear, wind 1 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. THREE
One Medium European Composite Sunk
0°19’N 119°4’E

1930 Dived to periscope depth for sound checks. Contact on bearing 312°. (Ship Contact #3).
1940 Surfaced and steered North at Ahead Standard.
2010 Ship spotted on bearing 358°. Observed target whilst on surface.
2023 Submerged to periscope depth for a stern attack.
2037 Identified as a Japanese European Composite, approximately 5000 tons. Tubes 5-8 were set as high speed, minimum depth, and contact for a starboard 90° angle.
2047 At a range of 700 yards, torpedoes #5 and #6 were fired at the bow and center. #5 impacted causing a massive explosion. #6 hit the hull, but was unnecessary as the target was completely destroyed. The target’s bow slipped below the surface last after a couple of minutes. One lifeboat was seen. Continued submerged.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FOUR
One KMSS Ryuun Sunk
0°20’N 119°11’E

2200 Sound contact on bearing 319°. (Ship Contact #4).
2230 Surfaced at Ahead Standard and steered 90°. The target was deemed to be heading South.
2245 Submerged to periscope depth. Contact on bearing 307°. Surfaced and had visual contact.
2252 Submerged to periscope depth for a forward attack. Tubes 1-4 set at minimum depth, high speed, and contact. Range of 700 yards at 90° starboard.
2306 Fired torpedoes #1 and #2 at the bow and center respectively. #1 was a dud, but #2 hit and broke the vessel in two. After four minutes both parts of the ship were beneath the waves. No survivors were observed.

18 June 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. FIVE
One Large Modern Tanker Sunk
0°15’N 119°0’E

0130 Sound contact on bearing 335°. (Ship Contact #5). Surfaced and set diesels to Ahead Standard.
0145 Submerged to periscope depth for a sound check. Contact on bearing 10°. Surfaced and steered 285° at Ahead Full.
0153 Ship spotted on bearing 75°.
0155 Submerged to periscope depth and steered 270° in order to set up an attack for a port 90°.
0208 Identified target as a Large Modern Tanker, 10000 tons. This target cannot be allowed to escape. All four bow torpedoes were set as minimum depth, high speed, and contact.
0215 The target speed was 7 knots. Four torpedoes were fired along the port side at 650 yards. All were on a good track. One hit with an explosion, one was confirmed as a dud, and two ran too deep. The target’s searchlight lit up after the first hit so lowered periscope as a precaution from retaliation. Attempted to maneuver to a stern attack.
0218 However, upon re-raising the periscope, I noticed that the tanker was listing to port side and appeared to be a reduction in speed. No deck armament could be seen. If only we had our own deck gun!
0220 Surfaced to out-run the tanker for another attack. Came under attack from the target. Obviously I was mistaken whether the target was armed. Came to battle stations and dived to periscope depth.
0234 Fired tube #1 at 0° gyro at the tanker’s stern which was dead ahead. The track was true, but the torpedo ran under the vessel on a high speed, minimum depth and contact setting.
0235 Fired tube #2 with the same parameters, but again the torpedo ran below the hull.
0250 Surfaced after distancing us from the target in order to increase our speed. Attempted to run parallel with a distance of 4000 yards on the assumed heading, but was re-attacked. Increased engines to Ahead Flank.
0308 Came under attack. Adjusted our distance to 8000 yards when we were out of visual range. Secured from battle stations.
0420 Submerged to periscope depth to locate tanker. Contact on bearing 173°.
0430 Contact on bearing 239°.
0440 Contact on bearing 261°. Surfaced to decks awash in order to increase our speed and set engines to Ahead Flank. Steered to 180° to close on assumed target’s heading.
0500 Submerged to periscope depth. Contact on bearing 279°.
0515 Tanker spotted on same bearing through the periscope.
0545 Contacts on bearing 261° - new contact (Ship Contact #6) and 293° - tanker.
0640 Came to battle stations to finish the tanker with a bow attack. Torpedoes 1-4 set at minimum depth, high speed and contact.
0712 After nearly thirty minutes observing and calculating the tanker’s heading as it was zig zagging irregularly (I assumed that the rudder must have been damaged by our first attack), it appeared that we should attempt a stern attack. Eventually the tanker cut across our stern at 500 yards giving us a perfect 90° shot. It had to be now. Fired tubes #7 and #8 with same parameters as the bow torpedoes. After a perfect track run both torpedoes hit the tanker.
0718 Tanker sank. Two lifeboats seen.
0800 Surfaced at Ahead ⅓. Clouds clear, wind 1 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good. Set course for North.
1030 Overcast, Heavy rain and fog, wind 8 m/s, sea with swells. Visibility nil. Submerged to 70 feet at Ahead ⅓.
1200 Came to periscope depth for a weather check. No change. Continued at periscope depth to scan every half hour.

19 June 1942

0500 Surfaced. Clouds clear, wind 12 m/s, sea with large swell. Set diesels to Ahead Standard.
0807 Battery recharged.
1330 Clouds clear, wind 3 m/s, sea calm, visibility very good.
1900 Submerged to periscope depth for sound checks. Electric motors set at Ahead ⅓.

20 June 1942

TORPEDO ATTACK NO. SIX
No Damage Inflicted
Location Unknown

0400 Very faint sound contact on bearing 320°. (Ship Contact #7). Surfaced to shorten distance. Ahead Full.
0430 Periscope depth for sound check. Contact on bearing 261°.
0530 Surfaced. Clouds clear, wind 6 m/s, sea with slight swell.
0558 Ship spotted on bearing 308°. (Ship Contact #8). Determined that it was not contact #7. Maneuvered to attack this target.
0648 Identified as a Medium Old Tanker, 4800 tons.
0713 At periscope depth. Bow torpedoes set as before. Fired 1-4 along the target’s port side at 600 yards. With a good 90° track, all four confirmed as duds! Continued at periscope depth at Ahead ⅓. Torpedo loadout exhausted. Decided to RTB.
1800 Surfaced. Clouds clear, wind 13 m/s, sea with large swells.

21-25 June 1942

Enroute to FREMANTLE.

26 June 1942

Docked at FREMANTLE.

PATROL SUMMARY:

The Commanding Officer of SEALION considers this fifth patrol to be a success. Five ships were attacked and sunk, whilst a sixth ship escaped due to torpedo duds. SEALION came under attack twice with no damage sustained or crew injured. The patrol ended due to expending all torpedoes.

TORPEDOES: 0
FUEL: 27%
DAYS AT SEA: 18
HULL DAMAGE: 0%
AIRCRAFT CONTACTS: 0
SHIP CONTACTS: 8
SHIPS SUNK (DAMAGED): 5 (0)

WEATHER:

The conditions during the patrol was extremely favorable with only one day when the conditions caused the order to travel submerged due to nil visibility. Three separate days had large swells which affected the stability of the boat on the surface, but did not cause any discomfort. Visibility when the weather was clear was very good.

SONAR GEAR:

The equipment performed faultlessly, resulting in five successful attacks.

SD RADAR:

No aircraft was encountered. Therefore, an evaluation of this equipment cannot be made for this patrol.

MK-14 TORPEDOES:

This vessel carried 22 MK-14 torpedoes and used all 22 over six attacks. Twelve confirmed as hits, six were duds and four ran too deep. All of the torpedoes appeared to run true along the desired track. The problem of duds and torpedoes running too deep is becoming a frustration.

MODIFICATIONS AT BASE:

IMPROVED SD RADAR.
SJ SURFACE SEARCH RADAR.
TWIN 20mm AA MG.

PERSONNEL:

(a) Men on board during patrol: 78
(b) Men making their first patrol: 00
(c) Men advanced in rating at start of patrol: 00
(d) Men further qualified at start of patrol: 00
(e) Men advanced in rating during patrol: 05
(f) Men further qualified during patrol: 04
(g) Men awarded medals at end of patrol: 02
(h) Men injured during patrol: 00
(i) Men KIA during patrol: 00

This Commanding Officer was greatly impressed with the high performance of duty and general efficiency of officers and crew on this fifth war patrol, even when under attack. With four targets confirmed as sunk, the crew are eager to start their next patrol. During the patrol CPO L. N. Dean was promoted to SCPO with Engines Expert qualification, CPO T. J. Dicks, CPO E. W. Murphy, and CPO P. L. Vallentyne were promoted to SCPO with Master Engineer qualifications, and CPO E. E. Ogilve was promoted to SCPO. It is gratifying that so many men advanced in rank and qualification during the patrol, proving that the crew were never idle. Also it is with great pleasure that I am able to award the named personnel the following medals: ENS. F. Howard and ENS. M. D. O’Connell the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and ENS. M. D. O’Connell the Navy Cross Medal.

TOP SKIPPERS:

1. RICHARD G. VOGE 58,499
2. JAMES W. COE 38,300
3. FRANK W. FENNO 36,200
4. WIILIAM H. BROCKMAN 30,000
5. CREED R. BURLINGAME 25,600
6. FREDERICK B. WARDER 14,000
7. CHARLES C. KIRKPATRICK 12,000
8. RAYMOND J. MOORE 10,700
9. WILLIAM E. FERRALL 10,000
10. HENRY C. BRUTON 5,800
11. JOHN R. MOORE 5,600

ENDORSEMENT to

SEALION Fifth War Patrol.

Subject: U.S.S. SEALION (SS195) – Report of War Patrol Number Five.

1. The Fifth War Patrol of SEALION, was conducted in the Makassar Strait, with areas of opportunity included and comprised of a period of 18 days. SEALION arrived at Fremantle for a full refit on 26 June.

2. Five enemy targets were successfully sunk, with one target escaping any damage due to torpedo malfunction.

Attack 1.

Whilst at periscope depth, SEALION fired four stern torpedoes set at minimum depth, high speed and contact at a Bow Split Merchant, range of 600 yards. The evening weather conditions and moon state were very favorable to observe the torpedo runs and the impact results. All four torpedoes are reported as hitting the target, which is confirmed sank immediately with one lifeboat seen.

Attack 2.

Two bow torpedoes with settings as attack #1 were fired whilst at periscope depth at a Hog Island in the late evening with a range of 700 yards. Both torpedoes were confirmed as hits. No survivors reported.

Attack 3.

In the evening and at a range of 700 yards two stern torpedoes were fired at a Medium European Composite. Both torpedoes hit and the target was confirmed sunk. One lifeboat was seen.

Attack 4.

Two torpedoes were fired at a Ryuun late in the evening at 700 yards. The first torpedo was a dud, but the second torpedo hit in the center causing fatal damage. The target is confirmed as sunk with no survivors.

Attack 5.

In the early hours of 18th June and at periscope depth, four bow torpedoes were fired at a tanker with a range of 650 yards. One hit the target, but the other three was a dud and ran too deep. The tanker was still afloat and moving, but at a slower speed. After surfacing SEALION came under deck gun attack and took evasive action, diving to periscope depth. Two further attacks were attempted by firing at the vessel’s stern which was dead ahead on a 0° gyro. The two torpedoes fired ran deep below the tanker. After nearly four and a half hours of playing ‘cat and mouse’ with the target whilst out of visual range, SEALION attempted one more stern attack once the erratic heading had been calculated. The Commanding Officer suggested that the tanker’s rudder may have been damaged in the first attack. At 500 yards two stern torpedoes were fired at the tanker. Both hit and destroyed it. Two lifeboats were seen.

Attack 6.

At short range, four bow torpedoes were fired at a tanker’s port side. All four were confirmed as duds. With no more torpedoes in reserve, the attack was aborted.

3. SEALION encountered very favorable sky and sea conditions.

4. No aircraft was encountered throughout the patrol.

5. The SEALION returned in excellent material condition and will be given a torpedo reload and full refuel. The following modifications and additions will be made whilst in dock: Improved SD Radar, SJ Surface Radar, and Twin 20mm AA MG.

6. It is recommended that damage inflicted on the enemy be assessed as follows:

SUNK

Attack #1 1 KMSS Ryuun 6,538
Attack #2 1 KMSS Hog Island 4,037
Attack #3 1 Medium European Composite Freighter 5,186
Attack #4 1 KNSS Ryuun 6,538
Attack #5 1 Large Modern Tanker 10,000

Total: 32,299 tons

7. Certain personnel of the crew were promoted and gained further qualifications whilst on patrol and two members have been awarded deserved medals.

8. The Commanding Officer is also awarded the Navy Commendation Medal.

9. The Commanding Officer, officers and crew, are congratulated on this aggressive, and in regards the large tanker in the fifth attack, a persistent fifth patrol. Well done to you all!

[ninja turtle]

Not sure if anyone is still reading these patrols, or noticed themselves but I noticed when I posted number 5 the similarities of dates, ie. posted 24th June 2016 and the patrol ended 26th June 1942 - 74 years almost to the day.

(Well it made me smile and chuckle, but in particular gave me immense respect for the those who fought and died all those years ago).

[Sailor Steve]

I'm reading them, and I'm intrigued to see how much they read like real patrol logs. Keep up the good work.

[XTBilly]

To be honest, I just discovered these patrol reports.

I find them extremely interesting. I'll be watching this thread for now on with unlimited interest!

Regards,
Billy.